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
Showing posts with label #Equality. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #Equality. Show all posts

Friday, January 27, 2017

Lesbian rapper to perform in Jamaica ..............

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Event manager and record producer Zum has announced that he will be bringing lesbian rapper Young M.A to Jamaica for Brit Jam 2017.

The event is slated to take place between March 8 and 14. According to the promoter, his target audience is excited about the rapper's visit and people are not concerned about her sexual orientation.

"People don't care about her sexual preference. They just like her music. This is the first lesbian rapper to dominate the rap scene, so this is history in the making, and Brit Jam is the first to bring her to Jamaica," he said. I wish it was always like that we could save ourselves a lot of grief.

Zum

Zum also said that based on his market research, male and female fans alike welcome the rapper's visit. He, however, admitted that if he had booked a male gay rapper, then, perhaps, his audience would have raised serious concerns.

"We tend to accept females in Jamaica. Once it's a woman, it's fine with us. But if it was a man, I know some people wouldn't like that," he said.

Young M.A is known for songs like Quiet Storm and Ooouuu, which peaked at number 19 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart last year.

LOCAL ACTS

The event will also feature other international acts such as Genuine and Bernice. There will also be performances from local acts, including Ding Dong, Tanto Blacks, Tifa, I-Octane, Konshens and Shenseea.

"Brit Jam only does the hottest, and we are feeling Young M.A's vibe. When you go to events and see how people react to her music, it is amazing. People literally wait until the second verse of her song, and nowadays, that is rare," he said.

Zum did not wish to disclose how much it will cost to book the rapper for Brit Jam. However, he did reveal that her booking fee is not cheap.

meanwhile the performer's profile includes:

Early life
Young M.A was born in 1992 in Brooklyn, New York. At the age of 9, she began rapping.For over nine years, she has been in Virginia, although never staying in one place for long, moving to several cities while in the South. At the age of 16, she moved back to Brooklyn.

Career Music
Young M.A began to embarked her music career, when she was self-funding its recording studio with local record producers, after she was working at Shake Shack and T.J. Maxx. In 2014, she gained notoriety, when a Facebook post criticizing her song, called "Brooklyn Chiraq" that went viral. The post's author, pundit Boyce Watkins, said the song promoted "violent, negative, genocidal energy", but the controversy expanded Young M.A's name recognition and brought in some new listeners to her work. In 2015, Young M.A released a new song, called "Body Bag", which became a "YouTube hit" said Rolling Stone, along with the release of her mixtape, called Sleep Walkin', which MTV describes as a "thoughtful debut project".

In 2016, Young M.A released her official debut single, called "Ooouuu" which peaked at number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. In September 2016, the song nearly had 7 million plays on Spotify[8] and was widely remixed, with other rappers and hip hop artists such as French Montana, Remy Ma, Jadakiss, Uncle Murda, A$AP Ferg and Tink, who all of them were putting out their versions to that song. At Stereogum, Tom Breihan said "Ooouuu" was "a brash, intense, hard-as-fuck piece of rider music...the song feels like it marks the arrival of a major rap talent." The Fader said Young M.A has "establishe[d] herself as a quintessential New York MC", and at MTV, Doreen St. Félix said, "This summer, the atmosphere belongs to Young M.A and her single 'OOOUUU.'" The song's popularity drew attention from labels, though M.A remains an independent artist.

At the 2016's BET Hip Hop Awards, she did a freestyle on a cypher and performed her single, "Ooouuu", giving what XXL Magazine described as "show-stopping freestyle...one of the best freestyles of the night"; despite the enthusiasm for her performance, Young M.A expressed disappointment, saying BET cut out a portion of her performance.

Other projects
In 2016, in an interview with Rolling Stone, Young M.A said she'd been offered the role of Frieda Gatz on Empire, but turned it down, preferring to pursue her own career as a rapper instead of being known first as a fictional character.

Personal life
Young M.A is a lesbian, a topic that she includes in her music. She told Vogue that coming out had been an important point in her artistic development, saying "I held in being sexually attracted to women for so long that once I got that out of me, the music became easy."

In 2009, Young M.A's brother died.

She is of Puerto Rican and Jamaican descent.

Peace & tolerance

H

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

New report takes stock of fundamental rights in the EU, including LGBTI rights

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Yesterday, the European Parliament adopted a new comprehensive report on fundamental rights in the EU. The report assesses how fundamental rights are implemented in the EU, and what must still be done to reach standards laid down in the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

The document includes an extensive snapshot of the situation for LGBTI people.General view of MEPs in Plenary Chamber

The report calls for action in the field of homophobic and transphobic hate crime (par. 123); non-discrimination (par. 55); free movement between Member States, including for same-sex couples and their children (par. 127); and access to employment, goods and services (par. 124).

Furthermore, important parts concerning the rights of transgender people were added through amendments tabled by the Greens/EFA.

It stresses that transgender people must not be considered mentally ill, and encourages the Commission to continue its work in the World Health Organisation to ensure that the upcoming International Classification of Diseases (ICD) will no longer consider trans people mentally ill.

An amendment by the same group encouraging Member States to prohibit unnecessary medical treatment on intersex children was rejected.


Ulrike Lunacek MEP, Co-President of the LGBTI Intergroup in the European Parliament and rapporteur on the Horizontal Equal Treatment Directive, reacted “This report shows the EU plays a fundamental role in safeguarding human rights. A key file would be for the European Council to finally unblock the Horizontal Equal Treatment Directive, and thereby guaranteeing that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is outlawed in all areas of life.”

“It’s essential that President Juncker, Vice-President Timmermans and Commissioner Jourová keep pressing for the anti-discrimination Directive, as promised at the beginning of their mandate.”


Daniele Viotti MEP, also Co-President of the LGBTI Intergroup in the European Parliament, added: “Despite the Commission’s List of Actions on LGBTI Rights, the Commission has been far too hesitant at times, and failed to show leadership in particular when there is no consensus of EU member states, affecting negatively on LGBTI people.”

“We call on the Commission to be firmer and quicker when reacting to injustice, both legally and politically.”

Read more

Read the complete report (particularly sections 123 – 127)

Saturday, December 10, 2016

Human Rights Day ......

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Here we are again this old familiar place on what is the annual International Human Rights Day and while the original egis of the recognition was made on credible aspirational terms towards a better world it seems that over several years since the world has turned to something else, counter to the objectives set out. We have a Syrian crisis festering right before our eyes, groups and advocates clashing over which rights should be prioritised or are morally acceptable, our least amongst us especially homeless persons on the MSM/transgender front are essentially left out in the cold by the very bureaucrats who claim to represent them but the populations are easily found and made use of for statistics especially in the department of HIV and such yet they are left alone no sooner after the results come to hand alongside the insulting tokenism that is often parading as legitimate answers.

So the main question is whose human rights really? 

recent Jamaica Observer Clovis toon as the debate continues on ganja rights/decriminalization also see: Tolerance, when, has the oppressed become the oppressor? 2009

We have a United Nations that seems near impotent if not just ceremonial on many issues including the refugee crisis madness in places like Greece, Germany, France, Austria and so on and yet as people flee mostly for genuine reasons very little help seems to come their way. Right wingers in the same breath are out in earnest now playing on the fears of sometimes ignorant populations who feel their peaceful countries or existence are being turned upside down with ‘foreigners’ disrupting their way of life but where is the human rights for the genuinely fleeing folks? It has become a political football for example in Germany’s upcoming elections or in France where there is an election to win and juxtapositions or populism seem to be making the fleeing refugees and their rights or protections shafted.

another Clovis toon in the wake of the controversy surrounding a US embassy tweet & a phone company, the old misconceptions on US/foreign impositions on us continue.

That recent telephone directory cover controversy as caused by the hypocritical antigay group Jamaica Coalition for a Healthy Society, JCHS is one such matter that shows us on the human rights front we are eons away from just true tolerance as the so called moral police who think they can impose on everybody else their views. No theocracy ‘round here is the loud rebuttal. Gay rights in the JCHS’ eyes are seen as a fallacy as they prey on yet again the ignorance of the masses sadly which includes clergy, theologians, lawyers and pastors with a gullible congregant populations. The fearmongering is palpable and is so easily done without fail by voices such as Dr Wayne West with obsequious servants who can’t think to save their own lives. Only so called pressured Christian groups or voices matter as some invisible hand somewhere is intent on silencing them they claim because they oppose for the most part homosexuality yet near silent on every other atrocity out there; that old victimhood card. The sad part is that honest, forward thinking and balanced/tolerance Christians or church body are batched as crackpots due to these fanatics.

Meanwhile ho is really standing up for the children these days?

It is disturbing to watch the news cast on television at a certain part of the presentation as a list of missing kids is shown and we wonder, yet groups find time for phonebook covers, homosexuals and buggery law but are all but blind to the things that sit right before our eyes on a daily basis. Some voices who have been championing children’s causes have simply stopped as they feel the thing looks hopeless as slow action from the state is a turn off, while the ones who are active continue to incorporate an old conflation of paedophila, homosexuality, crimes of passions beliefs and a so called gay agenda in their advocacy, case in point Betty Ann Blaine; which gives further strength to the fearmongering imperative as the key strategy y said groups. While I support the thrust for the rights of children to do so by ostracising others who one does not like or misunderstand is not the way to do so. The awful Ananda Dean murder and its unsolved case file status so many years ago is one of those cases that brought persons such as Blaine to prominence and who had mass support but as of late the support has waned somewhat as she shows her colours. Hope she does well at the upcoming Global Missing Children Conference and not let her antigay sentiments cloud her judgement.

We recently recognised the day of the girl child in a bid to raise awareness of girls their issues and abuse to include sexual abuse yet only days ago we had that awful report of a 14 year old rape victim in St Catherine was forced to ride in the very car of the police to the precinct alongside the very perpetrators; to be asked to relive the ordeal like that in the face of supposed enlightenment and training of cops but practice of what is taught is another matter. That other matter where the police spent the better part of eight plus hours at a crime scene of a murder of a teen arguing who has jurisdiction over the matter is another one that shows up the cracks in our justice system and rights. To have the family standing their already in their grief to look on helplessly on a body and to be told by the cops who arrived they cannot handle it is plain absurd, then why did they arrive in the first place then if when 119 or 911 told them the location they should spared the family the grief by telling 911/119 to find another team. Who cares about anything anymore these days? Then we wonder why vigilante justice is seen more and more as a credible option in the eyes of some? Call a ‘shotta’ perhaps; maybe in the eight hours of waiting maybe something would have been done already, at least a plot to find the bastards or best someone’s head back get lick out. Sigh! Of course the illegality of it makes it problematic plus persons who go that route never actually stop paying these men as they when broke simply find you and ask if not demand money on the strength of the secret.

We have CISOCA, Children’s Advocate & Office of the Children’s Registry and a myriad of child rights groups yet we are bombarded with child abuse stories and crimes as the adults continue to quarrel with them living in a world they did not make. Similar to the nonsense about having the most churches per square miles yet per square inch or towns and nation has crime and destitution spreads like an infection while only a few enjoy wealth and privilege. Yet again the refrain the more things change the more they stay the same is appropriate; we ought to have way better improvements and a reduction in atrocities yet things are going in the opposite direction. There must come a point when enough is enough. Oh the monotony. The few things that do work are often not replicated or starved of resources to make them expand with little interest.

Women’s rights seem in stagnation these days with pretty announcements as usual from gender specialists and ministers of government, I have announcement-itis these days, lofty aspirational goes yet blah! Where is that sexual harassment bill that has been sitting on the order paper of the house for so long? Where is the real equality in terms of equal pay or breaking the proverbial glass ceiling? The week of day for recognising violence against women is here again and after the hash tags, social media awareness, what’s next, back to normal, especially the more impacted persons I suspect do not even visit the pages or have a smart phone for that matter. The grand partnership signing on Wednesday December 7 yet another event for smiles for the camera for social pages and media moment with a who’s who of rights personalities, politicians and such as the opposition was missing in a huff following their parliament walk out the day before as they are upset at their election loss on both fronts local and national while complaining about the name change of the partnership as if any party has copyright over words such as “progress”, semantics! I tell you so even in the signing moment the greater idealistic concern for rights and harmony is killed off in a sense and rights linked therein are overlooked. The PNP has convenient amnesia when they made name changes prior; remember the tagline in 2002 “Log on to Progress” subsequently renamed afterwards and then the 2011 partnership signing. The delivery on these partnerships or the lack thereof is the elephant in the room where rights are also directly intertwined. Whatever the thing is named and by whom just get the job done.

Who is really representing certain other issues such as continued HIV discrimination or persons with disabilities apart from the small genuinely concerned groups who are trying their utmost best as lolly voices in the wilderness; as disabilities awareness weeks ends the Executive Director of Disabilities Association of Jamaica lamented on a radio interview that society seems to have lost something as an uncaring nature is here with us again. She and others cite the public transportation complaints, access to thoroughfare, inability by some to pursue tertiary education namely the hearing impaired as institutions have no sign language capacities to disseminate the courses. World AIDS Day just ended and amidst the elegant presentations, radio interviews, online and social media runs were on the up and up but as the hype cools down the issues raised are still there even after so called improvements, it makes one start to wonder what is the point of it is all then? Itty bitty achievements are not enough in my eyes, ARVs for example are cheaper and supposedly more readily available yet shortages interrupt persons’ adherence schedules, or persons forced to travel long distances out of parish to wait in long lines for prescriptions to be filled while a plethora of groups break out like an infection mostly on social media and not actually in the real world engaging real people.

The Public Defender for example seems like many other outfits that need resources are lacking in them if not deliberately starved and rights get caught up in that as well, apart from the pursuit for natural justice for aggrieved persons the office is swamped with complaints from the public seeking redress for rights breaches by agents of the state or government and the cases linger, yet in the midst of it all we hear of flowery aspirational goals of Human Rights Institutes and training which all sound so up in the air yet somehow cannot materialise. The previous administration launched the thrust for the institute but it seemed stuck in the quicksand somewhere and if it dares wiggle or too much is said on it, it may very well get swallowed up as other matters take precedence. The Human Rights for All campaign seems to be more about cake cutting events and experts meeting for shindigs than about actual reaching a way larger percentage of real people.

The Independent Commission, INDECOM standoff with the police high command and by extension the Director of Public Prosecution, DPP only serves to obscure the processes of Justice, clearly some police have not unlearnt the old ways or the ‘squaddie’ mentality yet people who want to be honest are exposed by the very same shady cops in the system and then made to be targeted as informers in their communities so people see wrongs and simply shut up. When family members of victims who speak out but who are harassed by the very police who did the harm in the first place it leaves one wondering yet again what is the point of it all? Groups such as Jamaicans for Justice have been at it on a stretch and yet the more things change the more they stay the same. Honest police are afraid to speak out openly as repercussions can apply, that video episode with an alleged police man living aboard brought that front and center; albeit so many years after the particular issue he was passionate about, whether he was truthful is one thing but to release such a footage warrants serious contemplation.

How do persons can get motivated to stand up?

The fight continues no doubt but the cloudiness that impedes it is of concern.

Peace & tolerance

H

also see:

Human Rights Day 2012 ....... My Voice, My Right, My Voice Counts

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

OutBermuda Respond To Preserve Marriage

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Saying that it is their “mandate to support the wellbeing, health, dignity, security and protection of Bermuda’s LGBTQ community, we issue this statement in response. support the wellbeing, health, dignity, security and protection of Bermuda’s LGBTQ community,” OUTBermuda has responded to an ad placed by Preserve Marriage.


Some content from Bernews


The statement said, “Preserve Marriage Bermuda today published an advertisement complaining that Bermuda’s Supreme Court is being asked to legislate marriage equality.

“Preserve Marriage also argues that when the Human Rights Act was amended in 2013 it was a foregone conclusion that marriage equality would follow, suggesting the amendment was a sinister attempt to introduce marriage equality by indirect means.

“Given OUTBermuda’s mandate to support the wellbeing, health, dignity, security and protection of Bermuda’s LGBTQ community, we issue this statement in response.

“Preserve Marriage’s advertisement ignores the fact that the decision of the European Convention of Human Rights in Oliari v Italy, a decision the organization has spoken much about, was not decided until after the 2013 Human Rights Act amendment.

“Oliari is undeniably a landmark judgment, which marked a significant shift in the European Court’s approach to issues of Lesbian and Gay equality in the sphere of family matters.

“While that judgment is central to any argument today about family life protections afforded to Lesbian and Gay people, there was nothing back in 2013 to foretell this decision.

“OUTBermuda rejects the suggestion that LGBTQ people and allies schemed to amend the Human Rights Act with a view ultimately to marriage equality.


“To suggest this demonstrates a lack of understanding and empathy towards the experience of fellow Bermudians who were given both legal protection and peace of mind in the areas of housing, employment and the provision of goods and services [including governmental services] as a result of the “Two Words and a Comma” amendment.

“Although Preserve Marriage says in its advertisement that it believes all people should be protected regardless of their sexuality, OUTBermuda has not seen or heard any practical suggestions from the organization about how it believes the family lives of LGBTQ people ought to be respected within Bermuda’s current legal environment.

“While advocating that Government cobble together a bundle of rights in an unspecified manner for the benefit of Gay and Lesbian people, Preserve Marriage has rejected out of hand options for marriage, civil partnerships and other similar legal arrangements, thereby precluding any viable option for achieving that aim.

“OUTBermuda is committed to creating awareness of the real life issues affecting Bermuda’s LGBTQ people, and to leading dialogue on these issues.

“Accordingly, OUTBermuda will extend an invitation to Preserve Marriage to enter into conversation on how the status quo, as it relates to Lesbian and Gay families, fails to honor and respect the dignity of all people in Bermuda.”

see the petition HERE

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Intolerance Day of Tolerance ............

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The United Nations is committed to strengthening tolerance by fostering mutual understanding among cultures and peoples. This imperative lies at the core of the United Nations Charter, as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and is more important than ever in this era of rising and violent extremism and widening conflicts that are characterized by a fundamental disregard for human life.

In 1996, the UN General Assembly (by resolution 51/95) invited UN Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November. This action followed up on the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993 at the initiative of UNESCO, as outlined in the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action for the Year.
UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize for the Promotion of Tolerance and Non-Violence

In 1995, to mark the United Nations Year for Tolerance and the 125th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, UNESCO created a prize for the promotion of tolerance and non-violence. The UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize for the Promotion of Tolerance and Non-Violence rewards significant activities in the scientific, artistic, cultural or communication fields aimed at the promotion of a spirit of tolerance and non-violence.

The prize is awarded every two years on the International Day for Tolerance, 16 November. The Prize may be awarded to institutions, organizations or persons, who have contributed in a particularly meritorious and effective manner to tolerance and non-violence.

The 2016 winner is the Federal Research and Methodological Center for Tolerance Psychology and Education (Tolerance Center) of Russia.

Bearing in mind that the United Nations Charter states: 'We, the people of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, ... to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, ... and for these ends to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours',Recalling that the Preamble to the Constitution of UNESCO, adopted on 16 November 1945, states that 'peace, if it is not to fail, must be founded on the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind',Recalling also that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that 'Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion' (Article 18), 'of opinion and expression' (Article 19), and that education 'should promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups' (Article 26),Noting relevant international instruments including:
the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,
the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights,
the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination,
the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide,
the Convention on the Rights of the Child,
the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol and regional instruments,
the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women,
the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment,
the Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance Based on Religion or Belief,
the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities,
the Declaration on Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism,
the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action of the World Conference on Human Rights,
the Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action adopted by the World Summit for Social Development,
the UNESCO Declaration on Race and Racial Prejudice,
the UNESCO Convention and Recommendation against Discrimination in Education, 

Bearing in mind the objectives of the Third Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, the World Decade for Human Rights Education, and the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People,Taking into consideration the recommendations of regional conferences organized in the framework of the United Nations Year for Tolerance in accordance with UNESCO General Conference 27 C/Resolution 5.14, as well as the conclusions and recommendations of other conferences and meetings organized by Member States within the programme of the United Nations Year for Tolerance, Alarmed by the current rise in acts of intolerance, violence, terrorism, xenophobia, aggressive nationalism, racism, anti-Semitism, exclusion, marginalization and discrimination directed against national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities, refugees, migrant workers, immigrants and vulnerable groups within societies, as well as acts of violence and intimidation committed against individuals exercising their freedom of opinion and expression – 

all of which threaten the consolidation of peace and democracy, both nationally and internationally, and are obstacles to development, Emphasizing the responsibilities of Member States to develop and encourage respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction as to race, gender, language, national origin, religion or disability, and to combat intolerance,Adopt and solemnly proclaim this Declaration of Principles on Tolerance

Resolving to take all positive measures necessary to promote tolerance in our societies, because tolerance is not only a cherished principle, but also a necessity for peace and for the economic and social advancement of all peoples

1.1 Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. It is fostered by knowledge, openness, communication, and freedom of thought, conscience and belief. Tolerance is harmony in difference. It is not only a moral duty, it is also a political and legal requirement. Tolerance, the virtue that makes peace possible, contributes to the replacement of the culture of war by a culture of peace.

1.2 Tolerance is not concession, condescension or indulgence. Tolerance is, above all, an active attitude prompted by recognition of the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. In no circumstance can it be used to justify infringements of these fundamental values. Tolerance is to be exercised by individuals, groups and States.

1.3 Tolerance is the responsibility that upholds human rights, pluralism (including cultural pluralism), democracy and the rule of law. It involves the rejection of dogmatism and absolutism and affirms the standards set out in international human rights instruments.

1.4 Consistent with respect for human rights, the practice of tolerance does not mean toleration of social injustice or the abandonment or weakening of one's convictions. It means that one is free to adhere to one's own convictions and accepts that others adhere to theirs. It means accepting the fact that human beings, naturally diverse in their appearance, situation, speech, behaviour and values, have the right to live in peace and to be as they are. It also means that one’s views are not to be imposed on others.

Friday, November 11, 2016

BREXIT & LGBTQ Asylum concerns part 2: the Trumpage ........

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In part one I looked at the ongoing BREXIT concerns and the outcomes from the United Kingdom’s referendum on leaving the European Union and pending referenda in Scotland to leave the United Kingdom, Ireland’s concerns about border protection and subservience to the English parliament. Business interests in both the EU and elsewhere are worried for tariffs, trade deals and future movement of investments. The immigration matters as well are of concern under an EU Schengen visa system effectively giving free movement to nationals in participating states; that may come to an end if and when ‘Article 50’ the parliamentary instrument must be enacted to start the BREXIT process. Right wingers backlash to refugees and or foreigners is alive and well for misplaced cultural fears and job availability, outside of the rowdy behaviour of some groups, namely the recent “jungle” camp in France which was destroyed by French authorities and rerouting said populations to other parts of the country even as the UK are hesitant to take persons who flow over or come by hiding in the under carriages of planes and lorries. The French have their fair share of ring wing advancement and some speculate that Francois Aunard may not win in the upcoming elections.

also see: Homophobic attacks in UK rose 147% in three months after Brexit vote




Gleaner's Lasmay took a shot at it and got it right
US EXITeering?

Said persons do not want to stay in France but will and are willing to risk life and limb to such extremes as walking the entire length of the underground tunnel from France to the UK as they see the UK a better option. A trend that has been on the rise prior to the present UK Prime Minister’s Theresa May’s tenure, the more open resistance by right wingers and pass round donkey games by some states, namely Greece lest we forget; let us also not forget Germany in last year was LGBT asylum applications and indeed others have been met with pressure from the UK’s Home Office this while some fees have increased by some 300% in some instances; that of paper applications with or without a solicitor, Prime Minister May’s expression of interest of reducing overall immigration numbers by half from some 300,000 to150,000 is a clear indication where she intends to go.

Similar postures from Holland of all places have not gone unnoticed, a recent court case in that country of a far right representative blasting Cameroonians in large numbers and they and other non white foreigners need to be reduced shows the emboldened change some have who are no longer prepared to stay in the shadows. Now that Trump has won the strangest US elections yet on anti immigration rhetoric especially to Mexicans while not defining his concern in any strident way to illegal immigrants, complete with clan support officially. He is seen as an outsider which further complicates matters, there may be a civil war inside the Republican party, will Trump come from the far right to centre left or so is yet to be seen, politics in America has been shaken and parallels can be drawn in Europe with other dynamic on the continent with a menacing China smoothing over Africa. While the Russians have been doing all they can to undermine American democracy. Isn’t it also ironic that November 9 in Germany was when that state removed the blockages for refugees?

Some of the antigay groups and pastors try to present some balance mostly hypocritically by infusing some conflict of interest in their arguments even as they celebrate Trump’s win, they claim his business interests may cloud his presidency in terms of his announced handing over of his Trump businesses to a blind trust and to his children to run, they ignore however that the law in the US says that such release of possible conflicts of interest with public officials must be done by way of said businesses by operated by some independent committee or management devoid of direct intervention by the absentee owner or management. I am not surprised said pious individuals see what they want to see as long as it suits their interests.

oh really!

Unapologetic nationalism or manifest destiny?

The President elect does not recognise climate change; he is hesitant on trade deals and is looking inwards that with foreign policy. He dismisses the claim by environmentalists as alarmists, climate sceptics indeed. The Paris climate agreement and decades of legislation are in his sights for removal or severe amendments. He can start the process for now but countries cannot simply leave the protocols and agreements’, bearing in mind the main goal is to reduce green house gas emissions. He says it is ‘global warming BS’ the commitment of the countries may waiver as they were buoyed by the US leading in the charge getting the cooperation of other states, the entire agreement could fall apart. It was one of the areas with the US and China after locking horns arrived at some middle ground. Trump is also a pro-coal supporter despite China’s near about face and increasing solar energy thrust to address the pollution and smog poor air quality challenging there.

Trump might have a Republican congress to back him in certain respects but his agenda and their agenda might not be the same, it is hard to read him in terms of foreign policy, his threat to remove Obama care although that maybe really difficult, his position on pro choice and if he had changed his stance given the evangelical support and LGBTQ issues in the face of his parading of a rainbow flag at one of his stops in the campaign. Executive orders and vetoes may become the order of the day. The uncertainty troubles me much as he is unpredictable and seems to position himself as the situation requires and what of the strangeness of the Caucasian gay male support as well despite the uncertainty, who is really a Trump voter? Racists, poorer whites and Puerto Ricans moving from their island to Miami, the fundamental question in my mind; anyone can publicly find Trump’s revolting rhetoric and then in the voting booth give him the chance, despite polls, despite some media propping. Anti immigration pundits contributed greatly to Trump’s campaign as well; some locals are worried about the H2B visa work program as well, in the face of recent automation news with a patent gained on apple picking technology with harvesting rates of 1 apple per 4 seconds. Despite the fact that Americans are not interested in those types of jobs and immigrants are eager to take them, alongside nursing home care-giving ones a deceptive narrative has resurfaced to suggest said immigrants (legal or not) are ‘taking’ those jobs from Americans.

Demagogic populism has trumped sensible thinking it seems. He claimed he wants to drain the slop in Washington but he’ll have to walk through towards getting into office. A “rigged” system has got him in; wow how bizarre is that, America is seen as joke in some circles now. Trump now finds himself facing Obama after blasting him as unfit and questioning his ethnicity indeed immigration status history and citizenship but now he has to meet with elder statesman in part of the 70 days of transition to the Oval office. He has to reorder his foreign policy points during the hustings at the stomp, his recalibrations on South Korea for example are telling of uncertainty concerns. Fixed grins and diplomatic optics I suppose. The ‘Forgotten man’ reference by Trump is an old Franklyn D Roosevelt position he held, Trump says he is going to bring back jobs.

A right wing leader of Hungary has endorsed Mr Trump claiming it is time to smash misguided liberalism in his mind. The news of the Canadian immigration website crashing due to huge traffic volumes, persons seem to be exploring options to relocate and job opportunities. He flips flops literally saying or tweeting something in the morning and changing his position hours later. These uncertainties are an existential threat to small island developing states such as Jamaica. The violent anti Trump protests while highlighting the displeasure factor also seems to show up the amazing ignorance of some Americans of their own political systems and the Electoral College selection of Presidents. A popular vote does not put such presidents in the office; burning effigies of the man is one thing but did the but one can spend better time by applying pressure to the local representatives and individual state legislators so as to keep some checks and balances on Trump’s presidency and policy direction.

Some questions:

What will America’s policy on refugees and asylum seeking look like under a Trump administration; especially given the early HIV years under President Reagan and his refusal to even acknowledge the matter but siding with conservatives even more so and justifying no gays rights by stigmatized medicalizations; other under President Bush(es) there was some reticence despite USAID work to address these issues and hesitancy on asylum for homophobic victims who find it an uphill task to have their cases heard let alone win them, will there be a review of those cases that have been granted prior, will the old HIV travel ban in the late nineties or banning of donation of blood from gay men become a template for reducing asylum opportunities, will grant aid drop in a view to save money and as Trump puts develop America and create new jobs. Will Trump change Obama’s PEPFAR arrangements as well?

As Trump has threatened to bomb iSIS and other military might although at the risk of sounding ominous what should happen if he goes to war to appease his base and project strength, what will happen to successful asylum seekers, especially LGBTQ individuals, will they be forced into constriction with very little federal benefits or residency rewards, similar to what happened with Jamaicans who went to England in the second world war who joined the royal air force and allowed to apply for citizenship; or will non compliant or volunteering asylum persons be forced out by way of case reviews and examination of case files as to the status of their countries of origin, As I always said asylum status is not a guarantee to citizenship in the United States. Persons should not get complacent.

As for that acceptance speech is nice sounding and rather aspirational but despite his calmer cadence of speech obviously prepped before delivery he thrives on showmanship promoting supposed unity. I am not fooled by it as it was the divide and rule construct he used so tendentiously, as the narrative to gain support then in the speech offering an olive branch of some kind makes good for optics and smooth transitioning of power, Obama’s statesman like speech is welcoming, at least he understands the ground game and doing everything to protect his legacy.

I am still in shock that a political neophyte known as the ‘Donald’ could come to power, this was not how this election was to end even as labelled Hispanics as ‘hombre’ while playing on the dissatisfactions on certain classes “Make America great again” despite the misogyny, is democracy all but dead here now when anyone can become the leader of the free world. But John F Kennedy warned about this prior to his murder, he effectively said every President needs a lull period to adjust and settle as many of what was promised on the campaign may not be deliverable. So I conclude instead of the motto credo ‘God Bless America’ it might be read in the future as ‘God SAVE America’ instead.

one of the memes floating aound during the campaign 

There is a cultural diversity that cannot be ignored anymore, the days of the privileged Caucasian with political power are all but dead as the ‘browning’ of the US by way or Latinos, African immigrants and such is unmistakable, they will make the majority in the long run; this round seems to be a last ditch effort to hold fast to ‘white power’

patronising suppport for LGBT to get votes?

Trump cannot be trusted.

Washington may change Trump or Trump may Trump Washington is yet to be seen, he may not able to ‘drain the swamp’ which is a far cry from running a private business versus governing within boundaries and Capital Hill runnings. The presidency seems to be moving to a ceremonial one than an office with on individual with raw power, said President is constrained in certain respects. Do not loose sight of the fact that Hillary Clinton got the popular vote to the tune of some 200,000 votes than Trump. The midterm elections should be interesting and when he is tested his temperament will be watched closely.


Will Michelle take it up for the next election cycle given her posturing in this last one? even as the above GQ photo of the first lady presumptive floats around. This is the image of dignity that should obtain in the Oval office?

I have to concur with former JLP spokesman (although he is antigay) that Trump is going to become the very thing he has demonised; as the reality hits him, trade deals he wants to change will be problematic and so on he will have to adjust. He cannot have his cake and eat it too.

More anon

Peace & tolerance

H

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Mr Trump has a steep learning curve indeed

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where is Trump eally on LGBTQI matters?

Firstly the following is today's editorial from the Observer, most of which I concur:

We congratulate Mr Donald Trump on his victory in the United States presidential elections yesterday, admittedly with a reluctant sense of trepidation.

Reluctant because, while he won by the democratic process which we cherish, the election was much too bitter and divisive, largely because of Mr Trump’s scorching campaign, starting with the primaries last year.

Indeed, Jamaica and the world at large were gripped by the unusual election campaign and perhaps, more specifically, the conduct of Mr Trump, who broke all the conventional rules in the way he insulted various groups; admitted to what the rest of us regard as sexual assault on women; mocked a disabled journalist; attacked the media; and refused to release his tax returns against presidential custom.

There is a sense that with Mr Trump’s win, the United States and the world have entered uncharted waters under the administration of a man who has not shown any love for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which is keeping the free world protected; has no qualms about the proliferation of nuclear weapons; and stays up late tweeting about inconsequential things against opponents.

To give him his due, Mr Trump galvanised a sizeable segment of the American population which is clearly feeling left behind. Regrettably, that also brought out the worst in some of his supporters, encouraged by the candidate’s loose language and fanned by claims that whites were feeling overwhelmed by the growing diversification of the United States.


But it demonstrated that, as part of the healing and reunification process, the concerns and fears of this large section of the country must be factored into any social and economic development plans going forward. A way must be found to help them understand that diversification of the population, while unstoppable, does not have to be a bad thing for them.

In this regard, Mr Trump has a steep learning curve. He campaigned on banning Muslims, deporting millions of illegal immigrants, and promising his supporters to “take back the White House” and “make America great again”, which many saw as a “dog whistle” to return to an era when non-whites were not treated as equals.

He will also have to brush up quickly on foreign policy in order to quell nervousness among leaders across the world who question his temperament and commitment to the norms that kept the Western powers safe and in control. He will have to learn to listen to the generals and not insist that he knows more than them.

Still, we are hopeful that the indomitable spirit of the American people will hold the country together and that Mr Trump will be a fast learner. His vast experience as a businessman gives him some advantage in the area of the economy and we expect him to do well in creating jobs for those who have been left behind.

We also congratulate Mrs Hillary Clinton, the Democratic candidate, who came within a whisker of being the first woman American president. She fought a good fight and crowns a lifetime of public service with the historic achievement as the first woman to head a major party presidential ticket.

We wish them both very well.

ENDS

But the Observer had left out the fact that Trump will not have a free ride in essence; he may be as lamed up in a sense in terms of getting things pushed through the senate and he may as outgoing President Obama had to rely on veto powers o executive orders to mitigate the restraint of congress.

Can this win be seen as a US BREXIT?

More anon

Peace & tolerance needed now.

H

Monday, November 7, 2016

BREXIT & LGBTQ Asylum concerns

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What does Brexit mean?

It is a word that has become used as a shorthand way of saying the UK leaving the EU - merging the words Britain and exit to get Brexit, in a same way as a possible Greek exit from the euro was dubbed Grexit in the past.
Why is Britain leaving the European Union?

A referendum - a vote in which everyone (or nearly everyone) of voting age can take part - was held on Thursday 23 June, to decide whether the UK should leave or remain in the European Union. Leave won by 52% to 48%. The referendum turnout was 71.8%, with more than 30 million people voting.

In the aftermath of the surprise vote by way of a referendum in the UK to leave the European Union with accusations of deception in lead up campaign whilst the political causality was former Prime Minister David Cameron and his successor Theresa May seems to be hesitating somewhat on how the ‘BREXIT’ would look like and when it will come through; the firestorm in recent days since a high court ruling that for BREXIT to happen the parliament has to lay out its plans and decide on how it intends to launch the path for the exit to occur. The seeming protectionist posture by many states including the UK itself as the perceived fallout for foreign workers and implications for trade deals with negotiations are becoming more apparent. Nervous stock holders have been on a holding pattern somewhat similar to when planes heading for Gatwick circle until it is there turn to land the pound has been slipping, share prices fluctuating leaving investors overall worried about their futures; then there is talk of moving to other markets such as the NIKEI or the US even as the FED may announce reduced interest rates. Not being part of the EU single market does not seem to bother the likes of Theresa May such as high tariffs for exporting or importing goods and services.

‘Article 50’ the actual instrument that must go into effect is effectively limited to two years is yet to be acted on, Theresa Mays says she wants to do so by March 2017 but in the same breath the UK cannot re-enact its membership with the World Trade Organization, WTO unilaterally and requires the consent of 163 countries for that to happen and the business of quotas are problematic or negotiations of said deals, the recently concluded 7 year negotiated deal with the EU and Canada seems to be seen as a template for getting out of this; with the UK a more services driven economy than for goods the WTO re-negotiations may be challenging, the politics trumps the economics some say. The UK is not a direct member of the EU and is involved by way of the EU and risk the exiting of the EU without those deals cemented as the timing is too short some say. There is no known schedule of commitments by the EU in the WTO in other words there is no active independent membership some BREXITiers say use the EU membership terms but the issue with that is

‘No problem’ says BREXITiers as the UK can fall back on the default international trading rules by the WTO but the EU sells more to the UK than vice versa so the EU has more to lose. But what about business interests, where the power realities lie and lobbyists?

The EU MEPs in the meantime seem to be in a hurry to oust the UK and get on with the business of the union, while the French and British are still at odds with border controls more so than ever now as illegal migrants pass through, some going to great extremes such as literally walking the length of the underground tunnel from France to the UK or risking life and limb via way of hiding in lorries and using force for truck drivers to take them to the border. Despite a well thought through and implemented SCHENGEN visa system in the 27 states in the EU in terms of freedom of movement of legal persons and asylum seekers who can also move across borders for temporary jobs for example refugees and illegal migrant want to go to the UK more so than Germany, France, Sweden and even Holland.

Will the UK indeed England or Britain depending on who in that old arrangement decide to leave by way of their own referenda in Scotland, Ireland and the Falklands become even more insular in terms of asylum number allocation? The near 300% rise in the paper application fees and other fees for approaching the court/Home Office seem to suggest the pathways are being slowly closing or shrunken to make it even more difficult for applicants.

It is The change in law pushed by the Home Office as well in terms of landlords in the UK can find themselves in serious trouble if they do not verify or notify the authorities of illegal immigrants has sent said immigrants deeper into the underground, indeed deportations are on the rise as a recent public matter brought to bear. LGBT Jamaicans who have been in hiding in the UK and the EU to a certain extent and who cannot justify the affidavits they present are also a part of the mix and are being deported, three persons of note were sent back recently.


On the other hand UK Prime Minister Theresa May just yesterday has implemented a registered travel scheme for business persons with India being the first country to fall in that category but the lower socio economic groups seem not to be considered, the UK is trying to (re)establish connections if and when BREXIT comes to life, India’s economy is growing and holds most of the cards in these negotiations. Talks between the EU and India on trade deal have been going on for nine years so this move by the UK PM is timely to grab first instead of the EU; bilateral trade between the UK and India has slowed in the last five years from $16 billion to $14 billion. There are inherent inconsistencies as the very Theresa Mays has said she wants immigration number to supposedly include asylum seekers from dome 300,000 per year to 150,000 a full 50% cut while opening up more to business interests. How can on one hand the UK be seen to be closing the door but rolls out the red carpet to India in a strategic move to upstage the EU?



There are thousands of commitments in the WTO arrangements and some make it sound easy and cannot be done overnight or in twenty four hours; under WTO there is very little access to services. Britain is already been seen as a troublesome neighbour maybe two years after invoking ‘Article 50’ there may not be a sensible agreement in place, temporary expedience may become the interim solution. Rolling over the article for a year or extending member ship maybe unappealing for both sides especially the UK and transitional arrangements may be not on the cards. However not being in the EU single market has not stopped places like the USA to sell into it; the preferential sugar arrangements from a Jamaican standpoint in recent years also is an indication of a kind of shrinking of certain agricultural consideration with supply and demand.

Political implications

Britain maybe seen as undermining the push for solutions to the borders issues, the Eurozone crisis and terrorism and I do not think there will some olive branch to the UK to re enter the EU as the EU now constituted may want to do all it can to stop others from leaving , Turkey’s recent re-enactment of the death penalty and a subsequent warning by Angela Merkel of membership of the EU the response from Turkey was it will take no talk from the EU.

The rapid rise of right wing sometimes extremists groups and political outfits who have formalised themselves is of concern, namely in Germany, France (the opposition to the Jungle tent camps) and of all places Holland that was once thought to be the bastion of true equality and an open arms policy on LGBT asylum seeking and relocation opportunities. Donald Trump’s “BREXIT times ten” on the campaign trail among other things he has spewed seems to have emboldened said fanatical right wingers, the bizarre case that got me thinking was the anti African descented push by a group in Holland with surprising support and with so many Jamaicans already there I am concerned. A recent report of a clash outside a club with Jamaicans and persons making racist remarks and declaring blacks should return to the countries has made this issue a live on. Such anti African and racist sentiments are also on the rise in the UK and what appears to be the Home Office’s hardened positioning on the cases before it; given their history of disbelief of homophobic violence and asylum applications it may become difficult for some with even legitimate claims in their affidavits. One infamous case comes to mind from the early 2000s where the judge literally told the applicant he was not ‘camp’ enough to be gay and that he was lying, a deception by the way used by some (sometimes encouraged allegedly by dishonest solicitors) to act ‘camp’ with everything from aesthetic changes to boot while in holding camps to overdone effeminacy so that witnesses can say he displays stereotypes.

Angela Merkel

Germany’s more accommodative approach to refugees overall to the tune of one million has not gone down well with these racist and anti immigration groups and a recent poll has made the present administration targets of protests, sustained advocacy and violence with verbal abuse of non whites. Germany has a aging populations issue similar to Singapore and immigrants are given some leeway to take up jobs to meet those demands, alongside the natives’ resistance to taking those low paying jobs. 



They also encourage the SCHEGEN visa arrangements quite willingly especially since Angela Merkel’s assumption of leadership and who is seen as the most powerful woman politically in Europe. Most LGBTQ Jamaicans I am aware of who land on UK soil as asylum seekers or under-grounders cannot do much in terms of real good paying jobs so they take household jobs, fast foods work, volunteering at LGBT spaces to build their profiles and so on as legal fees can be a killing despite some grant aid by some LGBTQ outfits there.

Another video shot in Holland recently (this one came before - Rowdy behaviou by Jamaican gay men in Amsterdam
that appeared on social media of supposed bad behaving Jamaicans and similar ones have also not helped the situation by virtue of the comments made in Dutch suggests ostracism and indeed racism as well with the sub text being persons got an opportunity and they abuse it and bring their bad behaviour to their shores; while not assimilating as it were to their (Dutch) cultural norms. Alleged lotto scammers operating there seems to be also popping up more and more as well and I fear can lead to deep mistrust issues impacting those with legitimate cases. On the other hand Jamaicans there on a whole seem to be doing well given their respective social posts and their use of Dutch with is a part of the conditions for residency.

Some of the 42 deportees sent back to Jamaica by the United Kingdom, at Mobile Reserve in St Andrew, where they were being processed on September 7.

As we wait to see the rapidly changing times unfold more Jamaicans are going through some challenging episodes. The pesent state of affairs unde Obama saw more deportations up to 20,000 Jamaicans deported from the United States ; then what is to come under Trump if he wins?

More anon

Peace & tolerance

H

Reminder: sexual orientation & gender identity are different, Trans Awareness Week

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November is Transgender Awareness Week running from the first week in the month, usually the 13th to the 20th culminating in the Transgender Day of Remembrance, TDOR, remembering those who have been taken from us tragically. 



There is a piece of intellectual dishonesty as described by some and downright deception in my eyes of labelling and unqualified diagnosis of transgender persons as ‘mad’ the chief protagonist of it all is none other than Dr Wayne West in his latest round of public advocacy; he has been redirecting the criticism of his outfit Jamaica Coalition for a Healthy Society, JCHS as ‘Crazy’ and affiliated groups namely Lovemarch, Lawyers’ Christian Fellowship, LCF aided and abetted by radio platforms such as Trinity Broadcasting and other non traditional media. Dr West’s recent references on LOVE 101FM specific to the pending transgender or gender neutral bathroom case slated to head to the US Supreme Court. He claimed in his unabashed support of Donald Trump’s attempts for the Presidency he claimed that transgender persons were ‘crazy’ among other things and went for the gender dysphoria diagnosis although he is not trained in psychology. He then sought to redefine in his mind that ‘normal persons’ in his trademark Trinidadian accent are not ‘confused’ and know who they are, definite male or female and nothing else.

When questioned by the host of the show on supporting a man (Trump) who is accused of some serious infractions and his fitness to run the most powerful government in the world (though slowly losing some credibility) Dr West quickly tried to adjust his position despite Trump is NOT anti LGBT as he has relatives who are so and indeed some of his mid to high end properties do allow same gender couples stay and wedding services, in fact there is word that he made a killing post the gay marriage SCOTUS ruling, notice Trump has not touched gay marriage all that much in his campaign for the Presidency although he has touched the business of the vacancy on the said SCOTUS with the thrust of replacing the deceased judge with another conservative; Dr West claimed to use moral equivalence to say out of the two both of whom as bad choices Trump is the better despite the obnoxiousness that has come to rub persons worldwide the wrong way.

West and others have sought to and continue to lump sexual orientation with gender identity so suggest the LGBTQI global advocacy is to impose new philosophies whilst silencing Christian voices which is not true, all this while having unfettered access to multiple traditional and social media platforms and more misguided public protests on said matters but barely as vocal and strident on other societal ills, they only respond to such when it really looks bad such as the recent Jamaica College student phone murder; one wonders of the one day protest in black was a honest response or was being used to right size the selectivity criticisms by myself and others. It makes for short work to continue to otherize LGBTQI people and they have even gone as far as pushing for intersex children to have surgeries long before they have the ability to give consent as to reassignment surgery where applicable.

West’s designation of sexual orientation as a misnomer in order to legitimize homosexuality has not gone unnoticed he claims that rigidity is the order of the day so one is either heterosexual or homosexual complete with name calling as per usual despite his so called Christian position. He totally ignores the concept of non binary gendering and has expressed fears that the upcoming SCOTUS hearing of the gender neutral bathroom matter may go in the favour of the applicants as the silencing campaign of persons like him continue, the usual victimhood ploy with is so overplayed. People such as West’s allies Betty Ann Blaine has made it her life’s work to label asylum seekers even with legitimate cases of homophobic violence outcomes as liars without any serious evidence shows the level of desperation these folks would go to in the name of God.

Remember these?:


So let’s right size some of the deception and nonsense here egregiously done in the name of some misguided or misplaced fanatical Christianity, and note the difference between the two:



Sex? Gender? These two words are often used interchangeably, but there are distinct differences.

Sex is commonly understood to be based on a person’s genitals and reproductive organs; these anatomical details are thought to define a person as male or female. Gender is often understood to refer to gender identity, meaning your internal sense of yourself as female, male, or other, regardless of biology.




Truth is what is ultimately going to come to some middle ground on this mess frankly, despite the late in coming change of the position on the buggery law from repeal to decriminalization for example as court challenges are pending, said fanatics also use the deception of a push for a full repeal to give strength to their advocacy and then claim to subscribe to God centered principles which speak to forgiveness, true tolerance and such.

Nuff said

Peace & tolerance

H

also see:

Jamaica Coalition for a Healthy Society continues its “HIV is a gay disease” campaign with more deception added

Anti Gay Religious group launches pro buggery law DVD
Related Posts with Thumbnails

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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.

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

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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