SPARTA statement on HHS policy change

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) ruled today that “sex reassignment surgery” and other transition-related medical care should no longer be automatically excluded from coverage. “As HHS appropriately points out, excluding coverage for transition-related surgery is unreasonable as viewed by the standards of the medical profession today – incomplete, unfair, and…

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Colo. Civil Rights Commission upholds ruling forbidding bakery from discriminating against gay couple

Today, the Colorado Civil Rights Commission upheld administrative law judge Robert N. Spencer’s ruling that Masterpiece Bakery in suburban Denver could not turn away lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people seeking to purchase goods.  Judge Spencer ruled in December of 2013 that the bakery would face fines if they continue to discriminate against customers…

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‘What’s the T?’ – documentary explores lives of five transgender women (VIDEO)

http://youtu.be/YPgoLY7KmCE On the Heels of Laverne Cox’s Time magazine cover comes What’s the T? a documentary that explores the lives of five transgender women. What Paris is Burning was to drag balls – What’s the T? is to transgender life – a documentary that explores the challenges, successes and lives of five transgender women; a…

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William Mason named artistic advisor to San Diego Opera

SAN DIEGO – San Diego Opera has announced the engagement of William Mason as artistic advisor, effective immediately. Mason will work closely with the production department on repertoire and casting, and work with the administrative staff exploring economies and efficiencies while setting the Company’s budget. Additionally, he will offer guidance in fundraising and corporate governance. Mason…

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‘Reel to Real: Portrayals and Perceptions of Gays in Hollywood’ exhibition opens June 6 at The Hollywood Museum

LOS ANGELES — The Hollywood Museum presents an exclusive new exhibition –Reel to Real: Portrayals and Perceptions of Gays in Hollywood – an entertaining and informative retrospective of LGBT images in film and television throughout the decades. The showcase will run from June 6 to July 21, coinciding with LGBT Heritage Month and Outfest LA (July 10-20). Featuring photos, costumes, props…

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Alabama SEC football teams welcome gay football players

The football coaches at Alabama’s two Southeastern Conference (SEC) schools have stated recently that gay athletes are welcome on their respective teams. In a report by NFL.com Tuesday, University of Alabama Coach Nick Saban said he would sign a recruit regardless of sexual orientation. Saban’s comments follow Auburn University Coach Gus Malzhan’s similar statements made earlier this…

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WORLD Channel: equality for all in June in recognition of Pride

BOSTON — This June, WORLD Channel programming showcases compelling stories that explore the ongoing battle for equality with a special look at LGBT communities in recognition of Pride Month. This focused programming includes the season 2 finale of America ReFramed, and the season 7 premiere of Global Voices, the critically acclaimed international documentary television series broadcasting…

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