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

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Brotha Hurt By Homophobic Violence (Boycott Related)

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This brotha above was attacked by two machete wealing men on 27.04.08 going about his lawful business and was told by his attackers that because of the boycott that he and others like him had to suffer for it as gays were gonna cause Jamaica to suffer.

Profiling seems to be an added feature of attackers these days, as if men who look or dress a certain way that intimates "gay or homosexual" then they become the victim(s) of verbal and physical abuse.
Another male victim was given an ultimatum to leave his family home of 30 years in the form of a visit from the area "Don's" henchmen armed to the T with guns, fortunately he was away from home at the time and was able to temporarily relocate to a friend's place. He has since contacted JFLAG and they are in the process of helping him recoup.

Thank god his life was speared and he blessed his attackers even during and after the scuffle.

They escaped with 2 cel phones and a sum of money.

Please have us in your prayers as the struggle continues.

Thank you........SCJ

mailto:hsunshinecathedraljamaica@gmail.com

Recovery Photos of our Post on Brotha who was chopped in Mandeville last year 2008

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He has recovered well and thanks to the help and prayers from brothers and sisters of faith here and worldwide and financial support from MCC and the on the ground intervention of course from JFLAG (admin@jflag.org) who assisted in this case.

He may have to do minor surgery on his right hand as some of the fingers are not fully functional as yet, however he is happy and thankful to be alive and for the help and support he has received, at least some good news amongst the turmoil.

Please pray for him and for Jamaica and thanks for your words of encouragement and keen interest.
We would like to see your comments here on this blog as well, please post them in the chat/message box provided.

UPDATE: October 9, 2009
Since the publication of this post he has recovered well and has moved on with his life thankfully, with the support of friends and the MCC church in Florida financially he has sought medical attention and has healed well.
Here is the original post on the incident when I first interviewed him.

Friday, February 22, 2008
Brotha Hurt by Homophobic Violence the third man who is said to be missing and who was believed to have fallen in a deep cavern is to this date still not found.
Howie


Friday, April 25, 2008

Sunburst Readings for April

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SunBurst
The Newsletter of the Sunshine Cathedral – Fort Lauderdale (FL), Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, & Mandeville (Jamaica)


Healing Rays: Helping Sunshine Cathedral Leaders Lead the Way
by The Reverend Canon Durrell Watkins, MA, MDiv
In Robert Holden’s Happiness Now…, he tells this story:
There once was a monk who traveled from village to village, smiling. His name was Ananda (which means “joy”). He had no worldly wealth, but he had a warm smile that he shared with everyone he met. He radiated such love and joy that everyone in his presence would smile, too.
One day the monk met a boy, also called Ananda. The boy asked, “Are you a holy man?” The monk smiled. “I am as holy as you are.” The boy smiled back. “Why don’t you own anything?” The monk replied, “I own my smile.” After a period of silence, the boy asked the monk, “Who are you, really?” The monk answered, “I am the smile that went around the world and my gospel is a gospel of smiles.” The boy wondered how the monk could always smile. The monk told him, “Smiling is easy because I believe in happiness, and I also believe in you.” And the monk and the boy continued smiling.
Dr. Holden says that this story illustrates two important points: (1) To be happy, we must accept our holiness (or wholeness); in other words, “If you are to accept happiness, you must believe in your Self!” and (2) If you are to be happy, you must believe in happiness.
Sunshine Cathedral is a progressive, positive, practical spiritual community where people can celebrate their sacred value and embrace the joy of life. As we work to offer education programs, social activities, dynamic worship services, pastoral care, and small groups what we are really doing is helping more and more people believe in their holiness, their wholeness. We are offering the healing power of happiness. As we each commit to supporting Sunshine Cathedral with time, talent, and treasure, we are blessing individuals who are then equipped to bless the larger community. That’s what we mean when we say we are “Sharing the Light with the World!” Thank you for letting your light shine.
© Durrell Watkins 2008

Question & Answer with Pastor Durrell Watkins
When questions are submitted, the names are withheld to protect the person’s privacy. All answers are given by Rev. Durrell Watkins.
Question: Why does God not answer every prayer for healing? Some people get miracles, and others don’t. It doesn’t seem fair.

Answer: In his book, The Magic of Believing, Claude Bristol wrote, “anyone who knows anything about the power of mind knows of the effects that emotionalized thinking has upon the condition of the body…In some faith healing movements, cures are affected by denying that the disease exists…Followers of other schools of healing make no attempt to deny the existence of disease, but instead ignore it, affirming that they are well and happy and getting better every day. Members of the various schools of thought are the best judges of the methods that work best for them…”
I believe Bristol makes an excellent point. Rather than hoping that God will fix all our problems, we can be empowered to work with God, using the power of mind that God has given us to take responsibility for our own lives. I can’t say why chemotherapy makes one person’s cancer go into remission and not another’s. I can’t say why one person shakes a cold in three days that another person suffers from for three weeks. But I do know that prayer, modern medicine, complimentary therapies, positive thinking, diet, exercise, meditation, hope and joy can all work together to bring improvements in our lives. Prayer is one tool we have, but attitude, doctors, habits, and environment all matter too. When we need healing, let’s use every available resource. I can’t promise what the outcome will be, but doing all we can will feel better than waiting for our problems to be magically taken away. If our efforts fail, at least we know we did all we could; and often, our efforts will succeed.

Spirit & Truth
Wednesday, April 2
Available Now
“Another way of seeing our ‘I want it now’ world is that this clamor for happiness now reflects an instinctive wisdom and a great spiritual truth, which states that everything – absolutely everything – is available to you now.” Dr. Robert Holden, Happiness Now: Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good FAST

Dr. Holden has an exercise where he asks people to call out what they see when he shows them the following letters: HAPPINESSISNOWHERE. Some people answer, “Happiness is nowhere” while others answer “Happiness is now here.” The difference between “Happiness is nowhere” and “Happiness is now here” is where one places one’s attention. Do we focus on the one possibility (nowhere) or on the other (now here). Where we focus our attention determines what we will see. There is probably a very important lesson in that, don’t you think?

My happiness is Now Here! I claim it. I celebrate it. I allow it to be. And so it is.
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins


Sunday, April 6
My Joy Is Already Within Me
“All of your conditioning about happiness is both learned and unreal. In fact, nothing real stands between you and your happiness, only illusion and your own confusion.” Dr. Robert Holden, Happiness Now: Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good FAST

If happiness is about things going smoothly, then much of our lives are bound to be unhappy. The good news is that happiness isn’t about conditions. Wealth won’t make us happy, but happiness can make us feel more prosperous. Health won’t make us happy, but happiness can make us feel healthier. Relationships won’t make us happy, but happiness will produce more harmony in relationships. “Out there” isn’t what makes us happy or unhappy…Happiness is what makes “out there” a better experience. It’s like Jesus said, “Seek first the Commonwealth of God [true, abundant joy within us] and everything else will be added to you.”

Source of abundant joy, I turn within and discover that you are with me here and now; and so I give thanks! Amen.
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins


Monday, April 7
Attitude is Everything
"Happiness is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes." Dr. Robert Holden, Happiness Now: Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good FAST

Attitude is everything! One way or the other our attitude plays a major part in how we live and express our lives; more importantly, it determines how we interact with one another in community. Our attitude, a thought, is what invites feelings into our lives, good or bad, and it is up to us then to choose the thoughts and attitudes that will serve us best. Choosing an empowering attitude is very important! An attitude that focuses on a positive and creative outcome provides us with energy to sustain us when those not so pleasant experiences pop up. Our attitude will determine how we respond to the situation, how we interpret it, and how we see ourselves in the midst of it. A good attitude will help us see the good that we really are. And when we believe in our goodness, we experience more good in life.

Today, I choose an attitude that leads to positive action in my life.
Today’s devotional prepared by Robert Griffin


Sunday, April 13
I Am Good Enough
“Unless you’re happy with yourself, you wont’ be happy with what you do…unless you’re happy with yourself, you won’t be happy with where you are…unless you’re happy with yourself, you won’t be happy with who you’re with…unless you’re happy with yourself, you won’t be happy with what you have…When you accept your Self, you accept joy naturally.” Dr. Robert Holden, Happiness Now: Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good FAST

We often suffer from “Not-Enough-Ness.” We fear that we just aren’t good enough. We think of ourselves as “just” human, or we claim the label of “sinner” or “fallen” or “weak.” We have been hypnotized into believing that what we are is the personification of lack or littleness or insufficiency. But once we start to believe that we are GOOD, we are children of a good God, filled with the spirit of a mighty God, part of a beautiful creation that God calls VERY GOOD, then our Not-Enough-Ness condition starts to heal. We can be happy, because we are good enough. We are made in the image and likeness of God and God is Good. So are we!

I am good enough! I Am good enough! I AM Good Enough!!! This is my truth; I own it, I celebrate it, and I give thanks. Amen.
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins


Tuesday, April 15
The Apple of God’s Eye
“…God shielded them and cared for them, guarding them as the apple of God’s eye.” Deuteronomy 32.10

“Think back on the days of old…ask your elders and they will tell you; when the Most High assigned the nations their heritage and parceled out the descendants of the first Man and Woman…God found them in a wilderness and God shielded them and cared for them, guarding them as the apple of God’s eye” (Deuteronomy 32.7-10). That’s who we are! In good times and difficult times, on mountain tops and in low valleys, at all times we are part of the divine Web of Existence. We are one with the Source and Substance of all life. We are part of God. We dwell in God even as God lives in us. This symbiotic, loving, caring relationship should remind us of our sacred worth and value. We are the apple of God’s eye.

I am filled with joy as I am reminded that I am the apple of God’s eye.
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins


Wednesday, April 23
Using “I AM” Wisely
“…If they ask me, ‘What is God’s name?’ what am I to tell them? God replied [to Moses], ‘I am who am…tell them I AM sent…you.’” Exodus 3.13-14

It’s profound to consider that I AM is one of the names of God. How carelessly do we use the power of that divine name? What do we carelessly bring into our I-AM-ness? Are not we using the divine name in vain when we attach “I am” to something negative? In his hour of agony, Jesus said, “I thirst” (John 19.28). He did not say, “I am thirty.” He acknowledged the experience without identifying with it. I AM should be followed by positive statements, because I AM is God’s name, and what follows “I AM” is our prayer. Let’s keep our prayers positive by only using God’s name, I AM, in constructive, positive ways.

I AM happy, healthy, and prosperous. I AM full of life and full of joy. I AM a child of God, made in God’s image. I AM continuously blessed. I AM one with the love of God, and all is well. Alleluia! Amen.
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins


Tuesday, April 29
It’s Here Now
“The more you give to now, the more you get from now.” Dr. Robert Holden, Happiness Now: Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good FAST

Now is the only time that exists, and all power is available NOW. When we change our minds NOW, a miracle takes place. Now is where the power is. Now is where the presence of God is. So as we give to now, we get from now. To post-pone our happiness until some future date or event is “not now.” But we can choose to be present in the now and access the power of I AM…I AM is always in the present! Time is an illusion and cannot make us happy, but our attitude can and our attitude is now. Stop putting conditions on your happiness…just show up in the now and embrace the happiness that is already here. It’s ours to behold and to embrace.

Right where I am, in this magic moment, my Good already exists! I behold it. I claim it. I receive it. I give thanks for it. I am filled with gladness and gratitude. I am happy, now!
Today’s devotional prepared by Durrell Watkins

MCC Core Values
InclusionLove is our greatest moral value and resisting exclusion is a primary focus of our ministry. We want to continue to be the conduits of a faith where everyone is included in the family of God, and where all parts of our being are welcomed at God’s table.

CommunityOffering a safe and open community for people to worship, learn and grow in their faith is our deep desire. We are committed to equipping ourselves and each other to do the work that God has called us to do in the world.

Spiritual TransformationProviding a message of liberation from the oppressive religious environment of our day or to those experiencing God for the first time is what guides our ministry. We believe that when people are invited to experience God through the life and ministry of Christ, lives will be transformed.

Social ActionWorking to talk less and do more, we are committed to resisting the structures that oppress people and standing with to those who suffer under the weight of oppressive systems, being guided always by our commitment to Global Human Rights.

For more information about Sunshine Cathedral, visit http://www.sunshinecathedral.org/
For more information about Metropolitan Community Churches, visit http://www.mccchurch.net/
For more information about The Center for Progressive Christianity, visit http://www.tcpc.org/



The Eight Points by which we define Progressive Christianity
By calling ourselves progressive, we mean that we are Christians who:
1. Have found an approach to God through the life and teachings of Jesus;
2. Recognize the faithfulness of other people who have other names for the way to God's realm, and acknowledge that their ways are true for them, as our ways are true for us;
3. Understand the sharing of bread and wine in Jesus's name to be a representation of an ancient vision of God's feast for all peoples;
4. Invite all people to participate in our community and worship life without insisting that they become like us in order to be acceptable…;
5. Know that the way we behave toward one another and toward other people is the fullest expression of what we believe;
6. Find more grace in the search for understanding than we do in dogmatic certainty - more value in questioning than in absolutes;
7. Form ourselves into communities dedicated to equipping one another for the work we feel called to do: striving for peace and justice among all people, protecting and restoring the integrity of all God's creation, and bringing hope to those Jesus called the least of his sisters and brothers; and
8. Recognize that being followers of Jesus is costly, and entails selfless love, conscientious resistance to evil, and renunciation of privilege.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Government says there will be zero tolerance for gay marriages

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Originally By Balford Henry of Chat News Jamaica.


Amidst a host of calls from gay rights for Jamaica to become less homophobic combined with ultimatums and threats if the country does not comply , the man in charge, Prime Minister Bruce Golding says his Government will not bow.

Speaking specifically to the issue of same sex unions, the PM said no way will his government tolerate such unions.

As far as he is concerned marriage means a union sanctified and endorsed by law between a man and a woman, and I don’t want to speak with any ambiguity about that. That’s where dis yah Prime Minister and this Government rest.” Golding said in a response to a question at his post budget press conference at Jamaica House on Wednesday
Explaining his position, Golding said that there are persons who use philosophical basis to seek legislative changes to redefine marriage to make it, in law, different from what it is now.

It was reported recently that a leading human rights organization and a church supporting gay rights in Canada have issued a May 12 Ultimatum on the Jamaica Government with regard to protecting the human rights of homosexuals.

It has also been reported that the groups have vowed that if the ultimatum is not met there will be a public announcement on May 17, which is International Day against Homophobia, calling for, among other things, a Canadian tourism boycott as well as a boycott of goods and services from Jamaica.

The groups are planning to make an international call for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual community to support the boycott and the suspension of Jamaica from the Commonwealth for human rights abuses.
Their demands follow a recent public panel discussion in Toronto which focused on homophobia in the Caribbean, especially acts of violence against homosexuals in Jamaica.

While stating in response to another question, that the repeal of the buggery law – another point of contention by gay rights groups – was not an issue, Prime Minister Golding emphasized his government intolerance of gay marriage.

“Once we embark on that expressway, I am not sure at what point we are going to get off,” he stated, as he declared definitely that, “That is a road down which I am not going to allow this country to go under my leadership.”

Jamaica won't bow to gays

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Jamaica won't bow to gays
Prime Minister Bruce Golding has announced that the island's buggery laws will not be repealed, despite enormous international pressure.
Egale Canada, a human rights group based in Toronto, Canada, recently announced its intention to call for a tourism boycott of the island, as well as a ban on the country's goods and services. The group issued a May 12 ultimatum on the Jamaican Government and threatened to make a public announcement five days later, encouraging the ban if its demands were not met.
The group appealed for the production of public service announcements denouncing homophobia/transphobia, called for a national homophobia/transphobia education campaign and lobbied for the abolition of the buggery law and any other law that stigmatises or criminalises consensual same-sex acts.
The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) had expressed concern about the threats, and added that the Canadian market was a particularly viable one. Wayne Cummings, head of the JHTA, told THE STAR in an earlier interview, "They are a very forward-thinking, liberal country, and I'm sure there may be some credibility to the argument that they could affect us."

Ignoring the issue

However, Prime Minister Golding, speaking at his post-budget press briefing at Jamaica House yesterday, said he has seen nothing yet to cause him to consider a review of the buggery laws. The prime minister, who has been accused of ignoring the issue by the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (JFLAG), said: "There is a road down which I'm not going to allow this country to go under my leadership."
He also voiced his opposition to same-sex marriages. "There are people who use the same philosophical kind of basis to seek, for example, legislative changes to redefine marriage so that marriage in law must mean something different from what marriage is now. Once we embark on that express way I am not certain at what point we are going to get off."
He continued, "As far as this prime minister is concerned, marriage means a union sanctified and endorsed by law between a man and a woman. And I don't want to speak with any ambiguity about where this yah prime minister rest."

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Bounty Killer Fired on & Stoned in Guyana

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Gunfire mars Ignition Concert
April 21, 2008-bottles pelted at Bounty KillaGunfire marred the highly publicized Ignition Concert at the National Park early yesterday morning that featured a line-up of Jamaican artistes, among them the controversial Bounty Killa.The Jamaican, who has a record of homophobic tunes and glorifies guns in his music, was the closing act and he held true to form during the brief performance that was interrupted by two audio breakdowns, an unruly crowd and subsequent gunfire.

Jonathan Beepat of Wildfire Productions which promoted the show told Stabroek News yesterday that police fired two warning shots to tame the crowd after Bounty Killa’s performance was twice interrupted by the audio cut-off. This could not be confirmed with the police yesterday. He said those are the only gunshots he was aware of.But gunshots rang out twice in the Park - a few minutes into Bounty Killa’s act and yet again when the show ended abruptly and patrons scurried to safety. On the second occasion, the gunshots numbered around four. Beepat said he was not aware of the initial gunfire.While Bounty Killa was still onstage during the second audio cut-off angry patrons hurled bottles at him in protest at the limited time he had entertained but the Jamaican was unharmed. The protest eventually got louder and threatened to disrupt the show when the audio was restored.

Though his headlining act was seemingly the reason many poured into the Park, Bounty Killa’s performance was reduced to a vicious campaign against the gay community and a celebration of gun violence. From the moment he stepped on the stage he declared that, “all batty man fe dead”.His onstage manager had cause to warn the singer about his lyrics but he brushed off the caution and kept his message going much to the approval of a large section of the gathering. Prior to Bounty Killa’s appearance a local deejay had called out into the crowd for “bad men from Buxton and Agricola to represent as the Five Star General [Bounty Killa] was about to ignite the concert”.Beepat in commenting on Bounty Killa’s performance said that his Wildfire Productions camp spoke with the Jamaican on about four occasions about what he had planned for the local show and the issue of his violent messages had come up. He said positive assurances were given then. According to Beepat, Bounty Killa had no regard for this when he took the stage as evidenced by his ignoring the warnings of his manager.

The promoter said he chose to bring the singer because of his long hiatus from the local stage. Beepat added that he felt Bounty Killa was in demand due to his absence and decided to bring him.Before Bounty Killa took the stage Jamaican singers, QQ and Wayne Wonder delivered show-stopping performances.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Jamaican Hotels Fear Boycott

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Hotels fear boycott

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), is concerned about the possibility that some Canadians may boycott the island as a tourist destination because of the present buggery laws and general attitude towards gays and lesbians.
THE STAR published a story last Thursday in which Egale Canada, a human rights group based in Toronto, announced its intentions to call for a tourism boycott of the island as well as a ban on the country's goods and services. The group issued a May 12 ultimatum on the Jamaican Government and threatened to make a public announcement five days later encouraging the ban, if its demands were not met.

The group appealed for the production of public service announcements denouncing homophobia/transphobia, called for a national homophobia/transphobia education campaign and lobbied for the abolition of the buggery law and any other law that stigmatises or criminalises consensual same sex acts.
In a follow-up move, the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (JFLAG), issued a release encouraging the government "to demonstrate that it categorically rejects and is prepared to deal decisively with this particular brand of violence in our country."
Head of the JHTA, Wayne Cummings, told THE STAR that he was "very much aware" of the issue. He said the organisation received a letter from JFLAG asking for "support" and added that the matter was discussed in a council meeting.

He added, "We are concerned with any threat. We're concerned with the recession in the United Sates and we're concerned with an important group of people in an influential market and anything that could scuttle the gains we've been making in that market."
He said the Canadian market grew by 24 per cent last year, "the best growth Jamaica has seen", and said if Egale Canada was successful in carrying out its threats, the gains could be reversed. "They are a very forward thinking, liberal country and I'm sure there may be some credibility to the argument that they could affect us," Cummings said.

He said the JHTA "absolutely abhors violence against the person" and added that the international approach to human rights issues should be adopted.
Said he: "We have a job to do, which is to market Jamaica as a safe destination and JFLAG has a job to do and we respect that. Where we cross paths is a mutual understanding on the issues of human rights and violence against a person. We are prepared to support any call within that ambit."
The JHTA boss emphasised that hotels were among the safest places in Jamaica and said ,"I don't believe that as an organisation hosting visitors whether overseas or locally, we have ever made a public stance about having couples of any kind at any resort, but we are still aware of the law."

J-FLAG not supporting Canadian ultimatum

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J-FLAG not supporting Canadian ultimatum
The Gleaner published: Tuesday April 8, 2008

Tendai Franklyn-Brown, Staff Reporter

The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians All-sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) is not supporting the ultimatum issued on the Government by a Canadian group demanding that the state produce public service announcements denouncing homophobic violence. However, Jason MacFarlane, programmes manager of J-FLAG, says his organisation wants to engage in talks with the Government on the issue of violence against homosexuals.Last week, the gay rights group Egale Canada, in an open letter to Anne-Marie Bonner, Jamaica's consul general for Toronto, said it would make a public announcement if the Jamaican Government did not meet its demand by May 17.The group also said it would make an international call for tourists from the gay community to stop visiting Jamaica. Against move However, MacFarlane is against such a move. "I know the call for the boycott is coming from people's frustration with the lack of response from the Government, but J-FLAG doesn't think that's the next best step. We should still be able to meet and discuss this diplomatically," he said.He says J-FLAG has made various attempts to initiate dialogue with Prime Minister Golding. However, his office has not responded to the requests.

"We want him to meet with us to discuss the current state of affairs and violence against persons because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation, as we've had reports of heterosexuals being abused."MacFarlane also says J-FLAG wants the Government to outline how it will deal with issues relating to the human rights of lesbians and gays.In the latest incident involving alleged homosexuals on Saturday, hundreds of persons converged on a shopping plaza in Half- Way Tree, St Andrew, some wishing to attack two men who were said to have been caught in a compromising position.The men had to be rescued by the police. 

Condemned homophobic in Jamaica A 2007 Amnesty International document condemned homophobic violence in Jamaica and called for the Government to do more to prevent and prosecute those who incite violence on perceived homosexuals.In the meantime, MacFarlane says he is pleased with the response of the police to the issue of violence against homosexuals."We've had some positive response from the police. We met with the new commissioner (Hardley Lewin) recently and we have his full support. He agreed with many of the things we have put forward, such as the police response among other things," he said.Meanwhile, Dr Carolyn Gomes, executive director of human rights lobby group, Jamaicans For Justice says there is need for public education and leadership regarding the basic human rights of every Jamaican citizen."It is well documented, the horrors that the people accused of being homosexual have to go through," she said.

tendai.franklyn-brown@gleanerjm.com

Tourism Minister dismisses gay rights groups’ threat

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Tourism Minister dismisses gay rights groups’ threat

Monday, 07 April 2008
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has brushed off calls by homosexual groups for a tourism boycott of Jamaica and Jamaican products. In recent weeks, these calls have come from several organisations in Canada, the United States and Europe.

The gay rights groups claim that Jamaica is a homophobic society where gays and lesbians are at risk of being violently abused by their fellow citizens.They claim the Jamaican government has not done enough to stop violence against homosexuals.The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) has sought to bring the issues to the attention to the government in a letter sent to Prime Minister Bruce Golding, Mr. Bartlett and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Dr. Ken Baugh.

J-FLAG said to date it has received no response from Mr. Golding.It said this has led it to conclude that Mr. Golding does not see the urgency of the situation or does not deem its letter worthy of an acknowledgement of receipt. Mr. Bartlett told the RJR News Centre that the letter sent by the group is now before the Prime Minister who will deal with the issue in due course.He however dismissed the calls by the gay rights groups that the Jamaican tourism product should be boycotted.

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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

Popular Posts

What I am reading at times ......

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