Do you think the Buggery Law should be?

The Safe House Homeless LGBTQ Project 2009 a detailed look & 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 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

Friday, February 25, 2011

The big debate - Mixed reactions to guilty verdict handed down to Buju

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So the Star feature called Legal Wranglings took a look at the whole Buju affair and how the public is reacting to the whole thing


Reggae star Buju Banton outside the courtroom in Tampa, Florida. - Daraine Luton photo

Many persons were overheard expressing disappointment and shock at the guilty verdict handed down in the case against Jamaican reggae superstar Buju Banton whose real name is Mark Myrie.

"Lawd mi can't believe it," one woman wailed when she heard the news. "Dem really set him up," another woman shouted. A policeman in analysing the case said he was not shocked by the verdict.

"If Buju got away, it would just be pure luck or the jury felt sorry for him," the policeman said.

"People are saying all sorts of thing that is set them set up Buju, but to tell you the truth, is Buju set up himself," the police said, to some of his colleagues.

"Now, put yourself in Buju's position. He did not know the informant before and they began talking about music and other stuff. The topic reached drugs, particularly, cocaine. Now, if you, as Buju, even run up your mouth and say all sorts of things, when it comes down to the final analysis, how Buju come to be tasting cocaine in a warehouse in the United States? We are sorry for Buju, but we must be objective at the same time," the policeman said.

"You are right, we must look at the case in an objective way and put blame where it belongs", one of his colleagues said.

predicament

The truth is and most people might no like to hear the truth is that Buju put himself in his predicament. People have been blaming the informant, but, when Buju went to the warehouse and saw the cocaine, if he were not serious about the deal, he should have said he was only joking, he was not involved in drugs, then he could not be arrested and charged," the policeman emphasised.

A policeman who was at first expressing sympathy for Buju said he agreed Buju was to be blamed for the situation he was now in. He explained that Buju could not say the informant was telling lies when he said Buju tasted the cocaine because Buju was video-recorded tasting the cocaine and making comments and that was shown to the jury.

undercover policeman

"Now tell me, if someone asks me if I know where they can get ganja or cocaine to buy and I go around trying to assist the person to purchase the stuff and it turns out that the person I am assisting is an undercover policeman, then if I am arrested and charged it would be my fault.

In the first place, I know that buying cocaine or ganja and being in possession of them is a criminal offence so how could I go about assisting someone to get the stuff? he queried.

"All Buju had to do was to walk away when he saw the cocaine and say mister, I do not deal in drugs," the policeman said.

Although Buju is convicted and will face prison term, he has the right to appeal and many people are hoping he will be freed when he appeals.

meanwhile here is a short precise letter from the Jamaica Observer speaking to the hypocrisy of it all.


Dear Editor,

I cannot understand why so many people continue to display such blatant hypocrisy in their continued support for Buju. Most of those who support him continue to think that he was set up by certain interest groups. Few consider the possibility that he is actually guilty.

Many say that he was tricked into committing a crime. This is total rubbish. Buju himself admitted that he was stupid for allowing himself to get involved in this drug deal. Too bad for him - that is no excuse for committing a crime. Now he is going to do the time. What's wrong with that?

Unlike Jamaica, the American justice system, with all of its imperfections, does work. We need to grow up. Justice must be for all, including reggae stars like Buju.

Michael A Dingwall
Kingston

michael_a_dingwall@hotmail.com

So it go

Peace and tolerance

H

Also see this post from Gay Jamaica Watch:


Get the full 62 paged document or Buju Banton speaking to the then informant here: http://www.tampabay.com/specials/2010/PDFs/banton.pdf

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Battle royal (Observer Letter)

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So JFLAG has received some information finally on that awful incident in Montego Bay on February 20th where several cops descended on a entertainment spot while a session was in progress, check out the report as compiled on sister blog GLBTQ Jamaica on Wordpress where I took a more advocacy approach as many homeless and displaced persons were separated from the unofficial out of pocket program of crisis intervention shelter and food supplied to them from the management.

Big Blow For Homeless/Displaced MSMs In Western Jamaica …..


here is the letter from atty-at-law and activist Maurice Tomlinson on the issue:

Battle royal

Dear Editor,

Reports reaching J-FLAG are that just after midnight on February 20, four police pick-up trucks and a van normally used to transport prisoners swooped down on the only gay club along Montego Bay's tourist Hip-Strip. About 20 heavily armed officers jumped from the vehicles, kicked in doors, aggressively accosted patrons, indiscriminately beat and pistol-whipped them, and chased everyone from the venue.

During the operation, homophobic slurs were hurled and this seemed to have encouraged patrons of nearby clubs to join in the melee by throwing bottles, stones and other missiles as individuals fled for their lives. One patron described it as a mob scene, and another who asked an officer, "If this is how you as a law enforcement officer treat us, how do you expect other people to behave?" was rewarded with several kicks for his effrontery. He later took refuge for several hours in an abandoned building.

At least ten people are reported to have been treated at hospital for injuries received during the raid while others decided to nurse their wounds at home.

This latest attack follows a similar one in Kingston in early February when police without badges were reported to have raided a gay club in Half-Way-Tree, pointing guns at patrons and shining powerful flashlights in their faces. On neither occasion did officers disclose the purpose of the raids, but they clearly have one intent, namely to intimidate and remind lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) Jamaicans that their kind are not welcome here and they certainly don't have the right to assemble and socialize peacefully.

Maurice Tomlinson

Montego Bay, St James

maurice_tomlinson@yahoo.com

Letter ENDS

Meanwhile here is an excerpt from the Wordpress edition:

"Several persons had to seek medical attention following the attack and up to the preparation of this post the owner/manager who was not present at the time of the assault was held from Sunday morning at the police station where he went to inquire what had happened, he is to go to court today to apply for bail on charges yet to be made public, apparently there are outstanding charges of other infractions before that were used to justify holding him overnight.

The club which opened it’s doors only in the latter part of 2010 was to serve western Jamaica as persons there felt they had to journey too far westwards to central Jamaica and Kingston to get to parties was home to very good events so far and female impersonation shows. According to my sources many of the displaced persons who were beaten and gun butted in some instances were forced into the path of members of the public who were nearby at an event on a parallel road, men reportedly joined in the assault alongside the cops, several of them sustained blows and one popular party person’s face was severely bashed. Fortunately there were some amongst the public who did not support the assault in this latest homophobic incident which has come as a shock to everyone even to the area police as they were aware of the spot they made frequent patrols and had an agreement of sorts with the owner/manager to operate within the confines of the law specifically closing time of 2am or 4am where an extension was sought as the club is not near any residences to breach the Noise Abatement Act, it is surmised the cops came from elsewhere."

By now many persons are aware that it is internal rivalry in the lgbt entertainment fraternity that has caused this particular problem sadly the letter didn't reflect that, recent checks via phone with some persons who were injured suggest they are recovering and some repairs have been effected to the property as the management still occupy the premises, investigations are proceeding with evidence being put together to include photos taken of the damage and injuries.

Please have the guys in your thoughts and prayers.

Peace and tolerance

H


The androgynous blurring of the sexes

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Anthony Gomes


THE Observer reported on the latest debasement of Christian marriage that should exist between a man and a woman for the purpose of procreation. Motivation for the report was clearly notoriety and curiosity.The report described the civil union marriage of a 66-year-old ex-fireman with a Jamaican lesbian some 30 years his junior.
The blurring and confusion of the sexes occurred, because the ex-fireman, after previous sequential marriages to three wives, underwent an operation to change his sex from male to female, paid for by the British National Health Service. He has a 41-year-old daughter by an earlier marriage who has distanced herself from her father, unlike the former wife who generously hosted the recent wedding at her home in Kings Lyn in Britain. The couple met on an international dating website and after spending two weeks together decided to get married. Christians believe that such behaviour is morally reprehensible, which takes sexual blurring to a new level of notoriety.


POPE BENEDICT XVI... saving humanity from homosexual and transsexual behaviour is just as important as saving the rainforest from destruction


The Roman Catholic religion states clearly thus: "The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptised people has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament." According to the Vatican: "The Catholic Church contests these revolutionary innovations which, in the name of freedom, seek to legitimise a union regarded by the universal consciousness as going against nature". Apart from being in sync with the changing times, contemporary liberalism has gone beyond the realm of propriety in its expectations.
Pope Benedict XVI has issued a caution to deviants that the gender theory blurred the distinction between men and women and could thus lead to "self-destruction" of the human race. "Saving humanity from homosexual and transsexual behaviour is just as important as saving the rainforest from destruction. Rainforests deserve, yes our protection, but the human being does not deserve less."

Over time there have been calls in Jamaica for the legalisation of polygamy so that husbands could, if able to afford it, acquire multiple wives, and polyandry where wives could have more than one husband. There are tribes in Africa that practise such multiple relationships. In such arrangements wives are graded senior and junior without age limits. Jamaica is already burdened with wayward husbands, companions and partners, who indulge in multiple relationships overt or covert, or both, so that the only wife who knows where her husband is all of the time is a widow!
So far there have not been any demands to introduce as acceptable, the "ultimate frolic" that goes by the name of polyamory that totally abandons any vestige of religion, and sometimes turns violent, resulting in gang rape. According to an article by attorney-at-law Shirley Richards, polyamory is defined as the "practice of relationships within groups of three or more people, where at least one person in the group has more than one intimate relationship at a time. Polyamory configurations also exist as groups, where all parties are intimate with each other, or as groups with four or more members". This pagan activity is the ultimate heathen abandonment without any trace of Christian virtue.

Freedom of the individual to alter his God-given human status by changing his sex from male to female by medical procedure overlooks that man is created in God's image, so such elected and selfishly motivated alterations are an affront to the work of a transcendent, intelligent and good Being called God. If the union, by some stretch of the imagination, is described as a same-sex marriage, it then becomes a relationship composed of incongruous elements, without the benefit of the ability to procreate. Therein lies the serious challenge to society that in some countries would approve child adoption for same-sex unions. Such a conjugal relationship destroys the family unit that is the foundation of society.

In all matters of same-sex relations the problem of children arises. It is near to inevitable that any child so adopted, would unavoidably be socialised into a similar lifestyle as their legal "parents/guardians" that eventually confers in adulthood the same homosexual legacy applied to the lifestyle of their "parents/guardians". This is, in essence, what Pope Benedict XVI's caution to deviants could mean regarding blurring of the sexes as the potential for self-destruction of the human race.
Within the super-developed nations of the Western Hemisphere as with all cyclical historical events, super-development is followed by the dissipation of moral and spiritual values similar to Greco/Roman times, with the ascendancy of materialism that spawns the related ills of greed, corruption and lawlessness. The symptoms of this development are evident in today's Western world that forms a main part of the worldwide threat to Christianity which increases daily.

The possible effect of events described above on young adults can be detrimental to their understanding of things related to life in the spirit and Christian values. Strong parental guidance and peer pressure are the two influences which come to bear at this critical juncture in the lives of minors. There are many deviant concepts of life in the public domain that need to be sifted out of the story of true-life values. It is not an easy task, but one that every parent needs to take very seriously in today's toxic moral environment.


Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Ruling “Not in My Cabinet” JLP politician suspected of buggery

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According to the Jamaica Observer on February 23, 2011 as originally published.

A Jamaica Labour Party politician has been charged with buggery.

Police report that the politician and another man held down a man at his St Andrew residence and sodomised him. The injured man reportedly made a report to the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) and was examined by a medical doctor.

The doctor reportedly found that the male victim had signs of sexual trauma and filed a report with the police.

The politician was questioned by CISOCA detectives and is still in custody along with the other accused man.

Read more: HERE

Of course by now we know it is none other than Mr. Garnet Reid caretaker for South West St. Andrew for the ruling Jamaica Labour Party, a post on my sister blog Gay Jamaica Watch had hinted it was forthcoming from impeccable sources close to the happenings. Pity the Observer was afraid to publish his name. Oh well such is politics in Jamaica, we all know by now they are JLP friendly these days. In a post from the series The Line in The Sand for the JLP installment 6 the story was briefly looked at, here is an excerpt:



Meanwhile the JLP may just face another one of those bumps which may turn out to be a bigger obstacle with the possible legal troubles of South West St. Andrew caretaker Garnett Reid (photo above) who was referred to on February 20th as a person of interest by the police for a sexual crime. He turned himself in on February 21 accompanied by his lawyer Valerie Neita Robinson according to the Gleaner. Usually when we hear designations of such eloquent wording leveled at officials or someone designated of good repute we can guess it has something of a same sex tinge to it and so we thought so it is. Allegations are so far as we know suggest he was involved in a sexual assault with another male of a young man from rural Jamaica some time last week, reports suggest Thursday February 17th.

If this one gets out there in a big way it could mean the end of the Jamaica Labour Party or at best serious damage to the JLP I fear as Prime Minister Bruce Golding's early pronouncements on the Hardtalk Program on the BBC of "Not in My Cabinet" is fresh in the minds of many gay or straight alike. From what we were able to gather the young man was introduced to the caretaker who was captured by his look and wanted a sexual liaison to take place, however the young man did not reciprocate the affection and he was allegedly held by both Reid and another friend and acts performed on him on the faithful day, this is after spending several days at his home.

It is further alleged that the young man wanted a sizable sum of money not to pursue the matter but when the demanded sum was not produced the matter was reported to the police who have since questioned Mr. Reid.

The Jamaica Labour Party is said to be deeply disturbed by the allegations (maybe not as outlined above) but to have one of their own with such a cloud of same sex assault hanging over his head given the fact that it is the opposition that the public perception is strongest of having homosexuals in its midst then could that be a nail in the coffin for the JLP to aspire for a second term, I am sure they are doing their best to keep this one down as much as possible.

The problem with cases or allegations such as these is that when they get out to the public domain the feelings of persons not supporting same sex relations and activities we are viewed as predators or paedophiles even though this case does not involve a child or teen. Already on other forums, blogs and network pages are firing off with negative comments reflecting the aformentioned perceptions coupled with the anger and disappointment of the Buju Banton cocaine trail in Florida delivered on February 22nd 2010.


With a disgruntled lgbtq community when it comes to the JLP they most certainly won't get a lot of pink votes. Several social network sites dedicated to removing the JLP and heavily criticizing the Prime Minister's tenure over the years are up and running full steam.

UPDATE: March 4, 2011

The Observer since has removed that headline of the gentleman being charged for buggery to a new entry on the matter where Mr. Reid is said to be not yet charged for is still under police arrest for the past two weeks. The story now reads:


Attorney to file habeus corpus application for JLP councillor

DESPITE spending two weeks in jail, Jamaica Labour Party councillor for South West St Andrew Garnet Reid, has not yet been charged by the police.

Reid turned in himself to the Constant Spring Police after being named as a person of interest in connection with a sexual offence.

But according to his attorney Valerie Neita-Robertson, detectives at the Centre for Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) have not charged her client and have him languishing behind bars.

“We don’t know what is going on. There has been a grand silence,” Neita-Robertson told the Observer.

She said she will be making a habeus corpus application in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court today to seek a magistrate’s order that Reid be either charged or released.

A magistrate had ordered that Reid be brought to court yesterday but the matter hit a snag after disgruntled magistrates staged a sick out. This has forced Neita-Robertson to renew her bid to have her client released.

Reid underwent an identification parade on Tuesday but it is not clear whether or not he was pointed out.

Article ENDS

Mr. Reid has been subsequently released and is said to be adjusting to normal life again, he was seen out and about on the social scene recently and participated in a discussion on discrimination issues at a popular spot.

Peace and tolerance


H

A sad day - Reggae industry reacts to Buju’s guilty verdict ..... gay activists not responsible

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Well the Observer Clovis cartoon kinda hits the nail on the head to the hypocrisy of it all and the perceptions of Jamaicans on this case and others bearing in mind the gay activists are getting the blame for Mr. Myrie's legal problems:

Click image to view full size editorial cartoon

The Jamaica Observer published that A pall seemed to have been cast over members of the reggae industry following the guilty verdict handed down by the jurors in the trial of Buju Banton.
Everyone at the Observer intimated their disappointment with the outcome of the second trial of the Grammy-winning reggae artiste. Buju's former manager and producer, Donovan Germain of Penthouse Records was so distraught by the news that he opted not to comment, noting, "I can't talk to you right now, I am too messed up to think."

In the meantime, social network sites, Facebook and Twitter in particular, have been abuzz even before the verdict was handed down. On Facebook, one Buju Banton fan from Barbados noted that the verdict was indeed "sour", adding that "everyone feel for him". She said a number of radio stations in Barbados were showing solidarity with the Jamaican artiste and playing his music.
Fellow artiste and Buju's close friend, Wayne Wonder also took to Facebook. Wonder urged, "Lets all keep the prayers going for Mark, we all have to stay strong and stand by him!"

Only last week the entertainment fraternity had their hopes lifted, as on February 13 -- one day before the start of this, his second trial --Buju won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album for the project, Before the Dawn. Many saw this as good fortune for the artiste who had been plagued by tour cancellations to support his previous release, Rasta Got Soul. Buju Banton reacted to the win at the Grammys by noting how honoured he was, adding that it meant that his music has transcended a lot of borders and people are now paying attention to what he has to say.

The Observer sought comments from a number of players in the music industry to the verdict as handed down in the Florida courtroom.

George Nooks, Recording artiste - “It’s sad, I’m sad. It’s a sad day in reggae, period. Honestly, I’m struggling to come to grips with the verdict. I was holding out hope that Buju would have been set free... Can’t say I was expecting this at all; just want to encourage Buju to stay strong. He said it best in his song, It’s Not an Easy Road.

Nadine Sutherland, Recording artiste - “I wish that the verdict was different, I am gutted at this time. I am pleased though to have seen throughout his ordeal the love and the support he received from the Jamaican people.”

Richie B, Radio disc jock — Hot 102 FM - “The verdict is simply heart-wrenching. All I am remembering is the conversation I had with Buju in Florida at the Before the Dawn concert. He was so confident and it gave me a sense of hope for the outcome, so it is hard to deal with this very sad, upsetting verdict. I would encourage Buju and his team to appeal this decision in order to arrive at a better result.”

Dr Sonjah Stanley-Niaah, Lecturer in Cultural Studies — UWI - “This is indeed a sad day for the music, Buju, his family, friends and fans worldwide, and leaves me very introspective at this time. It should also be seen as a wake-up call for those who are not one the straight and narrow, as well as for artistes to constantly assess their craft. I am confident, however, that Buju will use this time to reflect and trust that his lawyers will put together an appeal that will allow us to look with hope to a rising sun.”

Clinton Lindsay, Foundation Radio Network - “I was in the last minutes of my show when I got the news, tears immediately came to my eyes. I just can’t believe it went that way. From all the reports I was getting, it seemed things were looking good in his direction... I am just too shocked right now. I really feel bad for Buju, his family and his many, many fans. I am praying that the judge will have mercy and be lenient when passing down sentence. I wish Buju the best and that he gains strength and does not lose faith, it’s truly a sad day for many of us.”

Bobby Clarke Irie Jam Radio, New York - “Nothing can describe the feeling of despair that came over New York when the heart-breaking news of the verdict came in. We are now in a state of absolute shock and dismay. Injustice, corruption, bias, and evil has won today... the oppressor and the darkness they push has claimed victory, but only for today. We will cry today, we will be overcome by deep sorrow today, but only for today. We will stand beside our fallen soldier, he is a hero in our eyes no matter the verdict. We will rise as a people and as a country. We shall never be defeated by evil, they will not win. Buju, we salute you.”

Lady G Recording, artiste - “I’m so disappointed and I am still praying. I am still in shock, I can’t think of anything more to say right now.”

ENDS

Notes:
The perception that the gay community is responsible for all of Buju Banton's woes during this trial are not true and are unfounded, he got himself in his own mess. Also see sister Blog Gay Jamaica Watch's take on the verdict and more. There has always been a cloud even from the entertainement industry from the get go when Buju "converted" to Rastafari and to see the reactions of sorts from the industry most of who were quiet in the beginning looks so loaded with hypocrisy. A section of the public too though small maybe had also had doubts as to whether Buju was indeed involved in drugs quietly hence the cartoon depiction from Clovis above, somethings just don't add up.


Cock Mouth Kill Cock? maybe so as he (Buju) was reported to have said to the informant (unaware to Buju at the time) "You have given me the opportunity to make myself again," Buju said to Johnson in an audio recording.

He complained to the informant that he did not make any money on his last tour and that gay-rights organisation, The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, "is trying to run me under."

So maybe he wanted an alternate form of income seeing he wasn't getting anywhere far via the music sales and concerts.
Have a look at the transcript of the conversation between Buju and the informant and also the other party at the time.


I am sure there is more to come as the sentencing and appeals process is expected to take three months or so.

Peace and tolerance

H








Monday, February 21, 2011

3rd Blogoversary ........ thank you

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February 20th was the third year of this blog's life. Thank you so much for your continued support and advice and criticisms over these three years of life for this publication. As you may know it started out as a JFLAG, Jamaica Forum for Lesbians Allsexuals and Gays blog when I was a part of the family but apparently the revolution was too fast for them probably so a name change was in order and then came GLBTQ Jamaica of course redone to reflect my views alongside theirs with my sister blogs GLBTQJA on Wordpress and the sometimes controversial Gay Jamaica Watch. A new Xrated all male blog was added recently to diversify the offerings on this kind of platform. I still intend to launch a full site soon provided the right funds can be put together as I do this activity alone for now with networking assistance from other persons on the ground.

Nothing much has changed in terms of goals except the new posts and features added that judging by your feedback have been enjoying. Donations presently are accepted via Paypal where buttons are placed at points on this and the Gay Jamaica Watch's blog as well. If you wish to send donations otherwise please contact: glbtqjamaica@live.com or telephone - 1-876-813-4942 or CLICK HERE





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 and otherwise

Track human rights issues in general with a view to support for ALL

Thanks again
lgbtevent@gmail.com
glbtqjamaica@live.com
Tel: 1-876-813-4942
http://gayjamaicawatch.blogspot.com/
http://glbtqja.blogspot.com/
http://glbtqja.wordpress.com/
http://glbtqja.blogspot.com/ (the newest addition to the family with more international focus)


INFORMATION & DISCLAIMER

lgbtevent@gmail.com

Individuals who are mentioned or whose photographs appear on this site are not necessarily Homosexual, HIV positive or have AIDS.

This blog contains pictures that may be disturbing. We have taken the liberty to present these images as evidence of the numerous accounts of homophobic violence meted out to alleged gays in Jamaica.

Faces and names withheld for the victims' protection.

This blog not only watches and covers LGBTQ issues in Jamaica and elsewhere but also general human rights and current affairs where applicable.

This blog contains HIV prevention messages that may not be appropriate for all audiences.

If you are not seeking such information or may be offended by such materials, please view labels, post list or exit.

Since HIV infection is spread primarily through sexual practices or by sharing needles, prevention messages and programs may address these topics.

This blog is not designed to provide medical care, if you are ill, please seek medical advice from a licensed practitioner

Thanks so much for your kind donations and thoughts.

As for some posts, they contain enclosure links to articles, blogs and or sites for your perusal, use the snapshot feature 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.

Recent Homophobic Incidents

CLICK HERE for related posts/labels and HERE from the gayjamaicawatch's BLOG containing information I am aware of. If you know of any such reports or incidents please contact lgbtevent@gmail.com

Peace to you and be safe out there.

Love.
Related Posts with Thumbnails

AddThis

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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.



and



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

More uploads




Aphrodite’s PRIDE JA tackles gender identity, transgender misconceptions .....



Nationwide New Network, NNN devoted some forty five minutes of prime time yesterday evening to discuss the issue and help listeners to at least begin to process some of the information coming from the most public declaration exercise as done by Jenner. Guests on the show were Dr Karen Carpenter Board Certified Clinical Sexologist and Psychologist, ‘Satiba’ from Aphrodite’s P.R.I.D.E Jamaica of which I am affiliated and Lecturer (Sociologist) and host of Every Woman on the station Georgette Crawford Williams (sister of PNP member of parliament Damian Crawford); one of the first questions thrown at Satiba by host Cliff Hughes was why has Jenna waited so long at 65 years old to make such a life changing decision?

Satiba responded that many transwomen have to hide their true identity in life .... given her life when she was younger she was a star athlete she would have been under tremendous precious to stay in from the expectations by the public and her team etc, also owing to the fact that she had a family as a man with children one may not want to upset the flow at that time until the kids are old enough. There is a lot of burden of guilt that some persons carry in weighing the decisions of coming out or transitioning so suppression of one’s true self is the modus operandi.

Dr Carpenter cautioned after a heated exchange:

“We really must remember as professionals we must stay in our lane I will never pronounce as a Sociologist cause I am not a Sociologist ............When we have an opportunity to speak publicly we must be careful of what we say unless it is extremely well informed......”


Aphrodite's P.R.I.D.E Jamaica, APJ launched their website


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)

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?

Promised conscience vote was a fluke from the PNP ........



SO WE WERE DUPED EH? - the suggestion of a conscience vote on the buggery law as espoused by Prime Minister (then opposition leader) in the 2011 leadership debate preceding the last national elections was a dangling carrot for a dumb donkey to follow.

Many advocates and individuals interpreted Mrs Simpson Miller's pronouncements as a promise or a commitment to repeal or at least look at the archaic buggery law but I and a few others who spoke openly dismissed it all from day one as nothing more than hot air especially soon after in February member of parliament Damian Crawford poured cold water on the suggestion/promise and said it was not a priority as that time. and who seems to always open his mouth these days and revealing his thoughts that sometimes go against the administration's path.

I knew from then that as existed before even under the previous PM P. J. Patterson (often thought to be gay by the public) also danced around the issue as this could mean votes and loss of political power. Mrs Simpson Miller in the meantime was awarded a political consultants' democracy medal as their conference concludes in Antigua.


War of words between pro & anti gay activists on HIV matters .......... what hypocrisy is this?



War of words between pro & anti gay activists on HIV matters .......... what hypocrisy is this?

A war of words has ensued between gay lawyer (AIDSFREEWORLD) Maurice Tomlinson and anti gay activist Dr Wayne West (supposed in-laws of sorts) as both accuse each other of lying or being dishonest, when deception has been neatly employed every now and again by all concerned, here is the post from Dr West's blog

This is laughable to me in a sense as both gentleman have broken the ethical lines of advocacy respectively repeatedly especially on HIV/AIDS and on legal matters concerning LGBTQ issues

The evidence is overwhelming readers/listeners, you decide.


Fast forward 2015 and the exchanges continue in a post from Dr Wayne West: Maurice Tomlinson misrepresents my position on his face book page and Blog 76Crimes

Tomlinson's post originally was:






Urgent Need to discuss sex & sexuality II






Following a cowardly decision by the Minister(try) of Education to withdraw an all important Health Family Life, HFLE Manual on sex and sexuality

I examine the possible reasons why we have the homo-negative challenges on the backdrop of a missing multi-generational understanding of sexuality and the focus on sexual reproductive activity in the curriculum.

also see:

and





Calls for Tourism Boycotts are Nonsensical at This Time





(2014 protests New York)

Calling for boycotts by overseas based Jamaican advocates who for the most part are not in touch with our present realities in a real way and do not understand the implications of such calls can only seek to make matters worse than assisting in the struggle, we must learn from, the present economic climate of austerity & tense calm makes it even more sensible that persons be cautious, will these groups assist when there is fallout?, previous experiences from such calls made in 2008 and 2009 and the near diplomatic nightmare that missed us; especially owing to the fact that many of the victims used in the public advocacy of violence were not actual homophobic cases which just makes the ethics of advocacy far less credible than it ought to be.

See more explained HERE from a previous post following the Queen Ifrica matter and how it was mishandled

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.

Some Popular Posts

Are you ready to fight for gay rights and freedoms?? (multiple answers are allowed)

Did U Find This Blog Informative???

Blog Roll

What do you think is the most important area of HIV treatment research today?

Do you think Lesbians could use their tolerance advantage to help push for gay rights in Jamaica??

Violence & venom force gay Jamaicans to hide



a 2009 Word focus report where the history of the major explosion of homeless MSM occurred and references to the party DVD that was leaked to the bootleg market which exposed many unsuspecting patrons to the public (3:59), also the caustic remarks made by former member of Parliament in the then JLP administration.

The agencies at the time were also highlighted and the homo negative and homophobic violence met by ordinary Jamaican same gender loving men.

The late founder of the CVC, former ED of JASL and JFLAG Dr. Robert Carr was also interviewed.

At 4:42 that MSM was still homeless to 2012 but has managed to eek out a living but being ever so cautious as his face is recognizable from the exposed party DVD, he has been slowly making his way to recovery despite the very slow pace.

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 lgbtevent@gmail.com



Activities & Plans: ongoing and future
  • 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

  • Continuing discussion on issues affecting GLBTQ people in Jamaica and elsewhere

  • Welcoming, examining and implementing 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 for your support.

Tel: 1-876-841-2923




Peace

Information & Disclaimer


Individuals who are mentioned or whose photographs appear on this site are not necessarily Homosexual, HIV positive or have AIDS.

This blog contains pictures that may be disturbing. We have taken the liberty to present these images as evidence of the numerous accounts of homophobic violence meted out to alleged gays in Jamaica.

Faces and names withheld for the victims' protection.

This blog not only watches and covers LGBTQ issues in Jamaica and elsewhere but also general human rights and current affairs where applicable.

This blog contains HIV prevention messages that may not be appropriate for all audiences.

If you are not seeking such information or may be offended by such materials, please view labels, post list or exit.

Since HIV infection is spread primarily through sexual practices or by sharing needles, prevention messages and programs may address these topics.

This blog is not designed to provide medical care, if you are ill, please seek medical advice from a licensed practitioner

Thanks so much for your kind donations and thoughts.

As for some posts, they contain enclosure links to articles, blogs and or sites for your perusal, use the snapshot feature 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.

Recent Homophobic Cases

CLICK HERE for related posts/labels and HERE from the gayjamaicawatch's BLOG containing information I am aware of. If you know of any such reports or incidents please contact lgbtevent@gmail.com or call 1-876-841-2923

Peace to you and be safe out there.

Love.


What to do if you are attacked (News You Can Use)


First, be calm: Do not panic; it may be very difficult to maintain composure if attacked but this is important.

Try to reason with the attacker: Establish communication with the person. This takes a lot of courage. However, a conversation may change the intention of an attacker.

Do not try anything foolish: If you know outmaneuvering the attacker is impossible, do not try it.

Do not appear to be afraid: Look the attacker in the eye and demonstrate that you are not fearful.

This may have a psychological effect on the individual.

Emergency numbers

The police 119

Kingfish 811

Crime Stop 311

Steps to Take When Contronted or Arrested by Police


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 tensed) 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. 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

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.

Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today

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 update, see: MP Seeks Solutions For Homeless Gay Youth In New Kingston



THE BEST OF & Recommended Audioposts/Podcasts


THE BEST OF & Recommended Audioposts/Podcasts 




The Prime Minister (Golding) on Same Sex Marriages and the Charter of Rights Debate (2009)


Other sides to the msm homeless saga (2012)


Rowdy Gays Matter 21.08.11 more HERE



Ethical Professionlism & LGBT Advocates 01.02.12 more HERE


Portia Simpson Miller - SIMPSON MILLER DEFENDS GAY COMMENT 23.12.11


2 SGL Women lost, corrective rape and virtual silence from the male dominated advocacy structure


Al Miller on UK Aid & The Abnormality of Homosexuality 19.11.11


Homosexuality is Not Illegal in Jamaica .... Buggery is despite the persons gender 12.11.11 MORE HERE 


MSM Homelessness 2011 ...my two cents


Black Friday for Gays in Jamaica More HERE


Bi-phobia by default from supposed LGBT advocate structures?


Homeless MSMs Saga Timeline 28.08.11 (HOT!!!) see more HERE


A Response to Al Miller's Abnormality of Homosexuality statement 19.11.11


UK/commonwealth Aid Matter & The New Developments, no aid cuts but redirecting, ethical problems on our part - 22.11.11


Homophobic Killings versus Non Homophobic Killings 12.07.12


Big Lies, Crisis Archiving & More MSM Homlessness Issues 12.07.12


More MSM Challenges July 2012 more sounds HERE


GLBTQ Jamaica 2011 Summary 02.01.12 more HERE


Homosexuality Destroying the Family? .............. I Think Not!


Lesbian issues left out of the Jamaican advocacy thrust until now?


Club Heavens The Rebirth 12.02.12 and more HERE


Should gov't provide shelter for homeless msm?


National attitudes to gays survey shows 78% of J'cans say NO to buggery repeal


1st Anniversary of Homeless MSM civil disobedience (Aug 23/4) 2012 more HERE


JFLAG's rejection of rowdy homeless msms & the Sept 21st standoff .........


Atheism & Secularism may cloud the struggle for lgbt rights in Jamaica more HERE


Urgent Need to discuss sex & sexuality II and more HERE


MSM Community Displacement Concerns October 2012


The UTECH abuse & related issues


Beenieman's hypocrisy & his fake apology in his own words and more HERE


Guarded about JFLAG's Homeless shelter


Homophobia & homelessness matters for November 2012 ................


Cabinet delays buggery review, says it's not a priority & more ...........................(November 2012) prior to the announcement of the review in parliament in June 2013 More sounds HERE


"Dutty Mind" used in Patois Bible to describe homosexuals


Homeless impatient with agencies over slow progress for promised shelter 2012 More HERE


George Davis Live - Dr Wayne West & Carole Narcisse on JCHS' illogical fear


Homeless MSM Issues in New Kgn Jan 2013 .......


Homeless MSM challenges in Jamaica February 2013 more HERE


JFLAG Excludes Homeless MSM from IDAHOT Symposium on Homelessness 2013


Poor leadership & dithering are reasons for JFLAG & Jamaica AIDS Support’s temporary homelessness May 2013 more HERE


Response To Flagging a Dead Horse Free Speech & Gay Rights 10.06.13