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, August 25, 2008

Photos from August 10th firebombing incident in Clarendon part 2

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See Below for more pics and story.

Go to: Original Star News Story

No requests for photos of the victims will be honored as they have requested.

The Jamaica Star story read as follows:
The Jamaica Star Logo


Man injured in firebombing

Dwight Nelson, Star Writer

A 27-year-old man is now in hospital after he sustained injuries when the house he occupied in the Kennedy Grove community of Clarendon was firebombed on Sunday night.

The police say that they were called to the area about 12:10 a.m. after a one-bedroom concrete structure was seen on fire.

A 24-year-old male companion who was also in the building at the time of the fire escaped unhurt. The house and its contents were completely burnt out.

The police are theorising that they were targeted because residents were questioning their sexual preference.

When the STAR visited the community almost everyone had something to say. One resident said: "After mi hear the explosion and mi look outside through mi window, mi see de two man dem run out a de house ... ."


See part 1 HERE

Photos from August 10th firebombing incident in Clarendon

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The two males who occupied the home were injured with one having burns over 60% of his body. They were asleep at the time of the incident when what seemed to be a home made torch-bomb device was thrown through a window to the bedroom of the house.

The occupant nearest to the window suffered the burns as indicated above.Both men are slowly recovering, with the hospitalized brother now ingesting solid foods and juices after not being able to do so for some time.

His skin is healing as well and the burn treatment is helping.The staff at the hospital have been cooperative and no other incidents related to this matter have come to our attention as yet.

We are praying for a speedy resolve however, the boys and their families have not considered or hinted at any legal action yet to our knowledge.


No requests for photos of the victims will be honoured as they have requested.


for other homophobic attack reports go HERE or HERE


Thursday, August 21, 2008

Every dawg gat dem day, every puss dem 4’ o’clock(Every one has their time to shine)

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We are all or we have all been expected to shine at some point or place in our lives. Shining here could be a call to a life of academic, athletic, social, ethical excellence or otherwise. Certainly as men and women who are committed to Godly lives, we need to live responsible lives of excellent quality. If we are to shine, we need to remember that we must put our shoulder to the wheel and perseverance must become the hallmark of our lives. Indeed “Every dawg gat dem day, every puss dem 4’ o’clock.”

I am always inspired by aspects of the life of Booker T. Washington, that great American educator. He hailed from humble beginnings and when he went to college he had to sweep the floor in order to help to pay his school fees. However, this was a task that he mastered. He swept the classrooms so well that his superiors were impressed with his stewardship. He allowed his light to shine as he strove for excellence in doing domestic chores.

Sometimes I get the impression that some same-gender loving people are not committed to lives of excellence especially lives of ethical excellence. In my conversations with some persons they feel so oppressed by the dogmas of the church concerning same-gender love and by other oppressive teachings that are disseminated in our society. They therefore have been led to believe that unless they change from having same-gender affairs they are doomed. With this kind of oppression, they just live without concern for ethical excellence.

However, it does not have to be so, when we accept ourselves and when we recognize that God does not discard same-gender loving people, we can lovingly find fellowship with God and his people, and live out our lives of commitment seeking after ethical excellence. In that way, we will shine and we will come to know that: “Every dawg gat dem day, every puss dem 4’ o’clock.”

PRAY
Let us ask God to help us to accept ourselves. Let us pray for wisdom, understanding and the spirit of perseverance to strive for ethical excellence.

Every dawg gat dem day, every puss dem 4’ o’clock
Written by MEC

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

When I think of Gods goodness towards me

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When I think of Gods goodness towards me I smile! His Mercies are new daily! He Forgiveness is unconditional! His Favor and Love is upon your life today! What a great Living God we serve! 2 Corinthians 4 8We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (The Word of God is all ready blessed!) to that soul that is going through the storm Just Hold on God is making a way right now In the Name Of Jesus! Be Blessed love you all! I speak Joy into your life today!

Monday, August 18, 2008

When chicken tie up Cockroach want explanation (When chickens is tied up then cockroaches need an explanation as to why)

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Mi Granny Bunchie always tell me dat chicken hunt for and peck de cockroach to death. Cockroaches therefore live with the constant threat of death. So when cockroach dem no see no chicken, dem start fi wonder if something wrong. Dem nuh say “Thank God, no chicken nuh deh ya so now!” and go bout dem business. Instead dem start fi think say cockroach a play a big trick pon dem, dem start fi doubt and dem tek whey dem self.

As God’s same-gender-loving people, God is calling all of us to goodness, happiness, prosperity, peace and love and wants tings fi go well in our lives, nuff love to flow , prosperity fi be pon wi door step and peace fi full up wi heart.
But sometimes we same same-gender-loving-people, tek on a coakroach-ish attitude and we start to wonder “Something must be wrong…Tings cannot just be so good. Something bad mus a go happen. Can God be sooo God?”

But God is reassuring us and saying to us as same-gender-loving-people, “…there is no trick, nothing hidden. What I say, is what you will get!. All I want for you is a good life, a wonderful life full of peace and prosperity. Can u open your heart? Stop look fi nuh tickery or Anansi –ism. Mi just want fi shower you all wid mi love and mi peace.
Stop look over your shoulders, but look forward. Be open and be receptive to God’s unchanging, open arms and generosity..You a God pickney.

PrayerYes Puppa God, I believe in you. I am trusting that all is well in my life and affairs. Yu have only good in store for me and I am ready. I accept it all cause mi a fi yu pickney. Amen

Written by IGM
jamaicanbattyman@hotmail.com

Friday, August 15, 2008

Rev Says

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Dear Colleagues:

I hope you are all well.

What does your life consist of?

Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.
-Luke 12:15 (Revised Standard Version

If I can help somebody as I pass along. If I can cheer somebody with a word or a song. If I can show somebody they're traveling wrong, then my living shall not be in vain. If I can do my duty as a Christian ought. If I can bring back beauty to a world up wrought. If I can spread Love's message that the Master taught, then my living shall not be in vain.

What do you value in your life?

We live in an age that glorifies materialism, abundance of possessions- money and other assets seem to define some persons self understanding. It is also an age that places much value on social class, personal academic accomplishments, social achievements, the supposedly great or awesome personality that some possess, the stunning physical attractiveness of persons and of course sex appeal and sex.

It is easy to become covetous in a society in which materialism is an avowed value. It is also easy to use the lens of materialism to value life. A valid reminder comes from the Christian Scriptures not to be caught up in the misappropriation of that which is of value and of supreme importance. Human life is not about amassing wealth or acquiring possessions that are of importance in our society. Human life should be about love, joy, happiness, laughter, care, concern for each others well being and welfare, the relationships we nurture and secure. Do you value these things?



Blessings,
Rev

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

What is straight?

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What is straight? A line can be straight, or a street, but the human heart, oh, no, it's curved like a road through mountains.
~Tennessee Williams, A Streetcar Named Desire, 1947

quotes and sayings

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If homosexuality is a disease, let's all call in queer to work: "Hello. Can't work today, still queer."
~Robin Tyler

Homosexuality is

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Homosexuality is god's way of insuring that the truly gifted aren't burdened with children.
~Sam Austin

Gay sayings

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The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals and 362 admonishments to heterosexuals. That doesn't mean that God doesn't love heterosexuals. It's just that they need more supervision.
~Lynn Lavner

Prayer for the Work Day

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Almighty God, thank Thee for the job of this day.
May we find gladness in all its toil and difficulty,
its pleasure and success, and even in its failure and sorrow.
We would look always away from ourselves,
and behold the glory and the need of the world that we may have the will and the strength to bring the gift of gladness to others;
that with them we stand to bear the burden and heat of the day and offer
Thee the praise of work well done.

Amen.

--Bishop Charles Lewis Slattery (1867-1930)

"In the beginning God, created the heaven and the earth."

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"In the beginning God, created the heaven and the earth."
(Genesis 1:1)
The mind of man cannot conceive of anything in existence that has not had a maker - such a thing would be unthinkable. There must be a cause for every effect. I ask, Who made that table? You reply, the carpenter. Then I asked, who made the carpenter? Somebody must have made him; and so you get back to the first original cause, and that is GOD. Hence the first of Genesis opens, sublime in its grandeur and simplicity - "In the beginning God." This commends itself to every man's reason; he knows there must be a God. Yet no uninspired man would have written that first chapter of Genesis as it stands.
What gropings in the dark have we in the philosophy of the ancients, and the scientific hypotheses of moderns! What voluminous treatises on cosmogony (theory of creation)! What changing theories as fresh light breaks in exposing the fallacy of earlier conclusions!
But God's Word never changes. Though not intended as a handbook of science, it nevertheless alludes to scientific subjects, and in a miraculous manner is always right. Take such a chapter as Genesis 1, written between three and four thousand years ago, at a time when the science of geology was unknown, treating of a vast subject, the creation, and doing so in the briefest manner possible, yet invariably correct - how could this be accounted for apart from inspiration?

It doesn't make any difference what our past has been

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". . . receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account ." (Philemon 17,18)
It doesn't make any difference what our past has been, if the grace of God comes into our lives, all the privileges that belong to any children of God lie before us. We can appropriate them. Don't be discouraged by thinking how bad you have been. Onesimus certainly had a bad name. Probably they said some very harsh things about him where he came from, but here the Spirit of God is pleased to record, "Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother." (Colossians 4:9) His name means "profitable."
He certainly had not lived up to his name in the early part of his life. He had been unprofitable. He had been a liability to his master (Philemon). Now he goes back - no longer unprofitable, but profitable. I wonder how the Lord would write you up - as profitable, or unprofitable? In one sense we are all unprofitable servants, but we want to distinguish between things that differ. That doesn't mean that we are to slump down, fold our hands, and say, "I am an unprofitable servant," and stay still. That scripture does not mean that we should not have an earnest desire that we might be enabled to do something to please the Lord, something that He can own as for Himself.

We have three great enemies ever seeking to overcome us

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"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against
powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual
wickedness in high places." (Ephesians 6:12)

We have three great enemies ever seeking to overcome us: the world, the flesh, and the devil. And in proportion as we give place to any of these, we depart from God. These three we find in Peter's case in Luke 22.
In verse 45 & 50 he is led away by the flesh:
1. In sleeping when he should have watched,
2 In striking when he should not have resisted.

In Verses 54 & 55 he is led astray by the fear of the world:
1. In straying far from Christ's side;
2. In fellowship with His enemies.
And, last, in verses 57, 58, and 60, he is thrice led astray by the devil: to deny Christ, to swear, and to deny Him again.

One might, indeed, say such a course is foreshadowed in Psalm 1:1.
1. "The counsel of the ungodly", the dictates of fleshly reason, led to the smiting with the sword (Luke 22:50);
2. "Standing in the way of sinners" is illustrated by standing and warming himself; (Mark 14:67)
3. "Sitting in the seat of the scornful" is found in Luke 22: 55. "Peter sat down among them."

Yea the stork in the heaven knoweth

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"Yea the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle (dove) and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but My peopleknow not the judgment of the Lord. How do ye say, we are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us? Lo, certainly in vain made He it; the pen of the scribes is in vain. The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the Lord; and what wisdom is in them." (Jeremiah 8:7-9)
Would you for a moment say that the instinct of a bird is more sure than the words of the Saviour?

As this world's winter approaches, let us then dwell on the words of Jesus. He cannot fail to fulfill His promise. We may not know where the swallows go; but Jesus says to us, "In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:2,3) Would you say, Yes; Jesus says so, but our educated wise teachers do not say so? Remember the word, "They have rejected the word of the Lord; and what wisdom is in them?"

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Keeping in Touch

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Colleagues,

A happy and blessed independence to you all.

Oftentimes there is the claim that we live in a most modern world. There is clearly an increasing awareness of diversity in this postmodern world. Diversity surrounds us, confronts us, beckons to us and in a very important way diversity nurtures and nourishes us. Think of the ecology of our society or think of the culture of this fair land and you are readily confronted with diversity. Our own society struggles to deal with issues of diversity.
Diversity whether it is that of gender, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation is a potent force that calls us to explore ways to create community that honours the integrity of our differences.

This experience with MCC Kingston, to my way of thinking is one of the ways in which we create the space for community building that honours differences. As a faith community, MCC Kingston is concerned about building a community of faith hope and love. One that is affirming for persons of different viewpoints/perspectives especially different sexual orientation and yet a community that challenges individuals to explore and develop their spiritual lives. This calls us to be a pilgrim people journeying in and through a world that is not overly interested in the things of

God and the things of the spirit. As God’s pilgrim people, let us be focused on the blessings, inner blessings, strength, challenge and others that come to us as we make a preferential option to keep our eyes on the things of God, to be attuned to spiritual realities. We are therefore called to think about the quality and quantity of love and justice that our lives dispense. Love and justice might be important virtues that we might want to define our lives as pilgrim people seeking to be the best that we can be and to live the best lives possible. May God grant us the strength as we engage in our own pilgrimages in pursuit of ABUNDANT LIFE.

Blessings,
Rev

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Mi can put on mi pot pon fire ‘bout.....””

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For Jamaicans, when someone says that they can put their pot on the fire about something or someone, what they are saying is that they are absolutely sure and have faith that the particular thing will happen or that a person will deliver on their promise. Therefore if I say I can put on mi pot pon fire dat my lover will call mi at eleven o’clock, it means that without any doubt I will get a call from him at 11 o’clock.

Others have been heard to use the expression as follows:-

“Mi can put on mi pot pon fire dat Ivan will ask nuff questions; dat Ransford will water the plants”
“Mi can put on mi pot fire dat although Daunette will be late, she will arrive; dat Alton will cook great food”
“Mi can put on mi pot pon fire dat JASL will have condoms for our groups; dat Diva will bring the house down with her performance.”

Deeply rooted in this beautiful Jamaican saying is absolute certainty about something and complete assurance in someone. Such certainty results from really knowing this person, what they are likely to do or not to do. It comes from repeated exposure to the individual and being very familiar with their patterns of behaviour.

We use it today to challenge members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community to develop the reputation of being reliable and trustworthy; it challenges us to become someone who is true to our word. Many of our LGBT brothers and sisters would love to be able to say about us:-

“Mi can put on mi pot pon fire dat you going to be there for me; tell the truth; be impartial; respect my relationship”
“I will put mi pot pon fire dat you will return the money you borrowed; play the part that you said that you would play; help build the community; treat other LGBT member with respect and honour.

Today is a brand new day that allows us to start all over again and begin to develop a reputation of being someone for whom others can put on dem pot pon fire.

Prayer treatment

Father Mother God, please help me as I develop the skills of reliability. Help me to trust myself and therefore to allow others to trust me.

Written by IGM
jamaicanbattyman@hotmail.com

Hebrews 12:1

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Hebrews 12:1 Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us. Wow when I read this word from God I thought Of some lifestyle choices I just had to let go of. still struggle with my Thought process But I had to lay down the actions of sins that had me bond.

So I ask you today, knowing that we live in a world filled with temptation, crime and destruction, what is it today the Lord placed on your heart to let go of ? It may be a person a place a thing or even a life style choice. What ever it is go to God through the King Jesus! Make it personal and ask God for forgiveness, place this sin at the Lords feet and walk away! Love you!

I press on toward the goal

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“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 3:14 I just have been instructed by the Holy Spirit to speak to you today! The Lord sees you trying your best and He still says Press On! The Lord Heard your cry and Knows you to be a soul with Faith, so by Faith Press On!

The Lord saw you stumble this weekend But Glory Be to God your still alive Please Press On. Just as you read this word from God plant this seed of cheer in your heart Look up to Heaven and smile and keep pressing on! The Good Lord knows your need of a Healing on the mind and body. While He is working on you in the name of Jesus but while He is working on and in you , Press On! I see you doing a great thing for the Kingdom Of God Today! Love you!

My problems had me down

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My problems had me down, depression had a trial in my Life. I almost let go. So I can understand your pain right now my friends! But Gods Mercy sought me out, one good morning in my guest bathroom. I was burned scared and hurting. The Devil thought He had me, But My Great God with all power rescued me!

I almost let go I felt like I could not take life any more But God saw better in me and Healed me! So to that soul that is at the point of break down where you where yesterday will be a place you will never see again Thank God right now for keeping you in the name of Jesus! I am Alive I love you Lord Almighty King Lord Heavenly Farther! Be Blessed Saints! Love You, God Keeps Me and You! Now Give God Praise.......

Monday, August 4, 2008

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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