The Safe House Project 2009 for Displaced & Homeless MSM/Transgender reviewed & 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 New 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

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

CALL TO ACTION TROOPS!! - JAMAICA HOUSE LIVE

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THE PRIME MINISTER'S CALL IN PROGRAM AIRES EVERY LAST WEDNESDAY FROM 8:30 TO 9:30 pm ON RJR FM, NATIONWIDE RADIO, HOT 102 FM, KLAS FM, ROOTS FM, BESS 100FM AND IRIE FM.
The prime minister may be reached at the following numbers during the programme: 960-7739, 960-9853, 968-2019, 926-7527.

JAMAICA TOLL FREE: 1-888-991-7785

A link to Jamaicans in the Diaspora is being facilitated by the Jamaica National Building Society.


The numbers from the United Kingdom are 207-708-6670 and 207-708-6672.


The numbers from the United States and Canada are 954-535-5761 and 305-597-7940 and 1-888-532-1754 respectively.


CALL IN AND AIR YOUR VIEWS, LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD


NATIONWIDE RADIO LIVE LINK: http://www.nationwideradiojm.com/
(CLICK THE RADIO DIAL ON SCREEN, MEDIAPLAYER SHOULD START STREAMS)

(CLICK LISTEN NOW AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE)

JIS LIVE STREAM: http://www.jis.gov.jm/

Advocacy Workshop February 2008

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We were pleased to have MCC leaders George Griffin and Pat Bumgardner visiting our church service on Sunday February 24, 2008, following the tranquil service an advocacy workshop followed, above are some scenes from the spirited discussion.

Saturday, February 23, 2008

The Canadian Response

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Protest in response to homophobic violence in Jamaica with our brotha G.

Friday, February 22, 2008

Brotha Hurt by Homophobic Violence

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Unfortunately this is what our brothas all edged to be gay suffer here in Jamaica, hatred and abuse by other Jamaicans who are hell bent on exacting their hate on other human beings with little regard for life. Our brotha here barely escaped his attackers (nearly 20 men) from his community where he lived with two other friends.

They were viciously attacked in the confines of their own home by a mob armed with sticks stones and machetes and was left unconscious to bleed to death. One of his friends is still missing nearly four weeks after the event. His other friend has removed to another part of the island.

Thanks to JFLAG at the time and kind concerned Friends and our mother church we were able to help these victims recover and bring their lives to some normalcy.

Peace and tolerance

H

A Personal Testimony

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On Pentecost Sunday, I was again privileged to be part of the monthly national worship service of Sunshine Cathedral Jamaica.
I was heartened by the fact that yet again as gay, lesbian, bisexual persons, we had come together with our children and friends to worship in Spirit and in truth. We were open and receptive to the down pouring of the Holy Spirit and we certainly were not disappointed!!!

At sometime during the service I had to “hit” myself and ask “Is this really happening? …and here in Jamaica!!” It continues to astound and impress me that as persons from different socio economic groups, different geographical locations and even religious backgrounds, we simply come together to worship.

As I often do at these services, I go to another “place” and start to wonder what motivates individuals to come to these worship celebrations.
Why do we still come despite the constant threat that overhangs people’s lives and despite the risk factor that is included?
During that time I have fed myself with many different sophisticated answers
§ Creating a safe space emerging
§ Fulfilling a quest for spiritual direction and fulfillment
§ Creating and shaping the LGBT political agenda
§ Blah blah blah!!
At the very least, I have to concede that different persons come for and with different needs. What do we all have in common though?
The truth is that the main Driving Force is the faith-factor in which we are rooted and grounded and which gives the blessed assurance, the promise that better must come for the LGBT community here in Jamaica and in the region. As I look around our worship place I see Christine for example who is always present and who has had to flee from one town because of threats on her life. She also witnessed the violence at the funeral of one of her colleagues and I am sure has much much more to tell. But for her the faith-factor says that better will and must come. We hope that it will happen in our life time but we are faith-filled that happen, it must.

Sarah, Chris, Mary, Carl, Dorrett, Michael all know that the day will come (and is fast approaching) when LGBT persons will be able to live in freedom and peace.
Confident in the fact that we are children of God with a divine heritage, we know that God has no option but to be God and to protect and provide for our needs including our safety. We know that because it is one of the promises made to us as a chosen people, a royal nation, a people set apart. And we know too well how much we fit that description.

We are comforted by the old hymn Standing on the Promises of God My Saviour and especially the part of which says “Sanding on the promises that cannot fail”
Those promises have not changed, cannot be changed and will never change and …yes, they will stand even for us as LGBT persons. We will continue to stand secure in those very promises.

Each month we come to worship as a national body with the unchangeable faith and firmly planted in the promise that we will be nourished spiritually and that, like the woman at the well, we will draw from the well spring of salvation, the spiritual nourishment that will make us go away singing and come back bringing others for that spiritual nourishment that wells up for each and everyone of us. The promise and the evidence in our lives is that it is out of this spiritual nourishment that we are able to live on a daily basis. That nourishment is what keeps us focused and alive. That nourishment reinforces and refreshes us and it is from that nourishment that we pull strength and comfort. That does not mean that we are not bothered by the events around us. They are scary. Each time some violence is meted out to one of our members, we cringe and worry for our own safety.


But our faith dictates that we cannot be daunted and reside in that mode for ever. We must go on in and by faith. We must and will secure if nothing else, our own individual spiritual freedom.

As mundane as seems, it is practical faith that brings us together, it is the faith in action that is at work as we travel to and from theses worship services That faith is what we rely on to be able to reach back home safely. Faith is also evidence in the belief that God is in control and that all is good. What is seen as bravery in this defiant coming together is in fact for many of us absolute childlike.

Faith will lead to our deliverance.

Greetings from St. Lucia, the Helen of the East.

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I am still trying to come to come to grips with my experience in Jamaica when eight of us from Belize, Barbados, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana went to Jamaica for the first Caribbean Mobilization Conference sponsored by Sunshine Cathedral Ft. Lauderdale and Jamaica. The theme was “Planting Seeds in the Caribbean”.

I have visited Jamaica on many occasions before. They have all been good visits during which I saw the Jamaican LGBT community at work. There I learned new and different ways to organize the Caribbean and St. Lucian LGBT communities around HIV.

But the August 2007 experience at the Sunshine Cathedral in Jamaica really took the cake. I was not totally sure what to expect when I agreed to attend so there was some sort of anticipation about the trip. I knew that it had to do with LGBT spirituality, God and worship. All of these were ok with me since was training to be a minister of religion and am still a practicing Christian.

The Conference which took place on our first full day in Jamaica was very useful and provided some good insights into MCC’s history, operations etc. I was very impressed and wondered why MCC had been such a well kept secret because so many of my LGBT brothers and sisters yearned for spiritual stimulation. I ended that first day energized but still feeling that my role was a little abstract and not concrete.

Well, if the Saturday workshop was the theory, then the Sunday worship service was the practical. It still feels as though I was in a dream as I entered this hall beautifully decorated with the signature rainbow colours and flowers. I watched in amazement as numerous members of the local community turned up for worship. They came from different locations, in different shapes and sizes each choosing different ways of celebrating their own sexuality. Some brought their children who seemed to be very at home in this church service and were warmly welcomed by the adults. I could not believe that this really happening in Jamaica. For the first time in my 45 years, I witnessed members of the LGBT community freely worshipping in spirit and in truth. I saw my brothers and sisters pour out their hearts to the Lord and call upon him.
I saw pent up repression and pain experience release. I saw love and support in action.
I was able to simply worship and be blessed.

I was struck by the number of persons (at least twenty) who were received as new members in the church. I was deeply moved by the fact that this included five heterosexuals. But the lingering image will always be how happy people were as they hugged and kissed and departed. And although we were there for about three hours the dream seemed to have ended as quickly as it started.

Later on, I sat on the Kingston water-front with my host-family, their children and my Belizean counterpart. We ate and chatted about what had happened and still I was lost, I could not believe.



This was an affirming experience that will have a great impact on my life.
Thanks to Sunshine Cathedral for creating this oasis in the desert, for making this possible for us in the Caribbean, for planting a seed which I hope will grow up in my own country of St. Lucia. Thank God for moving in this mighty and affirming way.

Torch Bearers, Pass on The Light!!

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I write this reflection from the airplane as the three member-contingent from Jamaica makes our way home from the General Conference XXIII of MCC in Scottsdale, Arizona.

I cannot help but reflect on the absolute inspiration and the blessing that we have all received during these days of spiritual reflection and celebration. I am left with a variety of images floating in my head not least among which is the overriding image of being like a torch-bearer running in the Olympics, carrying the torch to the next leg of the race. In this case though our torch is a different kind… (The imagery just could not be straight! We have to live up to our reputation of being creative and non-traditional!!) Regardless, what is the most important are the facts that going back with us to Jamaica are, (among other things) the Cross and two candles that adorned the altar for the duration of the Conference.
Offered to us by the very creative Rev. Phyllis Hunt

I could get lost in the huge symbolism wrapped up in all of this. By any stretch of the imagination, these items represent a “piece” of the conference that is being taken back to reside among the believers in Jamaica. In that regard, it makes the conference-theme (Building on Hope Creating our Future) come alive and take root among us.

They also represent the vision of church that transcends borders and cultures, a church willing to share its resources one with the other in the name of international brotherhood and the preservation of human rights.

They also represent the energy and vision of the new church in Jamaica. A church that despite the crosses that might come its way will set about be a light to the world.

They represent the warm assurance and reminder that the entire conference and all other MCCers have us in Jamaica in their prayers, thoughts and love. A reminder that together we are a force to be reckoned with!!

They represent the fact that we are part of a young (forty years old is young because I am!!) but mature tradition that enables us to worship a God of inclusion while at the same time celebrating our sexuality.

They also challenge us to hold as sacred this vision not only for Jamaica but also for the wider Caribbean because although they will be used for each of the monthly national services in Jamaica, they will also be reminders that there is work to be done with our brothers and sisters in the wider Caribbean. They represent a challenge to spread the word far and wide!!

Young Jamaica, pick up your cross and your candles and walk!!

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Thoughts from Suriname

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Stand at the gate of the LORD's house and there proclaim this message:
“‘Hear the word of the LORD, all you people of Judah who come through these gates to worship the LORD. Jeremiah 7:2


All over the world people are fighting for Freedom, Acceptance and seeking for love.
The difference is that they all do it their own way. I was moved by the way it is being done in Jamaica at the church service, especially for the MSM population, who faces the battle against HIV /AIDS and their sexuality every day, in Jamaica. Watching how men especially gaymen en other msm worship the lord was amazingly impressive. One thing I have learned from the experience is that we should never underestimate what they call: SPIRIT OF GOD.
Nothing is more powerful that the SPIRIT OF GOD.

In Suriname I never experienced such a heavy loaded church service and to be honest I was much moved. While the emotions where blazing through my body I realized that I should always give praise to the lord in everything I do and be thankful for all the blessings I receive every day.

Taking this experience with me has allowed me to not only be grateful of who I am today but it also gives me the power to continue sharing my love with all human beings no matter the race, background, position or sexual orientation.

Thanks to the MCC of Florida, USA and MCC Jamaica for inviting me to the meeting in Jamaica, Kingston.

With these last words I am now planting some seeds of love for everyone.

Best regards

Kenneth Van Emden
Suriname Men United

Reflections from a Bahamian Brotha

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Written by Mike who is a gay Bahamian male who is presently studying in Jamaica


My experience of Sunday August 26, 2007 has left an indelible impression on my heart and spirit. There I was, in full worship mode…ready to receive what the very able priestess had to share by way of lesson.

There I was … in Jamaica, a country where knowledge of a ‘gay’ church service could [in many pockets] incite instantaneous violence…notwithstanding the same, I felt safe, loved, joined, and overcome with emotion.

The message was timely... delivered in love and in sync with the hearts and minds present as the spiritual connection was thick.

I gushed with pride and held back tears in an effort to fully absorb these precious minutes of which I speak. Jamaica AIDS Support provided the venue for the service which [in my mind] had significant value to me as so many fiends who have transitioned and have passed through JAS’ doors seemed to be cheering us on and adding the spirit energy.

Separate and apart from church at home in Nassau Bahamas, I have not experienced fellowship that honored and recognized me… my fellow brothers and sisters for the wonderful, diverse, colorful, passionate and loving LGBT people that we are. We are truly thirteenth stranders.

Further, the love and synergy that was evidently present at the church service was compounded by the message being interpreted before me in sign language for the hearing impaired within the audience.

Certainly (in a spirit of love) the organizers and initiators of these services have transcended mores, tradition, fear and negative repercussion allowing for a luminous opportunity for us [the gay, lesbian community] to embrace our Father, Mother and God in the ‘perfectness’ of our own creation…true reflections of Him/Her.

& so it is…

The New York Response

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That's what friends are for, Thanks for speaking out
MCC Protest at Jamaican Consulate
By: ANDY HUMM
02/21/2008

http://gaycitynews.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19318906&BRD=2729&PAG=461&dept_id=568857&rfi=6

Led by leaders of the Metropolitan Community Church NY, about 30 activists protested outside the Jamaican Consulate in Midtown on February 14 as part of a "Call to Love" to focus attention on the persecution of LGBT people in the island nation. Similar actions were held in Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, and Washington, DC.

Reverend Pat Bumgardner, chair of MCC's Global Justice Ministry, spoke about the series of attacks on LGBT people over the last year, including a mob attack on three gay men on January 29. "Two of these young men, doing nothing more than existing in their own home, were clubbed and macheteed to the point of hospitalization," she said. "One lost an ear and may suffer paralysis from the attack. A third young man is missing and presumed dead." Nathaniel Cunningham, an out gay man with Jamaican AIDS Services, is seeking asylum here because of death threats. He told the lunchtime crowd, "These nightmares must end!"

JFLAG Watch !!

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J-FLAG takes a swing at church community
The Gleaner, Wednesday February 20, 2008

The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) has taken a swing at the church community. Members of the local gay lobby group, in a release to The Gleaner yesterday, said recent comments made by local church leaders give the impression that they have little or no regard for the human rights and protection of individuals within the homosexual community."The latest response by the local church community to the issues affecting Jamaica's sexual minority group speaks loudly to the lack of humanity being extended by the Church," the release read.J-FLAG's response comes just days after Jamaican church leaders rebuked the actions of the Florida-based Metropolitan Community Church (MCC), whose leaders recently staged protests outside several Jamaican consulates, calling for more 'gay-friendly' policies to be adopted by Jamaica.The church community was, however, adamant that despite the demands made by the MCC, homosexuality would not be accepted as normal. Several church leaders indicated that they were not in support of mob violence against those who practised a gay lifestyle and that the Church was willing to provide counselling for those who wanted to change their ways. Continued silence However, when The Gleaner contacted the J-FLAG office, *Jason, who said he was the organisation's programme manager, said the Church's continued silence shows that members approve of such violence against homosexuals."The Church has not spoken out against the atrocities faced by the homosexual community and has waited until external forces have called for a more humanitarian approach towards dealing with the issue to come forward," said J-FLAG.In a previous interview, Bishop Everton Thomas, of the Jamaica Pentecostal Union, told The Gleaner that the Church in no way supported the killing or assault of homosexuals and recognised that they had a right to life, as any other Jamaican.

SCJ's Press Release in Response to Gleaner Article on 18.02.08

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A Statement from the Leadership of Sunshine Cathedral in Jamaica

19 February 2008

“The Church Wakes up!! But look at for what!!”

Sunshine Cathedral-Jamaica (SCJ) finds it curious that persons purporting to speak on behalf of the entire Christian Church in Jamaica have finally broken their silence on issues facing homosexuals and persons alleged to be homosexuals in Jamaica.

Conveniently, this breaking of the silence has come because of the protests in North America by Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) on the anniversary of last year’s Valentine’s Day mob attack in Kingston and following the attack of three men in Mandeville. It is disturbing that this silence was never broken for the lives lost, bloodshed, and rampant abuse of Jamaicans who are either homosexuals or thought to be homosexuals. Instead, the age-old and predictable response of a handful of self-appointed leaders who purport to speak for the majority of Christian churches in Jamaica has been to keep silent and turn a blind eye as Jamaicans are mobbed, beaten and killed. Their continued silence in the face of rampant attacks and abuse, broken only when someone calls for Christian love towards those that are beaten, can only leave the impression that they approve of such violence. This is especially so given the discriminatory and harsh remarks used by these leaders in speaking about the vexed issues of violence towards homosexuals and in expressing their interpretation of God’s love and Christian teachings around this issue.

For the record, Sunshine Cathedral-Jamaica, a member of MCC, is made up of over one hundred and fifty Jamaicans (homosexuals and heterosexuals) who live, breathe and experience this violence on a regular basis. Contrary to popular belief this number also includes heterosexuals who themselves are (a) tired of the discrimination meted out to members of the homosexual community and (b) frustrated with the double standards that they have experienced from the pulpits of their faith communities. SCJ crafts, sanctions, participates in, and is totally a part of whatever related public action taken by MCC regarding Jamaica. Contrary to what many think, there is no foreign group dictating or leading the pace here. We are skillfully and creatively crafting our own destiny and response and are proud of the fact that we belong to an international organization that stands out as having the courage to cry out against violence directed towards us. The lesson being imparted to all is that “Injustice to one person is in fact injustice to all”

We would like to again reiterate that we did not make ourselves homosexuals; neither did we go anywhere to learn it. We were born here in Jamaica and most of us do not want to go anywhere else to live. Instead we insist that as a people we must be treated equally by the church, the Government, and all citizens.

Guyanese Greetings

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Greetings all,

I must say I felt privileged to be one of the representatives of Guyana to attend the MCC’s Sunshine Cathedral workshop that firstly, edified me of the MCC’s origin and purpose and secondly the need to spread the gospel (‘plant the seed’) of the MCC in the Caribbean. What I respect is the fact that God is at the center of its work in the context of Spirituality and ones Sexuality.

The MCC spreads a tolerant message that is accommodative and provides hope for the LGBT community globally, and more so in the Caribbean, that God loves us for we are His creation contrary to what some churches propagate. I am very delighted that it creates a comfortable space for LGBT persons to worship and to be enriched with the word of God.

I was totally oblivious that such a church movement exists and being very dynamic and touching so many souls especially Jamaica. I believe that this is something that other Caribbean countries will love to experience. The MCC in Jamaica is a model that other countries in the Caribbean, including Guyana, can replicate.

The church service was energetic and awesome. It was no different to that of any church services I have attended. The only difference is that it is a gay-friendly space where persons can worship without any hate sermon and to be greeted by homophobic clergy members and congregants. Everything was routine to that of any church and the message was one of love and tolerance. I was overwhelmed for my expectations didn’t reach that far. I felt accepted and respected as one supposes to feel any house of worship.

Nevertheless, I really enjoyed the workshop and church service. I am gratified that the MCC’s Sunshine Cathedral will be readily available to aid Guyana and the other countries that were present to set up their MCC space. Further, I love the hospitality extended by the organizers and hosts of the activities in Jamaica and I hope we can eventually work in solidarity in spreading the message of the Lord within our respective communities.


God’s Love,
Jermaine

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Our First Workshop in Jamaica Involving Local Religious Leaders.

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The Workshop was designed to present the ideological position of the SCJ and begin the dialogue of interfaith cooperation between SCJ and the existing church groups in Jamaica

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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.



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

hear recent pods as well:

Information & Disclaimer


Not all views expressed are those of GJW

This blog contains pictures and images that may be disturbing. As we seek to highlight the plight of victims of homophobic violence here in Jamaica, the purpose of the pics is to show physical evidence of claims of said violence over the years and to bring a voice of the same victims to the world.

Many recover over time, at pains, as relocation and hiding are options in that process. Please view with care or use the Happenings section to select other posts of a different nature.

Not all persons depicted in photos are gay or lesbian and it is not intended to portray them as such, save and except for the relevance of the particular post under which they appear.

Please use the snapshot feature (if available for your device(s) 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.

God Bless

Other Blogs I write to:

Recent Homophobic Incidents CLICK HERE for related posts/labels from glbtqjamaica's blog & HERE for those I am aware of.

contact:

APJ Website Launch & Link


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)

The Hypocrisy of Jamaican Anti Gay Groups & Selective Actions of Societal Ills


The selectivity of the anti gay religious voices on so called societal ills is examined in this podcast as other major issues that require the "church" to have spoken up including sexual abuse by pastors in recent times yet mere silence on those matters is highlighted.

Why are these groups and so called child rights activists creating mass hysteria and have so much strength for HOMOSEXUALITY but are quiet on corruption in government, missing children, crime in the country and so much more but want to stop same gender loving persons from enjoying peace of mind and PRIVACY?

Also is the disturbing tactic of deliberately conflating paedophilia with same gender sex as if to suggest reforming the buggery law will cause an influx of buggered children when we know that is NOT TRUE.

MSM/Trans homeless - From gully to graveyard



When are lives interrupted be allowed a real honest chance to move from interruption to independence and stability? I just cannot tell you friends.

An article appeared in the gleaner today that just sent me into sadness mode again with this ugly business of LGBTQI homelessness. The author of the piece needs an intervention too as he (Ryon Jones) uses terms such as cross dressers and or homeless men which if transgender persons are present they cannot be described or seen as such, sigh another clear display of the lack of impact and reach of so called advocacies and advocates who are more interested in parading as working but really aint having much impact as they ought to or claim.

We are told of houses being put together from time in memorial; the Dwayne’s House project seems dead in the water, the Larry Chang (named after a JFLAG cofounder) seems stuck in the mud and Colour Pink’s so called Rainbow House seems insignificant in relation to the size and scope of the national problem. JFLAG as presented on this blog is obviously not interested in getting their hands dirty really on homelessness save and except for using the populations as cannon fodder and delegating same; as far as I am concerned presenting them as victims of homophobia which is true but where are the programs and the perceived millions donated or granted since President Obama’s visit to address LGBTQ matters?

More HERE

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?

The Deliberate Misuse of the “Sexual Grooming” Term by Antigay Fanatics to Promote Their Hysteria



Just as I researched on-line in NOT EVEN five minutes and found a plethora of information and FACTS on Sexual Grooming (and thanks to Dr Karen Carpenter for some valuable insight I found out what Sexual Grooming was) so too must these fanatics go and do the same and stop creating panic in the country.

The hysteria continues from the Professor Bain so called protests to protect freedom of speech and bites at the credibility of the LGBT lobby collectively continues via Duppies Dupe UWI articles when the bigger principle of the conflict of interest in regards to the greater imperative of removing/preserving archaic buggery laws in the Caribbean dependent on which side one sits is of greater import when the professor’s court testimony in Belize went against the imperative of CHART/PANCAP goals is the more germane matter of which he was former head now temporarily reinstated via a court ex-parte injunction. The unnecessary uproar and shouting from the same hysterical uninformed quarters claiming moral concerns ....... MORE CLICK HERE

also see if you can

JFLAG Excludes Homeless MSM from IDAHOT Symposium on Homelessness



Reminder

In a shocking move JFLAG decided not to invite or include homeless MSM in their IDAHO activity for 2013 thus leaving many in wonderment as to the reason for their existence or if the symposium was for "experts" only while offering mere tokenism to homeless persons in the reported feeding program. LISTEN TO THE AUDIO ENTRY HERE sad that the activity was also named in honour of one of JFLAG's founders who joined the event via Skype only to realize the issue he held so dear in his time was treated with such disrespect and dishonor. Have LGBT NGOs lost their way and are so mainstream they have forgotten their true calling?

also see a flashback to some of the issues with the populations and the descending relationships between JASL, JFLAG and the displaced/homeless LGBT 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

Steps to take when confronted by the police & your rights compromised:


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 tense

d) 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

i) 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

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, see: MP Seeks Solutions For Homeless Gay Youth In New Kingston


New Kingston Cop Proposes Shelter for Shoemaker Gully LGBT Homeless Population




Superintendent Murdock

The same cop who has factored in so many run-ins with the youngsters in the Shoemaker Gully (often described as a sewer by some activists) has delivered on a promise of his powerpoint presentation on a solution to the issue in New Kingston, problem is it is the same folks who abandoned the men (their predecessors) from the powerful cogs of LGBT/HIV that are in earshot of his plan.

This ugly business of LGBTQ homelessness and displacements or self imposed exile by persons has had several solutions put forth, problem is the non state actors in particular do not want to get their hands dirty as the more combative and political issues to do with buggery's decriminalization or repeal have risen to the level of importance more so than this. Let us also remember this is like the umpteenth meeting with the cops, some of the LGBT homeless persons and the advocacy structure.

Remember JFLAG's exclusion of the group from that IDAHO symposium on LGBT homelessess? See HERE, how can we ask the same people who only want to academise and editorialise the issue to also try to address their own when they do not want to get their hands dirty but publish wonderful reports as was done earlier this month, see HERE: (re)Presenting and Redressing LGBT Homelessness in Jamaica: Towards a Multifaceted Approach to Addressing Anti-Gay Related Displacement also LGBT homelessness has always been with us from the records of Gay Freedom Movement(1974) to present but the current issues started from 2009, see: The Quietus ……… The Safe House Project Closes and The Ultimatum on December 30, 2009 as carried on sister blog Gay Jamaica Watch. CLICK HERE for FULL post of this story.

Gender Identity/Transgederism Radio discussion Jamaica March 2014





Radio program Everywoman on Nationwide Radio 90FM March 20th 2014 with Dr Karen Carpenter as stand-in host with a transgender activist and co-founder of Aphrodite's P.R.I.D.E Jamaica and a gender non conforming/lesbian guest as well on the matters of identity, sex reassignment surgery and transexuality.

CLICK HERE for a recording of the show

BUSINESS DOWNTURN FOR THE WEED-WHACKING PROJECT FOR FORMER DISPLACED ST CATHERINE MSM



As promised here is another periodical update on an income generating/diligence building project now in effect for some now seven former homeless and displaced MSM in St Catherine, it originally had twelve persons but some have gotten jobs elsewhere, others have simply walked away and one has relocated to another parish, to date their weed whacking earning business capacity has been struggling as previous posts on the subject has brought to bear.

Although some LGBT persons residing in the parish have been approached by yours truly and others to increase client count for the men costs such as gas and maintenance of the four machines that are rotated between the enrolled men are rising weekly literally while the demand is instead decreasing due to various reasons.



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.


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.

Notes on Bail & Court Appearance issues


If in doubt speak to your attorney

Bail and its importance -

If one is locked up then the following may apply:
Locked up over a weekend - Arrested pursuant to being charged or detained There must be reasonable suspicion i.e. about to commit a crime, committing a crime or have committed a crime.

There are two standards that must be met:

1). Subjective standard: what the officer(s) believed to have happened

2). Objective standard: proper and diligent collection of evidence that implicates the accused To remove or restrain a citizen’s liberty it cannot be done on mere suspicion and must have the above two standards

 Police officers can offer bail with exceptions for murder, treason and alleged gun offences, under the Justice of the Peace Act a JP can also come to the police station and bail a person, this provision as incorporated into the bail act in the late nineties

 Once a citizen is arrested bail must be considered within twelve hours of entering the station – the agents of the state must give consideration as to whether or not the circumstances of the case requires that bail be given

 The accused can ask that a Justice of the Peace be brought to the station any time of the day. By virtue of taking the office excluding health and age they are obliged to assist in securing bail

"Bail is not a matter for daylight

Locked up and appearing in court

 Bail is offered at the courts office provided it was extended by the court; it is the court that has the jurisdiction over the police with persons in custody is concerned.

 Bail can still be offered if you were arrested and charged without being taken to court a JP can still intervene and assist with the bail process.

Other Points of Interest

 The accused has a right to know of the exact allegation

 The detainee could protect himself, he must be careful not to be exposed to any potential witness

 Avoid being viewed as police may deliberately expose detainees

 Bail is not offered to persons allegedly with gun charges

 Persons who allegedly interfere with minors do not get bail

 If over a long period without charge a writ of habeas corpus however be careful of the police doing last minute charges so as to avoid an error

 Every instance that a matter is brought before the court and bail was refused before the accused can apply for bail as it is set out in the bail act as every court appearance is a chance to ask for bail

 Each case is determined by its own merit – questions to be considered for bail:

a) Is the accused a flight risk?

b) Are there any other charges that the police may place against the accused?

c) Is the accused likely to interfere with any witnesses?

d) What is the strength of the crown’s/prosecution’s case?

 Poor performing judges can be dealt with at the Judicial Review Court level or a letter to the Chief Justice can start the process

Human Rights Advocacy for GLBT Community Report 2009

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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 Tel: 1-876-841-2923 (leave a message just in case)




Activities & Plans: ongoing and future

  • To continue this venture towards website development with an E-zine focus

  • 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

  • To formalise GLBTQ Jamaica's activities in the long term

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

  • Welcoming, examining and implemeting 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
Mr. H or Howie

Tel: 1-876-841-2923
lgbtevent@gmail.com








Peace

Battle Lines Javed Jaghai versus the state & the Jamaica Buggery Law



Originally aired on CVM TV December 8th 2013, apologies for some of the glitches as the source feed was not so hot and it kept dropping from source or via the ISP, NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED and is solely for educational and not for profit use and review. The issue of the pending legal challenge in the Constitutional Court in Jamaica as filed by Javed Jaghai an outspoken activist who happens also to be openly aetheist.

The opposing sides are covered as well such as
The Jamaica Coalition for a Healthy Society
The Love March
Movement Jamaica

The feature seems destined for persons who are just catching up to the issues and repositioning JFLAG in particular in the public domain as their image has taken a beating in some respects especially on the matter of the homeless MSM front. They need to be careful that an elitist perception is not held after this after some comments above simplistic discourse, the use of public agitation as beneath some folks and the obvious overlooking of the ordinary citizen who are realy the ones who need convincing to effect the mindset change needed and the national psyche's responses to homosexuality in general.


John Maxwell's House