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

Monday, March 24, 2008

Reminder to Let Your Voice Be Heard - Call in

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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)
LOVE 101FM LIVE LINK: http://www.lovefm.org/newlove101/flashindex.html

(CLICK LISTEN NOW AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE)
JIS LIVE STREAM: http://www.jis.gov.jm/

Paying Tribute to murderd gay Jamaicans(Cliff Lashley, Peter King & Brian Williamson)

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Floral tributes by Reverend Canon Robert Griffin and Reverend Elder Nancy Wilson of the Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) in the United States. This recognition was done sometime in 2007/8 after their first service Sunshine Cathedral Jamaica (an offshoot of MCC) in Jamaica under the Jamaican Chapter in St. Ann at the time in 2006.

Reflections of our sung and unsung heroes, sheroes, allies and friends.

Peace and tolerance


Talks with the local Police Nancy Wilson of MCC and John Mclean of the JCF

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Celebrating Love

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Saturday, March 1, 2008

A Call To Action - Public Statement by The Rev. Nancy Wilson, Office of the Moderator

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MCC Moderator Calls for Immediate Actions
In Response to Jamaican Anti-Gay Mob Violence
MCC's "CALL FOR LOVE CAMPAIGN" To Mark Valentine's Day
With International Embassy Actions; E-Mail Appeals, Prayer Vigils

February 5, 2008

Dear MCC Leader:I feel an unusual sense of urgency about the message of this e-mail.Even though the time frame is short, I am writing to encourage you and your congregation to join me in celebrating love in a powerful and meaningful way on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2008, by helping end the unremitting hatred and violence directed against our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender brothers and sisters in Jamaica.For many years, LGBT people in Jamaica have faced a horrific campaign of harassment, intimidation, violence, ostracism, hate crimes and even death. Time Magazine described Jamaica as "the most homophobic country in the Western Hemisphere.:Now the situation has taken yet another deadly turn -- and we must band together and bring international pressure to stop the violence.On Tuesday night, January 29, 2008, an anti-gay mob invaded a private home in Greenvale, Manchester (Jamaica). The mob attacked three gay men inside, beating them and hacking them with machetes. Two of the men have been hospitalized with serious injuries; one had his ear cut off. One man remains unaccounted for and is feared dead.This is only the latest in a long series of hate-filled crimes against LGBT Jamaicans:-- During Easter of 2007, another mob surrounded a church in Mandeville during the funeral of a gay man. They trapped the mourners inside, chanting, "We want no battyman {sic} funeral here. Leave or else we are going to kill you."-- Before that incident, three gay men at Montego Bay's Carnivale were viciously attacked with knives and beaten with a manhole cover.-- On Valentine's Day of 2007, a mob trapped four gay men inside a pharmacy. They narrowly escaped with their lives, but not before being pelted by the crowd. Even the local police hurled insults at the very men they were charged with protecting.I am inviting you to use this Valentine's Day, February 14, a day devoted to love, to help end the hatred against LGBT people in Jamaica.

THE VIOLENCE MUST END AND IT MUST END NOW!

I am calling on political and religious leaders, as well as people of goodwill around the globe, to unite to end the violence against LGBT people in Jamaica. Now is the time for clergy to rise up in their pulpits and put an end to the condemnation of gay people that so often gives rise to and "justifies" these violent and unprovoked outbursts. We are often polite and diplomatic in our calls for study groups to search the Scriptures and explore our traditions. The time for polite exploration is over. LGBT people in Jamaica are in fear for their lives because people of faith are using the Bible to justify violence.

ANTI-GAY BASHING IN THE NAME OF
RELIGION MUST STOP AND IT MUST STOP NOW!

If you are a political leader or member of the police force, I am uniting my voice with the voices of the membership of J-FLAG (Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays) in demanding that you take seriously your constitutionally-mandated and sworn duty to protect all Jamaican citizens equally. Gender identity and sexual orientation are not reasons to suffer the perpetuation of unprovoked violence and vigilante-like raids.

THE SILENCE OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL LEADERSHIP MUST END!
WE MUST ALL SPEAK UP NOW FOR THE UNIVERSAL RIGHT THAT
GUARANTEES THE SAFETY OF ALL CITIZENS IN EVERY LAND!

Love, mercy, compassion, mutual respect, generosity and kindness must become for all of us more than the subjects of Sunday sermons or Bible Study classes -- they must become the mandates of our daily lives; the principles by which we live together.

"One Love, One HeartLet's get together and feel all right..."

Jamaican songster Bob Marley wrote those lyrics because he wanted the violence and hatred between peoples to end.

I want that, too, with all my heart. And I believe the day can come when we can live together as one human family. It is because I believe that so strongly and because of the urgency of this moment in history, that I am asking MCC leaders and churches to join hands with people of goodwill globally and take three steps to end anti-gay violence in Jamaica:

ACTION STEP ONE:+ Mark the upcoming 40 days of Lent as a time of focused and intentional prayer for the LGBT community in Jamaica. Pray for an end to violence and hatred, and that those in political and religious leadership will have the courage needed to speak and act for equality and justice and peace among the people of Jamaica. Commit to daily prayers in your personal life and to public prayers during worship services throughout Lent.ACTION STEP TWO:+ Send an e-mail to The Honorable Dr. Kenneth O. Baugh, Deputy Prime Minister of Jamaica, at mfatjam@cwjamaica.com. Tell him that you, like he is, are a person of faith. Call him to accountability for the well-being of all Jamaican citizens, both as an elected leader and a person of faith. Let him know the eyes of the world are watching what is happening. Demand an investigation at the highest levels of the Jamaican government into this latest round of violence against gay people, including the delay in police arrival and the failure to yet again hold anyone in the mob accountable.ACTION STEP THREE:* Join MCC's international "Call For Love Campaign" on Valentines Day, February 14. For many years, MCCers have observed Valentine's Day with protests, demonstrations and press conferences calling attention to the inequality of marriage laws for LGBT people in countries around the globe.This year we are dedicating Valentine's Day, February 14 -- a day devoted to love -- to taking a stand against hatred. On Valentine's Day, people of goodwill will demonstrate, protest and hold press conferences at local Jamaican embassies, consulates and high commissions. Events are already scheduled for Toronto, New York City, and Miami -- with still more cities to be announced momentarily.On February 14, we'll call for love to prevail and an end to the violence and hatred against our bothers and sisters in Jamaica, especially.Here's how you can participate:1. If you are close to one of the Jamaican embassies, high commissions, or consulates listed below, organize a CALL FOR LOVE rally at one of the sites. Make signs. Call on the government of Jamaica to investigate the hate crimes and to protect the rights of LGBT Jamaicans. Offer prayers. Hold a moment of silence to remember LGBT people killed and harmed by hatred. If you are not in range of an embassy, use a central location that will enable many from your area to participate. Write to GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net and we'll send you "10 Action Steps For Organizing A CALL TO LOVE Public Event." 2. Invite other churches, synagogues, mosques and temples to join in this CALL FOR LOVE, along with community organizations, LGBT rights groups, and human rights groups.3. Invite the media and press to your public action. Give voice and visibility to the plight of LGBT Jamaicans.


"As it was in the beginning (One Love)
So shall it be in the end (One Heart)"
-- Bob Marley

May our actions and our prayers on February 14th make it so.

+NancyRev. Nancy L. WilsonModeratorMetropolitan Community ChurchesP.S. If you schedule a CALL FOR LOVE Valentine's Day event for your area, or if you have further questions, please write to GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net. Be sure to let us know when you schedule your event -- we'll promptly send you a sample press release that you can use to promote your event to the media in your area._________________________ J A M A I C A_________________________ EMBASSIES AND HIGH COMMISSIONSNOTE: "High Commission" indicates the embassy of a British Commonwealth nation that is located within another British Commonwealth nation.AUSTRALIAHigh Commission of Jamaica8 Leonora St, Earlwood Sydney, New South Wales 2206 CANADAHigh Commission of Jamaica Standard Life Building 275 Slater Street Suite 800, Ottawa, OntarioKIP 5H9Consulate of Jamaica303 Eglinton Avenue EastToronto, Ontario M4P 1L3DENMARKConsulate of JamaicaTagesmindevej 8Gentofte, Denmark 2820ENGLANDHigh Commission of Jamaica1-2 Prince Consort RoadLondon SW7 2BZGERMANYEmbassy of JamaicaSchmargendorfer Strabe 32 Berlin, Germany 12159Consulate of JamaicaBallindamm 1 Hamburg, Germany 2000PHILIPPINESEmbassy of JamaicaTesoro Building, 5th Floor1325 A. Mabini Street, Ermita Manila, Philippines 1000SOUTH AFRICAHigh Commission of JamaicaPretoria, South AfricaTelephone: 27 12 362 6667 or 27 12 366 8500(Call for street address.)UNITED STATESEmbassy of Jamaica1520 New Hampshire Avenue N WWashington DC 20036ConsulatesATLANTA (area)Consulate of Jamaica1823 Chedworth LaneStone Mountain, GeorgiaBOSTONConsulate of Jamaica351 Massachusetts Avenue Boston, Massachusetts 02115CHICAGOConsulate of Jamaica4655 South Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Suite 201Chicago, Illinois 60653DALLASConsulate of Jamaica3068 Forrest Lane Dallas, Texas 75234 HOUSTONConsulate of Jamaica7737 Southwest Freeway, Suite 580 Houston, Texas 77074LOS ANGELESConsulate of Jamaica8703 Venice Boulevard, Vienna Medical Clinic Los Angeles, California 90034MIAMIConsulate of Jamaica842 Ingraham Building25 South East Second AvenueMiami, Florida 33131NEW YORK CITYConsulate of Jamaica767 Third Avenue, 2nd & 3rd FloorsNew York, NY 10017Telephone: 212-935-9000PHILADELPHIAConsulate of JamaicaPO Box 24174 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19139Phone: 215-313-9508(Call to locate physical address,)RICHMONDConsulate of JamaicaPO Box 15101 Richmond, Virginia USA Phone: 804-2624453(Call to locate physical address)SAN FRANCISCOConsulate of JamaicaSan Francisco General HospitalDept. of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery1001 Potrero Avenue, 1N1 San Francisco, California 94110

_______________________________________


This statement prepared in conjunction with the Global Justice Team of Metropolitan Community Churches, Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair.

More Pics of Anti Violence Protest 2008

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The Demand for LOVE

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Faith Communities, Human Rights Groups Demand Jamaican Government Stop the Murder of Gays, Lesbians"Call For Love" Campaign To Hold Public Demonstration, Press Conference At Jamaican Consulate in NYC on Valentine's Day (Feb. 14)


NEW YORK CITY -- An international human rights campaign seeking an end to the on-going hate crimes, violence and murder of gays and lesbians in Jamaica will include a public demonstration and press conference at the Jamaican Consulate (767 Third Ave., NYC) beginning at 12 noon on Valentine's Day.The world-wide faith communion of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) is sponsoring "Call For Love" rallies at Jamaican embassies, consulates and high commissions around the globe to demand an end to the violence that is endangering the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Jamaica."New York City's "Call For Love" rally will bring together faith communities, human rights organizations, local activists, and concerned citizens to raise visibility for the plight of gay and lesbian Jamaicans," said The Reverend Pat Bumgardner, senior pastor of Metropolitan Community Church of New York.
Endorsing and participating groups include Human Rights Watch, The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Center, Lavender and Green, UNITY Fellowship, Congregation Beth Simchat Torah, Renewed Life Ministries, and Queers for Economic Justice, according to Rev. Bumgardner."On a day devoted to love, we're taking a stand against hatred," said Rev. Nancy Wilson, moderator of the MCC denomination, which has churches in 28 countries. "For too many years LGBT people in Jamaica have faced a horrific campaign of harassment, intimidation, violence, ostracism, hate crimes and even death." Citing a brutal January 29th attack in Greenvale, Manchester, Jamaica, where a club-carrying, machete-wielding mob forced their way into the private home of three gay men and attacked them, Rev. Wilson said, "On this Valentine's Day, people of goodwill across the globe will band together to demand an end to hatred and the violence it perpetrates." According to Rev. Bumgardner, who also serves as chair of the Global Justice Team of Metropolitan Community Churches, the January 29th incident was the latest in a long series of documented attacks against gays and lesbians stretching over many years. "Most of these anti-gay crimes have received scant attention from Jamaica's civil authorities and most have gone under-reported by the Jamaican press," said Rev. Bumgardner.In the Greenvale incident, a mob of 20 people surrounded a home chanting anti-gay slogans and demanding that three gay residents vacate the property. The mob then broke-in to the home, attacking the gay residents with clubs and machetes. Two of the men were seriously wounded and required hospitalization, including one man whose ear was cut off. A third man is still missing and presumed dead. Police were called at the time of the incident but failed to arrive for over 90 minutes."Gay people in Jamaica have suffered a long history of religiously-inspired and socially-sanctioned violence," said Rev. Wilson, "and it must end now. It is time for the government of Jamaica to act to protect the lives and safety of its LGBT citizens, and it's time to end the use of religion as a justification for hatred and violence." In addition to the New York City event, the Valentine's Day "Call For Love" campaign will included demonstrations, protests, press conferences and prayer vigils from Pretoria to London, Miami, Toronto, Los Angeles and Philadelphia."We will be calling upon The Honorable Dr. Kenneth Baugh, Deputy Prime Minister of Jamaica, to immediately authorize a thorough investigation into this most recent act of hatred and the simultaneous failure of law enforcement agencies to hold anyone in the mob accountable," said Rev. Bumgardner, "and we're calling on the Jamaican government to protect the rights and safety of all their citizens."According to Rev. Bumgardner, the "Call For Love" rally will issue the following demands: 1. That religious leaders use their pulpits to condemn the violence and to speak out against using the Bible and other sacred texts to "justify" harming and taking human life.2. That all political leaders and members of the police force in Jamaica uphold their sworn duty to equally protect and serve all Jamaican citizens. 3. That people of goodwill in Jamaica and around the globe end their silence and speak out on behalf of tolerance and mutual respect as the values we most cherish. Metropolitan Community Church of New York (446 W. 36th St, NYC) is a member congregation of Metropolitan Community Churches, the world's largest and oldest Christian denomination with a primary, affirming ministry to gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender persons. More than 225,000 persons annually attend programs and services of the Metropolitan Community Churches denomination, often referred to as "The Human Rights Church" for its commitment to social justice as an integral expression of Christian faith.Additional information on the demonstration at the Jamaican consulate is available by calling (212) 629-7440

To Arrange Media Interviews WithThe NYC Demonstration Organizers, Contact:The Reverend Pat BumgardnerOffice Tel. (212) 629-7440Cell: (646) 265-8138E-Mail: GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net
To Arrange Media Interviews, With TheCampaign's International Organizers, Contact:The Reverend Elder Nancy L. WilsonMCC ModeratorSarasota, Florida Tel. (941) 330-7444E-Mail: mailto:info@MCCchurch.net

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Related Posts with Thumbnails

Bad Man Nuh F*** Batty (Masculine Men Don't F*** Ass) (The Fear of The Feminine in JA ) 16.04.15


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