Gay scenes in Disney show gets angry reactions

So the Star news carried this one today and it has hit a nerve once again as to the rejection of LGBT matters in the mainstream while not inappropriately encouraging questionable behaviour. 

 The actual gay kiss that ignited the furore

The child-focused Disney channel has been facing heated backlash in Jamaica recently, with many claiming that it is pushing a gay agenda.

This, after it aired a same-sex scene in a TV show, and announced plans to feature a lead gay character in an upcoming film.

Among those calling for the channel to be banned from the air in the country is popular dancehall producer and selector Foota Hype.

He reposted a screenshot of Disney Channel's first same-sex kiss, featured on one of its most popular shows, Star vs The Forces of Evil.

Originally shared by popular online media platform, The Shade Room, the image shows two male cartoon characters sharing a compassionate embrace, much to the chagrin of the selector.

UNFIT FOR CHILDREN

Foota's Instagram post read in its caption: 

"Well, let's see if [Lisa Hanna] and the Prime Minister gonna move to ban Disney channel off every cable provider in Jamaica as it's unfit for kids and will corrupt their minds. Most important, being gay is illegal by law in Jamaica so I'll wait patiently for their input, hope it will be speedy and widely spoken like when they discriminate against my dancehall."

Yesterday, Foota said the country's leaders, using moral equivalence regardless of political affiliation, must understand they "cannot crucify dancehall music and leave everything else open."

 Hero Blair Jr (Star News) 

But prominent minister of religion Reverend Herro Blair Jr is calling on the family to protect children from the normalisation of homosexuality that has been permeating the media.

"It's going to be difficult to cry for censorship now when we have not cried for censorship with shows such as Empire and everyone of these shows that have a homosexual character. The kids are already being told that this is an alright way of life," Blair reasoned.

He said families must do their own censorship.

"We have to decide from the homes what we want for our families. The parents must say if Disney is going to be showing these things, let us put the pressure on them by not watching or not accepting it as a cable channel for our children," he said

I cannot understand why some persons believe that a kiss on screen in a fictional piece is going to somehow emit some radio active gamma rays to zap all in view towards a homosexual orientation is just pitiful and almost laughable to me.

Meanwhile, Latoya Nugent, associate director at the JFLAG, told THE STAR that she is aware of the discussion that has been taking place regarding the Disney content, but the organisation is focusing its energies on pertinent issues.

"We are concerned about the violence against women and children, and while we are in fact an advocacy organisation, we have to be strategic about how we engage the media and about what kind of issues," Nugent said.

That to me sounds like a load of nonsesne when it is in fact the same JFLAG that proports itself to be the foremost NGO for LGBT matters and here comes a reaction that is directly linked to the work. Also given the homo-paedophile  links over the years that is often part of the sub-text of denial of any considerations for 'LGBT rights'

Oh boi

Peace & tolerance

H

J-FLAG call to broaden definition of sexual intercourse

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Forum of Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) has thrown its support behind the call by the United Nations (UN) recommending that Jamaica's definition of sexual intercourse be extended beyond "penetration of the vagina by the penis of another person".

UNDP Senior Human Rights Adviser in Jamaica, Birgit Gerstenberg, told a Parliamentary committee meeting at Gordon House yesterday afternoon that the UN was recommending that other forms of penetration be considered such as penetration of the mouth, anal intercourse or penetration by non-sex organs and objects (except for medical purposes).

Policy and Advocacy Manager at J-FLAG, Glenroy Murray, in supporting the proposal told OBSERVER ONLINE that the current definition of sexual intercourse which was crafted in 2009 is “inaccurate”, adding that “it is unfortunate that we have allowed our laws to treat rape of some persons as more severe than rape of others.”

“Having a definition of rape that is accurate and reflective of the ways in which people are raped is essential to guaranteeing equality before the law as provided for in section 13 (3)(g) of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms,” Murray argued, adding that this is the only way to equally and adequately protect children, women and men from all forms of sexual violence and abuse.

He argued that the definition of ‘sexual intercourse’ contained in Section 2 of the Sexual Offences Act is explicitly gender and orifice specific, explaining that “sexual intercourse is distinct from anal intercourse and consequently the absence of consent for sexual intercourse connotes the offence of rape, whereas the defence of consent is not available for the crime of anal intercourse (buggery). Similarly, the current definition excludes oral copulation from the rubric of ‘sexual intercourse’ and instead considers it a part of a distinct sexual offence which is ‘grievous sexual assault’”.

He further stated that the revised definition of sexual intercourse should include penetration of the mouth or anus by a penis and penetration of the vagina, anus and mouth by an object except where the penetration is carried out for proper medical purposes.

“J-FLAG has consistently called for an amendment to the Sexual Offences Act to expand protections by formulating a gender and orifice neutral definition which also includes a provision for the manipulation of an object. This means that where one person has sexual intercourse with another person without that person’s consent, the act would constitute the crime of rape, with no distinction based on gender or orifice, and the appropriate penalties can apply”, he ended.

Meanwhile, the UN’s recommendation has left OBSERVER ONLINE readers in a furore, saying that the organization has a “hidden agenda”.

One OBSERVER ONLINE reader said that the recommendation was “utter rubbish” as “sexual intercourse is only via the way of the vagina and penis” and that” those two body parts are the only way that a child can be conceived.”

The reader further warned the Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck, and the government to not “fall for this trick by the UN... they have a hidden agenda.”

Another reader, in supporting claims made by the aforementioned reader, said “I back you up here. My exact thought is that they have a hidden agenda. The same way gay male celebrities start wearing pink shirts as silent way of protesting gay rights and some silly people start wearing it talking about ‘a star wear pink’ not knowing the real reasons behind it. Wise up people all these small things are ways to force their dirty life, ungodly lifestyle on our beloved Jamaica.”

Another said, “Watch and see where this is going!! I smell a rat!”

“The lobby mafia is at work again. Another clandestine manoeuvre to change definitions to suit their agenda. Why else would a country's definition of an offence be of such concern? First, they sneak inappropriate materials into text books and handouts, then fund court challenges to change laws. Now using UN bodies as proxy. We can see through your smokescreen,” said another reader.

“Jamaica, hold your ground. The UN is made up of body of people with different sexual preference,” said another.

But amid the uproar, some readers supported the move, with one reader adding that the “article makes good common sense they should go do a redefinition along those lines immediately.”

Another added that, “the law need to change because some of these big men/women are forcing under age boys/girls into doing oral sex. Especially the rapist men dem.”

“I agree” said another reader, “our definition needs to be broadened so that many more people can be convicted for sexual immorality.”

Gays seeking comfort in church?

Is that really so though according to a recent discussion, when it is the same 'church' who condemns us whilst forgetting that Christ came to meet with the outcasts, downtrodden and poor; or it is shame as instilled by the church that persons cannot come to accept themselves as who they are and seek the church or God to address the guilt and shame. 

Here we are again this old familiar place even when in 2016 some fanatics and religious extremists suggested that JFLAG etc should go and deal with our homeless but as I said before the old adage rings true 'liberty comes through carelessness' this latest development comes through even as more tokenism still obtains as meaningful interventions. see: NPTAJ And Anti-Gay Groups Want J-FLAG Kept Out Of Schools & deal with homelessness

Yet these church groups forget or nicely overlook the clerical abuse matters so much so that they are so overbearing now it's now that they are speaking out, talk about hypocrisy.

For many years, Christians in Jamaica have condemned homosexuals and other members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.

Their condemnations have left many members of this group feeling confused about their religious beliefs, but policy and advocacy manager of The Jamaica Forum of Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (JFLAG), Glenroy Murray, believes that the condemnation is based on a misinterpretation of the scriptures and the belief that a person cannot be gay and Christian is false.

"The idea that someone cannot be LGBT and be Christian is false because there is nothing in the Bible that speaks to that," Murray said.

He, however, admitted that the Bible does make reference to homosexuality. Leviticus 20 verse 13 states that "If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them".

Murray said that "was Mosaic laws, which were created specifically for the Jews."

No longer apply

"It was about strengthening their armies and keeping their civilisation together and because we know that when Jesus came the Mosaic rules no longer applied - not to the Gentiles at least - and since most of us aren't Jews, we can't use Leviticus to say homosexuals can't be Christians."

According to Murray, most homosexuals in Jamaica are Christians, and like other Christians who are committing sins, they have found a way to reconcile what they do with their beliefs. It would be good for Murray to prove that especially in recent years when so many of his colleagues came out as atheists. If the church is so opposed to homosexuality then many would not go to church in the first place, sometimes I wonder if some of us think carefully before we speak to media.

The Reverend Herro Blair Jr, while still declaring that homosexuality is a sin, said that homosexuals should be welcomed in the church and their sins shouldn't be treated differently from other sins.

"I would not stop a gay person from being a part of my church, and I cannot view the lifestyle any differently from how I would view a person who is fornicating or committing adultery," Blair Jr said.

Theological conservatives who believe the Bible forbids same-sex relationships have been opposed to gays being active members or leaders in the church.

Sadly the issue of sexual orientation is still seen as a 'lifestyle' by some clergy and theologians despite the plethora of information out there.

Peace & tolerance

H

'Hickey' video man murdered!

So in a follow to a previous post the man in question has been murdered according to the Star News, the first question many are asking is where was or is JFLAG in terms of assistance or asylum given the high publicity he got and exposure? another question coming to light is did he make a report of the threats to the police?

RIP Devon whatever the circumstances he never deserved this!

Devon 'Chris' Fray, the man who claimed there was a misconception about his relation with controversial Bishop Steven Ricketts, was brutally murdered on Thursday.

Fray, 20, was shot and killed by unknown assailants at his home in Commodore district, about 1:10 am.

His death comes five months after Ricketts' SUV plunged into the Rio Cobre killing him and four others.

Following the bishop's death, an old video footage resurfaced of him allegedly beating Fray.


BISHOP WIELDING A MACHETE

The 33-second clip at the centre of the controversy was initially posted online in 2014. It shows the bishop wielding a machete, while grabbing a young Fray and enquiring about three hickeys on his neck.

In a subsequent bid to clear his name from allegations that he was Bishop Ricketts' lover, Fray reached out to THE STAR and did an interview.

He told THE STAR that the controversy surrounding the video has taken a toll on his life and that of his family members, so he wants to clear the air and move on.

"People was sending pure threats to me. All some young bwoy a seh dem wah kill me. My mother trouble with pressure and it a stress her out. She nuh know wah fi do," Fray lamented.

He stressed that the bishop never made any sexual advances towards him.

"He is nice, and kind, and so forth. He has done a lot for me. We would sit and eat, and drink, and reason. I'm so sad about his death, but all now me nuh cry because of this whole video thing," Fray said.

The Linstead police yesterday said that Fray's body was found in his house with multiple gunshot wounds.

The cops said no motive has been established for the murder.

ENDS

Sad though that this is the outcome of this, here was the video that he was in where he tried to explain away the hickey issue:

Peace & tolerance

H

Gay club killing unlikely in Ja .............

In light of the massacre at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, yesterday, the Jamaica Forum of Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) says security is top priority when lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) friendly events are held in Jamaica.

THE STAR apparently spoke with Latoya Nugent, education and training director at JFLAG, who disclosed that although there are no gay clubs locally, homosexuals host 'events' in Jamaica. What she should have said was there are no official gay venues. The last considered 'gay club' was Club Heavens which ran for some 11 years before it slowed down for a while now but events are held nearby. Also see: Club Heavens “The Rebirth” 2012 and Miss World (LGBT) 2010 a quick look

She said: "I am not aware of any LGBT clubs in Jamaica, but there are a lot of spaces where people from the community host parties that are considered to be LGBT friendly."

When asked by our news team if such an occurrence such as the killing of 50 people and the injuring of another 53 at a gay club in Orlando could take place here in Jamaica, Nugent said anything is possible, however, extra precautions are taken. The open disclosure of venue addresses is and has been a concern of mine for some years now so much so that my present DJ residency it is only invitation only and no flyers are shared publicly as opposed to some others who leave themselves open; if someone really wants to strike then they can.

We used to use social media alot in the days of transitioning from the good old word of mouth or flyers in the early 2000s but with the high visibility one has to be still cautious none the less. The unusual photo taking is also a concern for some patrons and some stay away these days or attend ultra private events instead. 

"Security is usually top priority and because a lot of it (events) is done in secrecy and spaces are not so open, the risk is minimized. The promoters take extra precaution," she said.

Nugent spoke, however, of one event, Pride Jamaica, which was held locally last year in an open space.

"There were no security breaches. The police also provided support as they would for any other event," she said.

THE STAR asked Nugent her thoughts on the Orlando shooting, which is described as "an act of terror and hate".

Nugent said: "It's difficult, when I saw it I said I could be at that club with my partner. I reminisce a few years ago while in Orlando with a partner, I started to put myself in their shoes. I'm still in shock. I still haven't processed it. Really senseless and very disheartening".

She also spoke of the response from the public saying, "There is a lot of outrage locally and elsewhere. It sends a signal that more and more persons are outraged about violence, regardless of the perpetrators or victims".

STATE OF EMERGENCY

Meanwhile, a state of emergency has been declared for the city of Orlando after Omar Mateen was accused for the killing of 50 people, and injury to 53 others in the gay club. Mateen was later killed by police during a stand-off at the club where he also held hostages.

The rampage, which is being treated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as an act of terrorism, occurred as the gay community in the US prepares for its Gay Pride celebrations. Another arrest took place in Santa Monica of a man with alleged explosives where it is surmised he intended to attend Pride events some eight miles away.

Peace & tolerance

H

Study: Use Politicians, Employers In New 'Strategy' To Address Attitudes Towards Gays

As the reporting on the awareness and attitudes study as commissioned by JFLAG last year continued to be shared in a drip drop format public commentators are asking where is the actual study document as released in previous said study? for the public to fully review; a question I concur with as denotes a feeling of controlling what is sent out to the public more so than openness. 

Sometimes I wonder yet still if the good folks at JFLAG are thinking? and understand how they are perceived by the public whose minds there is need to engage and change from homo-negativity.

the 2012 document

The Gleaner carried this:

Jamaican employers and politicians have more "positive and open" attitudes towards some gay issues than the general public, and interests groups such as the gay lobby are being encouraged to leverage that perception to their benefit.

Market Research Services Ltd made the recommendation in the 2015 Awareness, Attitude & Perception Survey about Issues Related to Same-Sex Relationships, conducted for Jamaica's leading gay lobby, the Jamaica Forum of Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG).

The survey of employers, politicians, and members of the general public was done between June and July last year.

RESULTS POSITIVE
It has returned some results which the researchers believe are "positive" and can be used by J-FLAG to develop a "strategy" to address the general negative attitudes towards same-sex issues.

For example, employers (39 per cent) and politicians (42 per cent) appeared to be more open to the idea of expanding the meaning of sexual intercourse than the general public.

The level of tolerance is also higher among politicians and employers than the members of the general public.

Meanwhile, although the majority of employers and politicians shared the view that gays experience the 'same emotions' as heterosexuals, the majority of the general public disagreed.

The researchers say the favourable results should prompt "J-Flag and other similar interest groups to consider first engaging employers and politicians in discussions".

"These entities (employers and politicians) are opinion leaders and influencers on the general public. Positive attitudes among these groups may be leveraged to advantageously impact attitudes among the general public," Market Researchers Services argued.

The survey involved a sample group of 1,003 comprising 33 politicians, 28 employers, and 942 people from the general populace.


It covered all parishes and has a margin of error of plus/minus three per cent.

ENDS

But with politicians dithering yet still on the matter I wonder if during the engagement they only answered the questions to suit the thrust of the study so as not to be blamed for encouraging pervasive homophobia and then avoid being accused of double standards.

Recent utterances however has shown any sensible person with common sense that they have two mouths.

Also see:

New opposition spokesman on Justice says referendum not needed to amend Buggery Law

Homosexuality is sinful but should not be criminal says former Information Minister

No To Gays! - Adventists Urge Government To Keep God In Deliberations On Buggery Law

As the referendum is pending let us see where things go.

Peace & tolerance

H

The Line in the sand for the PNP part 16: Pre-election debate dodging.

 Gleaner photo of leaders shaking hands at code of conduct signing

Gleaner's Lasmay touched the latest controversy

Is the PNP machinery obfuscating on the election debate to avoid controversial issues as buggery?

check out previous lines in the sand (PNP) series: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7 & 8 & 9 & 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15

I must really vote for the PNP after all this? ..... When they had captured my interest despite the buggery law baiting by some of their own; plus the CCJ dangling carrot trick by Mark Golding earlier this year.

see: Justice Minister exploits homophobia to gain CCJ support

Independent candidate favours J’cans making decisions on Buggery & CCJ (sister blog), Golding, Buggery And The CCJ and Review regional buggery laws, says UWI Guild Council and The line in the sand for the PNP part 10 : Buggery referendum & more CCJ

Male PNP supporters in makeup in a motorcade ... the caption by: NJ Chocolat Brown

A dem su'm Portia wah free up inna ja.. An d damn ppl dem a bout 'powa, powa. Kmft das y mi seh str888 showa all wen mi dead mi a laborite

So it seems to me as the suggestion (seen as a promise by others) of a conscience vote from 2011 has arisen again; advocates and ordinary LGBTians are wondering if the matter will return once again on the expected pre-election debates but with the justice minister’s previous utterances both publicly and also his private thoughts on the law also made public by him it seems the PNP is afraid of a backlash as has been the case for so long in this country while giving me pause. Even as the Gleaner’s headline today says Portia is more favourable according to polls this was an old survey I imagine by Dr Herbert Gayle (projected seats win) and Bill Johnson but in recent hours and the rise in rage regarding the expected debate she is bound to lose some political stock from 45% she rose to. Also see (Portia On Top - Simpson Miller Ahead Of Holness In Favourability Poll) Holness stood still on favourability but his unfavourable has fallen from 23% to 16% and seems unable to capture those on the fence.

also see: #JaVotes2016: PNP Withdrawal From Debates Could Trigger Businesses To Pull Funding

I am now wondering as I cannot believe that a simple barb about who is a con as expressed from both sides is now the reason being banded about as a cop out from a pre election debate. Bearing in mind that in 2011 it was the PNP via its leader Portia Simpson Miller who despite a perception of her less than articulate skills in public speaking who came out shinning none the less against her counterpart leader of the opposition Andrew Holness. Social media has exploded since the release of a letter via general secretary Paul Burke with awful comments and why was the letter dated February 12 despite the fact the letter was released on February 11. Is the 10 point plan and the central minimum wage increase suggestion by the JLP is too strong to challenge by the PNP so they are using all kinds of methods to tear it apart? The rebuttal by the Finance Minister though sounding plausible on the face of it when stripped down is nonsense and the press conference also yesterday alongside the signing of the code of conduct by both parties in 11 parishes seems to suggest an orchestrated strategy to avoid addressing it fully. The JLP’s 250k jobs proposal has simply died down since the new brouhaha as that plan seemed unreachable to me.

one of the latest barbs thrown at Simpson-Miller

remember this?:

I thought such pre-election debates were for eligible parties present their platforms for the elections so that the electorate can make their decisions on the faithful day behind the scene. Although the issues seem lost over the smoke screens the 10 point plat by the JLP seems to be gaining some traction especially on the minimum wage matter/threshold but there is a deceptive move by some PNP propagandists who claim the JLP said it was going to repeal buggery when that was NOT what Mr Holness proposed. An obvious talk show targeting response was in play both yesterday and the day before as known ‘PNP callers’ propagandists tried to shift the accusation that the JLP said it was going to remove or repeal buggery; in every instance I heard and others who were monitoring it the hosts of the shows reiterated the referendum suggestion. Holness has since moved from saying he will accept gays in his party and administration (although we all now they may not come out openly) post the 2011 elections to siding with the religious right anti gay movement on a referendum especially since a series of public rallies effectively threatening any administration in the future from touching the so called buggery law. On this blog at least I have tried to show the trajectory of this and even though JFLAG has finally and sensibly changed its position from a full repeal demand in 1998 in the first parliamentary submission then a 14 year run on same to the present position of an amendment or decriminalization both the JLP and the PNP have been dithering deliberately as it is radio active politically for them both.

Observer headline click HERE

So they both create smoke screens over the years to obfuscate the matter instead of having a sensible emotion free debate. I guess the Prime Minister or PNP party leader Simpson Miller does not want to be cornered into making any more suggestions of a buggery amendment/review or promises for that matter. I am in shock as well to think that the rest of the PNP hierarchy has agreed to this obvious debate dodging exercise it something else is happening behind the scenes we are not aware of. Are there pressures pulling on the structure in terms of funding and what issues must be addressed? Let us bear in mind that LGBT considerations come fast furious within the last couple of years with regards to grant funding from places like the EU, the UK and the of course the US since Obama’s ascension to the Presidency. China’s buying influence strategy worldwide does not come with such considerations and I dare say trample on some rights environmental considerations as we have seen in Africa and even locally. China Harbour’s (CHEC) seeming shoddy handling of the dynamiting of areas nearing residencies only for said residents impacting with property damages being misled in a pretentious administrative processing to be told the company cannot be held responsible; leaving many in rage over it especially in St Catherine with the recent completion of the latest toll booth and the highway towards Flat Bridge.

The JLP is obviously courting the religious groups as a previous post had dealt with but the PNP has a problem as well in that department; the tradition so called big churches are also aligned with them and has been so for so many years but the the strong theocratic typed opposition is coming from extremist section of the Christian community who have formed themselves into groups; so the Jamaica Council of Churches, JCC aka PNP at prayer as coined by former PM Edward Seaga decades ago has been very cautious in its public pronouncements on homosexuality and the buggery law while espousing tolerance (whether they mean it or not is another matter); hence there is a rift sometimes made bare by the antigay groups that traditional churches tend to ‘hug up’ homosexuals more so than supposed true fire brand Christians. So we get a two tiered approach to this matter being properly ventilated. 

also see: Church Cherry Picking on Issues again, Western Jamaica Bain Protests .......... 2014

THE JAMAICA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES ON HOMOSEXUALITY THUS FAR 2013 (my wordpress archive blog)

Pryce & JFLAG Reps at Health for All 2015

remember this from the last campaign?:

labelling or profiling suspected PNP MSM

One would think the PNP knowing the party enjoys larger LGBT support for so long would not be afraid to join the pre-election debate and deal with the matter. The utterances from the outgoing if not pushed out unceremoniously Raymond Pryce often perceived as gay and who in 2014 via a Jamaica Observer forum spoke to the buggery law in his own opinion could help and that he Pryce is close to the party leader and even writes her speeches could assist her to articulate the navigating of the matter and the broader issue of homosexuality. We cannot leave out the other party stalwarts and rising stars who also subscribe to popular sentiments to remain popular and the aforementioned propagandists to say the JLP will change the law.

The PNP’s use of logistical incongruence to avoid the debate too is also disingenuous suggesting they wanted a town-hall structure similar to the USA style as they want not just journalists to ask questions but members of the public. Yet the middle of the road suggestion to have every three questions from journalists posed then a member of the public can also pose a question was flatly rejected by the PNP. The numbers game has not worked in terms of the taxes issues, minimum wages, GDP targets, extra liquidity and the NDX payout seems insignificant in the eyes of the ordinary man as they have not translated to improved everyday living for him. Then there is the issue of the timing of the high court constitutional challenge to buggery via Maurice Tomlinson plus the tolerance ad appeal pitted against the aforementioned Justice Minister Mark Golding’s baiting of the same to force a positive vote on the CCJ one wonders if the election call is also to race towards wining it despite the uncertainty of the judgement of the two actions. Curiously the minister had mentioned the challenge long before the press release and announcements came on Tomlinson’s legal action so someone inside the PNP was obviously aware of what was on the horizon although public photos on Facebook of a supposed consultation in Kingston was out.

I agree with Professor Trevor Munroe of the National Integrity Action, NIA that the 2007/11 pre-elections debate that they are needed and had both leaders promising transparency and dialogue while the campaign ads have not addressed the issues properly and are more about belittling each other’s parties. The debate is a chance to raise issues and not one-upmanship in the old style of politics that have come to still be a factor of campaigning and hustings work. The JLP despite the change in strategy from JFLAG et al of decriminalization advocacy instead of a full repeal they via its leader have been deceptively too obfuscating the matter towards a suggestion of a call for a full repeal being justifiably denied when that is not the case for the call by LGBT lobbyists.

The stoning of a PNP motorcade on its way to Junction last evening is not helping any alongside the two shootings of persons in western Jamaica since last Sunday and on nomination day in Flankers is disturbing and reminds me of the old days of violence and fear driven action to stop middle of the road prospective voters from participating. The rapid signing of contracts and sudden accessibility of the Prime Minister by media, sudden decreases in student loan interest rated conveniently as the JLP has an ad saying if they win they will do, MPs now showing up after protracted absence are indicators of the silly season once again but yet all the political parties including the lesser visible ones do not want to touch the buggery law not even with a long stick and are more pandering to popular sentiments of outright rejection of any suggested change or the misplaced perception of a repeal.

Sense & sensibilities anyone.

Peace & tolerance

H

Also watch & see:

Buggery law referendum baiting by JLP in #Javote2016 campaign

Chuck dismisses PM's defamation claim against Holness (Gleaner)

Holness fishes for votes & exploits gay marriage fears at religious meeting

The line in the sand part 15: More shenanigans & exploiting buggery 

Nicholson says JLP 'crazy' for wanting referendum on buggery law .... oh boi

Andrew Holness & that 'Fish' comment; politicians who exploit homophobia

Portia Reneges On Gay Promise says Gordon Robinson (sister blog)

Vaz claims Warmington was provoked & called a B-Man (gay) in parliament

Andrew No Longer My Son - Portia (Gleaner)

Mutabaruka: JFLAG & gov’t should do more for homeless gays, conflates abuse with homophobia

Well as I live and breathe I never envisioned I would have seen this coming from one of our most vocal opponents over the years on such a sticky wicket as MSM/Transgender homelessness in particular and how our colleagues are treated. This speaks to the all important credibility I have hinted to ever so often needed in advocacy to change hearts and minds.

It is indeed sad that it had to take this man to bring back some attention to our homeless colleagues as they have been so shafted by JFLAG itself and others as buggery law reform is more attractive and gets better soundbites than some dutty battyman. 

The systematic ignoring of our homeless brothers cannot go on and it is sad we are being forced to look at it by others who will also tie in homophobia to arrive at a conclusion that LGBT rights is not to be even considered.

ST ANN, Jamaica – Rastafarian poet and talk show host Mutabaruka said he believes the government and the Jamaica Forum of Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (JFLAG) are not doing enough for homeless gays who continue to create public mischief in parts of the Corporate Area.

Mutabaruka, who was one of the emcees on Rebel Salute last Saturday, January 16, said he is not condoning homosexuality; however, he said it is a fact that if nothing is done to help these homeless people, they will continue to prey on others in society.

“I believe JFLAG not taking care of their own,” he stated, adding that the government should “take some responsibility” to take care of them.


“The people dem can't go back in their community so what dem ago do. Dem ago turn prey on you,” he said.

Mutabaruka said many may frown at his opinion as a Rastafarian, but he said that it is a fact that if nothing is done, these homeless homosexuals will continue to create public disturbances.

He also pointed out that he was not supporting violence against them. here is the last report on yet another police raid at the newest spot in the long line of them they have had to use for shelter illegally:

Police Raid Jan 09 2016 Homeless MSMTrans... 

here is an older commentary by him on gays:

here is a follow up uploaded on January 26, 2016 on Youtube:




@ 4:40 he conflates gay on gay violence versus genuine homophobic matters which further complicates the discourse or shouting match as one sees it

It has been indeed sad to watch over the eight years I have been covering the plight of my homeless colleagues especially after the previous populations at a shelter pilot in 2008 that was a wrong decision by the board of Jamaica AIDS Support and a weak JFLAG who did not stand up to them as conflicts of interest prohibited same.

We are still living with the consequences today as older and newer impacted persons meet and have to find all kinds of ways to eek out a living sadly including crime.

Sigh

It should not have to take a man like this to point out the perceived abandonment of the homeless LGBT populations in Kingston.

here is the another side of the police removal in January:

Mek we see nuh what is next.

Peace & tolerance

H

NPTAJ And Anti-Gay Groups Want J-FLAG Kept Out Of Schools & deal with homelessness

As we say in Jamaica 'liberty comes through carelessness' indeed and to now be told that JFLAG should go and look after homelessness then we really gone to the dogs these days when it comes to credibility, civility and just respect even from rivals. This is the second time I am aware of where the group has been told to go and deal with homelessness as done prior by other church related groups, it tells us that groups needs to be careful how they act or don't act publicly on sensitive matters. Pity though the said moralists do not see it important to also act on homelessness in a more meaningful way than just those who try. 

A SUGGESTION mooted by the Jamaica Forum for Lesbian, All Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) for persons from that organisation to offer counselling in schools has been met with strong resistance from the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ) and anti-gay groups.

In a release to the media NPTAJ President Everton Hannam poured cold water on the suggestion made by the gay lobby. 

"The NPTAJ rejects totally, the offer made by J-FLAG to conduct counselling in schools," Hannam said. J-FLAG had said it is willing to help the education ministry and guidance counsellors improve their assistance to students who have problems with their sexuality. J-FLAG's offer of assistance came after news that some of the more than 800 guidance counsellors in the school system are refusing to help students identified as gay or lesbian. In a statement, the lobby group's executive director, Dane Lewis, said he is deeply concerned at the reports and is calling for the education ministry to intervene with strategies to equip counsellors to help students.

The national parent-teacher body has, however, viewed J-FLAG's offer with much suspicion, noting that the offer appears to be another attempt by J-FLAG to introduce elements of what was uprooted from a Home and Family Life (HFLE) curriculum early last year. The HFLE curriculum was the subject of much controversy after material highlighting homosexuality was discovered in a text book prescribed by the curriculum. Now with the issue of some guidance counselors allegedly refusing to offer counsel to lesbian and gay students igniting much public debate, the NPTAJ said it is rejecting any attempt by J-FLAG to offer counselling in schools.

Hannam argued that, "If JFLAG is serious about counselling, they can offer those services privately." He also called on the Ministry to reject the offer made by the gay-rights group. "Let the guidance counsellors do their job," he said.

Discussions With J-FLAG

Minister of Education Ronald Thwaites has said he is interested in involving all stakeholders in providing solutions and has been in discussions with J-FLAG and the Jamaica Coalition for Healthy Society. He is set to meet with guidance counselors next week to discuss the issue.

Daniel Thomas, president of the Love March Movement has also urged the Ministry of Education to reject J-FLAG's offer. "J-FLAG needs to understand that they have no place in our schools and our Government should look at stopping anybody, especially an organised effort to tell our students, our minors, our children that they should be engaging in something that is normal, that cannot be tolerated," he said.

Suggesting to offer counseling also may have been a mistake on JFLAG's part when it does not offer such services directly even during my tenure there, one has to be careful what one puts out but it is remarkable old mistakes even with new blood who seem not to learn keep re-occuring.

A word to the wise is sufficient.

Peace & tolerance

H

Where is that "I am Not a Fish" documentary?

I was reminded by a reader of a documentary (one of several done yet the populations still languish) titled "I am not a fish" that was to be shot in Jamaica on LGBT homelessness sometime in 2014 zooming in on the former Shoemaker Gully population in particular as everyone pigeon-holes them yet no redemption for them in any meaningful way. On Sunday we were reminded via the Gleaner and a previous post on here of the truth regarding the quality of life our brethren and sistren have to endure as they have now moved from the gully to the graveyard. Also see: MSM/Trans homeless - From gully to graveyard Oct 2015 & And we continue to reap the world-wind for not addressing homelessness when it was manageable 2013

Older persons in advocacy and years of experience including me approach these matters with some trepidation due to foreigners coming here to shoot documentaries or projects, we have been burnt before as they benefit and leave the subjects of their work or research behind with no or little positive impact to write home about. Persons pretend to be interested in our 'plight' yet disappear with the materials etc when they are done and gain professional and other benefits without any real return or assistance.

In October 2014 a press release and online fundraising campaign came to hand from one named Carolyn Bick on Kickstarter, the goal for the campaign was not met yet no follow up has come as to the next step and what has happened with the funds already collected, if returned to the donors or dispersed to the named groups. Miss Bick's website does not load when visited. carolynbickphotography.com

Take a look at Kickstarter's Fundraising Basics: Accountability

Who is responsible for completing a project as promised?

It's the project creator's responsibility to complete their project. Kickstarter is not involved in the development of the projects themselves.

Kickstarter does not guarantee projects or investigate a creator's ability to complete their project. On Kickstarter, backers (you!) ultimately decide the validity and worthiness of a project by whether they decide to fund it.

How do backers know if a project will follow through?

Launching a Kickstarter is a very public act, and creators put their reputations at risk when they do.

Backers should look for creators who share a clear plan for how their project will be completed, and who have a history of bringing their creative ventures and other projects to fruition. Creators are encouraged to share links and as much background information as possible so backers can make informed decisions about the projects they support.

If a creator has no demonstrable experience in doing something like their project or doesn't share key information, backers should take that into consideration. Does the creator include links to any websites that show work related to the project, or past projects? Does the creator appear in the video? Have they connected via Facebook?

Don't hesitate to request information from a creator. You can always reach out before pledging via the "Contact me" button on the project page.

How do I know a project creator is who they claim they are?

Perhaps you are friends with the creator, or you heard about the project from a trusted source.

Looking for more information? Read through the description and watch the video to get a better sense of the person or team behind the project.

In the creator bio section of each project, you can find additional resources, like links to websites, relevant background information, and in some cases, a connected Facebook account. For projects that have launched since May 19, 2014, you'll also find a verified name with a check mark next to it. This person is the creator of the project or a part of the company or team behind it, and they verified their identity through an automated process.

Can Kickstarter refund the money if a project is unable to fulfill?

No, Kickstarter doesn't issue refunds. Transactions are between backers and creators directly. Creators receive all funds (less fees) soon after their campaign ends.

Why can't Kickstarter guarantee projects?

We started Kickstarter as a new way for creators and audiences to work together to make things. Many traditional funding systems are risk-averse and profit-focused, and tons of great ideas never get a chance. Kickstarter opens the door to a world full of creative possibilities, one where anyone can help decide which bright idea will become tomorrow's reality.

Kickstarter is full of ambitious, innovative, and imaginative ideas. Many of the projects you see on Kickstarter are in earlier stages of development and are looking for a community to bring them to life. The fact that Kickstarter allows creators to take risks and attempt to create new things is a feature, not a bug.take a look at the press release from Miss Bick:

Carolyn Bick Launches Kickstarter Project to Help the LGBTQ Community

Imagine being afraid to seek health care, because there is a real possibility you will be killed over the results.

Jermaine Burton, founder of the homeless, gay help and advocacy group The Colour Pink, remembers the day at Comprehensive Health Centre when she learned she was HIV-positive. Despite the grave news, her nurse warned her not to look upset when she left.

“I was crying,” said Burton, who identifies as a woman, and used to be homeless on the streets of Kingston. “[The nurse] said, ‘Don’t go out and cry, because, if you go out and cry, people are going to know you are HIV-positive’."

Her life was at risk, because she could be a target of Jamaica’s violent, deep-seated cultural prejudice against homosexuality. Since HIV/AIDS is associated with homosexuals in Jamaica, the safety of HIV/AIDS patients is also at risk.

While Jamaica's government offers treatment programs for citizens suffering from HIV/AIDS-related illness, many among the LGBTQ community who are HIV-positive, or may be at risk, refuse to seek testing or treatment out of fear they will be killed over their sexual orientation.

What is going on in Jamaica is an atrocious violation of human rights, and the term 'fish' -- one of many derogatory names for MSMs in Jamaica -- reflects the dehumanization of the situation. 32% of Jamaican MSMs (men who have sex with men) are infected with HIV, according to the UNFPA, and the stigma against the disease, because of its connotations, will only make that number grow. But it is not just MSMs who are hurt. It is the entire island. If already-out Jamaican MSMs are afraid to seek health care, how many more Jamaican men are simply afraid to admit they are not straight? If these same men have unprotected sex with other men, and -- because of fear, or because of shame -- do not tell their partners, or get tested, this not only raises the infection rate on the island, but also increases the rate of reinfection.

I am working on a documentary about the struggles Jamaican MSMs and other Jamaicans along the LGBTQ spectrum face in obtaining proper health care safely, in the wake of such homophobia. I will be focusing primarily on one or two subjects to tell the story. As you can see in the short preview video, I spoke with many people in the eight days I was there. However, I need to speak with many more -- politicians, doctors, closeted Jamaicans -- and visit other places, such as Kingston Public Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and Comprehensive Health Centre. I will also need to spend a longer period of time with the homeless MSMs I spoke with during my trip in December. I want to document exactly what they go through, when they try to get testing and treatment -- services we in the United States often take for granted.

This isn't just about human rights. It is about an entire population's right and fight to live. Help me fight with them.

Risks and challenges

The biggest risk I face is one of access, due to a) the danger to many of the people involved, and b) the fact I am an American with a fancy camera (not exactly the most inconspicuous person around). However, with the contacts I have made and maintained, as well as the fact I was able to get access through these contacts within the first few days I was in Jamaica last December, a month or more there can only mean I will not only have more opportunities to speak with people, but I will also get a chance to develop relationships with them, and speak with them multiple times. 

(As a very important note: JFLAG and members of The Colour Pink are my contacts, and I will be forever grateful to them for everything they have done and are doing to help me get this project out there. I could not have even started this project without them.)

I will also run into difficulties finding Jamaicans who are not 'out', who will be willing to talk with me, because of the problems described above. I plan to get around this issue by offering anonymity, and asking my contacts if they know of anyone who would be willing to speak with me under the condition of anonymity.

ENDS

Now it is established that the online fundraising platform is not held to require refunds to backers where has all that money gone and where is the actual statement or release to allay suspicions and mistrust? Miss Bick and others need to come clean and not let cynicism encroach on their work or reputations but barring any followup it appears off.

I have lost count with the amount of documentaries, specials and features on homeless LGBTians here yet they still have not had any major improvements come their way

A word to the wise is sufficient but where oh where is that documentary or other activity in lieu of its non production and unaccounted for funds raised? 

Peace & tolerance

H

also see:

my latest podcast, yes I am podding again:

MSM Trans homeless - From gully to graveyard 04.10.15. 

Rowdy Gays Strike - J-FLAG Abandons Raucous Homosexuals Misbehaving In New Kingston 2012

The toss up between MSM homelessness & public order makes news again 2013

Some good news on the homeless MSM front ..... guarded & waiting part 2: Dwayne's House Project site 2013

A claim on How to help homeless LGBT Jamaicans 2013

More MSM Homelessness Issues while agencies shift responsibilities

The Public’s separation of homo-negativity and homeless LGBT welfare issues

Caretaker wants uncontrollable gay men out of Millsborough house ................J-FLAG denies abandoning 2013

On homelessness, evictions, hypocrisy & now JFLAG's own displacement .. 2013

Some good news on the homeless front ..... guarded and waiting 2012

Ist Anniversary of the 2nd Homeless MSM Civil disobedience .... and the men are still homeless 2012

MSM/Trans homeless employ Civil Disobedience to get JASL Board's Attention .... 2010

The Quietus ......... The Safe House Project Closes 2010 where the madness all began albeit homelessness has been with us forever.