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Just from eyeballing billboards, magazines, Instagram and so forth, it’s clear that diversity in advertising is on the up-and-up. But too often we still get the feeling that the progress we’re seeing is merely headline-baity, gestural. For instance, just a few weeks ago, Calvin Klein, one of the industry’s more diversity-conscious brands, released a controversial campaign video in which supermodel Bella Hadid appears to make out with computer-generated influencer Lil Miquela. Critics accused the ad of queerbaiting: “CK’s ad borrows sexuality for clickbait, othering queerness as ‘surreal’ (and combining it with the added virtual human gimmick) as engagement-driving content,” wrote Emma Hope Allwood for Dazed.
Adding insult to injury, the brand didn’t even cast an LGBTQIA+ model. Calvin Klein was quick to apologize, but this visual, crafted by a relatively progressive brand, served to highlight another reality: it’s going to be a while before true inclusivity in fashion ads becomes the norm. And our most recent data underlines this fact.
First, the good news: racial diversity in ad campaigns is on the rise and has been for the past seven seasons. After assessing 188 Spring 2019 fashion print ads, we found that of the 529 model appearances, 34.97 percent were women of color, a 0.47 point increase over Fall 2018’s 34.50 percent. And thus it was the most racially diverse ad season ever.
Still, progress has been slow. Less than half a percentage point isn’t a terribly significant improvement. What’s more, between Spring 2018 and Fall 2018, racial representation in ads grew by only 0.5 percent, between Fall 2017 and Spring 2018, only 1.2 percent. Some might even call that stagnation.
Regardless, it’s nothing compared to the progress we’ve seen on the runways in recent seasons. For instance, for Fall 2019, approximately 38.8 percent of runway models were nonwhite, a 2.7 percent jump from the season prior and the highest runway percentage we’ve seen.
Now for the bad news: aside from models of color, plus-size models were the only diversity category to see greater representation this ad season.
No, Spring 2019 wasn’t a banner season for age representation in ad campaigns (more on that later). Still, it’s encouraging that, for the second season running, it wasn’t a teen or 20-something who topped our most in-demand models list. Rather, 30-year-old Puerto Rican supermodel Joan Smalls booked the most campaigns (seven) of any model this season. (Recall that in Fall 2018, then 44-year-old Amber Valletta tied for most-cast model alongside 22-year-old Rianne van Rompaey, with, again, seven campaigns apiece.)
Second place was a five-way tie between Bella Hadid, Binx Walton, Anna Ewers, Kendall Jenner and van Rompaey, each of whom landed six campaigns. Adut Akech, Vittoria Ceretti, Rebecca Leigh Longendyke and Carolyn Murphy shared third place with five ads apiece.
Of the 10 models who landed the most Spring 2019 ad campaigns, four (40 percent) were nonwhite: Smalls, Hadid (who is of Dutch-Palestinian descent), Walton (mixed race, born in Tennessee) and Akech (who is originally from South Sudan).
(Again, while some may question our decision to label Hadid as nonwhite, given that she, admittedly, “passes” primarily as white, we hold that her genetics are not up for interpretation and one cannot dismiss her Palestinian background based on the color of her skin.)
After a dismal Fall 2018 ad campaign season wherein casting of plus-size talent hit a record low — only seven models over size 10 were cast, meaning just 1.32 percent of ads starred non-straight-size women — for Spring 2019, brands redeemed themselves slightly. Of the season’s 529 campaign castings, 11 (2.08 percent) went to plus-size women. Sadly enough, this 0.76 bump was the highest increase in campaign representation experienced by any group we examined, models of color included.
Contrary to expectations — plus-size castings were down on the recent Fall 2019 runways, typically a good indicator for upcoming ad campaign numbers — Spring 2019 was actually a relatively strong season for plus-size models. In fact, it tied Fall 2015 for the second-most size-inclusive ad season to date (after Fall 2016, which had 14 castings in this category).
But for all that, size inclusivity in ad campaigns is essentially just back to where it was between Spring 2017 and Spring 2018, when the percentage of plus-size castings remained mostly static over the course of three seasons, hovering around 2 percent (2.25 percent in Spring 2017, 2.19 in Fall 2017, 1.86 in Spring 2018).
Per tradition, commercial and plus-size brands were responsible for the majority (six) of Spring 2019’s non-straight-size castings. In the former category: Tess McMillan for Nordstrom and Paloma Elsesser for Topshop Jeans; in the latter: Tara Lynn for Gloria Vanderbilt, Candice Huffine for Ann Taylor and Ashley Graham for Marina Rinaldi and Addition Elle.
Only three luxury brands — albeit two more than usual — chose to feature plus-size models alongside straight-size models in their campaigns: Marquita Pring and Huffine posed for Prabal Gurung, Solange van Doorn and rapper Chika Oranika for Calvin Klein Underwear, Graham for Dolce & Gabbana. (Paradoxically, the Italian fashion house has become known for its notably diverse ad imagery, despite designer Stefano Gabbana’s propensity for name-calling.)
On the bright side, not all of the plus models hired were white, though all were under age 50 and openly identify as cis. Four women of color (Pring, van Doorn, Oranika and Elsesser) landed coveted campaign spots.
Representation for transgender and non-binary models fell to its lowest point in three years. Only 2(!) of the 529 model appearances we looked at belonged to this category — in other words, 0.38 percent. That’s a 0.75 decease from the Fall 2018 season (which saw six openly trans and non-binary models cast) and the third-lowest number we’ve seen since we began tracking gender identity in ad campaigns in 2015. (Fall 2016’s ads featured no trans or non-binary models, Spring 2016’s just one.)
Disheartening as it is, this decline in trans and non-binary castings should come as little shock to those who have been following our reports. Historically, openly trans and non-binary models tend to enjoy more popularity on the runways than in ad campaigns and during the most recent fashion month, the category experienced a steep drop-off in runway castings (from 91 in Spring 2019 to 56 in Fall 2019). This, obviously, did not bode well for models’ campaign prospects.
Plus, when it comes to trans and non-binary representation in ad campaigns, we generally set our expectations low, given that in our years of monitoring their castings, we’ve yet to see double digits. Season after season, trans and non-binary models are, almost without fail, the most underrepresented group. (The one exception being Spring 2017, when over-50 models fell to the bottom of the pile.)
For Spring 2019, Y/Project and Prabal Gurung were the only brands to feature a transgender or gender nonconforming model. The former hired French model Simon Thiébaut, the latter Marc Jacobs regular Dara Allen. One-half of the castings went to a transgender woman of color (Allen) and both came from luxury brands so that’s something, we suppose.
Some might argue that, given transgender and non-binary people only make up, by most estimates, a little more than 0.6 percent of the population, 0.38 percent visibility amounts to adequate representation. But in an age where violence against trans people — and especially trans women of color — has reached an all-time high, more nuanced depictions of trans women are needed. It’s irresponsible for brands to elevate a few thin, light-skinned, cis-presenting models — capitalizing on their “edginess” — and then ignore the rest.
As has been the case nearly every ad campaign season — the one exception being Spring 2017 — models 50 and over were the best-represented of all the non-ethnic groups measured in our report.
That’s not to say brands made progress when it came to age inclusivity. On the contrary, for Spring 2019, casting of models in this category took a small step backward: 15 women in the age group starred in a total of 10 campaigns, accounting for 2.84 percent of castings. That’s three models, one campaign and 0.56 percent shy of last season’s figures, making Spring 2019 only the fourth-most age-diverse season on record (after Fall 2015, Fall 2016 and Fall 2018, in descending order).
Strangely, the opposite was true on the recent Fall 2019 runways, where women 50-plus were the least visible of all the groups and yet the only category to see any sort of improvement in representation. In fact, they had their strongest runway showing yet. But we digress.
Looking at intersectionality, not a single nonwhite, plus-size or transgender model age 50 and over landed a Spring 2019 campaign. One silver lining came from the fact that most (13) of the season’s disappointingly homogenous castings were the work of high-end fashion brands.
Dolce & Gabbana had the most (five) women aged 50 and up in its spring campaign, a mix of modeling and silver screen icons that included Helena Christensen, Carla Bruni, Marpessa Hennink, Monica Bellucci and Isabella Rossellini. (Christensen also posed for Rag & Bone.) Nineties favorite Kristen McMenamy, who opened Valentino’s Spring 2019 show, returned for the Juergen Teller-lensed campaign. Balenciaga, which often features nonprofessional models in its shows and ads, cast Britta Dion and Ursula Wångander, both of whom walked the brand’s Fall 2019 runway. Y/Project and Helmut Lang likewise took a friends and family casting approach: the former featured its “den mother” Frédérique Sebag, the latter Catherine Moore, mother of photographer Cian Moore, who shot the campaign. Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola modeled Santoni’s leather wares; Vivienne Westwood represented her eponymous label for the fourth consecutive season. In the mass-market realm, 80s supermodel Yasmin Le Bon posed for Ann Taylor, Marian Moneymaker for Ralph Lauren’s Polo line.
Are big-name brands casting older models so as to pay tribute to fashion history? To achieve an air of authenticity? To tap into the disposable income of their older, more financially secure customer base? Some combination of the three? Whatever the case may be, it’s heartening that age representation in ad campaigns has remained relatively high over the years. Still, looking at Spring 2019’s conventionally attractive (white, thin, cisgender) 50 and over campaign stars, it’s clear the seasonal ads have a long way to go before they’ll count as truly age diverse.
MOST/LEAST DIVERSE CAMPAIGNS
It’s no wonder racial diversity in ad campaigns barely edged forward. A surprising number of brands (eight!) featured zero models of color in casts of three or more. Namely: JW Anderson, Celine, Bottega Veneta, Emporio Armani, Sisley, Moussy Jeans, Elisabetta Franchi and Max Mara Weekend. (To think Emporio Armani made our list of racial diversity standouts as recently as last season.)
Meanwhile, for all his advocacy of women’s reproductive rights, Alessandro Michele seems less concerned with racial equality: only one of Gucci’s nine Spring 2019 campaign models was a woman of color (around 11 percent).
Saint Laurent and Balenciaga, no strangers to our least-diverse campaigns list, each hired only one out of seven models of color (a little over 14 percent). Both brands are notoriously exclusive: the former cast no models of color in its campaigns for 14 years (between 2001 and 2015), the latter was at the center of February 2017’s Paris Fashion Week casting scandal.
Dolce & Gabbana, another repeat offender, hired only two out of 12 models of color (close to 17 percent). Similarly, both Guess and Y/Project featured just one model of color in lineups of six (near 17 percent). Huge, mass-market chains Zara and Desigual also paid little mind to racial inclusion, casting only one model of color each in lineups of five (20 percent). (You’d think they’d want to represent the breadth of their customer bases.)
Needless to say, it’s disturbing that so many of the industry’s most influential voices — Michele, Hedi Slimane, Jonathan Anderson — continue to ignore calls for racial inclusion. Even brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Balenciaga and Y/Project, which, for Spring 2019, championed size, age and transgender representation, respectively, didn’t seem compelled to show multiple forms of diversity.
On a happier note, a number of brands did put racial diversity front and center in their Spring 2019 ads. They were, in descending order: United Colors of Benetton (80 percent models of color), American Eagle Outfitters (80 percent models of color), MICHAEL Michael Kors (75 percent models of color), Prabal Gurung (73 percent models of color), Alexander McQueen (71 percent models of color), UGG (67 percent models of color), Gap (67 percent models of color), Fendi (67 percent models of color), DKNY (67 percent models of color), Coach (67 percent models of color), Calvin Klein Performance (67 percent models of color), CK Calvin Klein (67 percent models of color), H&M (64 percent models of color), Tiffany & Co. (60 percent models of color), Prada (60 percent models of color), Miu Miu (60 percent models of color), Penshoppe (60 percent models of color), Kurt Geiger (60 percent models of color) and Calvin Klein Underwear (58 percent models of color).
Note: United Colors of Benetton also topped our list last season, when it hired 82 percent models of color. Other returning Fall 2018 campaign diversity champs include Fendi (75 percent models of color), DKNY (75 percent models of color), Gap (75 percent models of color) and Coach (50 percent models of color).
Without question, Prabal Gurung’s Spring 2019 campaign featured better across-the-board diversity than any other this season. Photographed by Kyla Rae Polanco, the ads starred nearly 40 models, 73 percent of them models of color, one a transgender woman of color (Dara Allen), two of them plus-size, one of those plus-size models a Latina (Marquita Pring).
Thankfully, Gurung’s weren’t the only ads to showcase multiple forms of diversity. Nordstrom’s spring campaign “The Nature of Spring” was 40 percent racially diverse and one of the few to feature a plus-size model. Similarly, Calvin Klein Underwear’s star-studded, 58 percent nonwhite cast included two non-straight-size women, one mixed race, one black.
And though they failed miserably on the racial diversity front, we’d be remiss not to acknowledge both Dolce & Gabbana and Y/Project. The former hired more models age 50 and over than any other brand (five), not to mention one plus-size model (Ashley Graham); the latter was the only brand to feature both a woman over 50 and a transgender model in its spring ads.
And there you have it. Racial representation in ad campaigns is only up by about 1 percent from a year ago. Non-straight-size women were no more visible this season than four years ago. Transgender and non-binary models actually landed fewer castings than when we first looked at these stats and age inclusivity once again dipped below where it was in Fall 2015, begging the question: how much of the progress we’ve seen is actually real?
Additional reporting by Mark E.
Only women were included in the data of this report. Models of color were categorized as those of nonwhite or mixed backgrounds. The term “model” includes celebrities and influencers, sometimes referred to as nonmodels. | {
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Well, after a long few months of playin’ the field, bouncing from fling to fling, and being an all around bachelor/bachelorette who can’t be tied down, it’s finally almost cuffing season.
I know I’m ready for it! Having to do all that, uh, all that freaking making out this off season…it was exhausting! I mean, damn! I was just like all tangled up with all the girlfriends, like just absolutely caught up with so many smokin’ hot babes, that I couldn’t even really do any of my hobbies like working out and moving out of my childhood bedroom! It was nuts!
So now I’m excited I can take a deep breath of this crisp cuffin’ season air and settle down with a singular shawty. But if your game is weak (unlike mine, as I just said, I’ve spent the past few months sucking face with definitely real women), you may have to have some tricks up your sleeve to get a new significant other.
Luckily for you, djchickenparm knows what all the fellas and females are digging these days. Everyone holds their musical taste very near and dear to their heart, and saying you like the right artists to the right person can be the key to unlocking that heart, and being let in for a solid few months of cold weather-induced companionship.
Let’s start off with the guys.
Music Guys Can Lie About Liking To Get Chicks
Two things come to mind when you think of Ariana Grande: posing for a ton of pictures at her concert, and massive sweatshirts. Just absolutely gargantuan crew necks. So by saying “I love Ariana Grande”, you automatically become boyfriend material. Why would a girl date a guy? We’re disgusting. There’s not much we have to offer except the pictures girls can post with you and the sweatshirts girls can steal from you. So by the transitive property, you like Ariana —> they like her gigantic snuggie-length sweatshirts —> they like you. It’s a classic Pavlov’s dog situation.
The good news about this one is you’ll only be lying at first. Harry Styles is incredible. The man’s handsome as hell and a god of a musician. Girls know about him already because they were introduced via One Direction when you were a little homophobic 8th grader. You have to take off those prejudice-goggles, say that you like him, and then actually start listening and genuinely start liking him. The bad news is, you’ll soon realize you’re not even a quarter of the man Harry is and break up with your girlfriend after about 2 weeks of listening because you genuinely think she deserves better….but that 2 week window could be nice!
Lana Del Rey
Fair warning, this one is dangerous. If you use this one you’re going to lock down a sadgirl. You’ll probably have to listen to this on a CD she burned because aux cords aren’t compatible with her 1998 Ford Taurus, her shower doesn’t get nearly as much use as it should, and every time you kiss her you’re going to be inhaling little baby clouds of cig smoke. Girls that listen to Lana Del Rey should legally be required to wear T-Shirts with this on it.
Besides the second hand smoke though, this could be a pretty good gig for you. You won’t have to spend a ton of money at the bar, she’d rather stay at home and watch Tarantino movies with a glass of whiskey. You won’t have to answer text messages about all her problems, she’s got plenty of unhealthy coping mechanisms for that! AND you won’t have to buy her flowers when she’s feeling sad, she wants to feel sad! Why else would she listen to the abhorrent ghost-like moaning of Lana Del Rey?
The National Anthem
This one’s perfect for all the young conservative ladies out there. She has to make sure you don’t want her dad’s company to have to pay more taxes so her family won’t have to sell the Malibu property before Spring Break. How do you do that? Say our country’s official favorite song is your favorite song too.
Is it wrong to lie in order to score a MAGA babe? NOT AT ALL. I hate Trump as much as the next guy but if I can secure myself a lil’ Mami Lahren this cuffin season you can catch me dumping plastic straws by the bucket into the Atlantic Ocean, sharing Ben Shapiro videos on Facebook, and spackling the Border Wall with one hand while holding a loaded firearm in the other.
Now guys, you had it easy. Girls normally have better taste in music than guys. Sure, dudes may be forced to listen to a few of Lizzo’s bangers at the pregame, so what? At least you’re not a girl who’s gonna have to pretend to love listening to Trippie Redd at full volume at 10am on the way to Sunday Brunch when all she really wanted was to take 3 advil and let John Mayer suppress the scaries for another hour or two.
So ladies, if you want your best bet at securing a BF this CS, you’re gonna wanna check out these musical selections below.
Music Girls Can Lie About Liking To Get A Guy
Every young guy thinks Travis Scott is the next coming of Christ. My guy stole Cudi’s humming, screamed a little bit more, added some auto-tune and men worship him. You think you spent a lot of money at Madewell last weekend? You haven’t seen a dude raid the merch tent at a Travis Scott concert. Guys come with hundreds lined up and leave with a new sweatshirt, gym shorts, winter mittens, and a Cactus Jack Onesie for their future kid to wear 10 years down the line. If you want to make a guy think you’re a galaxy brain human-being, tell him you love Travis (do NOT say “Travis SCOTT” guy’s only call him “Travis” to make themselves feel like he’s a close personal friend).
The Rolling Stones
This is a great one to lie about liking because it’s minimal effort. Every dude on the planet likes the Rolling Stones, but most of them can really only name like 3-4 songs. “Paint It Black”, “Gimme Shelter”, “Satisfaction”, and “Sympathy for the Devil” are really the only ones you gotta know. Just the ones they use in mob movie trailers.
Liking rock music will make you seem more “manly”, which turns guys on. While you’re at it say you love eating wings and watching football too. The more stereotypically a dude you are the hotter you’ll be. All guys want to do is have a romantic relationship with another man, but with another man who doesn’t have a penis. You have the opportunity here to be that (wo)man.
The Office Theme Song
If you’re really trying to lock down a man this cuffing season. You are just completely desperate to be someone’s girlfriend. Just go as vanilla, middle-of-the-road, “I’m a normal human-being” as possible, and say you love The Office theme song. The guy will hear that and be like “Oh she likes the Office? That’s dope. I love watching the Office. We could watch the Office together.” Guys don’t want to put effort into doing anything, so by letting them know you like doing what they already do, that’s an easy “Sure I guess I’ll date them” from a guy. I don’t care if you like funnier shows than this, like Parks and Rec, DON’T RISK IT. Play it safe. Earn their trust.
If you want to strike a chord with some finance bros, this is the route to go. They’re workin on excel sheets at Wells Fargo BUMPIN “Lean On” through their Air Pods thinking about how they can’t wait to run the pong table at their $5,000 per month apartment in Manhattan this weekend. And while you’re in the corner sipping on a warm white claw (he didn’t have room for in his fridge) watching him call out the other team for “elbows” you can get on the aux and play some Snake. If he gets balls back even once while “Let Me Love You” is playing he’ll be calling you his “good luck charm” for the next 6-8 months until the new interns from NYU start up and he thinks they’re all hitting on him when they genuinely just don’t know where the printer is.
What? You’ve never heard of Nocturnal Sunshine? Well, that’s because they’re not real. Every guy knows that hipster chicks who are into obscure indie music we’ve never heard of are always hot. We wanna stare into your eyes through your Warby Parker frames and eat kale chips to lose weight but tell the boys we’re eating them because you like them. That’s all we’ve ever wanted.
And who’s this picture of then? Well, that’s the cast of This Is Us on NBC. Go ahead, show it to him. He doesn’t watch the show. He’ll never know the difference.
Safe Bets For All Genders
Whether you’re a girl going for a guy or a guy going for a girl or a guy going for a guy or a girl going for a girl or someone who is non-binary who really isn’t looking for someone right now and just wants to spend the night in watching the new season of Peaky Blinders, this is good music to say you like.
You get approached at the bar by an 11 when you’re out here, a sweaty 5 (tops) and a few too many deep and they say “so what kinda music you like?” DO NOT PANIC. Everyone universally agrees these people are pretty good. You’re not gonna win the “most interesting personality award” but if it keeps that 11 on the line it’s well worth it to say any of the following:
- Post Malone
- Queen (if their music can trick people into liking the movie “Bohemian Rhapsody” it can definitely trick them into liking you romantically.)
- Bruce Springsteen
- 90’s Summer Jams (Sugar Ray, Third Eye Blind, you get the idea)
- “September” by Earth, Wind, Fire
- “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
- “Ugh man I love so many different kinds it’s so hard to choose”
DON’T BRING THESE GUYS UP
Just so you don’t breakup before you even start dating, avoid mentioning these names. Some are cancelled, some are polarizing, and others are just weird.
- R. Kelly (obviously)
- Chris Brown (should be obvious, but isn’t)
- Michael Jackson (Jackson 5 is exponentially better, “I Want You Back” Michael did nothing to those kids and that’s a fact.)
- Eminem (If someone says this run as fast as you can, he’s got Monster Energy Drink running through his veins and a notepad at home with Joker-scribble on it)
- Kanye West (more likely than not, someone will have an opinion on him, and more likely than not it won’t be a good one, unless of course you’re trying to cuff me, in which case, double down on him).
- Anything Metal (If the person’s wearing eyeblack, one of those chokers with the spikes on it, or have their eyelids pierced or something go ahead and call an audible.)
- Anything before the year 1965
- Anything that’s TOO middle-of-the-road, like One Republic or something.
Well, there you have it folks. If you use any of the tips above I can guarantee you’ll be cuffed as a convict by the time the Daylight Savings Time Depression kicks in.
ps. I’m single ladies 😉 share this with your friends who have low standards | {
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It’s not easy being a job seeker. There are resumes to perfect; contacts to network with; databases to scroll through; references to check on; cover letters to write…
It’s not easy being trans, non-binary and/or gender nonconforming. You are not sure if you should come out to employers; you are worried co-workers will express transphobia; you are mis-gendered in an interview…
It’s not easy!
However, there are resources and support out there to help your job search become just a little bit easier. You are not the first person to this and you won’t be the last! (These resources are also helpful for allies and family members to consider when supporting a trans person.)
- Know Your Rights: (this is CA based so check on a state by state basis):
- Coming out in the Workplace
- Tips for Allies
- Dress for Success! Look for trans and genderqueer friendly tailors such as Bindle and Keep featured in the new documentary “Suited” on Netflix. Visit the Stevenson University Career Success Closet to pick out a free outfit to help you feel confident when you land that interview!
This March 7th, the Office of Career Services will be partnering with the office of Multicultural Experience on the Diversity Career Expo.
Learn how to positively promote your diversity/skills/strengths during the application process, have candid conversations with employers who are looking to recruit for interns, volunteers or full-time positions. Network with organizations, make connections and hopefully land a position!
More details to come.. check Handshake for locations dates and times. | {
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Collision insurance coverage will protect the entire worth of your car in case within the party of a collision. Even though the insurance company will include all fees for repairs, the quantity may not be plenty of to switch the car if it absolutely was stolen or is totaled. You might also must pay a portion of your very own hard cash to fix the auto. You should go through the conditions of this type of coverage prior to when you purchase car or truck insurance policies. It is also vital that you know the deductible, that is different with the collision deductible.
When searching for vehicle insurance policy, there are many items to acquire into consideration. Specific states have minimum amount restrictions for Property or Uninsured driver protection. This addresses your charges up to the coverage Restrict. Other people Really don’t have to have coverage for motorists that are not insured. Here are some valuable recommendations to assist you to locate the correct insurance policy policy that suits your needs. The following pointers might help it become a little less complicated, and could conserve you some money.
In an effort to shield your assets and oneself from accidents, liability insurance coverage is needed for car insurance. If you are observed to be the reason for a collision, this coverage will go over the costs of legal protection and settlement. There are a number of possibilities accessible for protection. It’s important that you simply comprehend the differences concerning Each individual in order to avoid pricey surprises. State Farm provides typical rates for different amounts of coverage. It may be better to choose a moderate coverage charge.
In the majority of states, it can be obligatory carry liability protection in the insurance plan policy. This safeguards Others’s assets and accidents to Others. This kind of insurance can even protect you in case you induce a collision to other drivers. This kind of insurance policy is recommended by a variety of nations for drivers. It’s the normal plan For almost all of states. It is vital to understand that the limits for liability insurance coverage in each condition are different. Your liability limit will identify the amount you’ll need to pay for the damages.
It is actually unlawful to push in Just about all states without the need of legal responsibility protection. Liability protection pays for the repairs and damage you bring about into the house of A further. Nevertheless, your insurance is not going to cover damage to your auto. Each and every condition can have different bare minimum coverage specifications. Whenever you purchase an insurance policy coverage in your automobile be sure you go more than the modest print. To be certain your monetary security home coverage is vital. During the celebration of a mishap, you can expect to help save by yourself from costly insurance policy expenditures.
Insurance plan procedures need to supply some type of coverage for property hurt so that you can go over the damages brought on by collisions. This coverage handles the hurt you result in to another human being’s car or truck, like repairs. Also, it handles the removal of debris right after a collision. Commonly, property insurance coverage is created with a few figures. These numbers contain bodily damage coverage for each incident plus the coverage for property destruction for each incident. Larger boundaries, even so, supply more protection. Be sure you go through the policy in detail and ask your agent any questions.
New York law helps you to assert protection for uninsured drivers in case another driver doesn’t have enough insurance. This insurance is available to motorists that are not identifiable as well as the incident will involve hit-and operate. The Insurance policies Law SS 5217 states that protection for uninsured motorists is simply out there from the celebration of a Actual physical collision. However, the courts have interpreted this clause for being only applicable to Actual physical accidents.
Certain states Enable you select between underinsured and uninsured motorist protection, while some need equally. In case of emergencies, you can buy each coverages. Uninsured motorist coverage will pay for repairs When the motorist isn’t really insured. This coverage is optional, but it might be advantageous to have the bare minimum liability coverage.
If you’ve by no means thought of it, vehicle insurance policy bargains could be a wonderful solution to save money and continue to be green. Your rates will probably be minimized when you buy a new motor vehicle with safety attributes like airbags and anti-lock brakes. Other safety capabilities, including daytime operating lights and alarms from theft can help you get discounts. Building your premium payment yearly in whole may even clear away payment concerns for twelve months. In reality, all-around fifty percent of insurance companies present savings for such a payment.
You might also be suitable to receive bargains if you’ve been with your insurance policy for a long time. Bargains may vary determined by the amount of time you’ve had your coverage. Some providers also offer you bargains for loyal clients. If you purchase your insurance plan in 7 days with the date you renew, you might be eligible to receive a 15% low cost. Specified firms offer you reductions to People Performing in specific specialties. Teachers can help save 10% on their own Liberty Mutual premiums. Navy staff obtain a 15% discounted by Geico.
Do you think you’re on the lookout for inexpensive vehicle insurance plan? There are plenty of belongings you can perform to economize when obtaining auto coverage. These tips will conserve you masses of bucks every year with your automobile insurance policy approach. They can help you get the very best prices. Please read on to understand extra. You’ll be happy which you did!
Youthful drivers could cut costs when they are far more cautious, lessen the miles they travel and let the insurance company watch their driving practices. Shopping about for automobile coverage can assist you reduced your Price. It is best to look around for the most beneficial car insurance fees to suit your needs. This can be designed simple because of the no-Price on the internet quotation comparison tool. Other Advantages contain the chance to ask for special discounts if you very own several cars and trucks or have all of them insured by one business.
Review numerous prices to find the very best selling price and good quality after you are searhing for an insurance plan coverage. You will find an agent that will develop with you and allow you make modifications when your driving record variations. It can be crucial to match procedures that supply very similar coverages, since the dissimilarities in deductibles could possibly be significant. A great policy should really contain sufficient protection for motorists who’re youthful to protect on their own from economical destruction.
Discount rates for no claims on car or truck coverage is an effective way for you to reduce your insurance policies rates. Ask your insurance provider how they utilize the discounted. Depending upon the insurance company the price reduction may very well be really worth anyplace amongst 30% at the conclusion of a 12 months to as many as 65% in five years. Bear in mind For those who have a collision, you are going to get rid of two yrs of no-statements bonus. On top of that, numerous promises may possibly result in your no promises bonus remaining eradicated. Notifying your insurance provider of any mishaps is important. Usually, potential promises may be rejected.
To get a nominal rate of about PS25 Most insurance plan businesses give no-statements price reduction security. You can make a predetermined range of promises for each annum without the need of worrying about your premiums expanding. For anyone who is a member of the No Statements Reward, it can be done to include it in The brand new plan. In order to transfer your no-statements low cost from just one insurance provider to a different. It is usually recommended to change insurers yearly to keep your no statements low cost.
If you’re in quest of cheap automobile insurance plan, elevating your deductibles can support in acquiring reduce rates. It can be done to reduce your rates by increasing your deductibles Based on some estimates. The price savings you can find will depend on your driving history and the type of vehicle you travel and point out legal guidelines. Your annually premium is often minimized by boosting your deductibles approximately 40%.
Whilst increasing your deductible will not be the most beneficial selection for every individual, it could allow you to help save 1000’s about the extended-time period. Industry experts counsel at the very least two months well worth of residing costs to lower your deductible. Also, you are going to notice a reduction with your regular insurance premiums. A claim can be a method to economize.
A plan by having an insurance provider that may be regional is a good choice for People that has a poor credit score record. It will help you save you cash every month on the cost of your regular insurance policy and also give fantastic customer service and Specific discounts. Regional coverage is out there in all fifty States. To find the lowest expenses, you’ll be able to Evaluate costs throughout different states. It’s critical to Remember that it could acquire various months to transform your credit history rating. Also, These by using a lousy credit score could turn out shelling out around $400 a year.
Erie Insurance policy is yet another regional insurer which offers lower-Value auto coverage. This Pennsylvania-based insurance provider was founded in 1925. Erie offers vehicle insurance policy, lifestyle as well as assets insurance. Even though Erie only presents coverage inside of certain states, it’s in excess of thirteen,000 impartial insurance brokers across the United States. It is possible to pick an agent or regional insurer according to your requirements. Nevertheless, it is suggested you go through all good print before making a decision.
It’s important to match coverage premiums if you are a high-possibility driver. Discover the most fitted plan for your requirements. Check out the coverage amount of money you can find in the location to determine if it’s doable to secure a lower price. It might be far more inexpensive to get far more insurance coverage when there is much less hazard. Everything will depend on your prerequisites. Fortunately, there are many alternatives that are available to you.
If you are trying to find the simplest auto insurance policy for prime-chance drivers. With only a number of clicks, you could Identify just one. A search on-line can present you with A variety of rates that can assist you obtain the right coverage to meet your preferences for the fraction of what common car or truck insurance coverage expenses. The whole process of signing up for insurance plan is easier due to the Web. Basically complete the straightforward on the net sort and after that fork out the top quality. As evidence of your insurance policy protection, the insurance provider will challenge you a card. The coverage can be used whenever you travel.
If you have poor credit rating history, you are deemed a large-hazard driver by numerous insurance plan firms. Since you are less likely in order to file an coverage declare than anyone with superior credit, This is due to: Credit history scores certainly are a key component in how insurance coverage companies check out your. If you are convicted of the DUI or DWI, it could enhance your insurance policy premium by as large as sixty five percent. This amounts to a further $477 for your six-month coverage. Coverage companies also take a look at your driving record. A DUI/DWI can raise your insurance plan high quality to as much as $174. Rushing tickets can boost your Expense by approximately forty five%.
If you have an DUI on your own report, you could choose the lowest car insurance policies supplier. State Farm, American Relatives and Progressive give choices for higher-possibility motorists. In addition they provide reduced costs. Along with your credit score, they can take note of the rating when pinpointing your fees. These things are taken into account by insurance coverage businesses in deciding the quantity you may be needed to pay back for the insurance policy. A very poor credit history rating can lead to insurance policies charges expanding radically. It is crucial to know your credit score rating before you decide to make your mind up.
There are a variety of aspects you should take into account When picking car coverage for teens. Your marital standing and age are major in your auto insurance policies rates. The sort of car or truck you travel may also have an impact with your premium. You will pay much more for top-performance cars than you would for considerably less-effective ones. Locating a vehicle with several security measures is the first step in acquiring the most suitable car coverage for adolescents.
To lessen car insurance plan for youthful motorists You may decreased the protection. Insurance businesses usually give special discounts for students and drivers in teaching. If you are linked to a collision, nevertheless, chopping your coverage could bring about sizeable out-of-pocket expenditures. Ensure to take into consideration all achievable penalties and look for much better price.
Youngsters deal with a obstacle obtaining low-priced automobile insurance policies. A coverage for just a sixteen-calendar year previous driver is a lot more high-priced than one that is for an Grownup. Even so, you may decrease the cost by introducing a teen towards your existing coverage. The expense of this selection is improved by a median of $one,461 a year, but is usually more affordable than buying a independent coverage. Additionally If you’re youthful you’ll be able to search for savings together with other techniques to save.
Auto insurance policies prices will vary greatly dependent upon your danger stage. This may mean that you’ve got to look to locate the most economical automobile insurance policies plan for motorists with small hazard. Insurance plan providers take into consideration several different variables when choosing an insurance plan coverage, like your driving record and demographics and chance level. Here’s 5 crucial factors to recollect when evaluating insurance plan quotations. Keep in mind that reduce insurance policies costs usually do not indicate you will need to compromise on quality.
To begin with, take into account your zip code. Folks residing in places with substantial criminal offense costs will confront dearer prices. Insurance coverage organizations also look at traffic quantity. The expense of your insurance policies will also be impacted In case you have any promises or accidents with your history. Understand that it’s essential to constantly Verify your premiums not less than when each individual six months so as to make sure that you are not spending more. Bargains for multiple insurance policies are a choice When you’ve got multiple policy from the identical coverage supplier.
In specified states, insurance plan corporations don’t lawfully use credit score scores. Even so, They are imperative that you consider when comparing fees for vehicle coverage. Motorists with undesirable credit history in Hawaii will probably be charged much more than those people who are corresponding to clear motorists. High-chance motorists in Massachusetts pay thirty% much more than drivers who have thoroughly clean information. New drivers are more likely to be charged higher rates for DUIs, speeding tickets, and very poor credit history. Get several offers just before signing a agreement.
The cost of insurance policy is motivated through the zip code through which you reside. Insurance quotations could be better when You can find a substantial degree of criminal offense and mishaps. Components like targeted traffic quantity and incident history also can have an impact on the expense of insurance policies. Coverage firms also acquire into consideration the driving background of the driver to determine the rate they will be charging for his or her insurance plan. A bad driving file will usually trigger motorists to pay much more for coverage than motorists that have a very good driving file.
In the last five 12 months, automobile insurance coverage price ranges have amplified concerning $fifty and $100 due to growing Health care costs. Motorists can also be necessary to carry uninsured and PIP insurance policy, which are previously mentioned-typical prerequisites of your state. A the vast majority of states need only legal responsibility insurance policy, however The big apple calls for drivers to hold each. The extra coverages may possibly increase insurance expenditures and in addition elevate rates. Motorists will have to also validate their coverage limitations as specified procedures may have less protection.
New Yorkers commit 2.8 percent on their own vehicle insurance policies. This is certainly marginally lessen in comparison to the countrywide typical 2.40 %. The folks in their 30s, 40s and 50s will pay marginally over the standard. Rates are better for anyone 70+ than for motorists with significantly less knowledge. Married persons might be charged a bit increased, having said that lower than singles.
Drivers have the ability to take defensive driving classes in addition to the more affordable costs. The lessons last 3 hrs and cover the actions of drivers and site visitors laws. You can even discover defensive driving approaches, that may greatly lower your coverage premiums. You may also be capable to increase your driving overall performance. The class could reduced your vehicle insurance quotation. It is possible to consult the Coverage Data Institute if you are Not sure with regards to the insurance policies protection you involve.
While fuel rates are distinctive in Just about every condition, It truly is doable for that insurance plan of your auto to get less or dearer in A different state. This can be as a consequence of A variety of good reasons, including the laws of every state relating to insurance and theft fees, the percentage of motorists who will be not insured, the amount of theft or the percentage of drivers that are not insured. Weather conditions can have an impact on the expense of coverage. The desk underneath reveals the the typical expense of motor vehicle insurance policy in several states. These estimates are created by comparing point out insurance demands.
Missouri may be the least high priced condition for entire protection automobile insurance policies. It truly is priced at $944 considerably less for each capita than Louisiana. This condition also has the lowest per capita expenditures and ranks fifth in the cost of living. Texas drivers fork out 33% in their cash flow on automobile insurance. This may be owing partly on the significant variety of motorists in Texas who’re not insured and the various lawsuits.
The national typical for complete coverage car insurance coverage is $1,771 per year. Louisiana would be the point out with the best high quality for coverage by using a rate of $two,839. This 19% boost on 2020. Maine’s normal coverage premium is $858. Due to the fact states that happen to be no-fault have better insurance policy premiums, That is why the standard insurance policy premium in Maine is simply $858. It is possible for the price of car insurance policies procedures in other states to differ enormously. Consider all components, such as the laws of your point out on insurance policy.
Seeking superior danger automobile insurance coverage for top-chance motorists in my location? You may be interested in how you can obtain a very low-Price tag plan. High-threat drivers shell out bigger insurance policies rates than common drivers. This is because of The reality that significant-risk drivers have increased fees of mishaps and violations. Based on your point out the time frame could vary from just one to five years. Occasionally, reductions may very well be made available if you’re taking a driver protection education study course.
The national averages for top hazard driver car or truck coverage are pretty identical. On the other hand, rates can differ considerably among states and the subsequent. Many providers modify their rates according to the state They are really in. In the event you reside in a single state, you might notice that one particular corporation offers one of the most coverage for a low cost. The most affordable higher-chance driver car insurance policies in my space is from Condition Farm, that has a protracted-standing reputation for supplying great services.
The ultimate way to obtain the very best threat motor vehicle insurance plan for the driver near me is usually to enter your ZIP code and Evaluate the quotes. Even though the price of higher-hazard coverage for automobiles near me could fluctuate by state, most significant insurers offer you this insurance. Nationwide Common is without doubt one of the corporations that concentrate on large-chance insurance. In case you have excellent grades or simply a reduced vehicle chance, you may be ready attain an insurance coverage plan that may be less costly.
You will discover several Added benefits to comparisons in between automobile insurance coverage organizations. This information will target The most crucial features like savings, rankings, customer service, and fulfillment of customers. You should find the most suitable coverage for your basic safety. For that reason, go to the trouble to evaluate the guidelines of various firms. You’ll be able to select which insurance policy supplier provides probably the most coverage at by far the most cost-effective price at the conclusion of this text. Below are a few suggestions that will let you pick out the correct one particular.
It truly is crucial to match offers on insurance policies for car or truck coverage from distinctive organizations to be able to get the most effective deal. Quite a few components are used by insurance coverage businesses to determine the cost of insurance coverage. It is crucial to understand your individual desires after which Appraise the prices of various insurance plan vendors. Sports cars and trucks, for example are more pricey to insure than normal cars. On top of that, your locality and driving background may have an impact on the costs that you will be quoted. A comparison tool will help you locate the bottom price for the exact same protection, Using the exact same the deductibles.
The expense of insurance plan can be extremely unique, so it truly is critical to understand just how Each individual plan features. Credit history history, driving history and age all play a job in figuring out premiums. You may also Review what Rewards Every company supplies like accident forgiveness or roadside enable. While this could possibly appear to be a daunting occupation, It is really valuable To guage quotations from many vendors and choose the proper just one. Shown down below are a few ideas that will help you get likely.
J.D. could be the best location to begin when evaluating car coverage firms. The scores are according to the strength of insurance policy corporations. The rankings are calculated using shopper fulfillment surveys which were being conducted by a huge selection of vehicle insurance company buyers across the nation. The companies’ ordinary customer pleasure score is calculated according to the outcomes. These rankings, released on a yearly basis, are followed by gold medals for the best-rated providers in every sector. But how Are you aware of if the businesses you will be investigating are well worth your time?
There are many methods you may Consider the economical toughness insurance coverage providers for autos. To begin with, you can check the AM Best insurance provider rating that gives scores of monetary security for insurance plan companies offering motor vehicle insurance coverage. No matter if the business’s rated A B, C, C or File, it can be crucial to grasp the stability of the corporation prior to buying an insurance policies plan. This is an important element of customer service. You should definitely evaluate the corporation and skim the fine print prior to creating any decision.
There are a selection of reductions provided by insurance policy businesses for cars and trucks. You may not qualify For each discount and so, stop by the corporation’s Web site to validate your eligibility. You may well be qualified to receive multiple savings from many organizations. Check with your agent to find out for those who qualify. The process is usually rapid and normally takes below an hour. Here are a few examples.
Legacy Bargains For brand new Drivers If a driver is new and buys their policy by way of their mother or father’s business, a vehicle insurance coverage provider may well supply discount rates. The low cost generally is around ten percent. This is certainly a person approach to point out your appreciation on your dad and mom for your online business over the years. What’s more, it can assist you get monetary savings on your vehicle insurance protection. A lot of insurance coverage corporations supply bargains to more mature motorists. It really is worthwhile to determine if your company delivers these types of a reduction. You may also study insurance policies offered by American Loved ones, Farmers, or USAA.
Couple of organizations excel in customer support. Esurance scored four out 5 on the J.D. A higher rating in customer support is not uncommon for the mother or father company. The organization scored higher on all other locations, such as pricing and plan selections, along with the good quality of customer service supplied through its Web site and phone facilities. (personalised company)
For the majority of clients, the coverage in their car insurance is The key factor. But, It truly is buyer treatment that basically issues. Prospects anticipate brief and economical provider from their insurance coverage firms. Shoppers hope prompt and welcoming answers to calls along with e-mail. They like to talk to an agent who listens and may give remedies. Even though all automobile insurance coverage providers supply great consumer aid, There are several that happen to be Outstanding. (rideshare) (just some mouse clicks) (insurance coverage alternatives)
Insurance policies premiums for vehicles might be affected by many elements. Driving record and age are two of the most important variables. The premiums for motorists with negative credit rating or driving document will maximize. Also, your area’s expense of residing can have an impact on the expense of insurance policy. This can be why it’s important to match the premiums of several insurance corporations to locate the a person which will fit your spending budget and driving procedures. You’ll be able to decrease your premiums by getting defensive driving lessons or cutting down coverage. You can even decide on to acquire a complete year of insurance policy upfront. (Invoice on the internet), (worker reductions),(at fault accident)(protected incident)
Your quality is often impacted by lots of factors beyond those described. The quantity you buy insurance plan are going to be reviewed when your insurance company discovers that you’ve filed a assert in the previous couple of days or are actually convicted of a site visitors offence. Additionally, bargains can be available for those who have finished an accepted driving study course. Insurance plan organizations constantly modify their designs if you want to establish their prices. If you do not have any driving report, you could potentially notice a lessen inside your premiums. (use-dependent) (rental car)(motor vehicle repairs).(Secure driver special discounts).
An automobile insurance plan Evaluate is a wonderful process to remain away from untrustworthy insurance plan providers. Lower estimates by a selected insurance company may very well be deceiving. For illustration it may not go over specific protection or make inaccurate assumptions regarding your driving fashion. The A.M. Finest ranking and ratings of nearby insurance firms may help you find the lowest cost insurance coverage. Learn the way insurance policies comparisons for vehicles can cut costs. Then Assess quotations from the top firms and discover which just one suits you finest. (accident free)
Your rating on insurance policies based upon credit score is actually a practical indicator of the amount of danger you’re more than likely to tackle however, it should not be made use of to determine your costs. The federal federal government doesn’t permit insurers to make your credit rating heritage the only real reason behind an increase in your costs. Nevertheless, states like California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont have regulations set up which prohibit insurers from working with credit rating heritage to estimate the prices of insurance plan. (could help you save)(new automobile)(vehicle declare)
This sort of insurance policy just isn’t supplied in all states. Buyers are unable to come to a decision if a company makes use of your credit score to find out the quantity they are going to demand. California, Hawaii Massachusetts Massachusetts and Michigan have banned credit history-based insurance policy. Other states also Restrict credit history-centered insurance scores. It’s essential to figure out yourself if credit rating-dependent protection is best for your needs. (motorcycle coverage) (roadside assist coverage) (“bundling auto”)(pet insurance policies);genuine hard cash price);outstanding statements support);(yacht insurer)
The expense of motor vehicle coverage savings is influenced by a number of areas, including age. Age has A significant influence on your coverage price. In selected states, youthful drivers pay four occasions the amount of an more mature driver. The lack of knowledge is another reason, given that youthful motorists are more likely to be involved with accidents. You are able to negotiate lower premiums by understanding The weather that affect your premiums. Underneath are some methods the age within your auto can effect your insurance plan.
Your premiums are generally reduce for youthful drivers. The expense of vehicle insurance will be afflicted once the male is older. Although males who will be more youthful are less costly than more mature counterparts, the premiums for motorists that are in their 60s to seventies rocketed are for anyone drivers. Statistically, males are 2 1/two times more likely than women to generally be associated with a mishap when driving. This suggests that the gap in gender amongst males and females decreases with age. (protection alternatives)(homeowners insurance policy)
The truth that a male can pay a higher top quality for vehicle insurance policy than a girl is not really fully astonishing. Regretably, several Gentlemen make poor driving choices that result in additional incident or assert. But There are some things which make motorists more expensive to insure. These are definitely The main causes. Proceed reading To find out more about A very powerful things that influence auto insurance plan fees In accordance with gender. Here are some techniques to reduce your insurance coverage premiums in the event you’re not sure. (car insurance policies)(automobile insurance quote)(car coverage rate)
Oregon Division of monetary Regulation instructed vehicle insurance policy corporations to tackle consumers who do not declare their gender. Insurers are required to file premiums starting January one, 2019 for almost any driver who discriminates towards non-binary men and women. These rates could be larger for woman drivers than for male drivers. Women of all ages can save money so long as they are not too substantial. Really don’t be worried about the “nonbinary” fee for youthful motorists. (automobile insurance plan claim), (hole Insurance policy) (car plan). | {
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Marriage & Human Sexuality
We believe that all matters of faith and conduct must be evaluated on the basis of Holy Scripture, which is our infallible guide (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Since the Holy Bible does speak to the nature of human beings and their sexuality, it is imperative that we correctly understand and articulate what the Bible teaches on these matters.
We are committed to the home and family as set forth in Holy Scripture. We believe God has ordained and created marriage to exist between one man and one woman, with absolute marital fidelity. The Bible sets forth specific home and family values, which include the distinct roles of husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, and children. It is our firm conviction that we uphold the dignity of each individual as we embrace the unchanging and longstanding principles of scriptural truth.
Based on Holy Scripture and the constant moral teaching of the universal Church, we believe:
Camp Thurman defines marriage as the permanent, exclusive, comprehensive, and conjugal “one flesh” union of one man and one woman, intrinsically ordered to procreation and biological family, and in furtherance of the moral, spiritual, and public good of binding father, mother, and child.
Camp Thurman believes that sexual acts outside marriage are prohibited as sinful. Consequently, Camp Thurman members must resist and refrain from any and all sexual acts outside marriage — including but not limited to adultery, fornication, incest, zoophilia, pornography, prostitution, masturbation, voyeurism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, sodomy, polygamy, polyamory, sologamy, or same-sex sexual acts.
Exodus 20:14, Leviticus 18:7-23, Leviticus 20:10-21, Deuteronomy 5:18, Matthew 15:19, Matthew 5:27-28, Matthew 15:19, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-13, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Hebrews 13:4, Galatians 5:19, Ephesians 4:17-19, Colossians 3:5
Camp Thurman believes that God created mankind in His image: male (man) and female (woman), sexually different but with equal personal dignity. Consequently, Camp Thurman members must affirm their biological sex and refrain from any and all attempts to physically change, alter, or disagree with their predominant biological sex — including but not limited to elective sex-reassignment, transvestite, transgender, or non-binary “genderqueer” acts or conduct.
Camp Thurman believes that God created and ordered human sexuality to the permanent, exclusive, comprehensive, and conjugal “one flesh” union of man and woman, intrinsically ordered to procreation and biological family, and in furtherance of the moral, spiritual, and public good of binding father, mother, and child. Consequently, Camp Thurman members must affirm the sexual complementarity of man and woman and resist any and all same-sex sexual attractions and refrain from any and all same-sex sexual acts or conduct, which are intrinsically disordered.
Camp Thurman believes that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and should seek redemption through confession, repentance, baptism, and faith in Jesus Christ. Consequently, Camp Thurman members must welcome and treat with respect, compassion, and sensitivity all who experience same-sex attractions or confess sexually immoral acts but are committed to resisting sexual temptation, refraining from sexual immorality, and conforming their behavior to Camp Thurman’s Statement of Faith.
Camp Thurman believes that Holy Scripture grants two life-enhancing options for human sexual behavior: (1) the conjugal “one flesh” marital union of one man and one woman, and (2) celibacy. Either is a gift from God, given as He wills for His glory and the good of those who receive and rejoice in His gift to them. Celibacy and faithful singleness is to be celebrated and affirmed within the Camp Thurman.
All of our members, employees, and volunteers must affirm and adhere to this Doctrinal and Religious Absolute statement on marriage and human sexuality to qualify for involvement with the ministry. This is necessary to accomplish our religious mission, goals and purpose. Behavior or counter-witnessing that does otherwise will impede and burden our integrity and religious mission. We believe that God’s grace can wipe the slate of guilt and sin, though the consequences are still incurred.
The Bible is the inspired and infallible Word of God, acting as the source of authority over morality, our beliefs, Christian lifestyle and conduct. The Camp Thurman Board of Directors are charged with the ministerial responsibility of Biblical interpretation and promulgating religious policy. The Board of Directors will determine life application as well as final matters relating to organizational theology, philosophy, Christian practice, faith, divine truth, morality, and theological and doctrinal resolutions. | {
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US 6632655 B1
Arrays of flowable or fixed particle sets are used in microfluidic systems for performing assays and modifying hydrodynamic flow. Also provided are assays utilizing flowable or fixed particle sets within a microfluidic system, as well as kits, apparatus and integrated systems comprising arrays and array members.
1. A microfluidic device, comprising:
a body structure having a microscale cavity disposed therein; and
an ordered array of a plurality of sets of particles disposed within the microscale cavity, wherein said sets of particles are flowable, and wherein at least one of the sets of particles is retained in position within the microscale cavity, wherein the plurality of particles sets comprises a first particle set which is retained in position abutting a second particle set, which is retained in position by contacting the first particle set.
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members of the sets of particles are beads selected from: polymer beads, silica beads, ceramic beads, clay beads, glass beads, magnetic beads, metauic beads, inorganic beads, and organic beads; and,
wherein the shape of the beads is selected from one or more of: spherical, helical, spheroid, irregular, rod-shaped, cone-shaped, cubic, and polyhedral.
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64. A system for optimizing and performing a desired chemical reaction, comprising:
a microfluidic device which includes a microscale cavity having a particle array disposed therein, the particle array comprising a plurality of particle sets, wherein at least one of the particle sets is retained in position within the microscale device wherein the plurality of particles sets comprises a first particle set which is retained in position abutting a second particle set, which is retained in position by contacting the first particle set;
an electrokinetic, centrifugal, or pressure based fluid direction system for transporting a selected volume of a first reactant to the array, or for reconfiguring the position of the array or for reconfiguring the arrangement of array members;
a control system which instructs the fluid direction system to move members of the array into proximity with the first reactant, wherein mixing of the first reactant and at least one member of the array produces a first chemical reaction product; and,
a detection system for detecting the first chemical reaction product.
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70. A microfluidic device, comprising:
a body structure having a microscale cavity disposed therein; and
a set of particles disposed within the microscale cavity, wherein said sets of particles is flowable, and wherein the microscale cavity comprises a first microchannel comprising at least one reagent flow region and at least one particle capture region, wherein the at least one particle capture region has an increased depth relative to the at least one reagent flow region.
71. A microfluidic device, comprising:
a body structure having a mcroscale cavity disposed therein; and
at least one set of particles disposed within the microscale cavity, wherein said at least one set of particles is flowable, and wherein the microscale cavity comprises a plurality of microchannels, the cavity further comprising a fluid movement region transverse to at least one of the plurality of microchannels, at least one of the plurality of microchannels comprising a deep channel region within the fluid movement region, which deep channel region has an increased depth dimension relative to the fluid movement region, thereby providing a site for collecting said at least one of particles set within the deep channel region.
The present invention was made with government funding from the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), through the Advanced Technology Program (ATP) under Grant No. 70NANB8H4000, and the United States government may have certain rights in the invention.
The present application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Ser. No. 60/121,223, filed Feb. 23, 1999 by Mehta et al.; U.S. Ser. No. 60/127,825, filed Apr. 5, 1999 by Mehta et al.; U.S. Ser. No. 60/128,643, filed Apr. 9, 1999 by Mehta et al.; co-filed PCT application PCT/US00/04522, filed Feb. 22, 2000,; co-filed U.S. application U.S. Ser. No. 09/510,205, filed Feb. 22, 2000; and co-filed PCT application PCT/US00/04486, filed Feb. 22, 2000.
The development of microfluidic technologies by the inventors and their co-workers has provided a fundamental paradigm shift in how artificial biological and chemical processes are performed. In particular, the inventors and their co-workers have provided microfluidic systems which dramatically increase throughput for biological and chemical methods, as well as greatly reducing reagent costs for the methods. In these microfluidic systems, small volumes of fluid (e.g., on the order of a few nanoliters to a few microliters) are moved through microchannels (e.g., in glass or polymer microfluidic devices).by electrokinetic or pressure-based mechanisms. Fluids can be mixed, and the results of the mixing experiments determined by monitoring a detectable signal from products of the mixing experiments.
Complete integrated systems with fluid handling, signal detection, sample storage and sample accessing are available. For example, Parce et al. “High Throughput Screening Assay Systems in Microscale Fluidic Devices” WO 98/00231 and Knapp et al. “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” (WO 98/45481; PCT/US98/06723) provide pioneering technology for the integration of microfluidics and sample selection and manipulation. For example, in WO 98/45481, microfluidic apparatus, methods and integrated systems are provided for performing a large number of iterative, successive, or parallel fluid manipulations. For example, integrated sequencing systems, apparatus and methods are provided for sequencing nucleic acids (as well as for many other fluidic operations, e.g., those benefiting from automation of iterative fluid manipulation). This ability to iteratively sequence a large nucleic acid (or a large number of nucleic acids) provides for increased rates of sequencing, as well as lower sequencing reagent costs. Applications to compound screening, enzyme kinetic determination, nucleic acid hybridization kinetics and many other processes are also described by Knapp et al.
As an alternative to microfluidic approaches, small scale array based technologies can also increase throughput of screening, sequencing, and other chemical and biological methods, providing robust chemistries for a variety of screening, sequencing and other applications. Fixed solid-phase arrays of nucleic acids, proteins, and other chemicals have been developed by a number of investigators. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,202,231, to Drmanac et al. and, e.g., in Drmanac et al. (1989) Genomics 4:114-128 describe sequencing by hybridization to arrays of oligonucleotides. Many other applications of array-based technologies are commercially available from e.g., Affymetrix, Inc. (Santa Clara, Calif.), Hyseq Technologies, Inc. (Sunnyvale, Calif.). and others. Example applications of array technologies are described e.g., in Fodor (1997) “Genes, Chips and the Human Genome” FASEB Journal. 11:121-121; Fodor (1997) “Massively Parallel Genomics” Science. 7:393-395; Chee et al. (1996) “Accessing Genetic Information with High-Density DNA rays” Science 274:610-614; and Drmanac et al. (1998) “Accurate sequencing by bridization for DNA diagnostics and individual genomics.” Nature Biotechnology 16: 54-58.
The present invention is a pioneering invention in the field of microfluidics and mobile array technologies, coupling the fluid handling capabilities of microfluidic systems with the robust chemistries available through array technologies (e.g., solid phase chemistries) to facilitate laboratory and industrial processes. Many applications and variations will be apparent upon complete review of this disclosure.
The present invention provides microfluidic arrays. The arrays include particle sets (or “packets”) which can be mobile or fixed in position, e.g., within a microfluidic system. The particle sets can include fixed chemical components or can be modifiable. The arrays are used in a wide variety of assays, as chemical synthesis machines, as nucleic acid or polypeptide sequencing devices, as affinity purification devices, as calibration and marker devices, as molecular capture devices, as molecular switches and in a wide variety of other applications which will be apparent upon further review.
In one implementation, the invention provides microfluidic devices comprising one or more array(s) of particles. The device includes a body structure having a microscale cavity (e.g., microchannel, microchannel network, microwell, microreservoir or combination thereof) disposed within the body structure. Within the microscale cavity, an ordered array of a plurality of sets of particles (each particle set is constituted of similar or identical particle “members” or “types”) constitute the array. The array is optionally mobile (e.g., flowable in a microfluidic system, with flow being in either the same or in a different direction relative to fluid flow) or can be fixed (e.g., having flowable reagents flowed across the system).
The arrays of the invention include a plurality of particle sets. The precise location of the particle sets within the arrays is not critical, and can take many configurations. In one simple embodiment, particle sets abut in channels. For example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, 100,000 or more particle sets can abut in a single channel. Alternatively, non-abutting sets of particles dispersed within a microfluidic device can also be used, e.g., where the spatial location of each set of particles is known or can be determined. Fluidic reagents and particles are optionally flowed through the same or through different microchannels (or other microfluidic structures such as wells or chambers). For example, fluidic reagents are optionally flowed from a first channel into a second channel which includes particle sets of the array.
Particles (alternatively “microparticles”) of the arrays of the invention can be essentially any discrete material which can be flowed through a microscale system. Example particles include beads and biological cells. For example, polymer beads, silica beads, ceramic beads, clay beads, glass beads, magnetic beads, metallic beads, inorganic beads, and organic beads can be used. The particles can have essentially any shape, e.g., spherical, helical, irregular, spheroid, rod-shaped, cone-shaped, disk shaped, cubic, polyhedral or a combination thereof. Particles are optionally coupled to reagents, affinity matrix materials, or the like, e.g., nucleic acid synthesis reagents, peptide synthesis reagents, polymer synthesis reagents, nucleic acids, nucleotides, nucleobases, nucleosides, peptides, amino acids, monomers, cells, biological samples, synthetic molecules, or combinations thereof. Particles optionally serve many purposes within the arrays, including acting as blank particles, dummy particles, calibration particles, sample particles, reagent particles, test particles, and molecular capture particles, e.g., to capture a sample at low concentration. Additionally the particles are used to provide particle retention elements. Particles are sized to pass through selected microchannel regions (or other microscale elements). Accordingly, particles will range in size, depending on the application, e.g., from about 0.1 to about 500 microns in at least one cross-sectional dimension.
In one aspect, the microfluidic system comprises an intersection of at least two microchannels. At least one member of the particle array is transported within a first of the at least two channels to a point proximal to or within the channel intersection. At least one of the reagents is transported through a second of the at least two intersecting microchannels to a point proximal to or within the channel intersection. The at least one member of the particle array and the at least one reagent are contacted proximal to or within the channel intersection.
Methods of sequencing nucleic acids are provided. In the methods, a first set of particles comprising at least one set of nucleic acid templates is provided, e.g., in a first microfluidic channel. A train of reagents (i.e., an ordered or semi-ordered arrangement of fluidic reagents in a channel) comprising a plurality of sequencing reagents is flowed across the first set of particles, or the first set of particles is flowed through the reagent train, depending on the application. This results in contacting the at least one set of nucleic acid templates with the plurality of sequencing reagents. Signals resulting from exposure of the first set of particles to the reagent train are selected, thereby providing a portion of sequence of the nucleic acid template. For example, the reagent train can include a polymerase, ae sufurylase, an apyrase, an inorganic phosphate, ATP, a thermostable polymerase, luciferin, luciferase, an endonuclease, an exonuclease, Mg++, a molecular crowding agent, a buffer, a dNTP, a dNTP analog, a fluorescent nucleotide, a chain terminating nucleotide, a reversible chain terminating nucleotide, a phosphatase, a reducing agent, an intercalator, a salt, DTT, BSA, a detergent (e.g., triton® or tween®), chemicals to inhibit or enhance EO flow (e.g., polyacrylamide), or other sequencing reagent. One preferred use for the arrays of the invention is sequencing by “synthesis” or “incorporation,” e.g., pyrosequencing. For example, the reagent train or array optionally include reagents for sequencing nucleic acid templates by pyrosequencing. A variety of other sequencing approaches are described herein.
Steps in the methods herein can be performed repeatedly or reiteratively for chemistries such as sequencing that involve repetitive synthesis and/or analysis steps. As reagents are depleted e.g., in the reagent train noted above, the method further optionally includes flowing a second train of reagents comprising a plurality of sequencing reagents across the first set of particles, or flowing the first set of particles through the second reagent. Alternatively, reagents are flowed in excess for a period of time, after which the channel(s) are rinsed, e.g., with a buffer before flowing a second reagent.
To further avoid contamination between repetitions or steps, methods are provided for loading and unloading reagents from a microfluidic device using a pair of split reagent wells and a pair of split waste wells.
Integrated systems and methods for performing fluidic analysis of sample materials in a microfluidic system having a particle array are also provided. For example, an integrated microfluidic system is provided which has a microfluidic device with the particle array, a material transport system, and a fluidic interface in fluid communication with the particle array. The interface samples a plurality of materials from one or a plurality of sources of materials and introduces the materials into contact with the particle array.
In the integrated methods, a first material from the plurality of materials is sampled with the fluidic interface. The first material is introduced into contact with at least one member of the particle array, whereupon the first sample material and at least a first member of the particle array react. A reaction product of the first sample material and the particle array is then analyzed and a second material (which may be the same as or different than the first material) is selected, based upon the reaction product. The second material is contacted with the particle array, where the second material and at least a second member of the particle array react. A second reaction product of the second material and the particle array is analyzed, thereby providing a fluidic analysis of the first and second materials.
For example, in sequencing applications, the first material can include a first DNA sequencing template, a first sequencing primer, or a first sequencing reagent while the second material can include a second DNA template, a second sequencing primer, or a second sequencing reagent. The array, in this example, includes a first mixture of reagents having DNA sequencing reagents or DNA templates. The first reaction product includes products of a DNA sequencing reaction (e.g., primer extension, sequencing by incorporation, e.g., by the pyrosequencing reaction or the like). A second sequencing primer is selected for inclusion in the second mixture of reagents based upon the products of the DNA sequencing reaction. Optionally, a third material is selected based upon the results of the analysis of the second reaction product. The third material is optionally introduced into proximity with the array, whereupon the third material and the array react. As above, the third reaction product is analyzed. This process is optionally reiterated several times (e.g., easily 10 times or more, often 100-1,000 times or more). Indeed, the process can be repeated thousands of times in a single experiment, e.g., to sequence a long stretch of DNA, or the like. Ordinarily, the integrated system includes a computer for performing or assisting in selection of the second material. The integrated system can also include fluid handling elements, e.g., electrokinetic or pressure flow controllers.
Systems for optimizing or performing a desired chemical reaction are provided. The system includes a microfluidic device which includes a microscale cavity having a particle array disposed therein. The particle array includes a plurality of particle sets. The system includes an electrokinetic or pressure based fluid direction system for transporting a selected volume of a first reactant to the array, or for reconfiguring the position of the array or for reconfiguring the arrangement of array members, or for loading array members (e.g., constituting a plurality of array sets) into the microscale cavity. The system also includes a control system, e.g., including a computer, which instructs the fluid direction system to deliver a first selected volume of first reactant to the array, or for moving members of the array into proximity with the first reactant, where contacting or mixing of the first reactant and at least one member of the array produces a first chemical reaction product. The control system optionally directs a plurality of mixings of the first reactant and the array (e.g., by electrokinetic and/or pressure based manipulation of reagent or array member as described herein), wherein a reaction condition selected from: temperature, pH, and time is systematically varied in separate mixings reactions. The system typically includes a detection system for detecting the first chemical reaction product e.g., as set forth above and supra. Other optional elements include a temperature control element for controlling temperature of reaction of the first and second element, a source of acid, a source of base and a source of reactants, reagents, array members, or the like.
In one aspect, the system instructs the fluid direction system to contact a second selected volume of the first or a second reactant with the array. This contact produces a second chemical reaction product.
The particles of the arrays optionally include a tag and one or more of the particle modification reagents comprising an anti-tag ligand. A “tag” is a component that can be detected, directly or indirectly (e.g., by binding to a detectable element). Exemplar tag and anti-tag ligands include nucleic acids; nucleic acid binding molecules, amidin, biotin, avidin, streptavidin, antibodies, antibody ligands, carbohydrate molecules, carbohydrate molecule binding reagents, proteins, protein binding molecules, organic molecules, organic molecule binding reagents, receptors, receptor ligands, etc. The particle modification reagent can also include a functional domain, e.g., independently selected from those noted for the tag and tag ligand. For example, in one embodiment, the one or more particle modification reagent has a nucleic acid having a biotin or avidin attached thereto.
Wash buffers, heat application, or an electric pulse are optionally used to strip components from arrays, thereby changing the array members. New components can be added to the array members following such washing. For example one or more particle modification reagents can be removed from one or more of the particle sets following washing, to provide one or more stripped particle sets. At least one additional particle modification reagent can be flowed across the one or more stripped particle set, thereby producing an additional particle set.
Many additional aspects of the invention will be apparent upon review including uses of the devices and systems of the invention, methods of manufacture of the devices and systems of the invention, kits for practicing the methods of the invention and the like. For example, kits comprising any of the devices or systems set forth above, or elements thereof, in conjunction with packaging materials (e.g., containers, sealable plastic bags etc.) and instructions for using the devices, e.g., to practice the methods herein, are also contemplated. Methods of Manufacture and manufactured devices comprising arrays or array members are set forth in detail herein.
FIG. 1, panels A and B, is a schematic top view and expanded view of an example microfluidic system comprising array elements.
FIG. 2, panels A and B provide side view schematics of a microchannel and particle retention region arrangement.
FIG. 3, panels A and B, is a top view and expanded view schematic of an example microfluidic system comprising array elements.
FIG. 4, panels A, B, and C provide top view and expanded view schematics of an example microfluidic system comprising array elements.
FIG. 5 is a side-view schematic of a main channel with reagent introduction channels for sequencing nucleic acids.
FIG. 6 is a schematic of a sipper for reagent/array train introduction into microfluidic devices.
FIG. 7 is a schematic of a multiplexing arrangement useful for DNA sequencing.
FIG. 8 is a schematic showing a device with pipettor access to a particle library.
FIG. 9, panels A and B, provide a schematic of a device with particle packets in channels having reagent flow across the top of the particles. Panel A is a cross section. Panel B is a top view.
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a top view of a device showing loading of bead packets.
FIG. 11, panels A, B and C, show schematic illustrations of alternate bead packet loading embodiments. Panel A is a top view. Panel B is a top view. Panel C is a top view.
FIG. 12 is a schematic of a system comprising a computer, detector, array, sampling system, and particle library.
FIG. 13 is a schematic of a reversible terminator labeling strategy.
FIG. 14 is a side view of a capillary or microchannel containing a porous barrier formed from a plurality of particles which captures or retains a solid phase reaction element, e.g., another set of particles.
FIG. 15 is a side view of a capillary or microchannel in a housing, which housing comprises a porous barrier.
FIG. 16 is a side view of a capillary or microchannel comprising an integral or formed porous barrier made from a set of particles. The porous barrier is used, e.g., to capture multiple packets, i.e., sets of particles.
FIG. 17 is a schematic illustrating sequencing by synthesis in a high throughput system.
FIG. 18, panels A, B, and C, provides schematic views of example microfluidic devices useful in split well loading and unloading, e.g., of reagents and particles, e.g., to avoid contamination.
Unless indicated to the contrary, the following definitions supplement those in the art.
“Microfluidic,” as used herein, refers to a system or device having fluidic conduits or chambers that are generally fabricated at the micron to submicron scale, e.g., typically having at least one cross-sectional dimension in the range of from about 0.1 μm to about 500 μm. The microfluidic system of the invention is fabricated from materials that are compatible with the conditions present in the particular experiment of interest. Such conditions include, but are not limited to, pH, temperature, ionic concentration, pressure, and application of electrical fields. The materials of the device are also chosen for their inertness to components of the experiment to be carried out in the device. Such materials include, but are not limited to, glass, quartz, silicon, and polymeric substrates, e.g., plastics, depending on the intended application.
A “microscale cavity” is a conduit or chamber having at least one dimension between about 0.1 and 500 microns.
A “microchannel” is a channel having at least one microscale dimension, as noted above. A microchannel optionally connects one or more additional structure for moving or containing fluidic or semi-fluidic (e.g., gel- or polymer solution-entrapped) components.
An “ordered array of a plurality of sets of particles” is an array of particle sets (each particle set is constituted of similar or identical particle “members” or “types”) having a spatial arrangement. The spatial arrangement of particle sets can be selected or random. In a preferred embodiment, the spatial arrangement is selected. The arrangement can be known or unknown. In a preferred embodiment, the spatial arrangement of particle sets is known.
A “set” of particles is a group or “packet” of particles having similar or identical constituents.
A “particle movement region” is a region of a microscale element in which particles are moved. A “fluid movement region” is a region of a microscale element in which fluidic components are moved. As discussed supra, fluidic and particulate elements are moved by any of a variety of forces, including capillary, pressure, electrokinetic and the like.
A “particle retention region” is a region of a microscale element in which particles can be localized, e.g., by placing a physical barrier or porous matrix within or proximal to the retention region, by application of magnetic or electric fields, by application of pressure, or the like. For example, a porous matrix optionally comprises a fixed set of particles, e.g., particles about 100 μm to about 200 μm in cross-sectional dimension, within a microchannel.
A “microwell plate” is a substrate comprising a plurality of regions which retain one or more fluidic components.
A “pipettor channel” is a channel in which components can be moved from a source to a microscale element such as a second channel or reservoir. The source can be internal or external to a microfluidic device comprising the pipettor channel.
Two components are “physically associated” when they are in direct or indirect contact.
A particle array is “mobile” when a plurality of sets of the array can be moved in a selected or selectable manner, e.g., by electrokinetic, pressure-based or capillary fluid movement systems, or a combination of movement systems.
A “serial” stream of components, e.g., reagents is a train of reagents, is an ordered linear arrangement of the components.
A “parallel” set of components is an array of components which are in a plurality of linear arrangements, e.g., separate linear arrangements, of the components.
A “particle modification reagent” is a reagent that binds to or chemically alters one or more component that is physically associated with the particle.
The present invention provides microfluidic arrays. The array components can be mobile or fixed. They can also be of a selected type or type switchable, and can incorporate any of a wide variety of chemical or biochemical components. The arrays are broadly useful as tools for screening assay components, biopolymer sequencing, drug screening, assay normalization, as miniaturized chemical and biochemical synthesis machines, as molecular switches, as fluidic logic circuits and a variety of other applications that will become apparent upon complete review of this disclosure. The arrays can be components of integrated systems.
Methods of performing a plurality of chemical reactions in a microscale device are an aspect of the invention. In the methods, an array within a microfluidic system (e.g., having a body structure with a microscale interior cavity, etc. as described above) is provided. One or more liquid reagent is flowed into the interior cavity and into contact with particle sets of the array. The liquid reagent chemically reacts with one or more of the plurality of particles, thereby providing a chemical reaction in the microscale device.
Optionally, one or more of the plurality of sets of particles of the array (or the entire array or a substantial portion of) is moved into or through an intersection of at least two channels present in a microfluidic system. Mixing can occur in the intersections of channels, or within chambers, channels, wells, reservoirs, or the like. Thus, in the methods of the invention, at least one of the plurality of sets of particles can be moved through at least one of the at least two channels into an intersection of the at least two channels, while (separately or simultaneously) flowing the liquid reagent through a second of the at least two channels into the channel intersection, where the liquid reagent flows into contact with at least one set of particles of the array. In one aspect, the cavity comprises a main channel having a plurality of intersecting side channels, forming a plurality of channel intersections between the main channel and each of the intersecting side channels. The methods optionally include transporting at least one of the plurality of sets of particles in the main channel into at least two of the plurality of channel intersections.
Similarly, in one aspect, the method includes transporting at least one fluidic reagent through at least one of the side channels into at least one of the plurality of channel intersections, where the reagent flows into at least one of the plurality of sets of particles in the main channel. Alternatively, one or more of the particle sets of the array is flowed through a single microchannel and various reagents, e.g., liquid reagents, are optionally flowed through the particles or the particles are flowed through the reagent. The liquid reagent is optionally flowed through a capillary fluidly coupled to the single microchannel, e.g., a capillary that sips fluid from a microwell plate into a microfluidic device, e.g., a single channel or multi-channel device.
Methods also optionally include moving particles (or reagents) into the interior cavity. For example, in one embodiment, the interior cavity has a broad channel with narrow channels within the broad channel. The narrow channels are deeper in at least one dimension than the broad channel. A plurality of sets of particles are transported into one or more of the narrow channels to form the array. Optionally, a liquid reagent is also (subsequently or previously) transported through the broad channel and the narrow channel and into contact with the plurality of sets of particles. For example, a liquid reagent is optionally sipped from a microtiter plate by a capillary fluidly coupled to a microfluidic device, in which device the liquid reagent contacts one or more particle set. Microparticles are also optionally brought into a microfluidic device through a sipper capillary attached to a microfluidic device. Exemplar liquid reagents include those described above such as nucleic acid sequencing reagents.
One preferred use for the arrays of the invention is nucleic acid or protein sequencing (or sequencing monomer elements of any polymer). For example the methods of the invention optionally include sequencing by hybridization, sequencing by synthesis or incorporation, sequencing by photobleaching, sequencing by intercalation, specific detection of nucleic acid polymorphisms, specific detection of a nucleic acid, diagnosing or predicting prognosis of a disease or infectious condition associated with presence or absence of a nucleic acid in a biological sample, diagnosing or predicting prognosis of a disease or infectious condition associated with presence or absence of a protein in a biological sample, serial or parallel hybridization between multiple liquid reagents and members of the array, and serial or parallel detection of results of multiple hybridization reactions between liquid reagents and members of the array.
Methods of contacting samples and reagents in a microfluidic system are also provided. In these methods, a plurality of members of a particle array which includes a plurality of samples is transported to a selected location within the microfluidic system. Simultaneously, separately or sequentially, the reagents are also transported within the microfluidic system such that members of the particle array and the reagents are contacted. Members of the particle array and the reagents are optionally repeatedly transported sequentially or simultaneously within the microfluidic system. In microfluidic systems having one or more emission detectors, the method optionally includes transporting the plurality of particle members past the one or more emission detectors, before, during, or after contacting the plurality of particle members with one or more of the reagents.
As noted, the devices and systems of the invention typically include a body structure having a microscale cavity (e.g., microchannel, microchannel network, microwell, microreservoir or combination thereof) disposed within the body structure. Within the microscale cavity, an ordered array of a plurality of sets of particles constitute the array. The array is optionally mobile (e.g., flowable in a microfluidic system) or can be fixed (e.g., having flowable reagents flowed across the system). A fixed array of particles optionally comprises a porous barrier to capture or retain other solid phase components, e.g., another set of particles.
The arrays of the invention are optionally mobile. Arrays comprise particle sets such as beads, microspheres, cells, fluidly transportable substrates, or the like. The particles are optionally moved by flowing fluids comprising the particles through or to a desired location, e.g., within a microfluidic system. Particles or reagents can be moved within microfluidic arrays by any of a variety of techniques, including fluidic pressure, atmospheric pressure, capillary force, gravity, electrokinesis, electric and magnetic fields, and centripetal or centrifugal force.
The inventors and their co-workers have provided a variety of microfluidic systems in which the arrays of the invention can be constructed. For example, Ramsey WO 96/04547 provides a variety of microfluidic systems. See also, Ramsey et al. (1995), Nature Med. 1(10): 1093-1096; Kopf-Sill et al. (1997) “Complexity and performance of on-chip biochemical assays,” SPIE 2978:172-179 February 10-11; Bousse et al. (1998) “Parallelism in integrated fluidic circuits,” SPIE 3259:179-186; Chow et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,800,690; Kopf-Sill et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,787; Parce et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,868; Parce, U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,157; U.S. Pat. No. 5,852,495 (J. Wallace Parce) issued Dec. 22, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,869,004 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Feb. 9, 1999, U.S. Pat. No. 5,876,675 (Colin B. Kennedy) issued Mar. 2, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,880,071 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Mar. 9, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,882,465 (Richard J. McReynolds) issued Mar. 16, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,470 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Mar. 23, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,942,443 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Aug. 24, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,227 (Robert S. Dubrow) issued Sep. 7, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,028 (Calvin Y. H. Chow) issued Sep. 21, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,957,579 (Anne R. Kopf-Sill et al.) issued Sep. 28, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,958,203 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Sep. 28, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,958,694 (Theo T. Nikiforov) issued Sep. 28, 1999; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,959,291 (Morten J. Jensen) issued Sep. 28, 1999; Parce et al. WO98/00231; Parce et al. WO 98/00705; Chow et al. WO 98/00707; Parce et al. WO 98/02728; Chow WO 98/05424; Parce WO 98/22811; Knapp et al., WO 98/45481; Nikiforov et al. WO 98/45929; Parce et al. WO 98/46438; Dubrow et al., WO 98/49548; Manz, WO 98/55852; WO 98/56505; WO 98/56956; WO 99/00649; WO 99/10735; WO 99/12016; WO 99/16162; WO 99/19056; WO 99/19516; WO 99/29497; WO 99/31495; WO 99/34205; WO 99/43432; and WO 99/44217; U.S. Pat. No. 5,296,114; and e.g., EP 0 620 432 Al; Seiler et al. (1994) Mitt Gebiete Lebensm. Hyg. 85:59-68; Seiler et al. (1994) Anal. Chem. 66:3485-3491; Jacobson et al. (1994) “Effects of Injection Schemes and Column Geometry on the Performance of Microchip Electrophoresis Devices” Anal. Chem. 66: 66. 1107-1113; Jacobsen et al. (1994) “Open Channel Electrochromatograpy on a Microchip” Anal. Chem. 20 66:2369-2373; Jacobsen et al. (1994) “Precolumn Reactions with Electrophoretic Analysis Integrated on Microchip” Anal. Chem. 66:4127-4132; Jacobsen et al. (1994) “Effects of Injection Schemes and Column Geometry on the Performance of Microchip Electrophoresis Devices.” Anal. Chem. 66:1107-1113; Jacobsen et al. (1994) “High Speed Separations on a Microchip.” Anal. Chem. 66:1114-1118; Jacobsen and Ramsey (1995) “Microchip electrophoresis with sample stacking” Electrophoresis 16:481-486; Jacobsen et al. (1995) “Fused Quartz Substrates for Microchip Electrophoresis” Anal. Chem. 67: 2059-2063; Harrison et al. (1992) “Capillary Electrophoresis and Sample Injection Systems Integrated on a Planar Glass Chip.” Anal. Chem. 64:1926-1932; Harrison et al. (1993) “Micromachining a Miniaturized Capillary Electrophoresis-Based Chemical Analysis System on a Chip.” Science 261: 895-897; Harrison and Glavania (1993) “Towards Miniaturized Electrophoresis and Chemical System Analysis Systems on Silicon: An Alternative to Chemical Sensors.” Sensors and Actuators 10: 107-116; Fan and Harrison (1994) “Micromachining of Capillary Electrophoresis Injectors and Separators on Glass Chips and Evaluation of Flow at Capillary Intersections. Anal. Chem. 66: 177-184; Effenhauser et al. (1993) “Glass Chips for High-Speed Capillary Electrophoresis Separations with Submicrometer Plate Heights” Anal. Chem. 65:2637-2642; Effenhauser et al. (1994) “High-Speed Separation of Antisense Oligonucleotides on a Micromachined Capillary Electrophoresis Device.” Anal. Chem. 66:2949-2953; and Kovacs EP 0376611 A2.
In general, these microfluidic systems can be adapted for use in the present invention, i.e., by introducing arrays into the microfluidic systems, e.g., for the assays set forth herein. A variety of array component introduction approaches for introducing array elements into microfluidic systems are noted herein.
Movement of Particles Within Microfluidic Systems
The microfluidic devices which include arrays also can include other features of microscale systems, such as fluid transport systems which direct particle movement within the array channel, incorporating any movement mechanism set forth herein (e.g., fluid pressure sources for modulating fluid pressure in the array channel, electrokinetic controllers for modulating voltage or current in the array channel, gravity flow modulators, magnetic control elements for modulating a magnetic field within the array channel, or combinations thereof). The microscale cavity can also include fluid manipulation elements such as a parallel stream fluidic converter, i.e., a converter which facilitates conversion of at least one serial stream of reagents into parallel streams of reagents for parallel delivery of reagents to a reaction site within the microscale cavity. For example, a capillary is optionally used to sip a sample or samples from a microtiter plate and to deliver it to one of a plurality of channels, e.g., parallel reaction or assay channels. In addition, particle sets are optionally loaded into one or more channels of a microfluidic device through one sipper fluidly coupled to each of the one or more channels and to a sample or particle source, such as a microwell plate. Indeed, one advantage of the present system is the ability to provide parallel streams of reagents to samples fixed on arrays. This is particularly advantageous, because the volumetric accuracy requirements for delivery of reagents is often less than the volumetric requirements for samples. A wide variety of integrated microfluidic systems comprising serial to parallel fluid manipulation are described in Bousse et al., “Parallelism in integrated fluidic circuits,” SPIE 3259:179-186 (1998) and in CLOSED LOOP BIOCHEMICAL ANALYZERS; WO 98/45481 and the references therein.
One method of achieving transport or movement of particles through microfluidic channels is by electrokinetic material transport. “Electrokinetic material transport systems,” as used herein, includes systems that transport and direct materials within a microchannel and/or chamber containing structure, through the application of electrical fields to the materials, thereby causing material movement through and among the channel and/or chambers, i.e., cations will move toward a negative electrode, while anions will move toward a positive electrode. For example, movement of fluids toward or away from a cathode or anode can cause movement of particles suspended within the fluid (or even particles over which the fluid flows). Similarly, the particles can be charged, in which case they will move toward an oppositely charged electrode (indeed, in this case, it is possible to achieve fluid flow in one direction while achieving particle flow in the opposite direction). In this embodiment, the fluid can be immobile or flowing.
In general, electrokinetic material transport and direction systems include those systems that rely upon the electrophoretic mobility of charged species within the electric field applied to the structure. Such systems are more particularly referred to as electrophoretic material transport systems. For electrophoretic applications, the walls of interior channels of the electrokinetic transport system are optionally charged or uncharged. Typical electrokinetic transport systems are made of glass, charged polymers, and uncharged polymers. The interior channels are optionally coated with a material which alters the surface charge of the channel.
A variety of electrokinetic controllers are described, e.g., in Ramsey WO 96/04547, Parce et al. WO 98/46438 and Dubrow et al., WO 98149548, as well as a variety of other references noted herein.
To provide appropriate electric fields, the system generally includes a voltage controller that is capable of applying selectable voltage levels, simultaneously, to each of the reservoirs, including the ground. Such a voltage controller is optionally implemented using multiple voltage dividers and multiple relays to obtain the selectable voltage levels. Alternatively, multiple independent voltage sources are used. The voltage controller is electrically connected to each of the reservoirs via an electrode positioned or fabricated within each of the plurality of reservoirs. In one embodiment, multiple electrodes are positioned to provide for switching of the electric field direction in a microchannel, thereby causing the analytes to travel a longer distance than the physical length of the microchannel. Use of electrokinetic transport to control material movement in interconnected channel structures was described, e.g., in WO 96/04547 to Ramsey. An exemplary controller is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,800,690. Modulating voltages are concomitantly applied to the various reservoirs to affect a desired fluid flow characteristic, e.g., continuous or discontinuous (e.g., a regularly pulsed field causing the sample to oscillate direction of travel) flow of labeled components toward a waste reservoir. Particularly, modulation of the voltages applied at the various reservoirs can move and direct fluid flow through the interconnected channel structure of the device.
Other Particle and Fluid Movement Approaches
Other methods of transport are also available for situations in which electrokinetic methods are not desirable. For example, sample introduction and reaction are optionally carried out in a pressure-based system to avoid electrokinetic biasing during sample mixing and high throughput systems typically use pressure induced sample introduction. Pressure based flow is also desirable in systems in which electrokinetic transport is also used. For example, pressure based flow is optionally used for introducing and reacting reagents in a system in which the products are electrophoretically separated. In the present invention particle arrays are optionally loaded using electrokinetic fluid control and other reagents are flowed through the particle arrays under pressure.
Pressure is optionally applied to microscale elements, e.g., to a channel; region, or reservoir, to achieve fluid movement using any of a variety of techniques. Fluid flow and flow of materials suspended or solubilized within the fluid, including cells or particle sets, is optionally regulated by pressure based mechanisms such as those based upon fluid displacement, e.g., using a piston, pressure diaphragm, vacuum pump, probe or the like to displace liquid and raise or lower the pressure at a site in the microfluidic system. The pressure is optionally pneumatic, e.g., a pressurized gas, or uses hydraulic forces, e.g., pressurized liquid, or alternatively, uses a positive displacement mechanism, i.e., a plunger fitted into a material reservoir, for forcing material through a channel or other conduit, or is a combination of such forces.
In some embodiments, a vacuum source is applied to a reservoir or well at one end of a channel to draw a fluidic material through the channel. For example, a vacuum source is optionally placed at a reservoir in the present devices for drawing fluid into or through a channel, e.g., through a porous particle retention element, e.g., a particle set. Pressure or vacuum sources are optionally supplied external to the device or system, e.g., external vacuum or pressure pumps sealably fitted to the inlet or outlet of the channel, or they are internal to the device, e.g., microfabricated pumps integrated into the device and operably linked to the channel. Examples of microfabricated pumps have been widely described in the art. See, e.g., published International Application No. WO 97/02357.
Hydrostatic, wicking and capillary forces are also optionally used to provide fluid pressure for continuous fluid flow of materials such as enzymes, substrates, modulators, or protein mixtures. See, e.g., “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTINUOUS LIQUID FLOW IN MICROSCALE CHANNELS USING PRESSURE INJECTION, WICKING AND ELECTROKINETIC INJECTION,” by Alajoki et al., U.S. Ser. No. 09/245,627, filed Feb. 5, 1999. In these methods, an adsorbent material or branched capillary structure is placed in fluidic contact with a region where pressure is applied, thereby causing fluid to move towards the adsorbent material or branched capillary structure. The capillary forces are optionally used in conjunction with the electrokinetic or pressure-based flow in the present invention. The capillary action pulls material through a channel. For example a wick is optionally added to draw fluid through a porous matrix fixed in a microscale channel or capillary.
Mechanisms for reducing adsorption of materials during fluid-based flow are described in “PREVENTION OF SURFACE ADSORPTION IN MICROCHANNELS BY APPLICATION OF ELECTRIC CURRENT DURING PRESSURE-INDUCED FLOW” filed May 11, 1999 by Parce et al., In brief, adsorption of components, proteins, enzymes, markers and other materials to channel walls or other microscale components during pressure-based flow can be reduced by applying an electric field such as an alternating current to the material during flow. Alternatively, flow rate changes due to adsorption are detected and the flow rate is adjusted by a change in pressure or voltage.
Mechanisms for focusing labeling reagents, enzymes, modulators, and other components into the center of microscale flow paths, which is useful in increasing assay throughput by regularizing flow velocity, e.g., in pressure based flow, is described in “FOCUSING OF MICROPARTICLES IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS” by H. Garrett Wada et al. filed May 17, 1999. In brief, sample materials are focused into the center of a channel by forcing fluid flow from opposing side channels into the main channel comprising the cells, or by other fluid manipulation.
In an alternate embodiment, microfluidic systems can be incorporated into centrifuge rotor devices, which are spun in a centrifuge. Fluids and particles travel through the device due to gravitational and centripetal/centrifugal pressure forces.
Fluid flow or particle flow in the present devices and methods is optionally achieved using any one of the above techniques, alone or in combination.
Particle Retention Regions and Other Specific Configurations
As noted, the particle sets of the arrays of the invention can be fixed in place, or mobile. For example, the microscale cavity can have a first microchannel which includes a particle movement region and a particle retention region. The particle retention region typically includes at least one set of the plurality of sets of particles disposed within the particle retention region, although it can include more than one set. The particle “retention” area or region optionally includes a region of increased or decreased microchannel depth or width or other physical barrier (groove, mesh, net, matrix, etc.), an electromagnetic field, a porous matrix (e.g., sieving matrices are optional components of microfluidic systems, as described below), or other means of inhibiting particle movement in or adjacent to the region.
For example, in embodiments where the microfluidic cavity comprising the array has a first microchannel, the microchannel is optionally configured to include at least one reagent flow region and at least one particle capture region. The at least one particle capture region optionally has an increased or decreased depth or width relative to the at least one reagent flow region, or is bounded by a region of increased or decreased depth or width. For example, in one embodiment, the devices include regions of width (or depth) sufficient to permit passage of particles, where the particle capture region is insufficient in dimension to permit free passage of the particles. For example, where particles larger than 3-4 microns are used, a channel region having a cross sectional dimension smaller than 3-4 microns blocks flow of the particles, while still permitting flow of fluids. Preferred particle size ranges from about 0.1 microns to about 50 microns; accordingly, in this embodiment, a physical barrier which does not permit passage of a selected particle within this range of particle sizes can be used as a particle capture element. In one aspect, a “particle capture region” is bounded on at least one side by such particle capture elements. In another example, the reagent flow region comprises a cross-sectional dimension comprising passage of selected particles and the particle retention or capture region abuts a narrow channel region comprising a dimension sufficiently small to inhibit movement of a selected particle through the narrow channel. Such narrow channel regions are typically less than about 10 μm, more typically less than 5 μm. Preferable narrow channel dimensions are about 5 μm or smaller or about 3 μm or smaller.
In other embodiments, the particle capture region, e.g., in a capillary or microchannel, comprises a device to capture a set of particles, e.g., chemically coated microspheres or other chemically coated solid phase objects, e.g., for a sequential chemistry assay. The device typically comprises a physical barrier, e.g., a porous barrier with a defined pore size, that captures solid phase objects having a larger mean diameter than the pore size. The upstream end of the capillary or microchannel is typically inserted in a reagent, e.g., a liquid reagent, and the downstream end is typically coupled to a vacuum source or electrokinetic controller which transports the reagents across the bed of the captured solid phase. The first reagent brought into the channel is typically the solid phase in a suitable buffer and subsequent reagents follow sequentially, e.g., sequencing regents. For example, DNA coated microspheres are optionally captured in a particle retention area for sequencing by synthesis, wherein subsequent reagents comprise dNTPs brought in one at a time, e.g., with sufficient rinsing between nucleotides. Other applications include DNA probes and the like. The captured solid phase is typically captured in the particle retention area, e.g., by a physical barrier. Such barriers are optionally formed by a fixed particle set, by a sintered glass frit, e.g., a preformed frit that has been inserted into the channel or a frit that has been fabricated integral to the capillary or channel. Alternative barriers, include a frit, e.g., a fixed set of particles, formed from epoxy coated microspheres, e.g., providing an appropriate pore size. The fixed set of particles, e.g., epoxy coated microspheres, form a porous barrier which captures other particle sets or packets. For example, a set of particles is optionally flowed through a capillary, e.g., with glue or epoxy. The capillary is centrifuged to flow the glue or epoxy resin over the particles. Excess glue is then removed, leaving a fixed particle matrix which is optionally used to capture or retain flowing or mobile beads , e.g., chemically coated beads. Other materials used to form the barrier include, but are not limited to, glass, plastic, and other materials comprising an appropriate pore size. The barrier or frit is optionally contained in a housing, which housing is optionally a capillary or a machined or molded plastic or glass unit.
The flow region can be in the same plane or transverse to the particle capture region. In typical embodiments, the microfluidic device comprising the microscale cavity includes a plurality of microchannels, which are optionally intersecting or non intersecting and which optionally fluidly connect with reservoirs, wells or the like. The microfluidic device can include, or be coupled to (e.g., through a channel, microchannel, sipper capillary, pipettor, pressure pipettor, electropipettor, etc.), external sources of reagents or particles, permitting loading of the particles, or reagents which interact with the particles. Thus, in one embodiment, the device comprises a loading channel region (or particle loading channel region) coupled to a source of at least a first selected particle type or reagent coupled to the microscale cavity. For example, the source of particle type or reagent can be a microwell plate external to the body structure having at least one well with the selected particle type or reagent, a well disposed on the surface of the body structure comprising the selected particle type or reagent, a reservoir disposed within the body structure comprising the selected particle type or reagent; a container external to the body structure comprising at least one compartment comprising the selected particle type or reagent, or a solid phase structure comprising the selected particle type or reagent.
The particle loading channel region is optionally fluidly coupled to one or more of: a pipettor channel with a port external to the body structure, an electropipettor channel with a port external to the body structure, a sipper capillary, e.g., external to the body structure, fluidly coupled to one or more microwell plates, a pipettor channel with a port internal to the body structure, an internal channel within the body structure fluidly coupled to a well on the surface of the body structure, an internal channel within the body structure fluidly coupled to a well within the body structure, or the like.
The ordered array optionally includes a plurality of sample sets associated with the plurality of particle sets, where each sample set is physically associated with one or more of the plurality of particle sets. In addition, the ordered array optionally includes a plurality of reagent sets associated with the plurality of particle sets, where each reagent set is physically associated with one or more of the plurality of particle sets. These reagent and particle sets are optionally associated with each other, typically such that each reagent set and each particle set is physically associated with one or more of the plurality of particle sets. Manufacturing methods for making the arrays, microfluidic devices, integrated systems and the like are also provided.
In addition to the aspects set forth above, in one specific set of methods, a plurality of particle sets is flowed through a first microscale channel having a particle flow region having a height to width aspect ratio greater than 1.
In another set of manufacturing embodiments, a first particle set is flowed through the particle flow region and the first particle set is fixed in a first location in the channel, resulting in a first fixed particle set, e.g., forming a particle retention area to capture or retain other sets of particles. A second particle set is flowed through the particle flow region to a region abutting the first fixed particle set, where the first fixed particle set blocks further flow of the second particle set in the direction of flow, resulting in a second fixed particle set. In some embodiments, a third particle set through the particle flow region to a region abutting the second fixed particle set, wherein the second fixed particle set blocks further flow of the third particle set in the direction of flow, resulting in a third fixed particle set. In some embodiments, the first particle set is fixed in a particle retention region, which inhibits movement of selected particles from the particle retention region e.g., by a physical barrier to movement of the particles that is proximal to or within the particle retention region, a magnetic field proximal to or within the particle retention region, a chemical particle capture moiety that is proximal to or within the particle retention region or the like.
In one aspect, the first particle set is fixed in a particle retention region, which abuts the particle flow region. The particle retention region has a decreased or increased height to width aspect ratio as compared to the particle flow region, which decreased or increased height to width aspect ratio, in combination with the dimensions of the particle flow region, creates a physical barrier at the point where the dimensions vary and inhibits movement of the first particle set from the particle retention region. Alterations in the aspect ratio can also be used to provide regions of faster or slower particle flow, depending on the shape of the particles. In another aspect, the particle retention area is formed by a set of particles, e.g., epoxy coated particles, which has been fixed in position in the channel, e.g., in a housing or by glue or epoxy. Alternatively, a sintered glass frit or other porous matrix is placed in the channel or fabricated within the channel to form a barrier.
In another set of manufacturing embodiments, methods of making a microfluidic particle array are provided. In the methods, a microfluidic device comprising a microscale cavity is provided. One or more particle sets are flowed into the microscale cavity. One or more particle modification reagents are flowed into contact with the one or more particle sets, thereby producing a plurality of particle sets comprising the microfluidic particle array.
Further understanding of specific configurations is developed by consideration of the following specific embodiments.
FIG. 1 provides microfluidic device 1 comprising reagent wells 10-30, additional wells 40-70 and waste well 80. The wells are fluidly connected to microchannel 90 comprising intersections 100 and 120. Additional wells 40-70 are fluidly coupled to intersections 100-130. Channel constriction 140 provides a bead capture area. As shown in detail, constriction 140 traps beads/particles 150 in particle retention region 160. In one example of this embodiment, the particles are between about 10 and about 4 microns, while particle retention region 160 is about 15 microns and constriction 140, e.g., a narrow channel region, is about 3 microns in diameter. Alternatively, the particles are larger than about 12 microns and particle retention region 160 is about 20 microns to about 50 microns and constriction 140 is about 3 microns to about 12 microns. For particles larger than about 15 microns, constriction region 140 is less than about 15 microns. Various particle sizes are used with various constriction measurements. Typically, the constriction is smaller than the particles of interest. An additional embodiment utilizing only one channel is provided in FIG. 14. Channel or capillary 1405 is optionally coupled to a sipper capillary that draws reagents, e.g., from a microwell plate, and through the capillary, e.g., through a pressure or electrokinetic controller.
FIG. 2, Panel A, provides microfluidic device 201 comprising channel 210. In a region (e.g., a bottom region) of channel 210 several particle retention regions 220-250 retain particle sets 260-290. In this simple embodiment, particle sets 260-290 constitute an array, or a portion of an array. Particle sets 260-290 optionally comprise particle members which are of smaller dimension than channel 210. In this configuration, particle sets 260-290 are optionally magnetic and held in place by application of an appropriate magnetic field. In other embodiments, channel 210 is of sufficiently narrow dimension that members of particle sets 260-290 cannot exit retention regions 220-250. This embodiment is depicted in FIG. 2B. Effective channel dimensions can be altered during operation by addition of a matrix or size-exclusion gel to the channel.
FIG. 3, panels A and B provide an additional aspect of the invention. The channels and particles used are typically smaller than the ones shown. An expanded view is used for ease of illustration. Microfluidic device 301 comprises wells 310-340. The wells are fluidly connected through a network of channels comprising channels 350-390 and intersections 400-410. Channel region 415 comprises particle sets 420-440. These particle sets can be immobile or mobile. For example, the particles are optionally held in place by a particle retention element, e.g., a porous barrier. Particle sets 420-440 are optionally the same size and/or shape or different sizes and/or shapes. In addition, each particle set optionally comprises a different number of particles.
FIG. 4, panels A, B and C show an additional embodiment (the channel dimensions are shown larger than typical channel dimensions for ease of illustration). Microfluidic device 4001 comprises wells 4005-4025. The wells are fluidly connected through channels 4030-4040 and through double-depth channels 4045-4050 and single depth wide channel regions 4060-4070. Double-depth channel regions 4045-4050 act as particle retention regions by trapping particles sets 4055-4057. Reagents can be passed across the trapped particle sets by flowing the reagents through single-depth wide channel regions 4060-4070. In one aspect, packets of particles are aligned to form trains of particles in double depth channels 4045-4050.
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment adapted to sequencing. Microfluidic device 500 comprises main channel 510 and reagent introduction channels 515-530 (as depicted, these are coupled to reagents for separate sequencing reactions, e.g., comprising A, G, C, or T nucleotides. Sample train 531 comprising a plurality of samples, e.g., particle sets 535-550, is passed back and forth through intersections 560-590. Reagent from channels 515-530 is flowed across each sample (or selected samples) in train 531 as the train passes the corresponding coupled intersection. Particle retention element 595 is an optional element.
FIG. 14 shows an additional device embodiment adapted to sequencing. Capillary 1405 (which is optionally a channel in a microfluidic device) comprises particle retention element 1410 and particle set 1415. Particle retention element 1410 comprises a particle set that is fixed or immobilized in capillary 1405, thus creating particle retention region 1420 in capillary 1405. In a sequencing reaction, a set of particles, e.g., coated with a DNA template, is optionally flowed through capillary 1405 from inlet region 1425. For example, inlet region 1425 is optionally fluidly coupled to a sipper capillary, which during operation is fluidly coupled to a microwell plate. The set of DNA coated particles flows through capillary 1405 and is held or retained against particle retention element 1410, causing the set of DNA particles to become: fixed in capillary 1405, such as particle set 1415. Sequencing reagents are then optionally flowed across particle set 1415 and optionally rinsed from the channel between introductions of different reagents. Particle retention element 1410 forms a porous barrier, which stops particle set 1415, thus allowing, e.g., a series of reagents to be flowed across the DNA template and then rinsed away if desired, e.g., four different nucleotides are serially flowed across the template coated particle set 1415 and unincorporated nucleotides are optionally rinsed away between steps. At the same time, the pore size of particle retention element 1410 has a pore size allowing, e.g., liquid reagents through so they are optionally rinsed out of capillary 1405, e.g., into a waste reservoir proximal to downstream region 1430.
An alternate version of a particle retention element is shown in FIG. 15. Particle retention element 1510 is sealed within housing 1540. Particle sets and/or liquid reagents are flowed through capillary 1505. Particle sets with a mean diameter greater than the pore size of the particle retention element are stopped in capillary retention region 1515 by particle retention element 1510 and liquid reagents and particle sets with a smaller mean diameter than the pore size of particle retention area are flowed past particle retention area 1515, e.g., by a vacuum fluidly coupled to downstream capillary region 1530. In another embodiment, centrifugal force is used to draw reagents through capillary 1505.
Alternatively, multiple solid phase components are flowed through and retained by a particle retention element. FIG. 16 shows particle retention element 1610 serving as a barrier to particle set 1615, which serves as a barrier to particle set 1617, which serves as a barrier to particle set 1619. Three particle sets are thus stacked in capillary 1605. Particle sets 1615, 1617, and 1619 optionally have the same mean diameter or different mean diameters. Particle retention element 1610 comprises a set of particles which when fixed within capillary 1605 forms a porous barrier to the movement of other particle sets. Liquid reagents are optionally.flowed through capillary 1605 to contact particle sets 1615, 1617, and 1619. The liquid reagents are optionally introduced from a microwell plate via a sipper capillary fluidly coupled to upstream region 1625. The liquid reagents flow across and through particle sets 1615, 1617, and 1619 and react, e.g., with a DNA template and primer on the particles, and flow through particle retention element 1610, e.g., pulled by a vacuum fluidly coupled to downstream capillary region 1630.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment adapted to high-throughput methods. In particular, a “sipper” (e.g., an electropipettor), e.g., sipper 610, draws one or more sets of beads or reagents ABCD and dispenses it into channel 615 or into multiple channels, e.g., parallel assay channels, where the sets are sent as packet 620 across target beads or reagent sites, e.g., regions 625 or 630. This is faster.than sipping beads or reagents individually and passing them across the relevant reaction site.
FIG. 7 shows a multiplexing arrangement useful for DNA sequencing. The bold straight lines represent fluid channels connected to a sipper channel. The dotted lines represent electrical wires or pressure conduits connecting each of the reagent lines to a single controller. In this example, 3 sipper channels and 12 electrodes or pressure ports require only 4 controllers, instead of the more typical 12. An example of an assay using this arrangement is DNA sequencing, in which DNA samples are on beads, one per sipper channel. The side channels have different nucleotides that are passed over the beads sequentially. All of the bead samples will have the same reagent stream pass across them. For example, multiple DNA samples, e.g., three different DNA templates, are simultaneously sequenced using only four controllers, one for each reagent line and one for the main line. Alternatively, introduction of reagents from a sipper capillary fluidly coupled to a microwell plate and to each of the main reaction channels in FIG. 7 allows the DNA samples to be sequenced using only one controller coupled to each of the reaction channels.
FIG. 8 shows access to a particle library using one or more sippers. In particular, body 801 comprises particle channels 810-825 connected to sipper channel 830 which accesses a particle library (e.g., particle sets on a microwell plate). Packets of particles (e.g., comprising nucleic acid templates for sequencing) are directed (e.g., by electrokinesis or pressure-based mechanisms) into channels 810-825 to provide an array of particle sets. For example, an electrical potential or a vacuum is optionally applied at one or more of wells 835-850. Similarly, reagents (e.g., sequencing reagents) are flowed from any of wells 860-875 through fine channel network 880 and into broad channel 885, across the particle sets within channels 810-825, where the reagents interact with the particles in the channels. Alternatively, an individual channel is used in place of fine channel network 880. The particles are first flowed within fine channel network 880 to provide more even flow of reagents into broad channel 885. Waste reagents are flowed into waste well 890. Flow is provided by applying electrical or pressure potentials at one or more of wells 860-875 and 890. Although illustrated for clarity as a single sipper channel arrangement, multiple sipper channels interconnected to microfluidic structures can also be used, e.g., for simultaneous and/or parallel access to samples or fluidic reagents. Alternatively, a train of reagents is flowed from a microwell plate into sipper 830 and directly into each of channels 810-825.
FIG. 9A shows an expanded cross-sectional view of particle packets within deep channels having an intersecting broad shallow channel. In particular, particle sets 900-910 are shown in channels 815-825, i.e., the view is a cross section of a portion of FIG. 8 comprising the channels. Flow of reagents is through broad channel 915, across particle sets 900-910. As depicted, body 801 comprises upper layer 930 and lower layer 940. FIG. 9B shows essentially the same elements in an expanded top view, additionally depicting particle packets 950-975.
FIG. 10 shows sequential loading of particle sets or packets into a channel. Particle set 1005 is flowed through channel 1000 until blocked by particle retention element 1040. Over time, particle sets 1010-1020 are accessed from a particle library, with each particle set abutting the previously loaded particle set(s). Particle sets 1005-1020 are optionally the same or different sizes. Particle retention element 1040 is optionally a sintered glass frit, glass, plastic, a fixed set of particles, e.g., epoxy coated particles, or the like. Typically, particle retention element 1040 is a porous barrier that has a pore size smaller than the mean diameter of the particle sets of interest, e.g., particle sets 1005-1020.
FIG. 11, panel A, shows a parallel particle array in which sample particle sets 1105 are separated by blank particle sets 1110 in channels 1115-1125. Panel B shows particle sets 1130-1145 in particle retention region 1150 abutting narrow channel region 1160. Panel C depicts an alternate embodiment in which particle sets 1130-1145 are held in particle retention region 1150 which abuts physical barrier 1155.
FIG. 12 shows a schematic integrated system of the invention. A computer or other microprocessing device directs materials from a sample system to an array for analysis. If appropriate to the assay, array members are directed from a particle library to the array to comprise or modify the array. The selection of particle members is optionally in response to an assay signal from the array. In general, assay signals are directed from the array to a detector which detects the signals. The signal information is converted to a digital format and sent to the computer, which reads and/or stores the information. Optionally, the information is used to select additional samples by or from the sampling system and/or additional particle sets from the particle library.
For example, during operation of the integrated system illustrated in FIG. 12, an array is formed by accessing a particle library, following an instruction set provided by the computer. The computer directs flow of fluidic (or particulate) reagents to the array through the sampling system (e.g., a system comprising a sipper channel which contacts and sips fluid from a relevant source of material, e.g., a micro titer plate). The fluidic reagents interact with the array members, providing a detectable signal. The signal is detected by the detector and converted into digital information which is stored and/or manipulated by the computer. Optionally, the digital information is used to provide the logical basis for selecting additional array or fluidic or particulate reagents from the particle library and/or through the sampling system. In these cases, the computer selects the additional array or fluidic or particulate reagent(s) and directs flow to the array and or modification or movement of the array.
As noted above, the particle retention region can take any of a number of forms in the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, a first set of particles is flowed into a microfluidic region (e.g., channel region, chamber, etc.) having a region with sufficiently small dimension to inhibit movement of the first particle set. The first particle set stacks against the small dimensioned region of the channel. Subsequently, a second, third, fourth . . . nth set of particles can be moved into the channel, where they will stack against, e.g., the first particle set. Even though the second . . . nth particle sets can be small enough to pass through the small dimensioned region of the channel, they are retained by stacking against the first particle set. Thus, the first particle set acts as a matrix preventing passage of subsequent particle sets. In this embodiment, each set of stacked particles is larger in diameter than the typical voids between the particles of the adjacent set. Thus, large retention particles can be trapped in a region of a microfluidic device and medium sized particles can then be stacked next to the large particles, where the medium sized particles are larger in dimension than the voids between the large particles. Subsequently, small particles can be stacked next to the medium sized particles, where the small particles are larger in diameter than the voids between the medium sized particles. Optionally, the small particles can be smaller than the voids between the large particles, as they will be blocked from downstream flow by the medium sized particles. Even smaller particles can be stacked next to the small particles, etc. Of course, large particles can also be stacked next to fixed or otherwise retained small particles, as long as the large particles cannot pass between the voids of the stacked or fixed small particles.
For example, beads having a cross-section of about 100 μm to about 200 μm are optionally used to form a fixed porous matrix or barrier in a microchannel. The porous matrix is optionally used to capture or retain smaller particles, e.g., particles comprising a cross-section of about 30 μm to about 80 μm, e.g., a 40 μm particle set. Even smaller particles, e.g., particles having a cross-section less than 30 μm, e.g., about 5 μm to about 11 μm, are then captured and retained, e.g., by the second particle set, i.e., the 40 μm particle set.
There are several advantages to embodiments where particle sets are retained by other particle sets, rather than simply by e.g., physical dimensions of the microfluidic system in which the particles are flowed. For example, the particle retention region is switchable in these configurations, providing for dynamic construction and removal of the arrays and of the particle retention.region (advantages of switchable arrays are set forth supra, including, e.g., creation of “smart” and “programmable” particle arrays). Another advantage to this configuration is that particles of extremely small dimensions can be used in the second . . . nth position, which increases the diversity of particle types which are accessible by this approach.
Small particles also have properties which are, themselves, advantageous for some embodiments. For example, several small particles have significantly more surface area than a single large particle that occupies the same volume as the smaller particles. This increase in surface area allows attachment/association of a greater number of molecules to the particle, increasing the density of the molecules of interest in the array. This is useful, e.g., for detecting assay signals which result from interaction with the molecules of interest, i.e., for increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of assay signals in the assay.
For example, in one embodiment, a linear array of beads is made in a microfluidic channel by stacking beads of a diameter larger than the depth of the downstream channel created by a shelf, raised area, narrowed area, or other constriction within the channel (or other microfluidic structural element such as a chamber, cavity or the like). The size of the beads determines the surface area and binding capacity of the beads. The available binding capacity of the array is increased by stacking beads of a smaller diameter adjacent to the larger diameter beads, such that the diameter of the smaller diameter beads is larger than the voids between the larger diameter beads. For example, in one embodiment, a selected set of 4.4 micron beads have surface area of, roughly, 1.286*1012 um2/g and the spaces between the beads are approximately 1.8 microns. Packing beads of 2.5 microns next to the 4.4 micron beads provides about 1.7 times as much surface area per unit volume as the 4.4 micron beads. This procedure is optionally repeated with increasing surface area as the adjacent bead packages become smaller and smaller.
In a similar aspect, magnetic particles or affinity particles can be used to create particle retention regions for non-magnetic/non affinity particles. In these embodiments, the first particle set (which is, e.g., a magnetic particle (i.e., a particle which generates a magnetic field or which is attracted to a magnetic field), or an affinity particle) is flowed into the particle retention region where it is retained by magnetic or affinity forces (e.g., covalent or non-covalent chemical bonding between the particle or molecules disposed on the particle and a region of the relevant microfluidic system). Second, third . . . nth particle sets are flowed into contact with the fixed particle, where the fixed particle acts as a retention element to block flow of the fixed particles. As above, small particles are typically stacked next to fixed or otherwise retained larger particles, e.g., where the small particles cannot pass between the voids of the stacked or fixed larger particles (of course, the small particles can be magnetic or affinity particles, with larger particles stacking against the fixed smaller particles as well).
As described supra, particles can be essentially any size or shape. In embodiments where arrays are made by stacking of adjacent sets of particles, it is desirable for sets to be of sufficient diameter that they cannot flow between adjacent particle sets. Thus, in one typical aspect, the smallest dimension of a set of particles is larger than the voids between the adjacent downstream particle set.
The number of ordered sets constituting the array depends on the selected application. For example, as discussed in more detail herein, one exemplar array for sequencing nucleic acids comprises about 2, 3, or 4 sets of particles (e.g., beads, cells, microspheres, etc.). In other implementations, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 or even 100,00 or more different sets of particles can be present in the arrays. The precise number of particles in an array depends on the intended use of the array. For example, larger arrays are especially useful, e.g., in screening molecular libraries against one or more targets bound to the member particles of the particle sets. Smaller arrays can be used as to screen a smaller number of targets, as is common, e.g., in diagnostic applications, where one or a few targets (e.g., nucleic acids corresponding to various disease states, such as altered levels or altered types of oncogene products, p53, presence of infectious organisms (HIV and other viruses, bacteria, etc.) are desirably screened.
The array components (i.e., particles) of the arrays of the invention can be essentially any discreet material which can be flowed through a microscale system. Example particles include beads and biological cells. For example, polymer beads (e.g., polystyrene, polypropylene, latex, nylon and many others), silica or silicon beads, clay or clay beads, ceramic beads, glass beads, magnetic beads, metallic beads, inorganic compound beads, and organic compound beads can be used. An enormous variety of particles are commercially available, e.g., those typically used for chromatography (see, e.g., the 1999 Sigma “Biochemicals and Reagents for Life Sciences Research” Catalog from Sigma (Saint Louis, Mo.), e.g., pp. 1921-2007; The 1999 Suppleco “Chromatography Products” Catalogue, and others), as well as those commonly used for affinity purification (e.g., Dynabeads™ from Dynal, as well as many derivitized beads, e.g., various derivitized Dynabeads™ (e.g., the various magnetic Dynabeads™, which commonly include coupled reagents) supplied e.g., by Promega, the Baxter Immunotherapy Group, and many other sources).
A wide variety of particles useful in the present invention include those used as components of sieving and molecular partition matrixes in the art. Many such matrixes are available, and can be used to constitute particle arrays in the apparatus of the invention. For example, a variety of sieving matrixes, partition matrixes and the like are available from Supelco, Inc. (Bellefonte, Pa.; see, e.g., the 1997 (or later) Suppleco catalogue). Common matrixes which are useful in the present invention include those generally used in low pressure liquid chromatography, gel electrophoresis and other liquid phase separations. Matrix materials designed primarily for non-liquid phase chromatography are also useful in certain contexts,-as the materials often retain particulate characteristics when suspended in fluids. For a discussion of electrophoresis matrixes see, e.g., Weiss (1995) Ion Chromatography VCH Publishers Inc.; Baker (1995) Capillary Electrophoresis John Wiley and Sons; Kuhn (1993) Capillary Electrophoresis: Principles and Practice Springer Verlag; Righetti (1996) Capillary Electrophoresis in Analytical Biotechnology CRC Press; Hill (1992) Detectors for Capillary Chromatography John Wiley and Sons; Gel Filtration: Principles and Methods (5th Edition) Pharmacia; Gooding and Regnier (1990) HPLC of Biological Macromolecules: Methods and Applications (Chrom. Sci. Series, volume 51) Marcel Dekker and Scott (1995) Techniques and Practices of Chromatography Marcel Dekker, Inc.
Commercially available low pressure liquid chromatography media suitable as particulate material (i.e., material for making particle sets) in a variety of applications include, e.g., non-ionic macroreticular and macroporous resins which adsorb and release components based upon hydrophilic or hydrophobic interactions, such as Amberchrom resins (highly cross-linked styrene/divinylbenzene copolymers suitable for separation of peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, antibiotics, phytopharmacologicals, and vitamins); the related Amberlite XAD series resins (polyaromatics and acrylic esters) and amberchroms (polyaromatic and polymethacrylates) (manufactured by Rohm and Haas, available through Suppleco); Diaion (polyaromatic or polymethacrylic beads); Dowex (polyaromatics or substituted hydrophilic functionalized polyaromatics) (manufactured by Dow Chemical, available through Suppleco); Duolite (phenol-formaldehyde with methanolic functionality), MCI GEL sephabeads, supelite DAX-8 (acrylic ester) and Supplepak (polyaromatic) (all of the preceding materials are available from Suppleco). For a description of uses for Amberlite and Duolite resins, see, Amberlite/Duolite Anion Exchange Resins (Available from Suppleco, 1997 Cat No. T412141). Gel filtration chromatography matrixes are also suitable, including sephacryl, sephadex, sepharose, superdex, superose, toyopearl, agarose, cellulose, dextrans, mixed bead resins, polystyrene, nuclear resins, DEAE cellulose, Benzyl DEA cellulose, TEAE cellulose, and the like (Suppleco).
Gel electrophoresis media comprising particulate material useful in making particle sets include silica gels such as Davisil Silica, E. Merck Silica Gel, Sigma-Aldrich Silica Gel (all available from Suppleco) in addition to a wide range of silica gels available for various purposes as described in the Aldrich catalogue/handbook (Aldrich Chemical Company (Milwaukee, Wis.)). Preferred gel materials include agarose based gels, various forms of acrylamide based gels (reagents available from, e.g., Suppleco, SIGMA, Aldrich, SIGMA-Aldrich and many other sources) colloidal solutions such as protein colloids (gelatins) and hydrated starches.
A variety of affinity media for purification and separation of molecular components are also available, including a variety of modified silica gels available from SIGMA, Aldrich and SIGMA-Aldrich, as well as Suppleco, such as acrylic beads, agarose beads, Mono beads, cellulose, sepharose, sepharose CL, toyopearl or the like chemically linked to an affinity ligand such as a biological molecule. A wide variety of activated matrixes, amino acid resins, avidin and biotin resins, carbohydrate resins, dye resins, glutathione resins, hydrophobic resins, immunochemical resins, lectin resins, nucleotide/coenzyme resins, nucleic acid resins, and specialty resins are available, e.g., from Suppleco, SIGMA, Aldrich or the like. See also, Hermanson et al. (1992) Immobilized Affinity Ligand Techniques Academic Press.
Other particulate media commonly used, e.g., in chromatography are also adaptable to the present invention, including activated aluminas, carbopacks, carbosieves, carbowaxes, chromosils, DEGS, Dexsil, Durapak, Molecular Sieve, OV phases, porous silica, chromosorb series packs, HayeSep series, Porapak series, SE-30, Silica Gel, SP-1000, SP-1200, SP-2100, SP-2250, SP-2300, SP2401, Tenax, TCEP, supelcosil LC-18-S and LC-18-T, Methacrylate/DVBm, polyvinylalcohols, napthylureas, non-polar methyl silicone, methylpolysiloxane, poly (ethylene glycol) biscyanopropyl polysiloxane and the like.
Ion exchange chromatography resins comprising particulate material are commercially available, including from EM Separations (Gibbstown, N.J.), BioSepra (Marlborough, Mass.), Polymer Laboratories (Amherst, Mass.), Perseptive Biosystems (Cambridge, Mass.), Toso Haas (Montgomeryville, Pa.) and Pharmacia (Uppsala, Sweden). As noted herein, the definition for particles as intended herein includes both biological and non-biological particle material. Thus, cells are included within the definition of particles for purposes of the present invention.
Cell based microfluidic assays are described in a variety of publications by the inventors and their co-workers, including, Parce et al. “High Throughput Screening Assay Systems in Microscale Fluidic Devices” WO 98/00231 and Knapp et al. “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” (WO 98/45481; PCT/US98/06723). It is expected that one of skill is fully able to culture cells and introduce them into microfluidic systems. In addition to Parce et al. and Knapp et al., many references are available for the culture and production of many cells, including cells of bacterial, plant, animal (especially mammalian) and archebacterial origin. See e.g., Sambrook, Ausubel, and Berger (all supra), as well as Freshney (1994) Culture of Animal Cells, a Manual of Basic Technique, third edition Wiley-Liss, New York and the references cited therein, Humason (1979) Animal Tissue Techniques, fourth edition W. H. Freeman and Company; Ricciardelli, et al., (1989) In Vitro Cell Dev. Biol. 25:1016-1024; Payne et al. (1992) Plant Cell and Tissue Culture in Liquid Systems John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, N.Y. (Payne); Gamborg and Phillips (eds) (1995) Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture; Fundamental Methods Springer Lab Manual, Springer-Verlag (Berlin Heidelberg New York) (Gamborg); and Atlas and Parks (eds) The Handbook of Microbiological Media (1993) CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fla. (Atlas). Additional information for plant cell culture is found in available commercial literature such as the Life Science Research Cell Culture Catalogue (1998) from Sigma-Aldrich, Inc (St Louis, Mo.) (Sigma-LSRCCC) and, e.g., the Plant Culture Catalogue and supplement (1997) also from Sigma-Aldrich, Inc (St Louis, Mo.) (Sigma-PCCS). One particularly preferred use for cell-based microfluidic assays is to screen binding and/or internalization of cell ligands, e.g., cell receptor ligands, drugs, co-factors, etc. This screening is considerably facilitated by arraying different cell sets into arrays of cells, which can then have reagent trains comprising any factor to be tested for in vitro cellular activity flowed across the cell sets. Of course, cells can also be present in reagent trains and passed into contact with other array members.
Cells can exist as sets of particles in a variety of formats in the present invention. For example, cells can be fixed to solid supports such as beads or other microparticles. Thus, arrays of the invention can include heterogeneous particles comprising solid supports and cells or other components of interest. Cells can also be trapped using strategies similar to those described herein for particles generally, i.e., by physical trapping mechanisms. In addition, as cells comprise surface proteins and other molecules, it is convenient to fix cell binding molecules (cell receptor ligands, cell wall binding molecules, antibodies, etc.) either to regions of the channels of the microfluidic device, or to particles which are then fixed or localized in position by the methods described herein.
The array particles can have essentially any shape, e.g., spherical, helical, spheroid, rod-shaped, cone-shaped, cubic, polyhedral, or a combination thereof (of course they can also be irregular, as is the case for cell-based particles). In addition, the particles can be a variety of sizes. Typically, the particles are about 0.1 μm to about 500 μm. Alternatively, the particles are about 0.5 μm to about 50 μm or about 1 μm to about 20 μm. Particles are optionally coupled to reagents, affinity matrix materials, or the like, e.g., nucleic acid synthesis reagents, peptide synthesis reagents, polymer synthesis reagents, nucleic acids, nucleotides, nucleobases, nucleosides, peptides, amino acids, monomers, cells, biological samples, synthetic molecules, or combinations thereof. Particles optionally serve many purposes within the arrays, including acting as blank particles, dummy particles, calibration or marker particles, capture devices for low concentration reagents, sample particles, reagent particles and test particles.
The particles within the arrays of the invention can present a solid or semi-solid surface for any of a variety of linking chemistries, allowing the incorporation of biological and chemical components of interest into the particle members of the arrays. A wide variety of organic and inorganic polymers, both natural and synthetic may be employed as the material for the solid surface. Illustrative polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, poly(4-methylbutene), polystyrene, polymethacrylate, poly(ethylene terephthalate), rayon, nylon, poly(vinyl butyrate), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), silicones, polyformaldehyde, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nitrocellulose, and the like. Other materials that may be employed include papers, ceramics, such as glass, metals, metalloids, semiconductive materials, cements, or the like. In addition, substances that form gels, such as proteins (e.g., gelatins), lipopolysaccharides, silicates, agarose and are also optionally used.
A wide variety of linking chemistries are available for linking molecules to a wide variety of solid or semi-solid particle support elements. These chemistries can be performed in situ (i.e., in the microfluidic system, by flowing appropriate reagents, e.g., nucleic acids, proteins, and samples present in low concentrations, into contact with the particles, or vice-versa), or outside of a microfluidic environment, e.g., prior to introduction of the particles into the microfluidic system. It is impractical and unnecessary to describe all of the possible known linking chemistries for linking molecules to a solid support. It is expected that one of skill can easily select appropriate chemistries, depending on the intended application.
In one preferred embodiment, the particles of the invention comprise silicate elements (e.g., glass or silicate beads). An array of silicon-based molecules appropriate for functionalizing surfaces are commercially available. See, for example, Silicon Compounds Registry and Review, United Chemical Technologies, Bristol, Pa. Additionally, the art in this area is very well developed and those of skill will be able to choose an appropriate molecule for a given purpose. Appropriate molecules can be purchased commercially, synthesized de novo, or it can be formed by modifying an available molecule to produce one having the desired structure and/or characteristics.
The substrate linker attaches to the solid substrate through any of a variety of chemical bonds. For example, the linker is optionally attached to the solid substrate using carbon-carbon bonds, for example via substrates having (poly)trifluorochloroethylene surfaces, or siloxane bonds (using, for example, glass or silicon oxide as the solid substrate). Siloxane bonds with the surface of the substrate are formed in one embodiment via reactions of derivatization reagents bearing trichlorosilyl or trialkoxysilyl groups. The particular linking group is selected based upon, e.g., its hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties where presentation of an attached polymer in solution is desirable. Groups which are suitable for attachment to a linking group include amine, hydroxyl, thiol, carboxylic acid, ester, amide, isocyanate and isothiocyanate. Preferred derivatizing groups include aminoalkyltrialkoxysilanes, hydroxyalkyltrialkoxysi lanes, polyethyleneglycols, polyethyleneimine, polyacrylamide, polyvinylalcohol and combinations thereof.
By way of example, the reactive groups on a number of siloxane functionalizing reagents can be converted to other useful functional groups:
1. Hydroxyalkyl siloxanes (Silylate surface, functionalize with diborane, and H202 to oxidize the alcohol);
a. allyl trichlorosilane→→3-hydroxypropyl
b. 7-oct-1-enyl trichlorchlorosilane→→8-hydroxyoctyl
2. Diol (dihydroxyalkyl) siloxanes (silylate surface and hydrolyze to diol)
a. (glycidyl trimethoxysilane→→(2,3-dihydroxypropyloxy)propyl
3. Aminoalkyl siloxanes (amines requiring no intermediate functionalizing step)
a. 3-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane→aminopropyl
4. Dimeric secondary aminoalkyl siloxanes
a. bis (3-trimethoxysilylpropyl) amine→bis(silyloxylpropyl)amine. See, for example, Leyden et al., Symposium on Silylated Surfaces, Gordon & Breach 1980; Arkles, Chemtech 7, 766 (1977); and Plueddemann, Silane Coupling Reagents, Plenum, N.Y., 1982. These examples are illustrative and do not limit the types of reactive group interconversions which are useful in conjunction with the present invention. Additional starting materials and reaction schemes will be apparent to those of skill in the art.
The components which can be attached to a derivitized particle surface include peptides, nucleic acids, mimetics, large and small organic molecules, polymers and the like. For example, moieties bearing a permanent charge or a pH dependent charge are useful in practicing the present invention. For example, the charged group can be a carboxylate, quaternary amine or protonated amine that is a component of an amino acid that has a charged or potentially charged side chain. The amino acids can be either those having a structure which occurs naturally or they can be of unnatural structure (i.e., synthetic). Useful naturally occurring amino acids include, arginine, lysine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid. Surfaces utilizing a combination of these amino acids are also of use in the present invention. Further, peptides comprising one or more residues having a charged or potentially charged side chain are useful coating components and they can be synthesized utilizing arginine, lysine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid and combinations thereof. Useful unnatural amino acids are commercially available or can be synthesized utilizing art-recognized methodologies. In those embodiments in which an amino acid moiety having an acidic or basic side chain is used, these moieties can be attached to a surface bearing a reactive group through standard peptide synthesis methodologies or easily accessible variations thereof. See, for example, Jones, Amino Acid and Peptide Synthesis, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1992. In addition, nucleic acids attached to a particle surface are optionally sequenced or used as a calibration particle or marker.
Linking groups can also be placed on the particles of the invention. Linking groups of use in the present invention can have a range of structures, substituents and substitution patterns. They can, for example be derivitized with nitrogen, oxygen and/or sulfur containing groups which are pendent from, or integral to, the linker group backbone. Examples include, polyethers, polyacids (polyacrylic acid, polylactic acid), polyols (e.g., glycerol ), polyamines (e.g., spermine, spermidine) and molecules having more than one nitrogen, oxygen and/or sulfur moiety (e.g., 1,3-diamino-2-propanol, taurine). See, for example, Sandler et al. Organic Functional Group Preparations 2nd Ed., Academic Press, Inc. San Diego 1983. A wide range of mono-, di- and bis-functionalized poly(ethyleneglycol) molecules are commercially available and will prove generally useful in this aspect of the invention. See, for example, 1997-1998 Catalog, Shearwater Polymers, Inc., Huntsville, Ala. Additionally, those of skill in the art have available a great number of easily practiced, useful modification strategies within their synthetic arsenal. See, for example, Harris, Rev. Macromol. Chem. Phys., C25(3),325-373 (1985); Zalipsky et al., Eur. Polym. J., 19(12), 1177-1183 (1983); U.S. Pat. No. 5,122,614, issued Jun. 16,1992 to Zalipsky; U.S. Pat. No. 5,650,234, issued to Dolence et al. Jul. 22, 1997, and references therein.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling chemistries for coupling materials to the particles of the invention are light-controllable, i.e., utilize photo-reactive chemistries. The use of photo-reactive chemistries and masking strategies to activate coupling of molecules to substrates, as well as other photo-reactive chemistries is generally known (e.g., for semi-conductor chip fabrication and for coupling bio-polymers to solid phase materials). The use of photo-cleavable protecting groups and photo-masking permits type switching of both mobile and fixed array members, i.e., by altering the presence of substrates present on the array members (i.e., in response to light). Among a wide variety of protecting groups which are useful are nitroveratryl (NVOC)-methylnitroveratryl (Menvoc), allyloxycarbonyl (ALLOC), fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (FMOC), -methylnitro-piperonyloxycarbonyl (MeNPOC), -NH-FMOC groups, t-butyl esters, t-butyl ethers, and the like. Various exemplary protecting groups (including both photo-cleavable and non-photo-cleavable groups) are described in, for example, Atherton et al., (1989) Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis, IRL Press, and Greene, et al. (1991) Protective Groups In Organic Chemistry, 2nd Ed., John Wiley & Sons, New York, N.Y., as well as, e.g., Fodoret al. (1991) Science, 251: 767-777, Wang (1976) J. Org. Chem. 41: 3258; and Rich, et al. (1975) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 97: 1575-1579. The use of these and other photo-cleavable linking groups for nucleic acid and peptide synthesis on solid supports is a well-established methodology.
In one useful variation of these methods, solid phase arrays are adapted for the rapid and specific detection of multiple polymorphic nucleotides. Typically, a nucleic acid probe is chemically linked to a solid support and a target nucleic acid (e.g., an RNA or corresponding amplified DNA) is hybridized to the probe. Either the probe, or the target, or both, can be labeled, typically with a fluorophore. Where the target is labeled, hybridization is detected by detecting bound fluorescence. Where the probe is labeled, hybridization is typically detected by quenching of the label by the bound nucleic acid. Where both the probe and the target are labeled, detection of hybridization is typically performed by monitoring a signal shift such as a change in color, fluorescent quenching, or the like, resulting from proximity of the two bound labels. In some assay formats, the above format is inverted, with expression products being fixed to array members and probes being moved into contact with the array.
In another variation, solid-phase arrays are used to detect samples even at very low concentrations. Particles and particle arrays are very efficient at capturing molecules in a fluid stream. Therefore, they provide suitable molecule capture devices for studying systems in which a sample or reagent is in very low concentration, e.g., in single cell RNA analysis. Typical methods for studying such systems involve DNA arrays having the non-precious reagents, e.g., those available in large or adequate quantities and concentrations, spread out in defined locations across a substrate. The precious or low concentration sample, e.g., cell contents or amplification product, is typically diffused across the array, e.g., to find a hybridization partner. By attaching the precious or low concentration sample to a particle or particle array, it can be placed in a defined location and then non-precious samples are optionally flowed across the array, allowing detection of the sample at very low concentrations. For example, a few cells are optionally flowed through a capillary comprising a particle array, e.g., beads, e.g., hybridized with a capture reagent. The cells are lysed and the mRNA from the cells is captured on the particles. The capillary is then optionally used to flow reagents across the particles, e.g., hybridization reagents that bind, e.g., specifically, to the mRNA of interest, if it is present. The capillary is rinsed after each exposure and any resulting hybridization is detected, e.g., by fluorescence detection. Alternatively, the captured molecule is amplified and the product captured, e.g., immediately or in about the same vicinity to enhance the signal before bringing hybridization or probe reagents across the capture area. In other aspects, different probe reagents comprising different fluorophores are mixed to detect several components at once. Alternatively, capillary or channel surfaces are used to capture the low concentration molecule instead of particles.
In other aspects, the particles of the present invention are used as marker particles or calibration particles. For example, charged beads, e.g., to which a dye is attached, are optionally used as markers in capillary electrophoresis, especially when very low mobility is required. For example, a marker that flows slower than any sample is optionally used. Alternatively, a neutral particle or bead is used with an attachment, functional group, or linker that is charged. Typical molecules for use on the particles include, but are not limited to, molecules that are similar to the sample of interest. For example, a nucleic acid is preferably used in electrophoresis of nucleic acids. A typical DNA or RNA molecule attached to such a marker or calibration bead comprises about 10 thousand base-pairs to about 20 thousand base pairs, e.g., a 17 thousand base pair nucleic acid. The marker particle or bead is used, for example, to determine the position of one or more member of an array. For example, the marker is optionally used to determine the position of an array member that has captured a low concentration sample as described above. The particle or bead typically comprises a charged moiety or particle and a label moiety, e.g., a fluorescent dye or a charged label moiety. The label moiety is optionally detected, e.g., by fluorescence, to determine and calibrate positions of array members.
In one embodiment of this concept, an array of probes are synthesized on solid support particles constituting array members. Using typical array masking technologies and photoprotective chemistry, it is possible to generate ordered arrays of nucleic acid probes with large numbers of probes. In the embodiments of the present invention, even photomasking is unnecessary, making photoprotective chemistry particularly useful. In particular, the array members can be flowed past a light source in a selected order in the presence of selected reagents, permitting selective addition of components to the array, without actually performing chip masking. Of course, however, chip masking strategies can also be used, i.e., array members can be fixed in place and selectively exposed to light. Either method is used, for example, to place a precious sample, e.g., a sample that is only available in small amounts, in a defined location and detect it at very low concentrations.
In brief, a combinatorial strategy allows for the synthesis of arrays containing a large number of different elements such as fixed nucleic acids, using a minimal number of synthetic steps. For instance, in general in solid-phase masking technologies, it is possible to synthesize and attach all possible DNA 8-mer oligonucleotides (48, or 65,536 possible combinations) using only 32 chemical synthetic steps. In general, these procedures provide a method of producing 4n different oligonucleotide probes on an array using only 4n synthetic steps. Alternatively, due to the high-throughput reaction speeds of microfluidic systems, it is possible to perform large numbers of reactions with linear or parallel fluidic manipulations in feasibly short periods of time.
As noted, light-directed combinatorial synthesis of oligonucleotide arrays on glass array members is performed with automated phosphoramidite chemistry and, optionally, chip masking techniques similar to photoresist technologies in the computer chip industry. Typically, a glass surface is derivitized with a silane reagent containing a functional group, e.g., a hydroxyl (for nucleic acid arrays) or amine group (for peptide or peptide nucleic acid arrays) blocked by a photolabile protecting group. Photolysis through a photolithogaphic mask, or by selective flow, e.g., in a microfluidic system past a light source, is used selectively to expose functional groups which are then ready to react with incoming photoprotected elements (e.g., for nucleic acids, 5′-photoprotected nucleoside phosphoramidites). The photoprotected elements react with those sites which are illuminated (and thus exposed by removal of the photolabile blocking group). Thus, e.g., phosphoramidites only add to those areas selectively exposed from the preceding step. These steps are repeated until the desired array of sequences has been synthesized on the array particle. Combinatorial synthesis of different molecules at different locations on the array is determined by the pattern of illumination during synthesis, relative to the array (again, the array can be mobile or fixed in the present invention) and the order of addition of coupling reagents. Monitoring of hybridization of target elements to the array is typically performed with fluorescence microscopes, laser scanning microscopes, CCD arrays or the like.
Although light-directed coupling chemistries are preferred, and described above in some detail for exemplary purposes, these are not the only feasible routes to producing arrays with a variety of different particle members. The use of microfluidic fluid movement to move reagents into contact with array members can also be used. In particular, solid surfaces are derivitized as noted above in preparation for addition of components such as nucleotide synthesis reagents, peptides, or the like. Between coupling steps, protective groups can be used as noted above. Instead of photoprotective cleavage, other cleavage agents can be used, depending on the nature of the reaction, e.g., acids, bases, or the like. Indeed, because it is possible to flow only desired reagents into contact with selected array members, it is not necessary to use blocking groups at all. The elimination of blocking groups is one of the many advantages of the present invention over standard solid phase synthesis techniques.
The array or reagents contacting the array can involve template hybridization reagents or the like, including a first nucleic acid which is fully or partially complementary to a second nucleic acid complexed with a particle set of the array, a first protein which specifically hybridizes to one or more component with a particle set of the array, a first antibody which specifically hybridizes to one or more component with a particle set of the array, a hybridization buffer, a blocking reagent, and a labeled probe nucleic acid. The methods optionally comprise flowing liquid reagents into contact with one or more array member and detecting the resulting hybridization of the liquid reagent to the array member.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the microarrays of the invention are used for sequencing nucleic acids. The devices of the invention optionally include reagents (which may be part of the array or flowed into contact with the array, e.g. in a reagent train) for performing a biological or chemical assay. The liquid reagent or array can include a nucleic acid sequencing reagent such as a liquid solution comprising a nucleotide, a liquid solution comprising a polymerase, a liquid solution comprising a dNTP, a ddNTP, a dNTP analog, or a fluorescent dNTP, a liquid solution comprising a sufurylase, a liquid solution comprising an apyrase, a liquid solution comprising inorganic phosphate, a liquid solution comprising ATP, a liquid solution comprising a thermostable polymerase, a liquid solution comprising an endonuclease, a liquid solution comprising an exonuclease, a liquid solution comprising a phosphatase, a liquid solution comprising an intercalator, a liquid solution comprising a reducing agent, a liquid solution comprising Mg++, a liquid solution comprising a molecular crowding agent, e.g., PEG, a liquid solution comprising a buffer, a liquid solution comprising a salt, a salt, DTT, BSA, a detergent (e.g., triton or tween), chemicals to inhibit or enhance electroosmotic flow (e.g., polyacrylamide) or the like.
Standard Chain Termination Sequencing
Most DNA sequencing today is still carried out by chain termination methods of DNA sequencing. The most popular chain termination methods of DNA sequencing are variants of the dideoxynucleotide mediated chain termination method of Sanger. See, Sanger et al. (1977) Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., USA 74:5463-5467. For a simple introduction to dideoxy sequencing, see, Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, F. M. Ausubel et al., eds., Current Protocols, a joint venture between Greene Publishing Associates, Inc. and John Wiley & Sons, Inc., (Supplement 38, current through 1998) (Ausubel), Chapter 7. Thousands of laboratories employ dideoxynucleotide chain termination techniques. Commercial kits containing the reagents most typically used for these methods of DNA sequencing are available and widely used. These methods of DNA sequencing are adaptable to the arrays of the invention. In particular, array members can comprise e.g., template nucleic acids, e.g., chemically coupled or hybridized to particle surfaces. Reagent trains comprising sequencing reagents are passed across the template nucleic acids (e.g., using electrophoresis, or electroosmotic or pressure-based reagent flow) where they contact the templates. Reaction products can be analyzed directly, or following dissociation and electrophoresis within the microfluidic system.
In addition to the Sanger methods of chain termination, new PCR exonuclease digestion methods have also been developed for DNA sequencing. Direct sequencing of PCR generated amplicons by selectively incorporating boronated nuclease resistant nucleotides into the amplicons during PCR and digestion of the amplicons with a nuclease to produce sized template fragments has been performed (Porter et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Research 25(8):1611-1617). In the methods, 4 PCR reactions on a template are performed, in each of which one of the nucleotide triphosphates in the PCR reaction mixture is partially substituted with a 2′deoxynucleoside 5′-α[P-borano]-triphosphate. The boronated nucleotide is stochastically incorporated into PCR products at varying positions along the PCR amplicon in a nested set of PCR fragments of the template. An exonuclease which is blocked by incorporated boronated nucleotides is used to cleave the PCR amplicons. The cleaved amplicons are then separated by size using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, providing the sequence of the amplicon. An advantage of this method is that it requires fewer biochemical manipulations than performing standard Sanger-style sequencing of PCR amplicons. These methods are similarly adaptable to the arrays and microfluidic systems of the invention. In particular, PCR can be performed by heating and cooling all or part of a microfluidic system.
It is expected that one of skill is familiar with fundamental sequencing methodologies applicable to the present invention. Examples of techniques for making and sequencing nucleic acids, and instructions sufficient to direct persons of skill through most standard cloning and other template preparation exercises are found in Berger and Kimmel, Guide to Molecular Cloning Techniques, Methods in Enzymology volume 152 Academic Press, Inc., San Diego, Calif. (Berger); Sambrook et al. (1989) Molecular Cloning—A Laboratory Manual (2nd ed.) Vol. 1-3, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Press, NY, (Sambrook); and Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, F. M. Ausubel et al., eds., Current Protocols, a joint venture between Greene Publishing Associates, Inc. and John Wiley & Sons, Inc., (1997, supplement 37) (Ausubel). Basic procedures for cloning and other aspects of molecular biology and underlying theoretical considerations are also found in Lewin (1995) Genes V Oxford University Press Inc., NY (Lewin); and Watson et al. (1992) Recombinant DNA Second Edition Scientific American Books, NY. Product information from manufacturers of biological reagents and experimental equipment also provide information useful in known biological methods. Such manufacturers include the Sigma Chemical Company (Saint Louis, Mo.); New England Biolabs (Beverly, Mass.); R&D systems (Minneapolis, Minn.); Pharmacia LKB Biotechnology (Piscataway, N.J.); CLONTECH Laboratories, Inc. (Palo Alto, Calif.); ChemGenes Corp., (Waltham Mass.) Aldrich Chemical Company (Milwaukee, Wis.); Glen Research, Inc. (Sterling, Va.); GIBCO BRL Life Technologies, Inc. (Gaithersberg, Md.); Fluka Chemica-Biochemika Analytika (Fluka Chemie AG, Buchs, Switzerland); Invitrogen (San Diego, Calif.); Perkin Elmer (Foster City, Calif.); and Strategene; as well as many other commercial sources known to one of skill.
In one aspect, the generation of large nucleic acids is useful in practicing the invention, e.g., as templates fixed to array members, e.g., for sequencing long regions of nucleic acids, or for monitoring expression products by hybridization of biological materials to the fixed templates. It will be appreciated that such templates are particularly useful in some aspects where the methods and devices of the invention are used to sequence large regions of DNA, e.g., for genomics types of applications. An introduction to large clones such as YACs, BACs, PACs and MACs as artificial chromosomes is provided by Monaco and Larin (1994) Trends Biotechnol 12 (7): 280-286.
The construction of nucleic acid libraries of template nucleic acids is described in the above references. YACs and YAC libraries are further described in Burke et al. (1987) Science 236:806-812. Gridded libraries of YACs are described in Anand et al. (1989) Nucleic Acids Res. 17, 3425-3433, and Anand et al. (1990) Nucleic Acids Res. Riley (1990) 18:1951-1956 Nucleic Acids Res. 18(10): 2887-2890 and the references therein describe cloning of YACs and the use of vectorettes in conjunction with YACs. See also, Ausubel, chapter 13. Cosmid cloning is also well known. See, e.g., Ausubel, chapter 1.10.11 (supplement 13) and the references therein. See also, Ish-Horowitz and Burke (1981) Nucleic Acids Res. 9:2989-2998; Murray (1983) Phage Lambda and Molecular Cloning in Lambda II (Hendrix et al., eds) 395-432 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, NY; Frischauf et al. (1983) J.Mol. Biol. 170:827-842; and, Dunn and Blattner (1987) Nucleic Acids Res. 15:2677-2698, and the references cited therein. Construction of BAC and P1 libraries is well known; see, e.g., Ashworth et al. (1995) Anal Biochem 224 (2): 564-571; Wang et al. (1994) Genomics 24(3): 527-534; Kim et al. (1994) Genomics 22(2): 336-9; Rouquier et al. (1994) Anal Biochem 217(2): 205-9; Shizuya et al. (1992) Proc NatI Acad Sci U S A 89(18): 8794-7; Kim et al. (1994) Genomics 22 (2): 336-9; Woo et al. (1994) Nucleic Acids Res 22(23): 4922-31; Wang et al. (1995) Plant (3): 525-33; Cai (1995) Geno 29 (2): 413-25; Schmitt et al. (1996) Genomics 1996 33(1): 9-20; Kim et al. (1996) Genomics 34(2): 213-8; Kim et al. (1996) Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A (13): 6297-301; Pusch et al. (1996) Gene 183(1-2): 29-33; and, Wang et al. (1996) Genome Res 6(7): 612-9.
In general, where the desired goal of a sequencing project is the sequencing of a genome or expression profile of an organism, a library of the organism's cDNA or genomic DNA is made according to standard procedures described, e.g., in the references above. Individual clones are isolated and sequenced, and overlapping sequence information is ordered to provide the sequence of the organism. See also, Tomb et al. (1997) Nature 539-547 describing the whole genome random sequencing and assembly of the complete genomic sequence of Helicobacter pylori; Fleischmann et al. (1995) Science 269:496-512 describing whole genome random sequencing and assembly of the complete Haemophilus influenzae genome; Fraser et al. (1995) Science 270:397-403 describing whole genome random sequencing and assembly of the complete Mycoplasma genitalium genome and Bult et al. (1996) Science 273:1058-1073 describing whole genome random sequencing and assembly of the complete Methanococcus jannaschii genome.
Recently, Hagiwara and Curtis (1996) Nucleic Acids Research 24(12):2460-2461 developed a “long distance sequencer” PCR protocol for generating overlapping nucleic acids from very large clones to facilitate sequencing, and methods of amplifying and tagging the overlapping nucleic acids into suitable sequencing templates. The methods can be used in conjunction with shotgun sequencing techniques to improve the efficiency of shotgun methods typically used in whole organism sequencing projects. As applied to the present invention, the techniques are useful for identifying and sequencing genomic nucleic acids using the arrays of the present invention. In particular, one or more component of the PCR reactions, YACs, vectorettes, or the like used in the long distance sequencer method are fixed to an array, and the array performed in a microfluidic system by flowing other components of the long distance sequencer method into contact with the fixed component on the array. This method particularly benefits from the use of arrays due to the need to organize several reactions simultaneously for the long distance sequencer method. Products can be assayed in parallel or sequentially, facilitating the selection of subsequent reaction components.
Sequencing by Incorporation/Synthesis
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides for sequencing by synthesis or incorporation. A number of basic sequencing by incorporation methods are known, e.g., as set forth in Hyman U.S. Pat No. 4,971,903; Malemede U.S. Pat No. 4,863,849; Cheeseman U.S. Pat No. 5,302,509, and Canard U.S. Pat No. 5,798,210. Generally, any detectable event associated with incorporation of a nucleotide can be used to monitor sequencing reactions. In sequencing by incorporation methods, incorporation of nucleotide reagents into nucleic acids (typically by a using a polymerase to extend a primer hybridized to a complementary template nucleic acid) is monitored to provide an indication of the sequence of a template nucleic acid. This can be performed by selectively adding reagents comprising labels such as bases comprising fluorescent moieties, e.g., four detectably different fluorescent moieties, to e.g., a member of an array set and monitoring incorporation of the label into the nucleic acid.
A variety of nucleotides which have fluorescent labels can be added in a base specific fashion by a polymerase. For example, Hawkins et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,525,711 describe pteridine nucleotide analogs for use in fluorescent DNA probes. These analogs can be incorporated by, e.g., Taq polymerase, sequenase, DNA polymerase Klenow fragment, or the like.
In both sequencing methodologies and elsewhere herein, it will be recognized that fluorescent labels are not to be limited to single species organic molecules, but include inorganic molecules, multi-molecular mixtures of organic and/or inorganic molecules, crystals, heteropolymers, and the like. Thus, for example, CdSe-CdS core-shell nanocrystals enclosed in a silica shell can be easily derivitized for coupling to a biological molecule (Bruchez et al. (1998) Science, 281: 2013-2016). Similarly, highly fluorescent quantum dots (e.g., zinc sulfide-capped cadmium selenide) have been covalently coupled to biomolecules for use in ultrasensitive biological detection (Warren and Nie (1998) Science, 281: 2016-2018). The use of quantum dots as labels in the present invention is particularly useful, both in direct sequencing application and more generally as a labeling methodology for any system set forth herein.
In certain aspects, it is useful to reduce the fluorescence of labeled nucleic acids before adding additional labels to the nucleic acids, e.g., to reduce background fluorescence between cycles of label addition. This can be accomplished, e.g., by interspersing cycles of photobleaching between labeling steps to reduce fluorescence of previously labeled components. For example, nucleic acid template molecules are optionally attached to the surface of a microfluidic channel or to an array member, e.g., a bead or set of beads. A primer is bound to the template, e.g., by flowing the primer across the nucleic acid template. Other sequencing reagents, e.g., a polymerase and a series of nucleotides are flowed across the template, e.g., incorporating a nucleotide. For example, a solution comprising at least one of the four standard nucleotides, at least a portion of which nucleotides are labeled nucleotides, is flowed across the template. The channel is then washed, removing any unincorporated nucleotides. If a nucleotide was incorporated, a fluorescence signal associated with the incorporated nucleotide is detected, thus determining the identity of the added nucleotide and providing a portion of the sequence. The template nucleic acid is then photobleached to reduce the background level of fluorescence before repeating the procedure with another nucleotide.
In one preferred sequencing by incorporation method, label is produced indirectly, i.e., incorporation of nucleotide reagents is measured by production of a detectable label in a coupled signal reaction, e.g., when sequencing by pyrophosphate methods.
Polymerase reactions sometimes show incorporation of non-complementary bases at a low frequency, particularly when the bases are present in excess, or when complementary bases are not present. In one aspect, non-incorporatable nucleotides (e.g., analogues which lack moieties which provide for coupling to the phosphate backbone) are added to increase the fidelity of a polymerase reaction, by competing with the non-complementary bases. In addition, the non-incorporatable nucleotides reduce polymerase processivity, which is desirable, e.g., in reactions where a complementary residue is not present in the reaction mixture.
In one aspect, chain termination is reversible. See also, Cheeseman U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,509 and Canard U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,210. In one method of sequencing by synthesis, a “reversible” label is used. In particular, a terminating base comprising a label is added by a polymerase as in standard chain termination methods. The label is cleavable, e.g., by photolysis, or by exposure to heat or to one or more chemicals, e.g., a reducing agent and/or a phosphatase. Base-specific incorporation of the label is first detected and then the label is cleaved and washed from the array. Alternatively, the label; is cleaved, washed from the array and then detected. The array is then exposed to nucleotides comprising a label and the process is repeated. Sequence information is provided by assessing which nucleotides comprising a label are incorporated and compiling the information. The typical four nucleotides are optionally added in series or they are all added together in one solution. In the latter case, the four nucleotides each have a detectably different label, which is used to identify the nucleotide incorporated.
Examples of reversible chain terminating nucleotides include, but are not limited to, nucleotides with 3′-phosphate blocking groups, e.g., comprising a disulfide, and nucleotides with 3′-carbamate blocking groups. Example of such compounds include, but are not limited to compounds having the following formulas:
wherein B comprises a nitrogenous base and R4 typically comprises a label moiety, e.g., a fluorescent label moiety. These nucleotides are added to a growing nucleotide chain by a polymerase, e.g., taq polymerase, and then the blocking group is removed to provide a 3′—OH group, to which another nucleotide is optionally added as sequencing continues.
Removal of the phosphate blocking group comprises reducing the disulfide linkage with a suitable reducing agent, e.g., including, diborane and other boron-containing reductants, dithiothreitol, and enzymes such as reductases specific for the disulfide group. The cleavage of the disulfide results in a molecule having the following formula:
which is typically unstable and spontaneously degrades, e.g., through nucleophilic attack, providing a 3′-phosphate group. The phosphate group is then cleaved, e.g., using an alkaline phosphatase. Cleavage of the 3′-phosphate group leaves an extendable 3′—OH group.
Removal of the carbamate typically comprises reduction of the carbamate linkage, thus producing an unblocked 3′—OH group, which is optionally extended, e.g., by addition of another dNTP.
Ribonucleic acid base monomers comprising removable labels having a disulfide linker group at the 3′-hydroxyl group are optionally prepared by normal solid or solution phase phosphoramidite chemistry, optionally in a microfluidic system. As the 3′-hydroxyl is effectively blocked by the conjugated linker arm, these monomers can then be used as a terminating residue in standard dideoxy chain termination, or can be used as reversible terminators in sequencing by synthesis protocols as noted above. The free hydroxy terminus of the linker arm is preferably derivitized with a detectable label such as a fluorescent or chemiluminescent dye or a radioactive isotope. Methods for preparing linker arms that can be incorporated into monomers or nucleic acid oligomers are discussed below in the context of nucleic acid oligomers. It is, however, understood that this is by way of example. One of skill will recognize that a linker that is appropriate for incorporation into a nucleic acid oligomer synthesis is also optionally utilized to derivatize a nucleic acid monomer.
At least two methods can be utilized to prepare nucleic acids with a disulfide linker having a detectable moiety at one terminus of the linker. In the first method, the disulfide moiety, preferably supplied by an agent such as 2-hydroxyethyl disulfide is mono-functionalized at one hydroxy terminus with a detectable group. The remaining hydroxy group is converted to a phosphoramidite. This linker arm-detectable agent conjugate can then be incorporated into a normal nucleic acid synthetic cycle.
A second method, exemplified below, allows a trityl protected linker to be tethered to a growing nucleic acid chain. The trityl group is subsequently removed in a normal nucleic acid deprotection cycle and the liberated hydroxy group is conjugated to another base or to a detectable moiety.
Synthesis of Monotrityl-2-hydroxyethyl disulfide (2)
2-hydroxyethyl disulfide (1, Aldrich Chemical Co.) is monotritylated by the action of tritychloride and a base such as triethylamine. The reaction is weighted towards production of the monotrityl derivative by using a substantial stoichiometric excess (3-5 fold) of 2-hydroxyethyl disulfide relative to tritylchloride. The reaction is typically carried out in ethyl acetate of a chlorinated hydrocarbon at room temperature. The monotritylated product will exhibit markedly different chromatographic behavior than both unreacted tritylchloride and the ditritylated derivative. Thus, the monotritylated derivative can be easily purified by, for example, silica gel chromatography, optionally in a microfluidic system.
Synthesis of Monotrityl-2-hydroxyethyl Disulfide-2-cyanoethyldiisopropyl-phosphoramidite (3)
The purified monotrityl 2-hydroxyethyl disulfide is converted to a phosphoramidite appropriate for inclusion into solid phase nucleic acid synthesis as follows. The montrityl compound is contacted with 2-cyanoethyldiisopropylchlorophosphoramidite in the presence of an organic base such as diisopropylethylamine. As the reaction proceeds, amine hydorchloride is produced and precipitates from the reaction medium. When the reaction is complete, the solid is removed by filtration and the organic layer is washed with water at approximately neutral pH. The solvent is removed by evaporation and the crude product is purified by silica gel chromatography to provide the desired product.
In one embodiment, the phosphoramidite derivative is brought into solution in, for example, acetonitrile and placed into a reactant vessel on an art-recognized nucleic acid synthesis apparatus. The disulfide linker arm is added to the growing chain at any desired point in the synthesis. The use of the phosphoramidite derivative allows the disulfide linker to be added in a manner identical to any other nucleic acid base phosphoramidite. Following the addition of the disulfide linker, the trityl group is removed using a standard deprotection cycle and, if desired, chain elongation can then proceed.
In any of the embodiments herein which comprise fixation of targets to array members, the targets can be related (e.g., sequence fragments of a single clone) or unrelated. In embodiments where the sequences are related, the system optionally includes a microprocessor for compiling overlapping sequence information.
Direct Sequencing—Real Time Pyrophosphate
One recent approach to sequencing by synthesis is set forth in Ronaghi et al. (1998) “A Sequencing Method Based on Real Time Pyrophosphate” Science 281:363-364 (See also, Nyren and Uhlen (1996) Anal. Biochem. 242:84-89 and (1993) 208:171-175 and Canard U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,509). In this method, four nucleotides are added stepwise to a template nucleic acid hybridized to a primer. In the applications of the present invention, templates are optionally fixed to.one or more particle members of the arrays. A polymerase adds a nucleotide to the primer based upon standard base-pairing rules and standard polymerase activity. The addition of a nucleotide to the primer results in the release of an inorganic pyrophosphate from the nucleotide. An ATP sulfurylase enzyme is used to convert the inorganic pyrophosphate into ATP or an ATP analogue (e.g., comprising a sulfur atom). A luciferase enzyme releases light in the presence of the ATP, providing an indication as to when a nucleotide is added to the primer. To remove excess ATP from the system, an apyrase is added to degrade the ATP into AMP+2PPi between dNTP addition cycles. The apyrase also degrades any nucleotide from the system which is not added to the primer. Any or all of these reagents can be present in a reagent train which passes over particle members comprising template, or, alternatively can be themselves fixed to array members, where a reagent train comprising the template is passed across the array members. As described above, chemistries for fixing either nucleic acids or proteins (or both) to any of a variety of array members is well known. Optionally, the dATP for incorporation into growing nucleic acids is α-thio dATP which can be incorporated by polymerase, but not by luciferase, thus reducing background signal production in the assay.
Indeed, one advantage of the present invention is that it makes the reaction outlined by Ronaghi et al. much more practical. In the Ronaghi et al. reference, due to the use of relatively crude enzyme fractions and fluidic inefficiencies, signal to noise ratios gradually decreased as the reaction proceeded (due in part to incomplete washing of reactants and products between steps), making it difficult to read longer nucleic acid templates. In contrast, using the present invention, it is possible to isolate completely the relevant reagents, and to wash them from the templates using microfluidic fluid movement.
One additional aspect of the present invention is a new pyrophosphate sequencing reaction. In this new sequencing reaction, PPi is converted to a thio analogue form of ATP with a sulfurylase. The ATP is combined with glucose and converted to glucose-6-phosphate+NADP and ADP. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is used to produce NADPH+6 phosphoglutamate. The ADP is converted into ATP by addition of phosphoenoyl pyruvate (PEP) and a phosphokinase enzyme. ATP formation can be monitored with luciferase. Preferably, NADPH formation can be monitored by monitoring fluorescence. In essence, as long as PEP is present in the reaction, this set of reactions provides a signal amplification cycle by producing additional ATPs. This is helpful in luciferase mediated signals, because luciferase produces a relatively low level of detectable signal, e.g., as compared to fluorescence.
Maxam Gilbert Sequencing
In addition to chain termination and coupled enzymatic methods, chemical nucleic acid degradation methods have been in use for specialized applications; see, Maxam and Gilbert (1980) in Grossman and Moldave (eds.) Academic Press, New York, Methods in Enzymology 65:499-560. As with the sequencing methodologies noted above, the Maxam Gilbert method is entirely amenable to use with the arrays of the invention. In particular, the template can be fixed to an array (covalently or non-covalently) and selectively degraded by the Maxam Gilbert degradation method. Reaction products can be viewed concurrent with degradation, or following degradation (i.e., downstream of the reaction). Indeed, one advantage of the present invention over standard Maxam Gilbert methods is that extremely small quantities of reagent can be used. One of skill will appreciate that some of the reagents in the Maxam Gilbert method are highly toxic and/or explosive, making working with large quantities of these reagents (i.e., as in standard methods) somewhat problematic.
Sequencing by Hybridization
Sequencing by hybridization to complementary oligonucleotides has also been developed e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,202,231, to Drmanac et al.; Drnanac et al. (1989) Genomics 4:114-128 and, e.g., Drmanac et al. (1998) “Accurate sequencing by hybridization for DNA diagnostics and individual genomics” Nature Biotechnology 16: 54-58. Methods of detecting genetic differences by hybridization are described e.g., in Fodor (1997) “Genes, Chips and the Human Genome” FASEB Journal. 11: 121-121; Fodor (1997) “Massively Parallel Genomics” Science. 277:393-395; Chee et al. (1996) “Accessing Genetic Information with High-Density DNA Arrays” Science 274:610-614, and in a variety of other publications.
The arrays of the present invention are particularly well suited to sequencing and/or detection of differences at the nucleic acid level, by hybridization methods. In particular, either probe or target nucleic acids (or both in multiplexed assays) are fixed to array members. Either probes, or target members, or both, are flowed sequentially, simultaneously or in parallel into contact. Typically, either the probe or target member are labeled to facilitate detection of any hybridization event. Alternatively, nucleic acids can simply be hybridized to and denatured from the array, with detection occurring downstream from the hybridization event (e.g., where the detection and hybridization are timed to provide meaningful information regarding the hybridization). Downstream detection can be performed with a labeled probe (which is optionally a component of the array, or of a second fluidly connected array), or by simple detection of the physical presence of the nucleic acid (e.g., detection downstream can be performed by mass spectroscopy).
It is expected that one of skill is thoroughly familiar with the theory and practice of nucleic acid hybridization and probe selection. Gait, ed. Oligonucleotide Synthesis: A Practical Approach, IRL Press, Oxford (1984); W. H. A. Kuijpers Nucleic Acids Research 18(17), 5197 (1994); K. L. Dueholm J. Org. Chem. 59, 5767-5773 (1994); S. Agrawal (ed.) Methods in Molecular Biology, volume 20; and Tijssen (1993) Laboratory Techniques in biochemistry and molecular biology—hybridization with nucleic acid probes, e.g., part I chapter 2 “overview of principles of hybridization and the strategy of nucleic acid probe assays”, Elsevier, N.Y. provide a basic guide to nucleic acid hybridization. Hybridization of nucleic acids to nucleic acids fixed to solid substrates is described, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,202,231, to Drmanac et al.; Drmanac et al. (1989) Genomics 4:114-128 and, e.g., Drmanac et al. (1998) “Accurate sequencing by hybridization for DNA diagnostics and individual genomics” Nature Biotechnology 16: 54-58. Methods of detecting genetic differences by hybridization are described e.g., in Fodor (1997) “Genes, Chips and the Human Genome” FASEB Journal. 11:121-121; Fodor (1997) “Massively Parallel Genomics” Science. 277:393-395; Chee et al. (1996) “Accessing Genetic Information with High-Density DNA Arrays” Science 274:610-614.
These methods of sequencing and assessing genetic difference are adapted to the arrays of the invention by performing hybridization assays in a microfluidic format. In particular, nucleic acids (e.g. either probes or targets) are fixed to an array member e.g., by covalent synthesis strategies as noted supra (e.g. by light directed synthesis and photomasking procedures), or by hybridization to a molecule which captures the nucleic acid, such as a complementary nucleic acid, or antibody specific for DNA or RNA. In addition to the references noted above regarding nucleic acid hybridization, antibodies to, e.g., DNA, RNA and DNA-RNA duplexes are known, as are immunological methods of screening for (and differentiating between) DNA, RNA and RNA-DNA. For example, Coutlee et al. (1989) Analytical Biochemistry 181:153-162 describe non-isotopic detection of RNA in an enzyme immunoassay using a monoclonal antibody which binds DNA:RNA hybrids. In these assays, hybridization of an RNA target with a biotinylated DNA probe is performed, followed by incubation of the hybridized target-probe duplex on an anti-biotin plate, reaction of the resulting bound duplex with a beta-galactosidase labeled monoclonal antibody specific for RNA-DNA hybrids, and addition of a fluorescent substrate. In another example, a “sandwich” hybridization method is described for non-isotopic detection of e.g., RNA using oligonucleotides (Ishii & Ghosh (1993) Bioconjugate Chem. 4:34-41). In these assays, the RNA target is hybridized to a first complementary oligonucleotide, which is linked to a bead. The RNA target is then hybridized to a second complementary oligonucleotide conjugated to alkaline phosphatase. The RNA target is detected by providing a chemiluminescent alkaline phosphatase substrate. These methods are readily adapted to the present invention, e.g., by providing arrays of such beads in a microfluidic format, as well as downstream, sequential, or simultaneous detection of the alkaline phosphatase reaction.
For example, in one aspect, targets for sequencing are fixed to particles (for example, unsequenced clones can be fixed to particle sets, or specific fragments of such clones can be fixed to particular particle sets. The particle sets are then flowed into e.g., selected portions of a particle retention region. Small labeled probes (e.g., 6-15 mers, typically 6-12 mers) are then flowed into contact with the fixed targets for sequencing under selected hybridization conditions (typically stringent hybridization conditions), and the arrays are monitored for specific binding by the probes. The probes are then washed free of the targets and the process repeated with at least one additional probe. Specific sequences are generated by compiling the sequences of probes bound to the targets. Examples of devices for storing and accessing large sets of small probes in conjunction with a microfluidic system are described, e.g., in “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” WO 98/45481.
Other investigators have also reported immunological detection of DNA:RNA hybrids, including Bogulavski et al. (1986) J. Immunol. Methods 89:123-130; Prooijen-Knegt (1982) Exp. Cell Res. 141:397-407; Rudkin (1976) Nature 265:472-473, and Stollar (1970) PNAS 65:993-1000. Similarly, detection of DNA:DNA hybrids and RNA:RNA hybrids has also been described. See, Ballard (1982) Mol. Immunol. 19:793-799; Pisetsky and Caster (1982) Mol. Immunol. 19:645-650, and Stollar (1970) PNAS 65:993-1000. These methods are similarly adapted to the present invention by fixing one or more component of the assay to one or more array members, flowing other components of the assay into contact with the one or more array members and detecting any resulting signal.
An alternative sequencing method useful in the present invention, e.g., using particle arrays and microfluidic devices, involves the use of an intercalator. A template is sequenced in the presence of an intercalator, e.g., an intercalating nucleic acid dye. Nucleotides are flowed across the template or the template is flowed across a nucleotide solution as described above. Upon addition of a nucleotide to the primer, the intercalator, e.g., a fluorescent or chemiluminescent intercalator, intercalates into the new double stranded region produced by the addition of a nucleotide to the primer. The intercalator is then detected, e.g., by an increase in signal, i.e., a fluorescent signal. The signal is optionally photobleached after detection, as described above, to decrease the background signal before addition of more nucleotides.
The above sequencing methods are optionally performed using the microfluidic devices and particle arrays of the invention to provide, e.g., a high throughput system of sequencing. A schematic of such a system is provided in FIG. 17. FIG. 17 shows three 384-well microtiter plates, plates 1705, 1710, and 1715. Each well contains a set of particles comprising a nucleic acid template. Therefore, the system shown optionally comprises 1152 different nucleic acid templates that are optionally sequenced in a high throughput manner. Additional microwell plates and channels are optionally used to provide a greater number of templates. A plate of blank particle sets is also optionally included, e.g., plate 1720. The particle sets are loaded into a set of capillaries or channels as shown by capillary set 1725. For example, 96 particle sets are optionally loaded into each of 12 channels using 12 sipper capillaries or one sipper capillary fluidly coupled to each of the 12 channels. The particle sets are typically retained in the capillary or microchannel by a porous particle retention element, e.g., a sintered glass frit, a set of epoxy coated particles, or the like. Alternative particle retention devices are described above, e.g., narrowed channel dimensions. The particle retention element fixes or retains the particle sets, e.g., particle sets comprising nucleic acid templates, in the channel. The particle sets, e.g., templates, are then optionally exposed to a series or train of reagents. The reagents are typically added through each capillary, e.g., from another set of microwell plates, to perform various assays, e.g., sequencing. A single controller, e.g., controller 1730 is optionally used to control fluid flow through the sipper and channels. One or more detector is used to monitor the particle packets in the channels as various nucleotides are added. Alternatively, detectors are positioned downstream of the channels to monitor the waste products, e.g., to detect a fluorescent label that has since been washed from the channels. For example detection optionally occurs in detection region 1735. Using a system such as that shown in FIG. 17, one particle set is optionally loaded in about one minute. Therefore 96 templates are optionally analyzed, e.g., sequenced, in 1.6 hours. Alternatively, particles with different chemistries are arrayed sequentially in a single capillary and a template is flowed across the array, e.g., for sequencing.
In addition to sequencing by hybridization, essentially similar methods can be used for determination of genetic difference, assays for determining nucleic acid melting points, and the like. Additional details on these procedures are found herein.
In addition to its applicability to sequencing, PCR is desirably practiced using the arrays of the invention. In particular, PCR templates and/or reagents (e.g., a thermostable polymerase) can be fixed to particles, as described herein and using techniques available in the art. Reagents and/or templates can be passed over arrays, where PCR is performed. This format is especially useful where several PCR products are to be screened simultaneously (or sequentially). A variety of such PCR assays, e.g., for diagnostic applications (e.g., detection of viruses such as HIV, HBV, HCV, etc., detection of infectious organisms (bacteria, parasites, etc.), detection of genetic abnormalities (genetic diseases, cancer, etc.), as well as for research applications (e.g., screening of drugs, drug targets, genes effected in vivo or in vitro by drugs or potential drugs, results of forced evolution methods) as well as many others are well known in the literature and adaptable to the present invention.
Examples of techniques sufficient to direct persons of skill through in vitro amplification methods, including the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) the ligase chain reaction (LCR), Q-replicase amplification and other RNA polymerase mediated techniques (e.g., NASBA) are found in Berger, Sambrook, and Ausubel, as well as Mullis et al., (1987) U.S. Pat. No. 4,683,202; PCR Protocols A Guide to Methods and Applications (Innis et al. eds) Academic Press Inc. San Diego, Calif. (1990) (Innis); Arnheim & Levinson (Oct. 1, 1990) C&EN 36-47; The Journal Of NIH Research (1991) 3, 81-94; (Kwoh et al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86, 1173; Guatelli et al. (1990) Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. USA 87, 1874; Lomell et al. (1989) J. Clin. Chem 35, 1826; Landegren et al., (1988) Science 241, 1077-1080; Van Brunt (1990) Biotechnology 8, 291-294; Wu and Wallace, (1989) Gene 4, 560; Barringer et al. (1990) Gene 89, 117, and Sooknanan and Malek (1995) Biotechnology 13: 563-564. Improved methods of cloning in vitro amplified nucleic acids are described in Wallace et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,426,039. Improved methods of amplifying large nucleic acids by PCR are summarized in Cheng et al. (1994) Nature 369: 684-685 and the references therein, in which PCR amplicons of up to 40kb are generated. One of skill will appreciate that essentially any RNA can be converted into a double stranded DNA suitable for restriction digestion, PCR expansion and sequencing using reverse transcriptase and a polymerase. See, Ausubel, Sambrook and Berger, all supra.
It will be appreciated that these benchtop uses for PCR are adaptable to microfluidic systems. Indeed, PCR amplification is particularly well suited to use in the apparatus, methods and systems of the invention.
Thermocycling amplification methods, including PCR and LCR, are conveniently performed in microscale devices, making iterative fluidic operations involving PCR well suited to use in methods and devices of the present invention (see also, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,498,392 and 5,587,128 to Willingham et al.).
Thermocycling for PCR and other thermocyclic applications (e.g., the ligase chain reaction, or LCR) can be conducted in microfluidic systems in at least two ways. First, a heat source (external or internal) can be used to thermocycle all or part of a device, thereby heating and cooling the array within the microfluidic system. In a second approach, joule heating is used. Thermocycling in microscale devices, e.g., using joule heating, is described in co-pending application Ser. No. 08/977,528, filed Nov. 25, 1997. In brief, energy is provided to heat fluids, e.g., samples, analytes, buffers and reagents, in desired locations of the substrates in an efficient manner by application of electric current to fluids in microchannels. Thus, the present invention optionally uses power sources that pass electrical current through the fluid in a channel for heating purposes, as well as for material transport. In exemplary embodiments, the fluid passes through a channel of a desired cross-section (e.g., diameter) to enhance thermal transfer of energy from the current to the fluid. The channels can be formed on almost any type of substrate material such as, for example, amorphous materials (e.g., glass, plastic, silicon), composites, multi-layered materials, combinations thereof, and the like. In general, electric current passing through the fluid in a channel produces heat by dissipating energy through the electrical resistance of the fluid. Power dissipates as the current passes through the fluid and goes into the fluid as energy as a function of time to heat the fluid. The following mathematical expression generally describes a relationship between power, electrical current, and fluid resistance, i.e., POWER=12R where POWER =power dissipated in fluid; I=electric current passing through fluid; and R=electric resistance of fluid.
The above equation provides a relationship between power dissipated (“POWER”) to current (“I”) and resistance (“R”). In some of the embodiments, which are directed toward moving fluid in channels, e.g., to provide mixing, electrophoretic separation, or the like, a portion of the power goes into kinetic energy of moving the fluid through the channel. However, it is also possible to use a selected portion of the power to controllably heat fluid in a channel or selected channel regions. A channel region suitable for heating is often narrower or smaller in cross-section than other channel regions in the channel structure, as a smaller cross-section provides higher resistance in the fluid, which increases the temperature of the fluid as electric current passes through. Alternatively, the electric current is increased across the length of the channel by increased voltage, which also increases the amount of power dissipated into the fluid to correspondingly increase fluid temperature.
The introduction of electrical current into fluid causes heat (Joule heating). In the examples of fluid movement herein where thermal effects are not desired, the heating effect is minimal because, at the small currents employed, heat is rapidly dissipated into the chip itself. By substantially increasing the current across the channel, rapid temperature changes are induced that can be monitored by conductivity. At the same time, the fluid can be kept static in the channel by using alternating instead of direct current. Because nanoliter volumes of fluid have tiny thermal mass, transitions between temperatures can be extremely short. Oscillations between any two temperatures above 0° C. and below 100° C. in 100 milliseconds have been performed. Additional applications of joule heating to sequencing methodologies is set forth in “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” (WO 98/45481).
Melting Point Analysis of Nucleic Acids
In an embodiment similar to sequencing by hybridization, the systems, devices arrays and methods of the present invention can be used to detect variations in nucleic acid sequences by determining the strength of the hybridization between the targeted nucleic acid and probes that are putative perfect complements to the target. By identifying the difference in stability between the imperfect and perfect hybrids under conditions of increasing hydrogen bond stress, one can identify those nucleic acids that contain a variation.
In practice, a microfluidic device is configured to accept a sample containing an amplified nucleic acid or polynucleotide sequence of interest, convert it to single-stranded form, facilitate hybridization with a nucleic acid probe, such as an oligonucleotide, and then subject the hybridization mixture to a chemical or temperature gradient that distinguishes between perfectly matched targets and those that differ by at least one base pair (mismatch). Either the probe or the template can be fixed to an array component. In some embodiments, one or more loci or targeted areas of the sample polynucleotide are first amplified by techniques such as PCR or sandwich hybridization. In other embodiments, unamplified polynucleotide is provided to the device and amplified therein.
Hybridization of the probe results in a perfect hybrid with no mismatches when the sample polynucleotide contains the complementary sequence, i.e., no variation, or in a hybrid with mismatches if the sample polynucleotide differs from the probe, i.e., contains a sequence variation. The stability of the imperfect hybrid differs from the perfect hybrid under conditions of increasing hydrogen bond stress. A variety of methods are available for subjecting the hybrids to increasing hydrogen bond stress, sufficient to distinguish between perfectly matched probe/target hybrids and imperfect matches. For example, the hybrids are optionally subjected to a temperature gradient, or alternatively, can be subjected to increasing concentrations of a chemical denaturant, e.g., formamide, urea, and the like, or increasing pH. By monitoring hybridization between one or more array component and one or more unknown nucleic acid, it is possible to determine percent sequence complementarity.
The assay is optionally repeated several times, varying the concentration of denaturant or temperature with each successive assay. By monitoring the level of hybridization, one can determine the concentration of denaturant at which the probe-target hybrid is denatured. This level is then compared to a standard curve, to determine whether one or more variations are present in the nucleic acid.
Other Sequencing Strategies
Other sequencing methods which reduce the number of steps necessary for template preparation and primer selection have been developed. One proposed variation on sequencing technology involves the use of modular primers for use in PCR and DNA sequencing. For example, Ulanovsky and co-workers have described the mechanism of the modular primer effect (Beskin et al. (1995) Nucleic Acids Research 23(15):2881-2885) in which short primers of 5-6 nucleotides can specifically prime a template-dependent polymerase enzyme for template dependent nucleic acid synthesis. A modified version of the use of the modular primer strategy, in which small nucleotide primers are specifically elongated for use in PCR to amplify and sequence template nucleic acids has also been described. The procedure is referred to as DNA sequencing using differential extension with nucleotide subsets (DENS). See, Raja et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Research 25(4):800-805. These modular primer strategies, for sequencing or PCR, are readily adapted to the present methods and arrays. For example, template or primer nucleic acids can be fixed, directly or indirectly, to the array members of the present invention. The corresponding template or primer is flowed into contact with the array member, along with any other components of the sequencing or PCR reaction (or other reaction, if appropriate) and the reaction performed under appropriate conditions to the reaction. Products are detected e.g., by washing the products from the array and detecting the products at a downstream detector.
In still another embodiment, binding of a protein to a target component such as a nucleic acid can be detected by the use of liquid crystals. Liquid crystals have been used, for example, to amplify and transduce receptor-mediated binding of proteins at surfaces into optical outputs. Spontaneously organized surfaces can be designed so that a protein, upon binding to a nucleic acid hosted on the surface of an array member herein, triggers changes in the orientations of 1- to 20-micrometer-thick films of supported liquid crystals, thus corresponding to a reorientation of ˜105 to 106 mesogens per protein. Binding-induced changes in the intensity of light transmitted through the liquid crystal are.easily seen with the naked eye and can be further amplified by using surfaces designed so that protein-nucleic acid binding causes twisted nematic liquid crystals to untwist (see, e.g., Gupta et al. (1998) Science, 279: 2077-2080). This approach to the detection of protein/nucleic acid interactions does not require labeling of the analyte, does not require the use of electroanalytical apparatus, provides a spatial resolution of micrometers, and is sufficiently simple that it is useful in biochemical assays and imaging of spatially resolved chemical libraries.
In one aspect of the present invention, diagnostic assays are provided. As discussed supra, assays can take the form of nucleic acid detection or sequencing assays which screen for the presence or absence or type of a nucleic acid. The presence or type of a nucleic acid in a biological sample is an indicator for the presence of, e.g., an infectious organism (e.g., virus, bacteria, fungal cell or the like) in the biological sample. Thus, detection of a nucleic acid provides an indication that, e.g., a patient is infected with such an infectious organism.
Similarly, the presence of certain mRNAs (e.g., mRNAs from oncogene products) and/or specific sequences in genomic DNA are correlated with a variety of disease states, including, e.g., cancer. Thus, any of the various assay formats described herein can be used for the detection of specific nucleic acids which correspond to particular disease states. Many such correlations are well established in the art.
Microfluidic devices are very efficient at capturing molecules in a fluid stream, e.g., in functionalized channels, or on particle sets within the channels. After capturing a particular molecule, e.g., a sample that is present only in small concentrations, the devices are used to detect the molecule, e.g., its presence or type. For example, a number of nucleic acids or cells are optionally flowed through a microfluidic device for capture, e.g., by a set of particles. Reagents that bind to a molecule of interest, e.g., by hybridization, are optionally flowed across the captured molecules and a molecule of interest is identified, e.g., by its binding specificity. This is especially useful when samples of low concentration are captured because the sample is optionally positioned in a defined location for further analysis or detection, e.g., by specific binding moieties.
In addition to screening for diseases, the arrays of the invention can also be used to select for the presence of desirable traits. For example, in agriculture, many correlations between desirable traits and particular genomic or RNA sequences are well established. For example, crops such as corn, soybean, cotton, potatoes, tomatoes, wheat, millet, and many others are routinely selected, in part, by selecting for the presence or absence of nucleic acids which are correlated with desirable traits such as yield, disease resistance, herbicide resistance, drought tolerance and the like.
One particularly useful aspect of array technology is the ability to profile expression of one or more expression products for one or more biological sample. By profiling expression of RNAs and/or proteins, it is possible to determine whether certain disease-related genes (e.g., oncogenes, infectious organisms, or the like) are expressed. In addition, it is possible to use expression profiles to determine combinatorial genetic and polygenetic effects on expression and to predict phenotypes resulting from polygentic effects. For example, where expression of several genes causes a phenotype, it is possible to monitor expression of these genes on the arrays of the invention. For example, polygenic effects often underlie disease or herbicide resistance in plants, pesticide resistance in insects, and disease states in animals (including humans).
A variety of sources of biological material can be profiled, including animal sources (including human, vertebrate, mammalian, insect, etc.) and plant sources (e.g., wild or domesticated plants, such as crop plants). The biological sources can be from tissues, cells, whole organisms, cell cultures, tissue cultures, or the like. A variety of profiling methods are adaptable to the present system, including hybridization of expressed or amplified nucleic acids to a nucleic acid array, hybridization of expressed polypeptides to a protein array, hybridization of peptides or nucleic acids to an antibody array, subtractive hybridization, differential display and others.
In one preferred embodiment, the expression products which are detected in the methods of the invention are RNAs, e.g., mRNAs expressed from genes within a cell derived from the biological source to be profiled. A number of techniques are available for detecting RNAs, which can be utilized or adapted to the arrays of the invention. For example, northern blot hybridization is widely used for RNA detection, and is generally taught in a variety of standard texts on molecular biology, including: Berger and Kimmel, Sambrook, Ausubel (all supra), etc. Furthermore, one of skill will appreciate that essentially any RNA can be converted into a double stranded DNA using a reverse transcriptase enzyme and a polymerase. See, Ausubel, Sambrook and Berger, id. Thus, detection of mRNAs can be performed by converting, e.g., mRNAs into DNAs, which are subsequently detected in, e.g., a “Southern blot” format.
Furthermore, DNAs can be amplified to aid in the detection of rare molecules by any of a number of well known techniques, including: the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the ligase chain reaction (LCR), Q -replicase amplification and other RNA polymerase mediated techniques (e.g., NASBA). Examples of these techniques are found in Berger, Sambrook, and Ausubel, id., as well as in those references noted supra regarding in vitro amplification. These amplification steps can be performed in the microfluidic system, or external to the microfluidic system.
Probes can be fixed to array members to create a probe array, and expression products (or in vitro amplified nucleic acids corresponding to expression products) can be labeled and hybridized with the array. For convenience, it may be helpful to use several arrays simultaneously (e.g., in the same or in separate microfluidic devices), or to use arrays of large or small numbers of members, depending on the number of expression products to be detected.
It will be appreciated that probe design is influenced by the intended application. For example, where several allele-specific probe-target interactions are to be detected in a single assay, e.g., on a single array, it can be desirable to have similar melting temperatures for all of the probes (or course this is not necessary, as joule or zone heating can be used to maintain different portions of an array at different temperatures). Accordingly, the length of the probes are optionally adjusted so that the melting temperatures for all of the probes on the array are closely similar (it will be appreciated that different lengths for different probes may be needed to achieve a particular Tm where different probes have different GC contents). Although melting temperature is a primary consideration in probe design, other factors are also optionally used to further adjust probe construction, such as elimination of self-complementarity in the probe (which can inhibit hybridization of a target nucleotide).
One way to compare expression products between two cell populations is to identify mRNA species which are differentially expressed between the cell populations (i.e., present at different abundances between the cell populations). In addition to the techniques noted above, another preferred method is to use subtractive hybridization (Lee et al. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.) 88:2825) or differential display employing arbitrary primer polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (Liang and Pardee (1992) Science 257:967). Each of these methods has been used by various investigators to identify differentially expressed mRNA species. See, Salesiotis et al.(1995) Cancer Lett. 91:47; Jiang et al. (1995) Oncogene: 10:1855; Blok et al. (1995) Prostate 26:213; Shinoura et al. (1995) Cancer Lett. 89:215; Murphy et al. (1993) Cell Growth Differ 4:715; Austruy et al: (1993) Cancer Res.53:2888; Zhang et al. (1993) Mol. Carcinog. 8:123; and Liang et al. (1992) Cancer Res. 52:6966). The methods have also been used to identify mRNA species which are induced or repressed, e.g., by drugs or certain nutrients (Fisicaro et al.(1995) Mol. Immunol. 32:565; Chapman et al. (1995) Mol. Cell. Endocrinol. 108:108; Douglass et al. (1995) J. Neurosci.15:2471; Aiello et al. (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.)91:6231; Ace et al. (1994) Endocrinology 134:1305.
For the technique of differential display, Liang and Pardee (1992), supra provide theoretical calculations for the selection of 5′ and 3′ arbitrary primers. Correlation of observed results to the theory is also provided. In practice, 5′ primers of less than about 9 nucleotides may not provide adequate specificity (slightly shorter primers of about 8 to nucleotides have been used in PCR methods for analysis of DNA polymorphisms. See also, Williams et al. (1991) Nucleic Acids Research 18, 6531). The primer(s) optionally comprise 5′-terminal sequences which serve to anchor other PCR primers (distal primers) and/or which comprise a restriction site or half-site or other ligatable end. Where a restriction site or amplification template for a second primer is incorporated, the primers are optionally longer than those described above by the length of the restriction site, or amplification template site. Standard restriction enzyme sites include 4 base sites, base sites, 6 base sites, 7 base sites, and 8 base sites. An amplification template site for a second primer can be of essentially any length, for example, the site can be about 15-25 nucleotides in length. Any of primers, templates, or other reactants (e.g., enzymes) can be fixed to array particle members.
The amplified products are optionally labeled and are typically resolved e.g., by electrophoresis on a polyacrylamide gel or other sieving matrix in the microfluidic system; the location(s) where label is present are recovered from the sieving matrix, typically by elution or electrokinetic methods. The resultant recovered product species can be subcloned into a replicable vector with or without attachment of linkers, amplified further, and/or detected, or even sequenced directly. As noted, direct sequencing of PCR generated amplicons by selectively incorporating boronated nuclease resistant nucleotides into the amplicons during PCR and digestion of the amplicons with a nuclease to produce sized template fragments has been performed (Porter et al.(1997) Nucleic Acids Research 25(8): 1611-1617) and is applicable to the present invention.
It is expected that one of skill can use, e.g., differential display for expression profiling. In addition, companies such as CuraGen Corp. (New Haven CT) provide robust expression profiling based upon differential display techniques. See, e.g., WO 97/15690 by Rothenberg et al., and these methods are readily adapted to a microfluidic format.
Expression Profiling of Proteins
In addition to nucleic acid formats, the arrays of the invention can easily be adapted to screening other biological components as well, including cells, antibodies, antibody ligands and the like. The presence or absence of such cells, antibodies and antibody ligands are also known to correlate with desirable or undesirable features. For example, one common assay for the detection of infectious organisms involves an ELISA assay or western blot to detect the presence of antibodies in a patient to a particular infectious agent (e.g., an HIV virus). Such immunological assays are also adaptable to the arrays of the present invention, e.g., by fixing an antibody or antibody target to an array member and exposing the array member to the corresponding antibody or antibody target. Thus, immunological reagents (i.e., those used in an assay in which an antibody is a target or reagent) can be flowed across the arrays of the invention.
In addition to profiling RNAs (or corresponding cDNAs) as described above, it is also possible to profile proteins. In particular, various strategies are available for detecting many proteins simultaneously. As applied to the present invention, detected proteins, corresponding to expression products, can be derived from one of at least two sources. First, the proteins which are detected can be either directly isolated from a cell or tissue to be profiled, providing direct detection (and, optionally, quantification) of proteins present in a cell. Second, mRNAs can be translated into cDNA sequences, cloned and expressed. This increases the ability to detect rare RNAs, and makes it possible to immediately associate a detected protein with its coding sequence. For purposes of the present invention, even an out of frame peptide is an indicator for the presence of a corresponding RNA.
A variety of hybridization techniques, including western blotting, ELISA assays, and the like are available for detection of specific proteins. See, Ausubel, Sambrook and Berger, supra. See also, Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual, (1988) E. Harlow and D. Lane, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. Non-hybridization based techniques such as two-dimensional electrophoresis can also be used to simultaneously and specifically detect large numbers of proteins. Either antibody or two dimensional gel electrophoresis can readily be adapted to microfluidic systems.
One typical technology for detecting specific proteins involves making antibodies to the proteins. By specifically detecting binding of an antibody and a given protein, the presence of the protein can be detected. In addition to available antibodies, one of skill can easily make antibodies using existing techniques, or modify those antibodies which are commercially or publicly available. In addition to the art referenced above, general methods of producing polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies are known to those of skill in the art. See, e.g., Paul (ed.) (1993) Fundamental Immunology, Third Edition Raven Press, Ltd., New York Coligan (1991) Current Protocols in ImmunologyWiley/Greene, NY; Harlow and Lane (1989) Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual Cold Spring Harbor Press, NY; Stites et al. (eds.) Basic and Clinical Immunology (4th ed.) Lange Medical Publications, Los Altos, Calif., and references cited therein; Goding (1986) Monoclonal Antibodies: Principles and Practice (2d ed.) Academic Press, New York, N.Y.; and Kohler and Milstein (1975) Nature 256:495-497. Other suitable techniques for antibody preparation include selection of libraries of recombinant antibodies in phage or similar vectors. See, Huse et al.(1989) Science 246:1275-1281; and Ward et al. (1989) Nature 341:544-546. Specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies and antisera will usually bind with a KD of at least about 0.1 μM, preferably at least about 0.01 μM or better, and most typically and preferably, 0.001 μM or better. As used herein, an “antibody” refers to a protein consisting of one or more polypeptide substantially or partially encoded by immunoglobulin genes or fragments of immunoglobulin genes. The recognized immunoglobulin genes include the kappa, lambda, alpha, gamma, delta, epsilon and mu constant region genes, as well as myriad immunoglobulin variable region genes. Light chains are classified as either kappa or lambda. Heavy chains are classified as gamma, mu, alpha, delta, or epsilon, which in turn define the immunoglobulin classes, IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD and IgE, respectively. A typical immunoglobulin (antibody) structural unit is known to comprise a tetramer. Each tetramer is composed of two identical pairs of polypeptide chains, each pair having one “light” (about 25 kD) and one “heavy” chain (about 50-70 kD). The N-terminus of each chain defines a variable region of about 100 to 110 or more amino acids primarily responsible for antigen recognition. The terms variable light chain (VL) and variable heavy chain (VH) refer to these light and heavy chains respectively. Antibodies exist as intact immunoglobulins or as a number of well characterized fragments produced by digestion with various peptidases. Thus, for example, pepsin digests an antibody below the disulfide linkages in the hinge region to produce F(ab)′2, a dimer of Fab which itself is a light chain joined to VH-CHI by a disulfide bond. The F(ab)′2 may be reduced under mild conditions to break the disulfide linkage in the hinge region thereby converting the (Fab′)2 dimer into an Fab′ monomer. The Fab′ monomer is essentially an Fab with part of the hinge region (see, Fundamental Immunology, W. E. Paul, ed., Raven Press, N.Y. (1993), for a more detailed description of other antibody fragments). While various antibody fragments are defined in terms of the digestion of an intact antibody, one of skill will appreciate that such Fab′ fragments may be synthesized de novo either chemically or by utilizing recombinant DNA methodology. Thus, the term antibody, as used herein also includes antibody fragments either produced by the modification of whole antibodies or synthesized de novo using recombinant DNA methodologies. Antibodies include single chain antibodies, including single chain Fv (sFv) antibodies in which a variable heavy and a variable light chain are joined together (directly or through a peptide linker) to form a continuous polypeptide.
For purposes of the present invention, antibodies or antibody fragments can be arrayed, e.g., by coupling to an amine moiety fixed to a solid phase particle array member, in a manner similar to that described above for construction of nucleic acid arrays. As above for nucleic acid probes, the antibodies can be labeled, or proteins corresponding to expression products can be labeled. In this manner, it is possible to couple hundreds, or even thousands, of different antibodies to members of an array. In one embodiment, a bacteriophage antibody display library is screened with a polypeptide encoded by a cell, or obtained by expression of mRNAs, differential display, subtractive hybridization or the like. Combinatorial libraries of antibodies have been generated in bacteriophage lambda expression systems which are screened as bacteriophage plaques or as colonies of lysogens (Huse et al. (1989) Science 246:1275; Caton and Koprowski (1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.)87:6450; Mullinax et al (1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.)87:8095; Persson et al. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.)88:2432). Various embodiments of bacteriophage antibody display libraries and lambda phage expression libraries have been described (Kang et al. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.)88:4363; Clackson et al. (1991) Nature 352:624; McCafferty et al. (1990) Nature 348:552; Burton et al. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.) 88:10134; Hoogenboom et al. (1991) Nucleic Acids Res.19:4133; Chang et al. (1991) J. Immunol. 147:3610; Breitling et al. (1991) Gene 104:147; Marks et al. (1991) J. Mol. Biol. 222:581; Barbas et al. (1992) Proc. NatI. Acad. Sci. (U.S.A.) 89:4457; Hawkins and Winter (1992) J. Immunol. 22:867; Marks et al. (1992) Biotechnology 10:779; Marks et al. (1992) J. Biol. Chem. 267:16007; Lowman et al (1991) Biochemistry 30:10832; Lerner et al. (1992) Science 258:1313.
The patterns of hybridization which are detected on the array provide an indication of the presence or absence of expressed protein sequences. As long as the library or array against which a population of proteins are to be screened can be correlated from one experiment to the next (e.g., by noting the x-y coordinates of the library or array member, or by noting the position of markers within the arrays (e.g., where the arrays comprise mobile members)), no sequence information is required to compare expression profiles from one representative sample to another. In particular, the mere presence or absence (or degree) of label provides the ability to determine differences. One advantage of using arrayed libraries of antibodies for protein detection is that the individual library members can be uncharacterized.
More generally, peptide and nucleic acid hybridization to arrays or libraries (or even simple two dimensional gels) can be treated in a manner analogous to a bar code label. Any diverse library or array can be used to screen for the presence or absence of complementary molecules, whether RNA, DNA, protein, or a combination thereof. By measuring corresponding signal information between different sources of test material (e.g., different hybrid or inbred plants, or different tissues, or the like), it is possible to determine differences in expression products for the different source materials. As set forth below, this process is facilitated by various high throughput integrated systems set forth below.
In addition to array based approaches, mass spectrometry is in use for identification of large sets of proteins in samples, and is suitable for identification of many proteins in a sequential or parallel fashion. For example, Hutchens et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,719,060, describe methods and apparatus for desorption and ionization of analytes for subsequent analysis by mass spectroscopy and/or biosensors. In the present invention, components can be released from array members in a sequential fashion and prepared for mass spectrometry.
Two and three dimensional gel based approaches can also be used for the specific and simultaneous identification and quantification of large numbers of proteins from biological samples. Multi-dimensional gel technology is well-known and described e.g., in Ausubel, supra, Volume 2, Chapter 10. As applied to microfluidic systems, intersecting channels can comprise different separation media. After flowing components through a first media, components can be flowed through a second media in a second channel. The components can be labeled, e.g., by flowing staining reagents into contact with the components. The labeled components are then flowed past a suitable detector (or the entire microfluidic system can be imaged simultaneously, e.g., using a CCD array). Image analysis of multi-dimensional protein separation channels provides an indication of the proteins that are expressed e.g., in a cell or tissue type.
In addition to identifying expression products, such as proteins or RNA, it is also possible to screen for large numbers of metabolites in cell or tissue samples. The presence, absence or level of a metabolite can be treated as a character for comparison purposes in the same way that nucleic acids or proteins are discussed herein. Metabolites can be monitored by any of currently available microfluidic method, including chromatography, uni or multi dimensional gel separations, hybridization to complementary molecules, or the like.
A particular protein or other biological component can be quantified by a variety of immunoassay methods which can be practiced using the arrays of the invention. For a review of immunological and immunoassay procedures in general, see Stites and Terr (eds.) 1991 Basic and Clinical Immunology (7th ed.); Maggio (ed.) (1980) Enzyme Imnmunoassay CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fla.; Tijan (1985) “Practice and Theory of Enzyme Immunoassays,” Laboratory Techniques in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Elsevier Science Publishers B.V., Amsterdam; Harlow and Lane, supra; Chan (ed.) (1987) Immunoassay: A Practical Guide Academic Press, Orlando, Fla.; Price and Newman (eds.) (1991) Principles and Practice of Immunoassays Stockton Press, NY; Ngo (ed.) (1988) Non isotopic Immunoassays Plenum Press, NY and Fundamental Immunology, Third Edition, W. E. Paul, ed., Raven Press, N.Y. (1993).
Immunoassays often utilize a labeling agent to specifically bind to and label the binding complex formed by the capture agent and the analyte. The labeling agent may itself be one of the moieties comprising the antibody/analyte complex. Thus, the labeling agent may be a labeled analyte or a labeled anti-analyte antibody. Alternatively, the labeling agent may be a third moiety, such as another antibody, that specifically binds to the antibody/analyte complex, or to a modified capture group (e.g., biotin) which is covalently linked to the analyte or anti-analyte antibody. Any of these components can be e.g., fixed to array members or can be present in reagent trains which are flowed across array members.
In one embodiment, the labeling agent is an antibody that specifically binds to a capture agent (e.g., an antibody which binds either the analyte, an analyte-antibody complex or an antibody which binds the analyte). Such labeling agents are well known to those of skill in the art, and most typically comprise labeled antibodies that specifically bind antibodies of the particular animal species from which the capture agent is derived (e.g., an anti-idiotypic antibody). Thus, for example, where the capture agent is a mouse derived anti-marker gene antibody, the label agent may be a goat anti-mouse IgG, i.e., an antibody specific to the constant region of the mouse antibody. Other proteins capable of specifically binding immunoglobulin constant regions, such as streptococcal protein A or protein G are also used as the labeling agent. These proteins are normal constituents of the cell walls of streptococcal bacteria. They exhibit a strong non immunogenic reactivity with immunoglobulin constant regions from a variety of species. See, generally Kronval, et al., (1973) J. Immunol., 111:1401-1406, and Akerstrom, et al., (1985) J. Immunol., 135:2589-2542.
Throughout the assays, incubation and/or washing steps may be required after each combination of reagents. Incubation steps can vary from about .seconds to several hours. However, the incubation time will depend upon the assay format, analyte, volume of solution, concentrations, and the like. One advantage of the present invention is that incubation times can ordinarily be short, because, in microfluidic systems, small fluid volumes are ordinarily used. Usually, the assays are carried out at ambient temperature, although they can be conducted over a range of temperatures, such as 5 C to 45 C.
(i) Non Competitive Assay Formats
Immunoassays for detecting an analyte can be, e.g., competitive or noncompetitive. Noncompetitive immunoassays are assays in which the amount of captured analyte is directly measured. In a “sandwich” assay, for example, the capture agent (e.g., an antibody) is bound directly to an array member where it is fixed or immobilized. These immobilized antibodies then capture analytes present in a test sample. The analytes which are immobilized are optionally bound by a labeling agent, such as a second antibody bearing a label. Alternatively, the second marker gene antibody may lack a label, but it may, in turn, be bound by a labeled third antibody specific to antibodies of the species from which the second antibody is derived. In another format, a sandwich assay is unnecessary because either the antibody or analyte are labeled, with the complementary component typically being fixed to an array member.
Sandwich assays for an analyte are optionally constructed. As described above, the antibody or antibody ligand bound to an array member specifically binds to the corresponding element present in a sample. A labeled antibody then binds to analyte-antibody complexes. Free labeled antibody is washed away, e.g., by electrophoresis, electroosmosis, electrokinesis or pressure based fluid movement and the remaining bound labeled complex is detected (e.g., using a gamma detector where the label is radioactive, or an optical arrangement where the label is fluorescent or luminescent).
(ii) Competitive Assay Formats
In competitive assays, the amount of analyte present in the sample is measured indirectly by measuring the amount of an added (exogenous) analyte displaced (or competed away) from a capture agent by the analyte present in the sample. In one competitive assay, a known amount of analyte is added to the sample and the sample is contacted with a capture agent, in this case an antibody that specifically binds the analyte. The amount of analyte bound to the antibody is inversely proportional to the concentration of analyte present in the sample.
In one embodiment, the capture agent is immobilized on a solid substrate. The amount of e.g., polypeptide bound to the capture agent is determined either by measuring the amount of analyte present in an analyte-antibody complex, or alternatively by measuring the amount of remaining uncomplexed analyte or antibody. The amount of material in a sample to be assayed can also be detected by providing exogenous labeled marker gene to the assay.
A hapten inhibition assay is another preferred competitive assay. In this assay, a known analyte is fixed on an array member. A known amount of antibody is added to the sample, and the sample is then contacted with the fixed analyte. In this case, the amount of antibody bound to the fixed analyte is proportional to the amount of analyte in the sample. Again the amount of immobilized antibody is detected by quantitating either the immobilized fraction of antibody or the fraction of the antibody that remains in solution. Detection may be direct where the antibody is labeled, or indirect where a labeled moiety is subsequently added which specifically binds to the antibody as described above.
Many other immunoassay formats are known and can be practiced by fixing one or more component of the assay to an array member in a microfluidic array of the invention, e.g., using the coupling techniques described supra.
For all of the sequencing and PCR methods noted above, as well as for many other methods noted herein, products can be electrophoresed, e.g., following release from an array, e.g., to facilitate separation and detection of the products. microfluidic systems which combine fluid handling and electrophoresis are described, e.g., in U.S. Ser. No. 09/093,832 “MICROFLUDIIC MATRIX LOCALIZATION APPARATUS AND METHODS” Burd Mehta and Kopf-Sill filed Jun. 8, 1998. In brief, this application, which describes, e.g., anaphasic and especially multiphasic microfluidic systems, a channel comprising a liquid phase intersects a channel comprising a sieving matrix. Applied to the present invention, products are optionally washed from arrays, where they are flowed into contact with a sieving matrix. The product components typically “stack” at the fluid-sieving matrix interface, and are then electrophoresed through the sieving matrix. The products can then be detected during or after electrophoresis, e.g., by placing a detection element within or proximal to the sieving matrix. The products can also be purified in the sieving matrix and electrokinetically (or by pressure mechanisms) moved into contact with subsequent reactants or additional array members for further processing or for use as reactants in subsequent reactions (e.g., as templates in sequencing reactions, as targets for amplification, as probes to detect amplified products or other targets, etc.).
In uniphasic separatory systems, array components are optionally dispersed within a sieving matrix. Reactions such as sequencing, PCR, LCR, or the like can be conducted on or proximal to the array members, with products being released into the sieving matrix for separation.
In addition to the multiphasic and uniphasic microfluidic systems of the '832 application, a variety of microfluidic electrophoretic applications are described, e.g., in “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” (WO 98/45481), as well as other references available in the art.
In one aspect, the arrays are particle type switchable. In this embodiment, arrays are modified by flowing reagents across all, or a portion of the particle sets of the arrays. The reagents chemically interact with (e.g., covalently modify, hybridize to, or the like) particle sets of the array, thereby altering one or more sets of the array. Thus, particle sets can be fixed in place (or flowable) and switchable from one type of particle set to another. For example, in one aspect, the ordered array of a plurality of sets of particles is produced by flowing a substantially homogeneous or heterogeneous set of particles into a particle modification region and flowing a plurality of particle modification reagents across the substantially homogeneous or heterogeneous set of particles. The reagents react with the substantially homogeneous or heterogeneous set of particles to create a plurality of sets of different particles. For example, the homogeneous or heterogeneous sets of particles optionally include a plurality of particles which have one or more molecular tags (e.g., streptavidin, avidin, biotin, an antibody, an antibody ligand, a nucleic acid, a nucleic acid binding molecule, etc.). The plurality of particle modification reagents can include one or more anti-tag ligand. The plurality of particle modification reagents can be flowed sequentially across the substantially homogeneous set of particles, thereby binding the anti-tag ligand to the tag and producing sets of different particles, each set having a different bound particle modification reagent such as a nucleic acid. Tags and tag ligands can be attached to particles or particle modification reagents directly or through a linker, through covalent or non-covalent interactions.
The ability to switch the type of a particle member of an array provides an elegant method for making arrays within microfluidic systems. In particular, arrays are made in situ by exposure to reagents, avoiding the necessity of moving and tracking different particle sets to different array locations.
Moreover, particle type switchability provides for the creation of microfluidic logic circuits. In particular, the presence or absence of a signal from an array location is equivalent to a bit of information in a typical computer system and it is possible to reprogram the array simply by flowing appropriate reagents to appropriate array positions. It should be appreciated that, in at least one sense, these switchable arrays are superior to existing silicon-based computer design. In particular, rather than being limited to a simple digital “on/off” binary programming language, it is possible to obtain analogue information from the arrays. This is because degrees of signal intensity from array locations can be disceried. Thus, a very rich non-binary programming language can be used in programming and interpreting switchable microfluidic arrays. Of course, switchable arrays can incorporate both ordinary binary silicon-based switches, as well as microfluidic switches, providing for design heuristics that incorporate both binary and non-binary programming.
In addition to the creation of logic circuits and array construction, type-switchable arrays can be used as chemical synthesis and purification machines. In particular, array members can have chemical components synthesized in a solid phase fashion on the array members, and subsequently used to purify complementary molecules in a manner similar to affinity chromatography. Alternatively, following synthesis, chemical moieties can be cleaved from the array for subsequent use in other microfluidic assays (or even for purification and use outside of the microfluidic system). This ability to act as a biochemical reactor is a preferred aspect of the present invention.
The present invention provides for reagent triggering upon contact with an array member. For example, certain reagents are activated by heat or cold, or are activated by changes in pH, light levels, or the like. These reagents can be maintained in an inactive state and activated when they are brought into contact with an array member. Similarly, array members can be maintained in an inactive state and activated by exposure to a temperature change, a change in pH, light, or the like.
Similarly, reagents can be trapped or “caged” by being complexed to a particle and released or “uncaged” from the particle by exposure to an activating reagent or reaction condition. Using these approaches, reagents can be delivered in trapped or inactive packets to a reaction site where they are released and/or activated.
For example, a sequencing reagent such as a nucleic acid template can be fixed to a particle, e.g., by synthesizing or fixing a single-stranded oligonucleotide on the surface of the particle and hybridizing a complimentary nucleic acid to the fixed single stranded nucleic acid. The complimentary nucleic acid can be released by exposure to, e.g., heat, or exposure to a base (e.g., dilute NaOH), or exposure to a denaturant (e.g., guanidine HCL). For example, the particle is optionally flowed to a point where a sequencing reaction is to be performed, and the complimentary strand then released by heat or exposure to base or a denaturant. Alternatively, a sequencing reaction, e.g., by PCR exonuclease digestion, is performed on one or more DNA template attached to a particle, which particle is fixed in the channel, e.g., by a particle retention element, by another set of particles, or the like. The DNA is then optionally released after sequencing for separation or further manipulation. Similarly, proteins can be associated (e.g., by bonding to fixed ligands or antibodies) and released (e.g., by exposure to heat or a base or a denaturant) from the particle. Other molecules such as polymers or large organic molecules can similarly be caged and released from particle members.
Similarly, reagents such as enzymes (e.g., thermostable enzymes), sequencing reagents, or other molecules can be held in an inactive form (e.g., due to heat or presence of blocking groups on the molecules, e.g., those set forth in Greene, et al. (1991) Protective Groups In Organic Chemistry, 2nd Ed., John Wiley & Sons, New York, N.Y.) and flowed into contact with array members. The reagents or other molecules can then be activated, e.g., by exposure to light, changes in temperature, exposure to an acid, base, or a denaturant, or the like. Thus, in one embodiment, reagents are held in a reagent train in an inactive state and are activated only upon exposure to an appropriate activation agent (heat, light, base, acid, denaturant, electric or magnetic field, etc.).
The hydrodynamic resistance in a channel can be increased by packing the channel with particles. In addition, electroosmotic flow can be altered significantly by packing the capillary with particles having different surface charges and thus different zeta potential. In one aspect of the present invention, particle manipulation in channels can be used to dynamically control the resistance to pressure or electrokinetic flow to enhance the flexibility of microfluidic operations.
In particular, microbeads or other particles are transported into microchannels by any of the flow methods described herein. The particles are captured (by a physical barrier, electric field, magnetic field, porous matrix, sintered glass frit, a fixed set of particles, etc., as also described supra). By localizing particles to a selected location, it is possible to alter the local zeta potential, surface charge, etc. This, in turn alters flow characteristics in the region, providing for alterations in microfluidic operations, e.g., changes in the rate, or even direction, of fluid flow. Thus, in addition to interacting with components of various reactions, particle sets can also be used to modulate fluid flow in a selected region.
Similarly, a powerful application of this dynamic microfluidic control is to create a “smart” microfluidic system. Applications which use particles in assays are described herein. The combination of flow modulation by microbead localization and e.g., chemical assays on the beads provides for a great deal of flexibility in designing and controlling assays. In addition, with appropriate software feedback control, subsequent assay steps are selectable based upon the results of initial assays. This ability to reconfigure flow conditions and assay components by manipulating particles in response to assay results is a very potent new way of performing iterative reactions.
For example, the integrated assay and flow control features provide very high throughput methods of assessing biochemical components and performing biochemical manipulations. A wide variety of reagents and products are suitably assessed, including libraries of chemical or biological compounds or components, nucleic acid templates, PCR reaction products, and the like. In the integrated systems it is possible to use the results of a first reaction or set of reactions to select appropriate flow conditions, reagents, reactants, products, or the like, for additional analysis. For example, the results of a first sequencing reaction can be used to select primers, templates or the like for additional sequencing, or to select related families of compounds for screening in high-throughput assay methods. These primers or templates (e.g., as components of an array) are then accessed by the system and the process continued.
In one aspect, the invention provides integrated methods of analyzing and manipulating sample materials for fluidic analysis on arrays. In the methods, an integrated microfluidic system including a microfluidic device comprising an array is provided. The device has at least a first reaction channel and at least a first reagent introduction channel, typically etched, machined, printed, or otherwise manufactured in or on a substrate. Optionally, the device can have a second reaction channel and/or reagent introduction channel, a third reaction channel and/or reagent introduction channel or the like, up to and including hundreds or even thousands of reaction and/or reagent introduction channels. The reaction channel and reagent introduction channels are in fluid communication, i.e., fluid can flow between the channels under selected conditions. The device has a material transport system for controllably transporting a material through and among the reagent introduction channel and reaction channel and for positioning array components. For example, the material transport system can include electrokinetic, electroosmotic, electrophoretic or other fluid manipulation aspects (micro-pumps and microvalves, fluid switches, fluid gates, etc.) which permit controlled movement and mixing of fluids and movement of array members. The device also has a fluidic interface in fluid communication with the reagent introduction channel. Such fluidic interfaces optionally include capillaries, channels, pins, pipettors, electropipettors, or the like, for moving fluids, and optionally further include microscopic, spectroscopic, fluid separatory or other aspects. The fluidic interface samples a plurality of reagents or mixtures of reagents from a plurality of sources of reagents or mixtures of reagents and introduces the reagents or mixtures of reagents into the reagent introduction channel. Essentially any number of reagents or reagent mixtures and or array members can be introduced by the fluidic interface, depending on the desired application. Because microfluidic manipulations are performed in a partially or fully sealed environment, contamination and fluidic evaporation in the systems are minimized.
In the methods, a first reagent from the plurality of sources of reagent or mixtures of reagents is selected. A first sample material and the first reagent or mixture of reagents is introduced into the first reaction channel, whereupon the first sample material and the first reagent or mixture of reagents react. Typically, one of the first sample material or first reagent or reagent mixture are bound to a microparticle in an array. This reaction can take a variety of different forms depending on the nature of the reagents. For example, where the reagents bind to one another, such as where the reagents are an antibody or cell receptor and a ligand, or an amino acid and a binding ligand, the reaction results in a bound component such as a bound ligand (e.g., bound to an array member). Where the reagents are sequencing reagents, a primer extension product results from the reaction. Where the reagents include enzymes and enzyme substrates, a modified form of the substrate typically results. Where two reacting chemical reagents are mixed, a third product chemical typically results.
In the methods, a reaction product of the first sample material and the first reagent or mixture of reagents is analyzed in the context of an array. This analysis can take any of a variety of forms, depending on the application. For example, where the product is a primer extension product, the analysis can take the form of separating reactants by size, or by location on the array and detecting the sized reactants and translating the resulting information to give the sequence of a template nucleic acid. Similarly, because microscale fluidic devices of the invention are optionally suitable for heating and cooling a reaction, a PCR reaction utilizing PCR reagents (thermostable polymerase, nucleotides, templates, primers, buffers and the like) can be performed and the PCR reagents detected. Where the reaction results in the formation of a new product, such as an enzyme-substrate product, a chemical species, or an immunological component such as a bound ligand, the product is typically detected by any of a variety of detection techniques, including fluorescence, autoradiography, microscopy, spectroscopy, or the like.
Based upon the reaction product, a second reagent or mixture of reagents is selected and a second sample material is assessed, optionally following manipulation of particle sets to modify flow conditions. For example, where the product is a DNA sequence, a sequencing primer and/or template for extension of available sequence information is selected. Where the product is a new product such as those above, an appropriate second component such as an enzyme, ligand, antibody, receptor molecule, chemical, or the like, is selected to further test the binding or reactive characteristics of an analyzed material. The second reagent or mixture of reagents is introduced into the first reaction channel, or optionally into a second (or third or fourth . . . or nth) reaction channel in the microfluidic device. The second sample material and the second reagent or mixture of reagents react, forming a new product, which is analyzed as above. The results of the analysis can serve as the basis for the selection and analysis of additional reactants and additional flow conditions for similar subsequent analysis. The second sample material, reagents, or mixtures of reagents can comprise the same or different materials. For example, a single type of DNA template is optionally sequenced in several serial reactions. Alternatively, completing a first sequencing reaction, as outlined above, serves as the basis for selecting additional templates (e.g., overlapping clones, PCR amplicons, or the like).
Accordingly, in a preferred aspect, the invention provides methods of sequencing a nucleic acid by an iterative process on an array. For example, in one typical method, the biochemical components of a sequencing reaction (e.g., a target nucleic acid, a first and optionally, second sequencing primer, a polymerase (optionally including thermostable polymerases for use in PCR), dNTPs, and ddNTPs) are mixed in a microfluidic device in contact with one or more array member under conditions permitting target dependent polymerization of the dNTPs. Polymerization products are optionally separated in the microfluidic device to provide a sequence of the target nucleic acid, or as in the case of pyrophosphate methods described above, can be read directly from the array, depending on the position of components in the array (similarly, sequencing by hybridization methods do not require separation of products, with results being determined by position on an array). Typically, sequencing information acquired by this method is used to select additional sequencing primers and/or templates or probes, and the process is reiterated, optionally following movement of array components to modulate flow conditions.
In one integrated sequencing system, methods of sequencing a target nucleic acid are provided in which an integrated microfluidic system comprising a microfluidic device having an array is utilized in the sequencing method. The integrated microfluidic device has at least a first sequencing reaction channel and at least a first sequencing reagent introduction channel, the sequencing reaction channel and sequencing reagent introduction channel being in fluid communication and at least one of the channels comprising one or more array component. The integrated microfluidic system also has a material transport system for controllably transporting sequencing reagents through the sequencing reagent introduction channel and sequencing reaction channel and a fluidic interface in fluid communication with the sequencing reagent introduction channel for sampling a plurality of sequencing reagents, or mixtures of sequencing reagents, from a plurality of sources of sequencing reagents or mixtures of sequencing reagents and introducing the sequencing reagents or mixtures of sequencing reagents into the sequence reagent introduction channel. For example, the system set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,868 can be used. As discussed above, the interface optionally includes capillaries, pins, pipettors and the like. In the method, a first sequencing primer sequence complementary to a first subsequence of a first target nucleic acid sequence is introduced into the sequence reagent introduction channel. The first primer is hybridized to the first subsequence and the first primer is extended with a polymerase enzyme along the length of the target nucleic acid sequence to form a first extension product that is complementary to the first subsequence and a second subsequence of the target nucleic acid. Again, any of these components are optionally coupled to one or more array member. The sequence of the first extension product is determined and, based upon the sequence of the first extension product, a second primer sequence complementary to a second subsequence of the target nucleic acid sequence is selected, hybridized and extended as above.
In the sequence methods herein, it is sometimes advantageous to select sequencing primers from a large set of sequencing primers, rather than synthesizing primers to match a particular target nucleic acid. For example, or 6-mer. primers can be made to hybridize specifically to a target, e.g., where the primers are modular and hybridize to a single region of a nucleic acid. All possible or 6 mers can be synthesized for selection in the methods herein, or any subset of or 6 mers can also be selected. In some embodiments, the primers are transferred to the microfluidic apparatus, e.g., by a capillary, an electropipettor, or using sipping technology, from a microtiter plate or from and array of oligos. The primers are used to hybridize to bound targets fixed to array members (see also, above, under discussions of modular primer strategies). In other embodiments, the primers are located on a region of a microfluidic device, chip or other substrate.
In another, similar aspect, the devices, systems arrays and methods of the invention are useful in performing fluidic operations that require a large number of successive fluid manipulations, i.e., in performing a number of preparative and analytical reactions or operations on a given sample. By “successive fluid manipulations” is generally meant a fluidic operation that involves the successive treatment of a given fluid sample volume, i.e., combination/reaction with reactants, incubation, purification/separation, analysis of products, and the like. Where successive fluid manipulations are performed at the bench scale, e.g., the performance of numerous, different manipulations on a particular sample such as combination with reagents, incubation, separation and detection, such manipulations can also become cumbersome as the number of steps increases, as with each step, the possibility of introducing an error into the operation or experiment increases. This complexity, and the consequent increased possibility of errors increases substantially as the number of samples to be passed through the operation increases. Thus, the devices or systems of the present invention are also particularly useful in performing fluidic operations which require successive fluid manipulations of a given sample or fluid of interest, e.g., more than 2 steps or different manipulations, typically greater than steps or different manipulations, preferably greater than steps or different fluid manipulations. The systems are also useful and readily capable of performing fluidic operations that include greater than 20, 50, 100, 1000 steps or different fluid manipulations on a given fluid volume.
In a related, but alternate aspect, the devices, arrays, systems and methods of the invention are useful in performing fluidic operations that require a large number of parallel fluid manipulations, i.e., to screen biological samples, screen test compounds for drug discovery, e.g., as set forth in WO/98100705 and WO 98/00231 and incorporated herein by reference. To carry out these operations, a substrate will typically employ parallel channels and/or channel networks, interconnected by one or more common channels, with at least one particle array dispersed within the device. Fluids required for the subject reaction, e.g., samples or reagents, are directed along one or more of the common channels, and are delivered to each of the parallel channels.
As used herein, “parallel fluid manipulations” means the substantially concurrent movement and/or direction, incubation/reaction, separation or detection of discrete fluid volumes to a plurality of parallel channels and/or channel networks, or chambers of a microfluidic device, i.e., greater than about distinct parallel channels or chambers, typically greater than distinct channels or chambers, preferably greater than about 50 distinct channels or chambers, and often greater than about 100 distinct channels or chambers. As used herein, the term “parallel” refers to the ability to concomitantly or substantially concurrently process two or more separate fluid volumes, and does not necessarily denote a specific channel or chamber structure or layout.
Ultra high-throughput analysis systems are provided, for example for performing nucleic acids-based diagnostic and sequencing applications, e.g., in a reference laboratory setting. The system typically has several components: a specimen and reagents handling system; an “operating system”. for processing integrated microchip experimentation steps; application-specific analysis devices; a signal detection system, and multiple software components that allow the user to interact with the system, and run processing steps, interpret data, and report results.
One similar application of the integrated systems and arrays of the invention is the titration of assay components into the dynamic range of an assay. For example, an assay can first be performed where one or more components of the assay are not within the range necessary for adequate performance of the assay, e.g., if the assay is performed using a concentration which is too high or too low for some components, the assay may not provide quantitative results. This need to titrate assay components into the dynamic range of an assay typically occurs where one or more component of the assay is present at an unknown activity or concentration. Ordinarily, the assay must be run at several concentrations of components, i.e., the assay is run a first time, components are diluted, the assay is run a second time, etc. until the assay can be performed within the dynamic range of the assay. It will be appreciated that this iterative approach can involve several unknown concentrations simultaneously, requiring considerable trial and error.
In the integrated array systems of the invention, an assay can be performed at as many concentrations of components as necessary to titrate the assay components into the dynamic range of the assay, with the results of each assay being used to optimize additional assay points. Similarly, titration curves, which are often the result of multiple assay runs with different component concentrations are determined by performing repeated assays with different concentrations of components. Different concentrations of assay components in separate assays can be monitored serially or in parallel. In brief, one simply runs the assay at one or more array location, detecting the results. If assays are simultaneously (or even separately) run at additional array locations with known components, it is possible to use these known components as normalization elements for the array and the assay. Thus, arrays can include positive or negative control elements (reagents, templates, etc.), calibration components (e.g., an array can include a labeled array member and an unlabeled array member for calibration purposes, or even include members comprising gradations of label intensity).
For example, in one aspect, the invention comprises any of “blank,” “dummy,” “calibration,” “control,” “positive control,” “negative control,” “sample,” “test” or “tracking” particles, e.g., interspersed with each other or with other elements of an array. Blank particles are particles which do not comprise a label. Dummy particles are either blank, or comprise a known signal component. Calibration particles comprise a selected quantity of labeled component, or of a component to be labeled. For example, calibration particles (or any of the other particles herein) can comprise one or more quantum dot (Warren and Nie (1998) Science, 281: 20.16-2018). Control particles comprise one or more selected known element. Positive control particles comprise a known component which, if the assay or other use for the array member is working properly, will result in accumulation or display of a detectable signal. Conversely, a negative control particle is a particle that, if the assay or other use for the array member is working properly will not result in a significant accumulation, release or display of a detectable signal. A “sample” particle comprises an assay or reaction element of interest. A “test” particle is a particle that comprises an unknown element to be tested, or which interacts with such an element in an assay or reaction, depending on the specified context of the invention. A “tracking” particle is a particle which displays a detectable signal, or which displays a known absence of signal within a labeled array, and which is used to track the position of array elements.
It will be appreciated that many useful particle types will meet more than one of the above criteria. For example a negative control particle can also be a blank, a tracking element, or the like. Furthermore, the particles can be placed in any selected relative positional conformation. For example, blank particles can be interspersed with different sample particles to maintain separation and prevent contamination between the different sample sets. Calibration particles can be interspersed with sample particles in any manner to provide signals for calibration of assays, reactions, etc. Many such variations will be apparent upon review.
The ability to titrate and optimize assays is useful for diagnostic assays, for determining concentrations or activities of selected components in a system (proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, small molecules, etc.). Furthermore, the present integrated systems provide for rational selection of assay conditions as data is acquired. For example, in one embodiment, a diagnostic assay needs to be performed using several components which are present at initially unknown concentrations or activities. A first series of concentration or activity assays is performed on the array to determine the activity or concentration of particular components, e.g., enzyme, protein, inhibitor, co-factor, nucleic acid, or the like. After these assays are performed and the concentrations or activities of some or all of the components for the diagnostic assay are determined, the integrated system selects appropriate amounts of the assay components, performs any necessary dilutions, combines the assay components and performs the diagnostic assay. Similarly, further data points can be collected by adjusting the concentrations or amounts of diagnostic assay components and re-running the assay. All of the fluid manipulations can be performed rapidly and the integrated system is able to assess and compile the results of individual data points or individual assays to select which additional assays need to be performed for assay verification.
In its most basic form, assay optimization involves the identification of factors affecting a reaction result, followed by the systematic variation of each of these variables until optimal reaction conditions are identified. This is generally termed an “OFAT” method for “one factor at a time.” Thus, assuming a simple two reagent reaction, one would first identify the factors affecting the outcome, e.g., concentration of reagent A, concentration of reagent B and, e.g., temperature. One would then run the assay where one factor was varied while the others remained constant. For example, one would perform the same reaction at numerous different concentrations of reagent A, while maintaining the concentration of reagent B and the temperature. Next, reagent B would be varied while reagent A and temperature remained constant, and finally, the temperature would be varied.
Even in this simplest form, the number and complexity of necessary reactions is apparent. When one considers that most reactions will have far more than three variables, and that these variable will not be independent of each other, the possibility of manually performing these assays, or even performing them in currently available automated formats becomes a daunting prospect. For example, while robotic systems using microwell plates can perform large numbers of manipulations to optimize assay parameters, such systems are very expensive. Further, as these systems are typically limited to the bench scale volumes described above, they require large volumes of reagents and large amounts of space in which to operate.
In contrast, the devices, systems and methods of the present invention permit the optimization of large numbers of different assays, by providing an extremely low volume, automatable and sealed format in which such optimization can occur rapidly and automatically. For example, the devices can run a first fluidic operation by combining a preselected volume of a first reactant with a preselected volume of a second reactant, at a desired or preselected temperature for a desired or preselected amount of time. The device then repeats the assay, but varies at least one of the volume of the first or second reactants, the temperature, or the amount of time allowed for the reaction. This is repeated until a desired number of varied reactions are performed, i.e., generating sufficient data to permit an estimation of optimal assay conditions which will produce an optimal result of the reaction, within a desired range of statistical significance. “optimal assay conditions” include those conditions that are required to achieve the desired result of the reaction. Such desired results can include maximization of reaction yields, but also includes assay conditions which are optimized for sensitivity to one variable, e.g., inhibitor concentration, and the like.
In addition to sequencing, the integrated microfluidic systems and arrays of the invention are broadly useful in a variety of screening assays where the results of mixing one or more components are to be determined, and particularly, where the results determined are used to select additional reagents to be screened.
As described more fully below, the integrated microfluidic system of the invention can include a very wide variety of storage elements for storing reagents to be assessed. These include well plates, matrices, membranes and the like. The reagents are stored in liquids (e.g., in a well on a microtiter plate), or in lyophilized form (e.g., dried on a membrane), and can be transported to an array component of the microfluidic device using conventional robotics, or using an electropipettor as described below.
Because of the breadth of the available sample storage formats for use with the present invention, virtually any set of reagents can be sampled and assayed in an integrated system of the present invention. For example, enzymes and substrates, receptors and ligands, antibodies and ligands, proteins and inhibitors, cells and growth factors or inhibitors, viruses and virus binding components (antibodies, proteins, chemicals, etc.) immunochemicals and immunoglobulins, nucleic acids and nucleic acid binding chemicals, proteins, or the like, reactant chemicals (acids, bases, organic molecules, hydrocarbons, silicates, etc.) can all be assayed using the integrated systems of the invention. For example, where a molecule which binds a protein is desired, potential binding moieties (chemicals, peptides, nucleic acids, lipids, etc.) are sequentially mixed with the protein in a reaction channel, and binding is measured (e.g., by change in electrophoretic mobility, quenching of fluorescent protein residues, or the like). Thousands of compounds are easily screened using this method, in a short period of time (e.g., less than an hour).
An advantage of the integrated nature of the present system is that it provides for rational selection of structurally or functionally homologous compounds or components as the assay progresses. For example, where one compound is found to have binding activity in an array based assay, the selection of a second compound to be tested can be performed based upon structural similarity to the first active compound. Similarly, where a compound is shown to have activity in a cell (e.g., up-regulation of a gene of interest) a second compound affecting the same cellular pathway (e.g., calcium or inositol phosphate second messenger systems, etc.) can be selected from the group of available compounds for testing. In this way, it is possible to focus screening assays from purely random at the outset to increasingly focused on likely candidate compounds as the assays progress.
Although the devices and systems specifically illustrated herein are generally described in terms of the performance of a few or one particular operation, it will be readily appreciated from this disclosure that the flexibility of these systems permits easy integration of additional operations into these devices. For example, the devices and systems described will optionally include structures, reagents and systems for performing virtually any number of operations both upstream and downstream from the operations specifically described herein. Such upstream operations include sample handling and preparation operations, e.g., cell separation, extraction, purification, amplification, cellular activation, labeling reactions, dilution, aliquoting, and the like. Similarly, downstream operations may include similar operations, including, e.g., separation of sample components, labeling of components, assays and detection operations, electrokinetic or pressure-based injection of components into contact with particle sets, or materials released from particle sets, or the like.
Assay and detection operations include, without limitation, probe interrogation assays, e.g., nucleic acid hybridization assays utilizing individual probes, free or tethered within the channels or chambers of the device and/or probe arrays having large numbers of different, discretely positioned probes, receptor/ligand assays, immunoassays, and the like. Any of these elements can be fixed to array members, or fixed, e.g., to channel walls, or the like.
Loading of Array Components and Reagents
Array members and reagents can be loaded into microfluidic structures, e.g., by placing the reagent or array member in a well fluidly coupled to a microfluidic channel network. The reagent or array member is then flowed through the microchannel network as described supra, e.g., by pressure (positive or negative) or by electrokinesis, or by moving a magnetic field relative to the array member (i.e., where the array member is magnetic).
Alternatively, array or particle members can be stored external to the microfluidic system in a system of wells, plates, or even as dried components stored on a surface. Thus, the integrated systems of the invention optionally include such external storage elements. In one aspect, the present invention includes a microwell plate (e.g., a 96, 384 or more well plate) having array members stored within wells of the plate.
To introduce array members or reagents into the microfluidic system, either pressure-based, electrokinetic or centrifugal approaches can be used. For example, electropipettors (which can include one or multiple “sipper” channels) can be used to access wells, plates or to re-hydrate soluble or suspendable dried components from dry storage media. A variety of access systems for coupling reagent storage and microfluidic systems are described in Knapp et al. “Closed Loop Biochemical Analyzers” WO 98/45481. As applied to the present invention, these coupling devices and strategies are also used for flowing particle sets into microfluidic systems.
In the present invention, the materials in the arrays are optionally monitored and/or detected so that velocity can be determined. From velocity measurements, decisions are then made regarding subsequent fluidic operations.
The systems described herein generally include microfluidic devices, as described above, in conjunction with additional instrumentation for controlling fluid transport, flow rate and direction within the devices, detection instrumentation for detecting or sensing results of the operations performed by the system, processors, e.g., computers, for instructing the controlling instrumentation in accordance with preprogrammed instructions, receiving data from the detection instrumentation, and for analyzing, storing and interpreting the data, and providing the data and interpretations in a readily accessible reporting format.
A variety of controlling instrumentation is optionally utilized in conjunction with the microfluidic devices described above, for controlling the transport and direction of fluids and/or materials within the devices of the present invention, e.g., by pressure-based or electrokinetic control.
For example, in many cases, fluid transport and direction are controlled in whole or in part, using pressure based flow systems that incorporate external or internal pressure sources to drive fluid flow. Internal sources include microfabricated pumps, e.g., diaphragm pumps, thermal pumps, lamb wave pumps and the like that have been described in the art. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,271,724, 5,277,556, and 5,375,979 and Published PCT Application Nos. WO 94/05414 and WO 97/02357. In such systems, fluid direction is often accomplished through the incorporation of microfabricated valves, which restrict fluid flow in a controllable manner. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,171,132.
As noted above, the systems described herein can also utilize electrokinetic material direction and transport systems. As such, the controller systems for use in conjunction with the microfluidic devices typically include an electrical power supply and circuitry for concurrently delivering appropriate voltages to a plurality of electrodes that are placed in electrical contact with the fluids contained within the microfluidic devices. Examples of particularly preferred electrical controllers include those described in, e.g., published PCT application WO 98/00707 and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,800,690. In brief, the controller uses electric current control in the microfluidic system. The electrical current flow at a given electrode is directly related to the ionic flow along the channel(s) connecting the reservoir in which the electrode is placed. This is in contrast to the requirement of determining voltages at various nodes along the channel in a voltage control system. Thus the voltages at the electrodes of the microfluidic system are set responsive to the electric currents flowing through the various electrodes of the system. This current control is less susceptible to dimensional variations in the process of creating the microfluidic system in the device itself. Current control permits far easier operations for pumping, valving, dispensing, mixing and concentrating subject materials and buffer fluids in a complex microfluidic system. Current control is also preferred for moderating temperature effects (e.g., joule heating) within the channels.
The present invention also provides novel methods of controlling fluid flow, particle flow, or the like in microfluidic channels. By flowing reagents, samples, and/or particle arrays through a microfluidic network using a system of split wells, contamination by components of previous reactions is avoided. In an assay involving many components, the components typically vary in charge. Therefore when transporting materials using electrokinetic techniques, components may move in different directions depending on their charge, especially in buffers in which the electroosmotic mobility is low. Therefore, a sample introduction step may not properly introduce all components to the reaction area and a washing step may not clear away all reaction components to the waste reservoir(s) before the next reaction or phase. Therefore, some components may carry over from a first reaction to a second reaction in a sequential system, e.g., a high throughput system.
For example, in a pyrosequencing reaction in which the DNA template is immobilized on beads, all sequencing reagents are optionally present in a reaction mixture along with reagents used to transform any generated pyrophosphate into chemiluminescence. The DNA sequencing reagents, e.g., dNTPs, and the pyrophosphate are negatively charged, but some enzymes can be positively charged. The present system clears away both positively and negatively charged components before the next base extension reaction begins, thus avoiding contamination between samples.
To provide more complete washing of oppositely charged components, e.g., from a microfluidic system, a pair of wells is provided on each side of a reaction region. Reactions of interest, e.g., pyrosequencing, occur, e.g., in a network of microscale channels or capillaries, in the reaction area. One well of each pair is used as a waste well and the other is used as a reagent source or. reservoir, e.g., for reagents of a certain charge. For example, see FIG. 18, Panel A. Well 1810 comprises a source of positive and neutral reagents and well 1830 comprises a source for negative reagents (or those reagents whose total electrokinetic mobility is negative). Wells 1820 and 1840 comprise waste wells. Reagents are optionally loaded into the microfluidic system, e.g., reaction area 1850, by applying a positive voltage to well 1810 relative to well 1830. Substantially zero current is applied at wells 1820 and 1840. All reagents are loaded simultaneously using this method. Positive and neutral reagents flow from well 1810 to the reaction area 1850 and negative reagents flow from well 1830 to reaction area 1850. Typically, the reagents are loaded quickly to avoid generation of reaction products during loading. Alternatively, the positive and/or neutral reagents are loaded separately from the negative reagents. Positive and neutral reagents only are loaded by applying a positive voltage at well 1810 relative to well 1840 and substantially zero current at wells 1830 and 1820. The negative reagents alone are loaded by applying a positive voltage at well 1820 relative to well 1830 and substantially zero current at wells 1840 and 1810. Reagents are removed from reaction area 1850 in a similar manner. A positive voltage is applied to well 1820 relative to well 1840 and substantially zero voltage at wells 1810 and 1830. This step does not use either of the reagent wells, 1810 and 1830, thereby preventing contamination as reagents are removed or rinsed from the device.
Alternative channel configurations are provided in FIG. 18, panels B and C. Reaction areas 1850 b and 1850 c illustrate possible channel configurations. Other configurations as described herein are also optionally used. Wells 1810 b and 1810 c are optionally used for positive and/or neutral reagents and wells 1830 b and 1830 c optionally comprise negative reagents. Introduction of reagents optionally comprises applying a positive voltage at well 1810 b or 1810 c relative to 1830 b or 1830 c. Alternatively, a positive voltage is applied at well 1810 b or 1810 c relative to one or more of wells 1860 b, 1860 c, 1820 b, 1820 c, 1840 b, and 1840 c. Negative reagents are optionally introduced by applying a positive voltage at any of wells 1860 b, 1860 c, 1820 b, 1820 c, 1840 b, and 1840 c relative to well 1830 b or 1830 c. Removal of reagents is achieved, e.g., by applying a positive voltage at 1860 b or 1860 c relative to 1840 b or 1840 c. Other possible methods of flowing reagents through the devices of FIG. 18 will be readily apparent upon further review.
Typically, the controller systems are appropriately configured to receive a microfluidic device as described herein. In particular, the controller and/or detector (as described in greater detail, below), includes a stage upon which the device of the invention is mounted to facilitate appropriate interfacing between the controller and/or detector and the device. Typically, the stage includes an appropriate mounting/alignment structural element, such as a nesting well, alignment pins and/or holes, asymmetric edge structures (to facilitate proper device alignment), and the like. Many such configurations are described in the references cited herein.
The controlling instrumentation discussed above is also used to provide for electrokinetic injection or withdrawal of material downstream of the region of interest to control an upstream flow rate. The same instrumentation and techniques described above are also utilized to inject a fluid into a downstream port to function as a flow control element.
The devices herein optionally include signal detectors, e.g., which detect fluorescence, phosphorescence, radioactivity, pH, charge, absorbance, luminescence, temperature, magnetism or the like. The detectors optionally monitor a plurality of signals from the plurality of particle sets, either simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the detector can monitor a plurality of optical signals which correspond in position to sets of particles within the array. Example detectors include of photo multiplier tubes, a CCD array, a scanning detector or galvo-scann or the like. Particles from the array which emit a detectable signal can be flowed past the detector, or, alternatively, the detector can move relative to the array to determine particle position (or, preferably, the detector can simultaneously monitor a number of spatial positions corresponding to array members, e.g., as in a CCD array). The detector can include or be operably linked to a computer, e.g., which has software for converting detector signal information into nucleic acid sequence information, converting detector signal information into reaction kinetic information, converting signal information into antibody binding data, converting signal information into cell receptor binding data converting signal information into hybridization data, or the like.
Signals from arrays are optionally calibrated, e.g., by calibrating the microfluidic system by monitoring a signal from a known member of the array, e.g., a calibration or marker particle, or from a known particle set external to the array. Similarly the relative positions of particle sets and signals from the array is monitored, e.g., by determining the position of one or more members of the array by monitoring a signal from a known member of the array, thereby determining the position of the known member of the array.
In the microfluidic systems described herein, a variety of detection methods and systems are employed, depending upon the specific operation that is being performed by the system. A microfluidic system can also employ multiple different detection systems for monitoring the output of the system. Detection. systems of the present invention are used to detect and monitor the materials in the detection window. Once detected, the flow rate and velocity of particles in the channels is optionally measured and controlled as described above.
Examples of detection systems include optical sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, pH sensors, conductivity sensors, and the like. Each of these types of sensors is readily incorporated into the microfluidic systems described herein. In these systems, such detectors are placed either within or adjacent to the microfluidic device or one or more channels, chambers or conduits of the device, such that the detector is within sensory communication with the device, channel, or chamber. The phrase “within sensory communication” of a particular region or element, as used herein, generally refers to the placement of the detector in a position such that the detector is capable of detecting the property of the microfluidic device, a portion of the microfluidic device, or the contents of a portion of the microfluidic device, for which that detector was intended. For example, a pH sensor placed in sensory communication with a microscale channel is capable of determining the pH of a fluid disposed in that channel. Similarly, a temperature sensor placed in sensory communication with the body of a microfluidic device is capable of determining the temperature of the device itself.
Particularly preferred detection systems include optical detection systems for detecting an optical property of a material within the channels and/or chambers of the microfluidic devices that are incorporated into the microfluidic systems described herein. Such optical detection systems are typically placed adjacent to a microscale channel of a microfluidic device, and are in sensory communication with the channel via an optical detection window that is disposed across the channel or chamber of the device. Optical detection systems include systems that are capable of measuring the light emitted from material within the channel, the transmissivity or absorbance of the material, as well as the materials spectral characteristics. In preferred aspects, the detector measures an amount of light emitted from the material, such as a fluorescent or chemiluminescent material. As such, the detection system will typically include collection optics for gathering a light based signal transmitted through the detection window, and transmitting that signal to an appropriate light detector. Microscope objectives of varying power, field diameter, and focal length are readily utilized as at least a portion of this optical train. The light detectors are optionally photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, photomultiplier tubes, diode arrays, or in some cases, imaging systems, such as charged coupled devices (CCDs) and the like. In preferred aspects, photodiodes are utilized, at least in part, as the light detectors. The detection system is typically coupled to a computer (described in greater detail below), via an analog to digital or digital to analog converter, for transmitting detected light data to the computer for analysis, storage and data manipulation.
In the case of fluorescent materials, the detector will typically include a light source which produces light at an appropriate wavelength for activating the fluorescent material, as well as optics for directing the light source through the detection window to the material contained in the channel or chamber. The light source can be any number of light sources that provides an appropriate wavelength, including lasers, laser diodes and LEDs. Other light sources required for other detection systems. For example, broad band light sources are typically used in light scattering/transmissivity detection schemes, and the like. Typically, light selection parameters are well known to those of skill in the art.
The detector can exist as a separate unit, but is preferably integrated with the controller system, into a single instrument. Integration of these functions into a single unit facilitates connection of these instruments with the computer (described below), by permitting the use of few or a single communication port(s) for transmitting information between the controller, the detector and the computer.
As noted above, either or both of the controller system and/or the detection system are coupled to an appropriately programmed processor or computer which functions to instruct the operation of these instruments in accordance with preprogrammed or user input instructions, receive data and information from these instruments, and interpret, manipulate and report this information to the user. As such, the computer is typically appropriately coupled to one or both of these instruments (e.g., including an analog to digital or digital to analog converter as needed).
The computer typically includes appropriate software for receiving user instructions, either in the form of user input into a set parameter fields, e.g., in a GUI, or in the form of preprogrammed instructions, e.g., preprogrammed for a variety of different specific operations. The software then converts these instructions to appropriate language for instructing the operation of the fluid direction and transport controller to carry out the desired operation. The computer then receives the data from the one or more sensors/detectors included within the system, and interprets the data, either provides it in a user understood format, or uses that data to initiate further controller instructions, in accordance with the programming, e.g., such as in monitoring and control of flow rates, temperatures, applied voltages, and the like.
In the present invention, the computer typically includes software for the monitoring of materials in the channels, so that flow rate and velocity may be determined. Additionally the software is optionally used to control electrokinetic injection or withdrawal of material. The electrokinetic or withdrawal is used to modulate the flow rate as described above.
Generally, the microfluidic devices described herein are packaged to include many if not all of the necessary reagents for performing the device's preferred function. For example, the kits can include any of microfluidic devices comprising arrays, particle array members, reagents (e.g., sequencing or PCR reagents), sample materials, control materials, or the like. Such kits also typically include appropriate instructions for using the devices and reagents, and in cases where reagents are not predisposed in the devices themselves, with appropriate instructions for introducing the reagents into the channels and/or chambers of the device. In this latter case, these kits optionally include special ancillary devices for introducing materials into the microfluidic systems, e.g., appropriately configured syringes/pumps, or the like (of course, in one preferred embodiment, the device itself comprises a pipettor element, such as an electropipettor for introducing material into channels and chambers within the device). In the former case, such kits typically include a microfluidic device with necessary reagents predisposed in the channels/chambers of the device. Generally, such reagents are provided in a stabilized form, so as to prevent degradation or other loss during prolonged storage, e.g., from leakage. A number of stabilizing processes are widely used for reagents that are to be stored, such as the inclusion of chemical stabilizers (i.e., enzymatic inhibitors, microcides/bacteriostats, anticoagulants), the physical stabilization of the material, e.g., through immobilization on a solid support, entrapment in a matrix (i.e., a gel), lyophilization, or the like.
The discussion above is generally applicable to the aspects and embodiments of the invention described below.
Moreover, modifications can be made to the method and apparatus described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed, and the invention can be put to a number of different uses including the following:
The use of a microfluidic system containing at least a first substrate and having a first channel and a second channel intersecting the first channel, at least one of the channels having at least one cross-sectional dimension in a range from 0.1 to 500 μm, in order to test the effect of each of a plurality of test compounds on a biochemical system, the system including an array.
The use of a microfluidic system as described herein, wherein a biochemical system flows through one of said channels substantially continuously, providing for, e.g., sequential testing of a plurality of test compounds.
The use of an array in a microfluidic device as described herein to modulate reactions within microchannels or microchambers.
The use of electrokinetic injection in a microfluidic device as described herein to modulate or achieve flow in the channels.
The use of a combination of wicks, electrokinetic injection and pressure based flow elements in a microfluidic device as described herein to modulate or achieve flow of materials to arrays, or array members to materials, e.g., in the channels of the device.
The use of split waste wells or split reagent wells to load or unload reagents from a microfluidic device as described herein.
An assay utilizing a use of any one of the microfluidic systems or substrates described herein.
Microfluidic devices and bioassays which can be adapted to the present invention by the addition of arrays include various PCT applications and issued U.S. Patents, such as, U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,157 (J. Wallace Parce) issued Dec. 16, 1997, U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,868 (J. Wallace Parce et al.) issued Jul. 14, 1998, U.S. Pat. No. 5,800,690 (Calvin Y. H. Chow et al.) issued Sep. 1, 1998, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,787 (Anne R. Kopf-Sill et al.) issued Dec. 1, 1998; and published PCT applications, such as, WO 98/00231, WO 98/00705, WO 98/00707, WO 98/02728, WO 98/05424, WO 98/22811, WO 98/45481, WO 98/45929, WO 98/46438, and WO 98/49548, which are all incorporated herein by reference.
While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear to one skilled in the art from a reading of this disclosure that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention. For example, all the techniques and apparatus described above may be used in various combinations. All publications and patent documents cited in this application are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent document were so individually denoted. | {
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Trans Britain is an important and timely book
It stands out especially at the moment when the mainstream media is unfortunately promoting harmful and inaccurate information about trans and non-binary people.
Revision of the Gender Recognition Act
One of the reasons for the explosion in media coverage of trans lives and issues in the past year or so is the revision of the Gender Recognition Act (GRA), which was originally created in 2004. If you would like to see improvements to the GRA – especially in terms of allowing people to self-define their gender without having to go through overlong and at times humiliating processes, and including the rights and recognition of non-binary people – please fill in the consultation here. (Closing date 19th October 2018.)
This excellent podcast by Meg-John and Justin provides useful pointers about the Act and the current situation for trans and non-binary people overall.
The City of London is also doing a public consultation on their Gender Identity Policy. (Closing date 14th September 2018.)
The ‘debate’ around trans identity
If you don’t know much about it, there is nothing wrong with feeling confusion when reading about gender variance/non-conformity. What you may well be responding to is a media filter, and fear-mongering headlines which have the power to lodge themselves in the mind and remain there. (And if you think you don’t know, or have never known, any trans or non-binary people personally, you very likely do.) None of this is helped when someone’s right to exist is framed as a ‘debate’.
I am somewhat suspicious of the concept of ‘debate’. What it often means is ‘a contest between a privileged person and a less privileged person to see if the less privileged person gets upset first’. (It’s a sibling to the ‘false opposition’ trope that has taken over so much media output.) Pushing someone to explain themselves over and over has less to do with information-gathering than tiring the person to the point where they have no energy to carry on, so that they will make mistakes that can be used against them.
But the good news is that there is plenty of information out there, and an increasing number of accounts of contemporary trans lives. For example, see Trans, A Memoir by Juliet Jacques, and Trans Like Me, by CN Lester.
A much-needed history
Christine Burns, the editor of Trans Britain and a contributor to it, has been a stalwart campaigner for many years and it was exciting to see the crowdfunder on Unbound build up so quickly. [Disclosure: I contributed to it.] This book is much needed – partly as a history, partly as an illuminating account of activism before the internet and after, and partly as a counterbalance to some of the transphobic material that has been going around for too long.
We are living in a time of fascist resurgence, which is creating a heightened sense of permission to attack anyone who may be considered ‘other’. But, as Meg-John points out in the podcast, so many complaints and fears about trans people have a mirror in the cisgender population. If cis people don’t have to prove they are cis, why do trans people have to prove they are trans? Just as some trans people access medical services, such as surgeries and hormones, to feel more comfortable in their gender, so do some cis people.
A book in three parts
Trans Britain comprises early history, the birth of activism, and modern day trans and non-binary life. It offers very detailed accounts, through historical stories of pioneers from previous centuries and then to living memory and the rise of the newspaper exposé, starting with a reminder that binary gender is largely a western concept.
The 1960s were a time of increased media salaciousness, but they were also a time when people started to organise on a bigger scale. However, first of all they had to find each other, and for a long time the pressure to conform by ‘passing’, and living in stealth, was an obstacle to this. Ignorance and fear and lack of legal protections meant that if a person was known to be trans they could lose their job and their home. One contributor writes heartbreakingly about their isolation in the 60s and 70s as psychiatrist after psychiatrist offered terrible help and left them struggling alone. Some spent years playing along with the whims of autocratic and idiosyncratic clinicians. Some others got lucky with the medical profession. For example, in the 1940s, one doctor helped his trans patient by using the pretext of ‘a supposed intersex condition’ as a cover for their surgery.
Christine Burns: ‘Movements often start with campaigns for what can be legislated. […] Populations en masse somehow need to be persuaded that previous ideas for what was acceptable have to be revised. It is not legal sanctions that ultimately bring about lasting changes, but shifting cultural norms.’
With profound patience and tenacity, and endless meetings and reports, activists pushed for change. The Gender Recognition Act was created in 2004, around the same time as the explosion of social media, which enabled people to communicate with each other, and share and promote ideas to a previously unimaginable extent. In 2007 came the landmark study ‘Engendered Penalties’, the largest ever study into trans marginalisation, with nearly 900 participants.
Spectrums not binaries
But challenges alone don’t define people, and the ‘born in the wrong body’ narratives of the past have given way to a more powerful and wide-ranging set of voices and platforms. Gender non-conforming people have had a major influence on contemporary culture, (eg Transgender Tipping Point, Time 2014). With this increasing visibility have come a number of supportive and educational organisations such as Gendered Intelligence, All About Trans, and Trans Media Watch. And for the last three years, the UK has had an annual Trans, Non-Binary and Intersex conference.
With this visibility has come a sense of permission for many more people to examine their gender identity and expression. It’s well worth reading this study by Joel et al from 2013: Queering gender: studying gender identity in ‘normative’ individuals. Over 35 percent of the 2000+ people studied felt their gender identity was other than that which they had been assigned at birth. As the researchers say: ‘We conclude that the current view of gender identity as binary and unitary does not reflect the experience of many individuals, and call for a new conceptualisation of gender, which relates to multiplicity and fluidity in the experience of gender.’ If you’d like to read further about this, How To Understand Your Gender by Alex Iantaffi and Meg-John Barker is a good place to start. Also Resources for Non-Binary Identities.
I highly recommend Trans Britain for a number of reasons, not least for recognising the sheer graft of everyone involved as they fought to live their best lives, and to ensure that others coming after them do too.
From Stephanie Hirst, who wrote the final chapter: ‘…’Generation Z’ […] are growing up with the normality of people of all genders, sexuality and ethnic backgrounds. This new generation will see fluidity in all people, and look back in total horror at how trans people were discriminated against during the late twentieth and early twenty-first century.’
So what makes some people so angry about the existence of gender non-conforming people, and their right to self-determination being enshrined in law?
As a therapist working with gender, sexuality and relationship diverse clients, I reflect on this frequently. There seem to be a number of factors at work here.
- ‘Think of the children’
Much of the recent wave of anti-trans prejudice relates to the support and treatment of trans children. ‘Won’t someone think of the children’ is an often-used argument against the existence of anything that questions current sex, sexuality and gender norms. What is being said about trans people today was said about queer people 30 years ago. Remember Section 28 in 1988, that prevented the ‘promotion of homosexuality’ in schools, and that awful phrase ‘pretended family relationships’? The thinking seems to be that where there is freedom for a person to be congruent and authentic in their gender identity and expression, the world has ‘gone mad’ and the brainwashing and abuse of children must follow.
There is a lot of anger from some quarters about medical interventions for trans children, and yet often total silence from those same quarters about the non-consensual and traumatic surgeries done to Intersex children to give them the ‘correct’ gender.
Further reading on this: Detransition, Desistance, and Disinformation: A Guide for Understanding Transgender Children Debates, and the follow-up post Reframing “Transgender Desistance” Debates (both by Julia Serano), and Why ‘Rapid-Onset Gender Dysphoria’ is Bad Science (Florence Ashley). This post by Rosie Swayne is also good: Unqualified, middle-aged lesbian swerves abruptly out of her lane to talk about trans issues.
- A binary view of gender
People are hugely invested in a natal gender binary. Unfortunately, much trouble comes from looking at a baby’s genitals when it is born, (particularly if the child is Intersex), and deciding which of two genders it is going to be and therefore what sexuality the child is likely to have. From this at-birth assignment of labels comes everything from earning power to personal safety, to how much this person’s opinions will be taken seriously, to medical treatment, to everything else.
It takes a lot of reflective work and uprooting of ancient beliefs to realise that neither genitals not perceived biological sex have to define gender. And some people do not define as either of the binary genders at all, as neither feels congruent for them.
It’s worth reading the work of Cordelia Fine on gender: particularly Testosterone Rex and Delusions of Gender, and Julia Serano: particularly Whipping Girl and Excluded, and a whole range of clear and well argued essays under the heading Debunking anti-transgender myths and tropes.
- A sense of entitlement to define others
I cannot say this is just something specifically about British culture, but as that is the one I grew up in, I will use it as a baseline. When I was growing up, it was much more normalised for parents and teachers to tell a child what they are, particularly when it was something negative. ‘You are bad. You are fundamentally inadequate. You are a disgrace.’ It wasn’t about the child’s actions in that moment, but something much deeper – about their entire being. So the opposing idea, that someone might respond, ‘No, you don’t get to define me – I do,’ feels positively revolutionary.
Unfortunately this drive to normalise through criticism is sometimes still mirrored in the psychotherapy world; the idea that anything that deviates from the [eg cisgender heterosexual monogamous vanilla] norm is a pathology that must be uprooted. These attitudes have not gone away, and may be echoed in the interaction when a client says ‘But it’s not like that’ and the therapist insists that they know better. At worst this becomes conversion therapy, a practice which the profession is increasingly distancing itself from.
- Envy of someone who is living as their authentic self
Some (many) people grow up letting themselves be what other people define them as – this path of least resistance may be the safest path at the time. But when they realise that the norms they have conformed to do not reflect their true selves, it may feel as if it is too late. This may bring out deep envy of those who appear to be demanding and getting more from life, and this envy may manifest as a desire to attack. (And of course children can be harmed by unhappy parents who are not living as their true selves.)
- A fixation with the purity of womanhood
There is a lot of frightened and at times Victorian-sounding rhetoric around who is allowed to self-declare as a woman. Some of it veers dangerously close to white nationalism, implying that somehow the classification ‘woman’ will be forever dirtied by allowing trans women to enter it.
- A deflection of something much bigger, all-encompassing, and harder to challenge: how boys and men are raised
A widely expressed anti-trans fear (specifically in relation to trans women and the revision of the Gender Recognition Act) is that cis men are suddenly going to self-define as trans and start invading toilets and assaulting women. In fact, men can and do already invade toilets and harass people – which is already illegal. And of course, a woman entering a toilet and harassing people would also be committing a crime.
From what I observe, many objections to trans women’s existence involve things that men actually do (or might do), and I see a lot of fear expressed around this. It would therefore seem beneficial to campaign about better education for boys, better sex education in schools, and dismantling patriarchal structures in general. If campaigners put their considerable resources towards this instead of attacking a small minority of human beings, they might get a lot more support. | {
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I’ve been asked twice this week whether I will start taking hormones soon or if I’m thinking about getting some kind of surgery to alter my sex. It turns out that P will be starting T this October and has also changed their name. My answer is always a clear and plain “no”, but I sometimes have a hard time explaining why.
So this week I had to try and explain my gender to P and my art teacher again, although I had already come out to them a year ago. I had a great conversation about stereotypes, non-binary identities and sexless angels though, so that was nice.
I often just tell people that I’m genderqueer and hope they’ll more or less understand where I stand on the gender spectrum, but the term “genderqueer” encloses so many different kinds of people who all experience their gender differently that it hardly gives any kind of explanation to start with. That is actually one of the reasons why I like the term though. I’ve talked about my sexuality here before and even made a table to separate which kinds of attractions I feel and to which degree, but my gender isn’t so easy to pin down. However, I feel like I have to write this down someday if I want to have a less difficult time explaining what it is I am when somebody asks about my gender identity. So here goes. I warn you that this may turn complicated and end up with me contradicting myself a couple of times.
Let’s start with the easy part. When I’m asked whether I’m a boy or a girl by somebody who I don’t know/will never know, I do what I’m not supposed to do and automatically classify them as cisgender, unknowledgeable of non-binary identities, and faithful partakers of the female-male binary. I then answer with a “male” or “female” depending on the day, simply ignore them or, if I’m in a really good mood and my safety isn’t in danger, answer with a “yes”, “no”, “sometimes” or even a “both and neither”. To be honest, all answers are correct. I’m a girl; I will always be a girl to some extent. But I’m also a boy. But I’m not half girl and half boy, I’m FULL girl and FULL boy. Some people treat gender as some sort of cube which you can fill up with bits of genders and once the cube is full, well there you have your gender identity (25% female, 40% male, 35% neutrois for example). But I’d need more than one cube; I’m 100% female and 100% male.
At the same time, I’m sure the way I experience me being a girl or a boy is probably different to how other people who identify as a girl or boy feel. I don’t really fit in at women or men spaces, and I share no bonds with people who are from the binary only because they share my gender identity. I don’t identify with them. This “neither” feeling would be connected to my non-binary identity, which I refer to as agenderism or neutrality.
Yet I sometimes feel like I would more likely fit in more with the masculine side of the binary and sometimes I lean more towards the feminine side. That’s why I also say I’m genderfluid, and will usually dress according to which way I bend. Of course when this changes halfway through the day, it can cause dysphoria. I had a hard time learning that clothes are just clothes, and I can wear skirts when I’m in boy mode and a shirt saying “I am a boy” when in girl mode. Agender mode is more like an in-between; I’m not particularly feeling more like a boy or a girl. In neutrality mode there is a sense of absolute gender void; there’s hardly anything there, and it would be very hard for me to understand what feeling like a certain gender would feel like. It’s like I forget the concept of gender altogether. This doesn’t occur often though, so I usually don’t bother making a difference between my agender and gender neutral identities.
So to resume all of the above I’ll use my original mathematical formula that combines all aspects of my gender:
Girl + Boy + Agender + Gender neutral = Genderqueer. Emphasis on one of the first four depending on the situation (a.k.a. gender fluidity).
Some people say that gender and sexuality terms only limit who you are and close you into a box. But since I’m in favour of people defining terms in their own way, finding their own meaning, breaking any lines that might limit them and also happen to love words, I see these terms more as a way of letting people try to understand you. My identity overflows from any kind of box that the gender spectrum has, but the term genderqueer is precisely a term that means “there are no boxes for me”, so I’ll be going with that until I find a better one.
Now that my gender is covered, I’ll get to the pronouns. I like he/him/his pronouns because they contradict what is established to be the norm according to my biological sex, so having someone refer to me as a boy makes me feel like I’m challenging society’s binary understanding of gender, which of course makes me glad. Until I realize that they are actually labelling me as male because that is what they see me as, and then I can feel uncomfortable. Because of the same reason, she/her pronouns sometimes also make me uncomfortable. Note that this only occurs when the person referring to me doesn’t know about my identity; I have no problem with any pronouns when used by somebody who acknowledges my gender, which is why I usually say I don’t mind which pronouns one uses after coming out as genderqueer. Any neutral pronouns are great, though I’m more used to hearing they/them/theirs.
The two exceptions are French, in which I prefer she/her pronouns, and Japanese, in which I prefer he/him/his.
And if you want a short Catalan lesson, when speaking I use she/her pronouns to refer to myself, but I usually write using he/him/his. In English this isn’t necessary, but in Spanish and Catalan we end all adjectives with one termination or another depending on our gender. For example, “I am tired” in English upholds no gendering, but in Catalan it would be “estic cansat” if you’re male or “estic cansada” if you’re female. There is no neutral form. But since all substantives have a gender (table is feminine, tree is masculine) I can sometimes manage to make sentences that don’t gender myself, since the adjective then refers to the substantive and not to me (“I am a happy person”: “sóc una persona contenta”). Of course this is difficult to think of quickly enough when speaking, so sometimes I talk with both he/him/his pronouns and she/her pronouns in the same sentence, just to confuse people.
So which pronouns do you all prefer? And how do you identify gender-wise? I challenge you to try and describe it (if not in the comments in a post maybe?). I hope I managed to make some sense… | {
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The transgender community waits for health care to catch up
As a standardized patient, Sherrie Scaffidi (left) assists in the training of the medical students like Taylor Howard, M. D. '19 (right).
A group of first-year medical students sits before a panel of invited guests. It’s part of a daylong Practice of Medicine workshop focused entirely on LGBTQIA health care. The first panelist, a transgender woman, starts things off. "How many of you," she begins, scanning the room, "have had to call at least a dozen different doctors’ offices just to see if anyone would even take someone like you as a patient?"
The room falls silent. Students look uncomfortably around the room. The importance of this dedicated day of learning has already hit home for these aspiring physicians-to-be. It’s a glimpse into a nationwide epidemic: the gaping disparity between the number of transgender individuals who need health care and the number of providers who can and will care for them knowledgeably and respectfully.
As of 2016, 1.4 million adults identified as transgender, according to a study by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law. Statistically, as members of the LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and/or queer, intersex, asexual and/or ally) community, they are more likely to attempt suicide, be homeless, be overweight or obese, suffer mental health issues and have the highest rates of tobacco, drug and alcohol use.
Despite all this, they are also far less likely than cisgender individuals (those whose gender identities align with their birth sex) to seek medical treatment, according to an NPR survey. Twenty-two percent say they have avoided doctors or health care out of fear of discrimination, and 31% have no regular doctors or form of health care.
Meanwhile, only about a third of medical students feel adequately trained to provide patients with sexual health information, according to a University of Vermont College of Medicine study. And as of 2018, more than half (52%) of medical schools in the U.S. still provided no transgender education at all.
Fortunately, northern Nevada is ahead of the curve. Thanks to the dedication of faculty, staff and students in a variety of disciplines, the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine houses a number of ambitious initiatives to meet the needs of the transgender community and close this health care gap.
When David J. Howard M.D. ’04, Ph.D., was a medical student, there was no training offered to students in the treatment of transgender patients. "I think I was very well educated, but that wasn’t part of anybody’s curriculum at the time, so I think we’ve made some progress," he said.
Today, as a board-certified endocrinologist, Dr. Howard is an associate professor at UNR Med and director of curricular operations for medical student education in years one and two, and he’s closely involved in helping make that progress.
First-year medical students now participate in a daylong intensive program comprised of two hours of lecture — one on sexual orientation in medicine and another on transgender health — followed by three hours of practical content, during which students take part in peer-led training in sexual history-taking of transgender patients, peer-led transgender case studies involving LGBTQIA issues, Safe Zone training and a panel discussion with LGBTQIA patients and providers. Howard is also working to fold more non-binary patients, patients with gender identities that are not exclusively masculine or feminine, into the school’s Case of the Week programming.
The lectures are led by Howard and Nicole Jacobs, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, associate professor in UNR Med’s department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and associate dean of diversity and inclusion for the School of Medicine, who focuses on culturally sensitive history-taking and discussions.
Medical student Rodel Maulit leads a discussion with his peers.
These ideas are extended in the Safe Zone training, derived from The Safe Zone Project, a national program for LGBTQIA awareness and ally training. Jacobs explained that she and colleagues have adapted the national program specifically for health care providers.
"We talk about pronoun use, terminology, phobias, how sexual orientation is different from gender expression and how that affects identity... We also talk about what they can do to provide a good patient experience, from the moment the patient parks in their lot to what forms they will fill out and whether there will be options for them in terms of selecting gender or preferred names. We talk about the kind of service they will offer and what it must be like being someone who has to make multiple phone calls to find a doctor’s office that will even accept or treat them."
Jacobs says that the interactive components of the training, the panel and case studies, are particularly powerful in helping medical students to see the impact on patients. Panels may include members of the LGBTQIA community, providers and other knowledgeable professionals from the area.
We know that people from LGBTQIA populations tend to delay or forego health care because of some of the biases they encounter when they're trying to get care
"We want students to hear about doctors who aren’t quite up to par or aren’t sensitive and what kind of impact that has. We know that people from LGBTQIA populations tend to delay or forego health care because of some of the biases they encounter when they’re trying to get care," Jacobs said.
Exposure to transgender education doesn’t stop after year one. Kathryn Eckert M.D. ’89, a pediatric endocrinologist and associate professor at UNR Med, is one of the few providers prescribing puberty blockers and gender-affirming hormones to pediatric transgender patients in the community.
"I think we really need to have more providers who are trained in that area, in mental health as well as [hormone therapies]," Dr. Eckert said, adding that training shouldn’t be limited to endocrinologists, since many different providers will at some point encounter the effects of prescribed hormone therapies.
Fortunately, her work informs the curriculum, and as pediatric clerkship director, she ensures that students in their last two years of medical training are exposed to transgender education. The vast majority of students who rotate through her clinic, she says, will see at least one patient with transgender issues.
Jacobs also points out another aspect of the training continuum: During orientation, at the beginning of year one and twice more during medical school, all students take assessments of implicit bias, which measures their biases about a variety of demographics, including LGBTQIA. Drawing on those results, students are taught how to manage their biases and reconcile them with their explicit values through a peer-led, interactive curriculum created specifically by and for UNR Med based on Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), an internationally known, evidence-based program co-created by Steven Hayes, Ph.D., foundation professor in the University’s department of psychology, and adapted for use with medical students in collaboration with the University’s Performance Systems Technologies Lab, led by Behavior Analysis Program Director Ramona Houmanfar, Ph.D.
"I don’t think other medical schools are doing this kind of thing. We’ve actually created a program where it’s part of the curriculum, it’s longitudinal and we have measures that say we’ve taken assessments of implicit bias at orientation, at the end of year two and again in year four," Jacobs said. "I think I can pretty confidently say that we’re on the cutting edge of that."
UNR Med students also work with standardized patients, community members who, following provided scripts, present as real patients to the medical students.
"I think one of the strengths of our program is that students get early exposure to patient care," Howard said. "So within two weeks, they’re having to interview patients and ask them these really difficult questions about their religious beliefs and end-of-life care and sexual practices. It’s very important for them to get used to asking those questions ... If you can be comfortable with the population, it makes a huge difference to them, and they can be more comfortable with you as well."
One such standardized patient is Sherrie Scaffidi, a 69-year-old transgender woman from Carson City who is active in transgender advocacy in the community, as president of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Carson City Region, a volunteer with Northern Nevada HOPES and a board member with the lobbying organization Transgender Allies Group (TAG). Scaffidi was approached by a fellow HOPES volunteer about an opening at UNR Med for a standardized patient and was enthusiastic about the opportunity to help educate future doctors, having experienced her own difficulties in the health care world.
"Many doctors don’t know and have not been taught how to care for transgender patients," Scaffidi said. "My GP, a young woman, recently said to me, ‘I’ll gladly fill your hormone prescriptions, but if we have to make any changes, I don’t know how to do that.’ By doing this with the School of Medicine, we’re getting those students who are going to be doctors exposed to treating transgender patients, so maybe down the road the patient won’t have to teach the doctor how to care for us."
She insists to UNR Med students that no questions are off limits if it benefits their learning. For her part, she won’t hesitate to politely correct their occasional missteps in the interest of education.
"It’s interesting to see how they react to me, the questions they’ll ask, and whether they do so in a respectful manner," Scaffidi said. "One time, they kept asking, ‘So how are you doing with your transformation?’ That’s not a term we use; I’m not transforming into anything, I’m transitioning. I had to tell them, ‘You don’t want to use that term.’ So it opens their eyes as far as how to interact with certain types of people."
Last year was the first to include peer-led discussions on sexual history-taking and case studies. Rodel Maulit, a medical student pursuing a scholarly concentration in medical education, has worked closely with Jacobs to study the outcomes of peer-led activities on students’ attitudes and self-efficacy in caring for these patient populations, as a means for improving the UNR Med curriculum. Pre- and post-assessments from 2018 indicated an increase in improvement of attitudes and knowledge about working with LGBTQIA patients.
"We thought perhaps if it was done in a peer-led fashion, it would remove some of the stigma and help people feel more comfortable talking about some of these subjects," Jacobs said. "We haven’t empirically tested the question, but I think Rodel is able to make students feel comfortable and ask questions in a way they might not if faculty were leading it."
Students also are taking the lead in other ways to ensure that transgender education is prioritized at UNR Med. Recent graduate Taylor Howard, M.D. ’19, plans to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology and identifies herself as a queer female. Having recognized a need for an LGBTQIA interest group during her first year of med school, and that her future work might address issues among this population, she and classmate Crystal Phares, M.D. ’19, formed the LGBTQIA+ Medical Student Alliance.
"We created it as both a safe space for LGBTQIA-identified students and to share ideas on how to provide excellent care to these people," Dr. Taylor Howard said.Jacobs serves as faculty mentor to the group, and both she and Howard are proud to know that the alliance has a large number of participants, extending to students who don’t identify as queer.
The thing I think is most exciting is the part of LGBTQIA — the alies. There aren't that may medical students who are out as part of the LGBTQIA population, but they have probably three or four times as many allies.
"The thing I think is most exciting is the A part of LGBTQIA — the allies. There aren’t that many medical students who are out as part of the LGBTQIA population, but they have probably three or four times as many allies," Jacobs said.
The group hosts lunchtime events, during which cases involving LGBTQIA medical care are presented, and speakers, including local providers, also give talks on relevant issues.
Howard is also involved in organizing the Northern Nevada Diversity Summit conference, involving panels with transgender members of the community. And she has gained supplemental training through the American Medical Student Association’s Trans Health Scholars Program, a yearlong, online course designed in collaboration with leaders in transgender health and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The goal of the course is to improve how physicians can best support and maintain the health of diverse patient populations.
"It covers the need for interdisciplinary care, mental health resources, social resources and so many other facets of helping a transgender or non-binary-identified patient becoming comfortable in their gender identity," Howard said, explaining that her future goals include being a resource for trans patients by acting as a provider of hormone therapies.
Reaching the Community
As one of the few practitioners in the area currently working with transgender patients, Eckert is committed to providing education to the larger medical community. Her work includes giving talks on the care of transgender youth through Renown’s Grand Rounds program, which offers continuing medical education (CME) to providers. And she is an integral part of the delivery of free consultation and treatment recommendations through Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes).
Launched in 2012 through UNR Med’s Office of Statewide Initiatives, Project ECHO’s mission is to connect teams of specialists with primary care clinicians via interactive video-conference for patient case consultation and continuing education. Project ECHO reaches participants from all areas of the state who wish to enhance their existing body of knowledge and earn CME credits.
"One objective of Project ECHO is to disseminate information on the latest best practices for medical care," explained Troy Jorgensen, Project ECHO program coordinator. Since 2016, Project ECHO Nevada has delivered four sessions on transgender care featuring Eckert, as well as other community and national experts.
While sessions on adult topics take place multiple times throughout each week, the Complex Pediatrics ECHO clinic, with Eckert as hub lead, is currently offered once a month.
My goal is to make people primarily aware of how these transgender kids might present. We see depression and anxiety 100 percent across the board.
"My goal is to make people primarily aware of how these transgender kids might present. We see depression and anxiety 100 percent across the board, "Eckert said. "Obviously, not every kid with depression or anxiety is transgender, but it raises the awareness. And then we talk about trying to get them to see appropriate providers. It’s helping [the providers] develop empathy and understand the questions they can ask. Because doing that, in and of itself, reduces anxiety."
Jorgensen adds that, through a partnership with TAG in 2017, Project ECHO also provided a special series session entitled "Cultural Competencies in Transgender Health Care," which featured a speaker from the Fenway Institute, a leading organization in the field of LGBTQIA health care, research and advocacy. The session focused on training the more than 45 primary care physicians from around Nevada as well as California, Hawaii and Washington on the use of proper pronouns, the barriers LGBTQIA patients face in seeking health care and the best practices for their treatment.
Talking the Talk
After joining UNR Med’s department of speech pathology and audiology as clinical director in 2014, Rachael Walden, M.S., CCC-SLP, had an interesting conversation with a faculty member from Sacramento State.
"She said, ‘We have this trans voice and communication clinic here, and we see quite a few clients from Reno. I think if you started something there, you’d have a few people interested,’" Walden recalled.
Intrigued, Walden reached out to TAG president Brooke Maylath as well as a local social worker for help soliciting input from the transgender community about their needs. During a standing-room-only focus group of transgender individuals and allies, Walden and the team saw the extraordinary demand in this area and began forming ideas for a clinic at UNR Med.
The ideas quickly turned to action. Maylath began conducting sensitivity training with speech and audiology students. And by summer 2014, the Trans Voice and Communication Clinic was providing one-on-one intervention to clients, who were invited to stay after their sessions for group therapy, during which invited speakers provided advice and insights about various topics affecting the transgender community: a physical therapist offering lessons on feminine gait patterns, a local spa offering skin care and makeup tips and a yogi speaking about the value of stress management were among them.
"It goes beyond voice," Walden said. "It’s a hub for dealing with many issues. And that’s really what we heard from the community — that of course they wanted their voices to match their gender identities, but also to look at the clients as a whole."
Clients who come to the Trans Voice and Communication Clinic meet with diagnostic teams of graduate students and faculty, who assess their current voices and their goals. Then the interventions begin, utilizing a revolutionary program developed by a graduate student, Selah Sullivan, M.S., CCC-SLP, and her faculty mentor, Abbie Olszewski, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, associate professor and clinical supervisor. The program was then expanded with clinical research from Olszewski, and has since been published as anintervention book.
The book, "Here’s How to Teach Voice and Communication Skills to Transgender Women," quickly became the roadmap for the Trans Voice and Communication Clinic. With the assistance of Adriano Cabral, assistant professor in the University’s department of theatre and dance, as a third authorial voice, the book includes insights into how character is a component of gender presentation.
Katie Allen, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a clinical supervisor and graduate research assistant. She explains that the program capitalizes on the flexibility that normal voice users have in their own vocal systems. "In 2016, I got training in Dr. Olszewski’s program and was a little skeptical, just because it didn’t seem like anything magic. But then when I started using it, it was magic," Allen said.
Olszewski explained that the program deals with much more than pitch. It also includes vocal hygiene, resonance, breathiness, and verbal and nonverbal communication. And though it’s primarily written for the male-to-fe-male (MtF) clients — transgender males’ voices often experience natural changes as a result of their hormone therapies — the program can usually be done in reverse for FtM clients, to assist with such things as resonance and male nonverbal communication skills. Olszewski says that according to results from the "Transsexual Voice Questionnaire (Male to Female)," written by Shelagh Davies, participants have improved their vocal quality of life. Improvement in fundamental frequencies and pitch were also judged as more feminine following the program.
"I don’t think people understand how important it is for a transgender individual to be able to have a voice that identifies with how they feel," Olszewski said. "So we really wanted to do this book because we wanted to improve the lives of transgender individuals."
Claire McCully is a transgender female from Lake Tahoe who began coming to the clinic in late fall 2018. After just a few short months, McCully, who only began her transition three years ago, has already made considerable progress with her voice through the program. "I’ve spoken for so long with a deep voice, so it’s challenging to practice and stay there. They give me a lot of homework to do!" she said, adding that there are many rewards for this hard work.
"In order for transgender men and women to feel accepted and for self-acceptance, it’s so important how you see yourself through other people’s eyes. So when people are constantly misgendering you, it really takes a toll, especially for trans women," she said. "I think it’s so important for all trans people to be able to confidently use a voice that aligns with their identity."
In summer 2018, the Trans Voice and Communication Clinic received a $10,000 Community Impact Fund award from the Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation. One-third of the funds are designated for scholarships and support, to assist clients who otherwise would not be able to afford the treatment; one-third supports faculty training in the latest best practices in voice and communication intervention; and one-third provides stipends to people from throughout the University or Truckee Meadows community who support the program and lend their complementary expertise to clients. At the time of this writing, Walden was reapplying for this annual award.
People who came that first summer said, repeatedly, "This is the first medical office where I could come and be myself."
"I’m really proud of what we do," Walden said. "We were one of the first departments on campus to jump into this pool and offer this service.People who came that first summer said, repeatedly, ‘This is the first medical office where I could come and be myself.’"
The manual "Here’s How to Teach Voice and Communication Skills to Transgender Women" has become the roadmap for the Trans Voice and Communication Clinic.
The Future of Transgender Health and Well-being
Jodi Thomas, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist with University of Nevada, Reno Counseling Services and coordinator of group therapy. Her specialties include sexuality, queer issues and transgender-affirmative therapy. Her work with students tells her that there is still much to be done in the medical community with regard to providing ethical and appropriate care to transgender patients.
"I hear a lot of clients who still are very hesitant to seek therapy services or medical care for fear of being stigmatized or pathologized," Thomas said, adding that clients frequently describe frustration over having to educate providers, or that providers aren’t knowledgeable enough to provide letters of support for certain procedures. They also express hesitance about coming out to medical providers for fear of being refused service or receiving inadequate care."
Baseline education is the main thing, and when doctors get educated to where they have developed a real skill or specialty, they need to advertise," she said. "Make yourself known. Tell patients, ‘I’m providing trans-affirmative treatment. I’ll provide letters.’ If you’re a doctor, flag to the community that you’re a safe person and that they won’t be mistreated, and then pass that training on to other people."
Though all of our sources acknowledge that there’s a long road ahead in terms of greater equity and choice for transgender health care, the considerable progress being made by UNR Med is generating excitement.
"I think we’re doing a lot, and I think there’s a lot of passion here and plenty of people who want to move things forward," Jacobs said. "It’s exciting and energizing to be part of it."
From the summer issue of Synapse, the magazine of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. | {
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One of the most difficult things we have to do as writers, is boil our novels down to write elevator pitches.
If you don’t know what that is, it’s a sentence or two of no more than about 25 words that explains/pitches your novel in the best light. If you met an agent in an elevator and had 2 floors to sell your book, what would you say?
This weeks challenge is in the same ball park as elevator pitches but not quite the same thing.
I listened to a podcast the other day, I think it was this episode from the story grid, and they said that every story should/could be boiled down to just three sentences. It’s a great exercise in getting concise clarity of your plot.
So, your challenge this week is to boil your plot down to its simplest form. This isn’t marketing 101, don’t try an sell me your book like a pitch sentence. This is purely about plot. Tell me your entire novels story in three sentences.
If you want to join in, pop your sentences in the comments, or in a blog post and ping back here so I can find it. You have until 12pm on the 28th August.
Eden gets bound to the wrong person. She has to figure out how to fix her binding and save the Netherworld in the process. Eden fixes her binding and saves the world.
Hey look, – I didn’t say it was going to be pretty, in fact I don’t think it can be. It just has to be your whole plot in three sentences. 3 sentences, go…!
To illustrate the difference between pitch and plot sentences, here’s a more interesting marketing type pitch for my book:
Fate’s wrong. Eden’s sure of it. But proving she was bound to the wrong person is going to be harder than she thinks.
Now to last time and your underwater ballrooms:
First in Judy, with a stunning poem that will grab your emotional cords and yank:
He wanted to surprise her
Take her to a special place
She had to look the part though
And was dressed in silk and lace
Her hair was freshly coiffured
Make-up expertly applied
He asked her to put a blindfold on
Throughout the short car ride
When the journey ended
He led her down some stairs
She could hear some tinkling music
This caught her unawares
The further they descended
The more curious she became
Was this a middle of a nightmare?
Or some weird role paying game!
She shivered in the coolness
And the darkness of the night
Her companion reassured her
Whispering that everything was all right
Nervously she licked her lips
And was surprised at the taste of salt
Suddenly she stumbled
And they shuddered to a halt.
“Now you can talk the blindfold off,
I hope you like what you see”
Tears welled up in her eyes
When she saw all of her family
She was standing in the doorway
Of the most impressive place
Surrounded by her loved ones
Tears rolled down her face
This exquisite ballroom
She thought she’d never see again
It was fifty years since she’d married there
She’d been so in love back then.
The décor still so opulent
And the lights so clear and bright
The laughing, happy faces
Filled her with delight
She turned to face her husband
Still handsome after all those years
What a perfect anniversary present
Thank you all so much my dears…
The next morning when they found her
Stiff and cold in her bed
They saw that she was still wearing
The tiara on her head.
She’d asked them to dress her up
To look nice for her Ray
Even though it was twenty years
Since he had passed away
Her diamond anniversary
She so wanted to celebrate
She knew that Ray would come for her
And she really couldn’t wait.
Next in Simon with his first ever entry:
The crushing blackness enveloped him as he struggled what he thought was upwards.His irrational mind telling him he was too deep, a mile down. Even his oxygen starved rational mind dismissed this, he was alive. Whatever had dragged him down hadn’t taken him far.
Each sweep of his arms getting harder, his shut his eyes tightly, hanging on to his breath as his lungs screamed for air. On an on he struggled even as he felt his strength wane. Then in a second he was on the surface as if spat out of the ocean. His mouth and eyes opened, sucking in breath with a rasp as brightness returned again.
Next in Gordon, with a fab historical fiction piece based on the true tale of the first woman diver:
Mrs Bennet’s Dip or The Diving Belle (a tale of 1805)
“Are you sure you want to do it?” The engineer asked nervously.
“You promised me yesterday.” The young widow replied, looking a little nervously up at the massive black machine.
“Very well, follow me.”
As he climbed the ladder, she removed her coat and handed it to her maid. In her bathing dress of stiff brown linen she followed him into the Bell and sat on the bench opposite.
“Haul away,” he called and she had to hold tight as the sailors hoisted the Diving Bell into the air, looking down she saw first the deck of the boat though the opening, then the waves. For a moment she watched the water sparkle, then the bell hit the surface. She gave a little cry as the water splashed on her legs.
Looking down she saw the remains of the sunken ship, that John Braithwaite was salvaging.
“Now if you feel at all faint you must let me know and we will ascend.”
“Why, do you think all women will faint at the first opportunity?”
“No, I don’t know how women will react, you are the first woman ever to dive like this.”
“The first!” Now she felt a little faint.
Ritu up next with a semi autobiographical piece:
Strictly Swim Dancing
They danced. Oh, how they danced.
And to think, I had been too scared to come here.
I would have missed Nature’s beautiful show!
Barely an hour had passed since I had been floundering in the shallow end of a swimming pool, trying to fathom how to use the breathing apparatus on this darned Scuba diving tank. Finally, I was swimming under the water like a boss!… Then they transferred us to the sea, and the sand kicking up in my face was too much. I couldn’t do it.
I told the lovely instructor to continue without me, that I would sit it out on the beach, while the rest of the group continued, but he was having none of it.
He held my hand, and led me onto the boat that was to take us to deeper waters. And he waited for me to fall into the ocean, guiding me every second of the way.
And boy, was I glad he did! Looking out of my goggles, at the myriad of fish waltzing around me was amazing.
It was like watching a thousand dancers in one ballroom, synchronised to the millisecond.
An underwater performance I’d never forget.
Hugh up next with a cracker of a twist at the end:
The Ballroom was the only part of the ship, underwater, where guests could view the world that was the crystal clear ocean.
“Meet us there,” her husband had told her.
She’d spent days looking for the perfect ballgown, and hours getting herself ready. The only question she kept asking herself was why it was all starting so early?
She felt the ‘Belle of the Ball’ as she paraded around the ship, making her way to the underwater ballroom. It never mattered that other guests stood in amazement as she walked passed them, some even snickering and pointing at her.
As she finally reached her destination, her heart slowly sank as if it were The Titanic. Pushing open the doors to the ballroom she was met with words she didn’t want to hear.
“Mum! Over here. We’re just about to start a game of five-a-side football. There’s plenty of other ball games you can try as well, but you’ll have to get changed into something a little more sporty if you wanna join in.”
Geoff in next with a rude ending :p
Dr Josiah Pretty was a mystery man. No one knew his background. His qualifications, while sound, remained unchecked by the authorities. He just appeared one day, setup business behind a brass plate announcing his name and ‘Consultant Urologist’ and began to practice. His client base grew with his reputation for a caring manner and a rapid diagnostic ability. He had been practicing for ten years when a clumsy error led to his being uncovered. The tabloids luxuriated in the gory details of his sinister practice, the many men’s lives ruined by his unethical behaviour. But the worst came fourteen days after his secret was revealed when workmen found hidden preservation tanks in the basement containing trophies of each unnecessary operation. The next day the papers were full of ‘Dr Pretty and his Underwater Ball Room’.
Next in Charli, revisiting our old friend Jen:
The Golden Promise by Charli Mills
Fools look at mountain water and see gold reflected in sunlight. With more greed than common sense, they believe in nuggets trapped beneath millions of strewn boulders. It’s a gambler’s false hope. They believe in gold even when cajoled, “Not yet, Boys, not yet…”
Schnatterly fed on fools. He had a string of investors believing in the golden promise of Boulder River. Since 1914, he’d been turning stones. It disgusted Jen how Schnatterly ordered hydraulic hoses to blast through the river canyon each successive summer only to end each season with another, “Not yet.”
Jen knew his dirty little secret. Schnaterly built his wealth on possibility. He bought his luxury yacht on the great Kootenai River below with investor money. His clothes, pocket watch and ridiculously gleaming shoes, were ill-gotten gains. The hydro- blasting, the logging, the flume – all props of deceit.
Tonight she’d take Wolfric beneath the holding ponds where the Boulder spilled into the Kootenai. She’d found a way into the underwater vault Schnatterly laughingly called his golden ballroom where the ore was stored. No one would believe a woman no matter how tough she was with an ax. She had to convince Wolfric. There was no gold.
Marje in next with a beautiful piece of writing. You should really check her post out that goes with it.
The Non-Binary Prom
I’m underwater, or I might as well be. The sun’s shining but I can’t feel it on my back. All I can hear is everyone whispering, a waterfall of gushing laughter presses against me. Ed swims through and signs my tee-shirt. Nobody else comes near. I have my back to him but it doesn’t stop me from imagining his face creasing into a confident surfer I know who I am smile. He scribbles something, and his mates laugh. I tear my tee-shirt off, exposing my ripped body, and tiny almost bikini top. He’s written girl and then crossed it out and written boy with this ugly question mark.
‘What you wearing to prom, Les?’ he asks. He’s laughing, because he knows that I can’t make up my mind whether to wear a suit and tie, or a fucking dress.
Non-binary. That’s me. I’m not on the prissy Prom committee but if I was I’d plan an underwater ball with us all swimming, skinny dipping, no clothes, no fancy ball gowns, nowhere to write mean things. Just floating, tattooed skin, splashing I’m human. That’s who we really are. What’s inside counts but Ed can’t see that. He’s drowning in binary.
Last up, Jane, with a beautifully descriptive post:
So bright, like diamonds, this thick air is alive, and I wonder what ever happened to you. It could have been good; you shouldn’t have given up. I missed you, always. Walking through the pinewood, light falling slantwise and the shrill of cicadas, your arm around me, your breath in my hair, hot and scented like the pines, needles crunching under foot, and the heat, like a presence. Old stones there were and piazzas with churches and fountains, and a silence of calm rather than inactivity. If only I could go back to that moment when everything went black and thick as treacle. If only.
Diamonds. I try to catch them but they slip like quicksilver between my fingers. I call. Call out to you. But my voice is lost in a bubbling vortex. Where did you go, all those years ago, when the dark fell? I’ve been wading in treacle ever since. Something fills my throat, choking. Is it tears or diamonds? I reach back to the dark, embrace it; hope that this time, I will know the right words. Hand, held out, pushing against the dark. My mouth, my head fill with dark diamonds.
If you like this posts, and fancy receiving them, and the latest publishing news and competitions straight to your mailbox, sign up here. | {
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There are many types of support that a victim/survivor may draw upon - both formal and informal. There are many ways that people find healing which can include but is not limited to: peer support, friends, family, Elders, traditional ceremonies, spiritual and/or religious communities, and community activism. Below are descriptions of some formal types of support available in Nova Scotia.
If the assault(s) took place within the last five days, the victim/survivor will be able to access the services of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). These registered nurses have advanced training in providing non-judgmental, confidential support as well as conducting medical exams and collecting forensic evidence. People of any gender can access this service (woman, man, trans, non-binary people etc.).
A person may want to see a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner to: take care of any physical injuries, test for pregnancy, test for STIs and begin treatment if necessary, and collect evidence for police.
Evidence will only be collected at the request of the person who has been assaulted. The victim/survivor has a minimum of six months to decide if they want the evidence to be transferred to the police.
When you go to one of the above-mentioned hospitals and tell staff you have been sexually assaulted they will call a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner and take you to a private room. The nurses will arrive between 45 to 90 minutes after being called. A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner will not involve the police unless requested by the victim/survivor. However, if the individual is under the age of 16, then they are mandated to report to the Department of Community Services.
It is important to know that the whole process takes approximately two to four hours. The victim/survivor can also bring a support person to the SANE exam. It is preferred, but not required, that you come directly to the hospital without showering or changing to preserve forensic evidence. Bring a change of clothes if you can so that you can shower and change following the examination. The victim/survivor has the right to end the examination at any time, for any reason.
You may want to call or visit one of three sexual assault centres located in Nova Scotia.
These centres exist to support victims/survivors of sexual violence, educate the public, and work to end sexualized violence in our society. The centres are staffed by trained and experienced professionals.
The centres offer a wide range of services and supports including:
- Access to a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (Avalon and Antigonish only)
- Information and referrals
- Free individual counselling
- Free group therapy
|Halifax||Avalon Sexual Assault Centre||Counselling for women and trans people only|
|Antigonish||Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre
and Sexual Assault Services Association (SASA)
|Counselling for women and trans people only|
|Truro||Colchester Sexual Assault Centre||Counselling for all genders|
You do not have to live in the above-mentioned regions to access these services.
If a victim/survivor chooses not to see a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner they may still want to access medical care. If the person is located in the Halifax region or can travel to Halifax another option is to visit The Halifax Sexual Health Centre. All of the Centre’s services are provided for free to anyone with a valid Nova Scotia health card as well as to Canadians from another province with a valid health card (Québec residents must pay up front and get reimbursed).
The Centre provides services including (but not limited to): pelvic examinations, emergency contraception (the “morning after pill”), pregnancy testing, tests and treatments for Sexually Transmitted Infection (STIs), anonymous HIV testing, and counselling regarding pregnancy options including abortion referrals.
The Centre provides care that is: confidential, inclusive and respectful of diversity, sex positive, pro-choice, youth positive and rainbow community positive.
Sydney, Stellarton, Amherst, Sheet Harbour and Bridgewater also have sexual health centres and can provide information, support, and referrals but do not offer clinical services.
Following an assault, the victim/survivor may choose to report it to police. In Canada, there is no time limit – or “statute of limitation” – on reporting a sexual assault. Every person has different and valid reasons for reporting or not reporting to police.
It is important that you do not pressure the person you are supporting either to report or not to report.
If the victim/survivor sees a nurse examiner, they have the option to undergo a forensic exam wherein the nurse collects evidence. This evidence can be immediately transferred to police or it can be held for a minimum of six months while the person who was violated decides if they want to report later.
If the victim/survivor chooses to report the sexual violence to the police, the police will first take a statement. It is important to know, that this statement is videotaped and will be used as the person’s “official statement” regarding the sexual violence in court. However, the videotaped statement does not eliminate the need for the person to give testimony in court. The victim/survivor can bring a support person to the police station, but the support person cannot be in the room when the victim/survivor gives their statement.
The statement and any further communication with the police about the event will be disclosed to both the Crown Attorney and the Defence lawyers and can be used/shared in court by either party.
Some people may opt to get legal advice regarding (for example) their statement to police, or what they could reasonably expect, before they report. It is important to note that it is the police who lay charges and the Crown Attorney who pursues those charges. The Crown Attorney is the lawyer who represents the province, not the victim/survivor, in court. This means that the Crown Attorney is not the victim/survivor’s lawyer and the victim/survivor does not get their own lawyer. A victim/survivor can hire a lawyer for support and guidance but they cannot represent you at most court hearings, such as Trial and Sentencing.
In Nova Scotia, if the victim/survivor decides that they do not want charges laid or that they want charges withdrawn, the police and/or the Crown Attorney will respect their request and not proceed with the charges.
If the sexual violence happened recently, the police will also collect evidence, which could include the person’s clothes, items from the location in which the assault took place and pictures of any marks or injuries. They may also interview any witnesses who were present or have relevant information.
The police will then question the person who perpetrated the violence (called “the suspect” during the investigation and the “accused” if charges are laid). The officer in charge should communicate with the victim/survivor throughout the investigation.
When a victim/survivor reports the sexual violence to police they are entitled to access Victim Services, which offers support and services to victims of crimes. If a victim/survivor is considering reporting to the police, they can contact Victim Services to get information about what to expect if they do decide to report. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Victim Services program also provides financial support for counselling, provided by approved private counsellors, for victim/survivors of violence through the Criminal Injuries Counselling Program. Victim Services staff can also help a victim/survivor apply for the Criminal Injuries Counselling Program.
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network is a support system free of charge for Aboriginal people involved in Nova Scotia’s criminal justice system.
The Mi’kmaw Legal Support Network has two Aboriginal Victim Support Workers who can guide a victim/survivor throughout the court process, help them prepare for court, and assist with victim impact statements. One Support Worker serves Cape Breton and one mainland Nova Scotia. Charges do not have to be laid in order to access services.
Cape Breton – 1-877- 379-2042
Mainland NS - 902-895- 1141 | {
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There are 6 forms of vehicle coverage coverages that are primary. You are able to tailor your plan to deal with numerous scenarios. It is also essential to have legal responsibility coverage. While liability insurance policies is required for most states even so, You may additionally select other forms of coverage. Liability insurance plan addresses you for anyone who is at fault in a collision. Furthermore, it covers almost every other drivers associated with the accident. It handles The prices of Others’s injuries and damages, likewise health care costs.
A typical plan will contain many sorts of coverage, which includes legal responsibility, collision, extensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments. Most of these are essential and it’s essential to make sure you have adequate of them. Some of these coverages could be demanded in certain states, while some might not be. Freeway Insurance policy is a fantastic site to locate the most beneficial motor vehicle insurance policies policy for yourself. You’ll be able to choose from A variety of selections for protection although conserving money and time.
Just about every point out has its individual minimum amount vehicle-insurance specifications. They are damaged into 3 various figures. In California, for instance you must have at minimum fifteen/thirty/5 bodily injuries liability insurance policy, and thirty/50/five in the residence problems liability. These figures can vary substantially, so It truly is a smart idea to validate the necessities of one’s state just before driving. Alternate insurance policy might be an alternate. However it’s actually not constantly a good idea.
While your state commonly demands legal responsibility protection, most lenders have to have total protection. The lender could possibly require you to acquire complete protection if your automobile is remaining financed. Comprehensive coverage includes collision insurance and complete insurance coverage. Legal responsibility protection covers damages to property belonging to Other individuals while in the occasion of an accident comes about, although not to your car or you. Combining property damage legal responsibility with bodily injury coverage to get the most thorough protection for an affordable rate.
It relies on your distinct circumstance to find out if collision protection is included in your insurance coverage policy for vehicles. Although you are not necessary to carry it lawfully nevertheless, lenders may possibly have to have it If your plan is always to finance your automobile. Should you have a vehicle personal loan, lenders may well require you to purchase collision insurance policies. This coverage is necessary for all people who finance a motor vehicle.
Collision coverage pays the full worth of your vehicle in the situation of an accident. Even though the insurer will cover for all repairs, it may not be enough to exchange your car if it receives stolen or ruined. As a way to swap your motor vehicle, you might need to spend many of your individual funds. Make certain you examine and comprehend the conditions and terms prior to purchasing insurance plan for your vehicle. Knowing the deductible is additionally vital.
Shopping for motor vehicle coverage just isn’t simple. Specified states have the minimum amount specifications to include Assets in addition to Uninsured Motorist protection. The coverage addresses the difference between your expenditures, and also the coverage Restrict for the driver at fault. Other states don’t need to have protection for drivers that are not insured. These are typically some guidelines that can assist you pick the proper coverage plan to suit your needs. The following pointers must simplify the process and help save money.
To safeguard your belongings and yourself from harm statements, legal responsibility protection is necessary in insurance on vehicles. If you are located responsible for the cause of a mishap, this protection can pay for lawful defense and settlement. There are various sorts of protection, so it is vital to be familiar with the distinction between them to avoid expensive unpredicted charges. Point out Farm delivers a mean amount for differing types of protection. You may perhaps discover it improved to select a average coverage fee.
Most states need you to acquire liability protection on your own coverage. It covers damages towards the residence of Other individuals and accidents to Many others. This coverage will protect you in case you trigger an harm to someone else. This kind of insurance policy is usually recommended by a variety of nations for drivers. It’s the norm coverage for most states. Try to be aware that the limits for liability coverage vary according to point out. The legal responsibility limit you choose will decide the amount of coverage you will require.
In Practically all states in nearly all states, driving with no liability insurance policies is from the law. Legal responsibility coverage pays for harm to home owned by Other folks. But your vehicle insurance policy policy will never go over your vehicle’s destruction. Every condition has its own minimum amount protection requirements. In advance of you purchase an vehicle insurance plan coverage ensure you examine the great print. It really is vital to have assets coverage to ensure economical stability. When you lead to a mishap, you can save you from costly insurance policies charges.
As a way to go over you in case of a collision the plan you choose to acquire ought to have residence injury coverage. The protection covers any damage you lead to A different human being’s auto, including repairs. Also, it handles the costs to scrub up particles adhering to an accident. Three numbers are generally utilized for residence protection. This addresses bodily damage coverage for every person together with assets problems insurance per particular person. Better limits supply more protection. If you will discover any constraints or exclusions, make certain you critique the policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage is offered in Big apple if one other driver isn’t insured plenty of to safeguard the collision. The coverage is offered when another driver isn’t really recognized and the incident is a success and operate. The Insurance coverage Law SS 5217 states that protection for uninsured motorists is just available for any Bodily collision. Nevertheless, the courts have interpreted the clause to only apply to physical accidents.
In some states, uninsured motorist and underinsured coverage is usually optional. In other states, however, both equally has to be obtained. Both of those of these coverages have the ability to be blended to deliver added safety in case of health care charges and various expenditures. The uninsured motorist policy will address repairs to your car In case you are left by using a damaged automobile by an uninsured driver. While this coverage just isn’t expected nonetheless, it is a smart concept to hold on the really least the least degree of legal responsibility coverage.
When you’ve under no circumstances thought of vehicle insurance coverage, it is actually a great way of conserving cash and keeping inexperienced. The price of insurance plan is often Slice by acquiring new motor vehicles equipped with basic safety characteristics like anti-lock brakes or airbags. For security functions installed inside your car, like anti-theft alarms and the daytime jogging lights, you might get extra savings. For the duration of 12 months, your the be concerned of shelling out your quality is usually eradicated by paying out your high quality on a yearly basis in the total amount of money. In fact, about half of insurers provide savings for this sort of payment.
You may additionally be eligible for bargains when you’ve had your insurance policy for a long time. These savings range depending on how long you have been Along with the plan, but some corporations offer discounts to become loyal for their purchasers. The plan is accessible for order for approximately 7 times previous to the day of renewal and you could be eligible for a reduction as substantial as 15% Some corporations give bargains to individuals that perform in particular specialties. One example is, instructors receive ten% off of their rates via Liberty Mutual. Geico gives a fifteen% price cut to armed service customers.
Have you been a brand new driver trying to get automobile insurance coverage low-cost prices. There are a selection of belongings you can perform to save money on vehicle insurance plan. These strategies can help you save a huge selection of dollars every year on your car insurance coverage. Moreover, you should be able to attain the lowest rates. Please read on to learn the way. You will be happy you did.
Young drivers can lessen the price of auto insurance policies by driving safely and securely, reducing the amount of miles they vacation and permitting insurance organizations keep an eye on their driving behavior. Additionally it is feasible to lessen the expense of your insurance coverage by browsing all around for vehicle coverage. It’s important that you simply store about for auto insurance policies. Several insurers demand larger rates for young motorists. You’ll find many on the internet applications that allow you to Review premiums and allow it to be straightforward. On top of that, numerous autos is often grouped with each other and offered a reduction through the exact same insurance coverage provider.
It is necessary to obtain a number of quotes when seeking a plan. This tends to allow you to find the most effective price and best high quality. It is additionally doable to search out an insurance agent that can perform along with you. This lets you modify your policy the coverage as your driving practices improve. It is crucial to match guidelines which provide related coverage. Dissimilarities inside the deductibles or restrictions could make a an infinite big difference. An excellent plan really should include things like ample coverage for young motorists to guard them selves from money destroy.
Getting a no claims price cut on vehicle address is a fantastic choice to reduce your premiums, and it would be worthwhile inquiring your insurance provider how to apply it. The lower price can be worth up to 30% right after a person yr, or as 65% soon after five. It can be depending on the insurance company you decide on. The 2-yr no-promises bonus inside the event of a mishap. On top of that, numerous claims can even erase all your no statements bonus. You will need to notify your insurance provider promptly if you’re injured in a collision. If this isn’t carried out, long run statements may very well be denied.
Lots of insurance policy corporations offer you no-statements reductions security for a cost of somewhere around PS25. This allows you to post the essential amount of promises on a yearly basis, without having to worry about the expense of your insurance policies mounting. It really is attainable to also include it on to a different coverage coverage if you have a reward for no promises. You may as well transfer the no-promises low cost to another provider in the event that it is necessary. It really is a good idea to maintain your no-claims lower price.
To decrease your Charge for motor vehicle insurance policies and reduce your insurance charges, you’ll want to improve your deductibles. Enhance your deductibles to avoid wasting 15%-30% in your quality, in accordance sure estimates. These cost savings will vary broadly dependant upon your driving heritage and the type of car or truck you own, and also the legal guidelines of one’s condition. A better deductible can lower your once-a-year top quality around 40%
Although it is not the only option for everybody boosting your deductible could aid in saving a huge selection of pounds around the system of your daily life. Gurus recommend preserving up to two months of dwelling fees. In addition, it will eventually reduced your insurance coverage expenses monthly. If you at any time file an insurance coverage assert, you will help you save a substantial amount of cash.
A policy which has a regional corporation is an efficient option for drivers with bad credit history records. This will help you help save every month funds on the insurance premiums and also deliver fantastic purchaser assist and Distinctive bargains. Regional insurers can be found in all fifty States. To search out the bottom fees, you could Look at rates from various states. It is vital to keep in mind that you could possibly demand setting up your credit rating about the program of. Some drivers with very poor credit rating scores is often charged greater than $four hundred annually.
Erie Insurance coverage is another regional insurer that gives cheap vehicle insurance policies at a low priced. This enterprise is located in Pennsylvania and has been in enterprise since 1925. Erie delivers auto coverage as Besides everyday living and home insurance policy. Erie won’t offer coverage in all states. It’s got in excess of 13,000 independent brokers across America. It can be done to pick an agent or regional insurance provider according to your demands. Prior to deciding to make a call, even so, it is usually recommended to read the smaller aspects.
It can be crucial to match vehicle insurance plan quotations to determine the most beneficial Price for your needs, especially if you’re a significant-risk driver. On top of that, it’s essential to exploration the availability of protection in your neighborhood to ascertain if a decreased charge could possibly be probable. The next deductible or decreased possibility could indicate it truly is cheaper to get increased protection. It all depends on your preferences. There are a variety of possibilities.
If you are looking for the lowest car insurance estimate for top threat drivers, then you’re Fortunate. With just some clicks, you will discover one. The net features a range of prices that can offer coverage in a portion of the cost of common insurance policy for automobiles. Signing up for insurance is less complicated due to the internet. It really is all You will need to do is entire a web-based variety and shell out your quality. As proof of one’s coverage coverage, the insurance provider will situation you a certification and you will be included below an insurance policies coverage.
A lot of insurance firms check out you as significant-risk motorists For those who have weak credit score. Because you’re less likely in order to file an insurance policies claim as someone with good credit, This is due to: Insurance plan firms view your credit history rating to be a substantial component. By way of example, a DUI/DWI could improve your top quality by around sixty five %. This is equal in an increase of $677 on a 6 thirty day period coverage. Insurance policy firms also take into consideration your driving record. A DUI/DWI may possibly increase your coverage high quality to around $174. A dashing ticket could bring about an extra 45 p.c boost in your high quality..
A DUI conviction could lead on to the opportunity of selecting the least expensive insurance company for your car. Point out Farm, American Family members and Progressive give great options for drivers with superior risk. They also provide reduce premiums. In addition they think about your credit score score when figuring out your Value. In deciding the cost of your insurance policy, they contemplate these elements. It is feasible to Get the insurance plan charges higher When you have negative credit rating. Prior to deciding to make a choice, it’s important to assess your credit rating.
When you’re selecting within the most suitable automobile insurance coverage for youthful motorists, there are a selection of factors to acquire into account. Your marital position and the age of Your kids are important in the expense of your insurance policies. The kind of auto you individual could also have an impact on your own top quality. It’s dearer to insure significant-efficiency automobiles than you would probably for much less-effective ones. To seek out The most cost effective vehicle insurance plan, youthful drivers ought to take into consideration automobiles which have a variety of protection characteristics.
You are able to decrease the amount of coverage that you must decrease the price of your car insurance coverage for drivers who are young. Insurance businesses normally provide bargains for students and motorists who are in training. In case you are involved in a mishap, but minimizing your insurance policies could result in sizeable out-of-pocket fees. Concentrate on many of the probable risks before you decide to come up with a alternative. Often attempt to improve benefit.
Young adults experience a challenge securing low-priced vehicle insurance coverage. Though a plan for your 16-12 months-old driver is more expensive than one that is for adults, the value might be reduce whenever you include a teen to an current coverage. The normal Expense is greater by $one,461 each year nevertheless, it will likely be inexpensive than buying an insurance coverage coverage on its own. Also, youthful drivers are eligible for savings and other discounts.
The expense of car insurance policy may differ based on the kind of driver you are. This may result in People with high chance wants the the very least reasonably priced insurance plan. Insurance coverage providers take into account a range of things when choosing whether to go over you. This involves your driving historical past plus your demographics, in addition to your Total chance stage. The 5 most critical factors to just take into account when considering insurance coverage quotes are offered under. Remember that lower insurance charges You should not suggest that you should compromise on high-quality.
For starters, take into account your zip code. Superior-criminal offense locations are likely to have larger crime prices. Insurance plan firms also look at the volume of targeted traffic. You should also ensure that you don’t have any incident reports or claims, that may increase your premiums. To stay away from overpaying you should Look at your fees just about every 6 months. When you individual numerous coverage procedures through the exact insurance provider it is possible to avail a discount for various procedures.
While credit score scores are not legally employed by some insurance corporations in certain states, they are still important things when comparing auto insurance coverage prices. Hawaii motorists with bad credit score can pay 168% decrease than equivalent drivers. Massachusetts’ significant-danger drivers acquire 30% greater than those people who are clean up. Motorists who will be new towards the condition tend to be more probable be billed better costs for DUIs, dashing tickets, and bad credit score. Before you make a decision, ensure that you get several estimates.
The zip code you reside in performs a major position in the expense of insurance coverage. Coverage rates are costlier in areas with the highest charges of criminal offense or accidents. Furthermore, things such as the volume of visitors and record of accidents could increase the cost of insurance policy. To be able to find out the amount they may cost, nearly all of insurance policies organizations look at the driver’s driving historical past. A foul driving file will ordinarily cause drivers having to pay bigger premiums than anyone who has an excellent driving report.
In the last five year the cost of auto insurance has greater concerning $fifty and $a hundred due to growing healthcare fees. Drivers are needed to have PIP insurance policy and uninsured coverage. These needs are in excess of typical for the state. The big apple, compared with other states, needs that motorists carry PIP and legal responsibility insurance plan. The additional coverages can increase the cost of insurance and sometimes increase the premium. Motorists must also validate their coverage boundaries as specified procedures might need less coverage.
New Yorkers pay a median of 2.8 p.c of their revenue for coverage on their autos. It really is a little under the median countrywide charge of 2.40%. The average high quality are going to be slightly bigger for people inside their 30s, 40s and 50s than it truly is For the remainder of us. Rates are higher for those 70+ than for drivers with much less practical experience. Even so, the premiums for married drivers are larger than for single motorists.
Besides a lower Value drivers can also be in the position to consider defensive driving courses. These courses past 320 minute and discuss driver Mindset and visitors regulations. Additionally they educate defensive driving skills which often can drastically decrease the expense of coverage. They also can assistance increase their driving document. A training course can decreased the expense for insurance plan for your automobile. It is possible to consult with the Insurance policies Information Institute When you’ve got any questions about what protection you would like.
Although gasoline costs are distinctive in Each individual condition, it is achievable with the insurance policies of your respective motor vehicle to be fewer or costlier in One more point out. This may be because of a variety of reasons, such as the condition insurance plan regulations and prices of theft, the proportion of motorists who’re not insured, the rate of theft or the percentage of motorists that are not insured. The expense of coverage is impacted with the severity of climate. The following table lists the price of car insurance plan for various states. These estimates are dependent a comparison of condition requirements for coverage.
Missouri has the lowest Charge for complete-coverage auto protection and it has a cost of $944 lessen than Louisiana. On top of that, this state has among the bottom expenditures for every capita and is particularly placed fifth from the rankings of expense of dwelling. Texas drivers fork out 33% in their earnings on insurance policy for his or her automobiles. This discrepancy could outcome from The reality that Texas incorporates a large range of uninsured motorists and plenty of lawsuits.
The average price of whole coverage car or truck insurance is $1771 yearly. Louisiana which has a quality of $2839, may be the point out that charges by far the most insurance coverage. The increase of 19% was noticed from 2020. Maine’s regular insurance policies quality nevertheless, is just $858. This is due to states that are not at fault have bigger insurance policy costs. The price of an auto insurance coverage plan in several states might differ enormously. It is best to take into consideration quite a few elements, such as the rules within your point out relating to insurance coverage.
Looking for large possibility motor vehicle insurance policies for top-risk motorists near me Probably you might be questioning how to acquire a low-Value plan. High-hazard drivers are more likely to pay greater than the common driver. This is due to the fact that significant-possibility drivers usually tend to be associated with a variety of mishaps and violations. The limit may be both a few or five years, based on the point out. Some circumstances allow discounts for using a driver protection course.
When the national averages for prime-threat driver insurance policies in my location are quite consistent, you will discover that premiums vary drastically from just one state or an other. States have their particular rates and many companies will change their premiums according to. This tends to indicate that you uncover The most cost effective insurance company in your town, but you still get great protection. Condition Farm presents the bottom insurance policy for prime-danger motorists in close proximity to me. Condition Farm provides a good standing for great customer support.
Enter your zip code to find charges and Examine substantial-hazard motor vehicle coverage for drivers in your area. Even though the price of large-hazard coverage on autos near me may well vary by condition, most big insurance coverage providers provide this sort of coverage. National Standard as well as other large-risk companies present protection. You may even be capable of finding a less expensive policy with very good lecturers and a safe vehicle.
Evaluating diverse insurance companies for your car can convey various benefits. We’ll be talking about The most crucial features, which include rankings, savings, and customer service. You must locate the most suitable coverage to shield yourself. So consider the perfect time to go from the procedures of various companies. This article will assist you to select which insurer offers the best coverage and quite possibly the most reasonably priced. Here are several suggestions that can assist you select the ideal one.
It is feasible to have a look at estimates from different corporations to ascertain essentially the most aggressive vehicle insurance policy amount. To be able to find out the cost of insurance policies, insurers keep in mind a range of factors. It is crucial to evaluate your precise desires and then compare offers from different corporations. It is a lot more expensive to insure sports activities autos than typical vehicles. It is also possible take into consideration your driving heritage along with your locality. It is achievable to check rates and ascertain the bottom cost with the similar coverage and precisely the same deductibles through the use of a comparison tool.
Insurance policies rates may vary considerably, so it is actually significant to know just how Every plan features. Amongst the factors that affect the price of coverage involve driving background, age, and credit history historical past. Take a look at the benefits offered by each organization, which include roadside aid or accident forgiveness. Though this will likely appear to be a frightening work, It is practical To judge quotes from distinct providers and select essentially the most appropriate just one. Below are a few solutions that may guide you in your quest.
J.D. may very well be your best option in the situation of comparison of auto insurance policies corporations. You are able to charge electric power auto insurance firms. These rankings are situated in client satisfaction surveys that were done throughout A huge number of car-coverage buyers. These figures are utilized to find out the typical satisfaction score of every enterprise. These rankings are revealed yearly. Gold medals are awarded to the best-rated car or truck insurance policy companies for every course. How does one figure out if the businesses you are checking out are really worth your time?
There are lots of variables which can be used to assess the economic steadiness of motor vehicle insurance coverage organizations. The 1st is to examine the AM Very best rating for vehicle insurance policies providers. This gives monetary steadiness scores. Whether or not the car insurance provider is rated by having an A, B C, File, or possibly a ranking, it’s important to know the way secure it really is before deciding on the policy. This is an important element for customer care. Be sure to study and have an understanding of the high-quality print prior to choosing.
Coverage businesses deliver a number of discount rates. The discounts supplied by insurance coverage companies aren’t available to all buyers. So, it is important to critique the corporate website to check out For anyone who is qualified to get the discounted. Certain companies provide multiple special discounts, and You may also inquire your insurance policy agent if they are suitable for almost any distinct discount. The method is often quick and can take a lot less that an hour or so. Here are a few samples of car insurance coverage discount rates.
Legacy Discounts: Vehicle insurance coverage organizations could supply savings to new drivers who invest in their policy via their mothers and fathers. The price reduction typically is about 10 percent. It is an opportunity for fogeys to thank them for his or her labor all through the years. Also, it could enable conserve you dollars on car or truck insurance plan. A great deal of firms give bargains for legacy to younger motorists. It can be worthwhile to examine Should your insurance provider presents 1. American Relatives, Farmers and USAA procedures will also be readily available.
A number of providers are recognized for their Fantastic customer service. Esurance was on the list of five businesses to score four out 5 over the J.D. High marks in customer service is commonplace with the father or mother business. The corporation scored greater than its opponents in every single other area including coverage alternatives and pricing, and also the high quality of assistance supplied by its Reps inside the Get hold of Middle and its Web page. (customized services)
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Evaluating vehicle insurance policies is an excellent method in order to avoid unreliable insurance policies suppliers. The reduced charges made available from an insurance provider may very well be deceiving. As an example, the quote may not go over distinct coverage or make inaccurate assumptions about your driving style. The A.M. Greatest score and scores of area insurance companies will let you locate by far the most inexpensive insurance plan. Read this article to Learn how vehicle insurance compares can assist you lower your expenses. Then Evaluate rates from the most beneficial providers and discover which just one satisfies you greatest. (accident absolutely free)
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Having said that, this kind insurance plan is not really applicable to all states. So, people cannot determine if a business makes use of their credit rating rating to come to a decision how much to bill them. California, Hawaii Massachusetts Massachusetts and Michigan have all banned credit score-based insurance policy. A number of other states also restrict the use of credit history-based insurance scores. Ultimately, you need to establish all by yourself regardless of whether your credit-based insurance rating is appropriate for you. (bike insurance coverage) (roadside assistance protection);(bundling car)(pet Insurance plan)(real Hard cash Price)(outstanding Promises Services)(yacht Insurance policies)
Lots of elements impact the cost of automobile insurance reductions which include age. Your rate is afflicted by age by more then thirty p.c. In some states, youthful motorists may well spend Practically four-moments approximately a thirty-year-old. Younger young people are more at the potential risk of becoming involved with an accident than drivers of older many years. Knowing the elements that have an effect on your premiums will assist you to negotiate lower charges. Under are some approaches age can impact your vehicle insurance policy.
The price of insurance policies is normally reduced the youthful you obtain. Insurance policy expenses for vehicles could be influenced by your age if the driving force is a man. When male drivers who will be younger are usually more cost-effective than their older counterparts, insurance coverage rates for motorists involving 60 and 70 have skyrocketed. Data show that men are two and also a fifty percent periods much more likely in an car accident than Females. Consequently, the gender hole decreases as we grow old. (protection choices)(homeowners coverage)
It’s not necessarily astonishing that a person is more likely to pay for car or truck insurance coverage than a lady. Adult men make far more problems while driving, which could cause much more mishaps and promises. But there are some motives that make males additional high priced to insure. These are definitely the very best factors. Learn more concerning the top factors that influence the price of car insurance plan dependant on gender. These tips will allow you to lessen the price of your insurance if you’re still Not sure. (car insurance coverage policies)(car insurance estimate)(vehicle coverage charge)
The Oregon Division of monetary Regulation has instructed car insurers to accommodate consumers who You should not declare their gender. Coverage companies are necessary to report rates starting January 2019 for almost any driver who discriminates in opposition to non-binary individuals. These rates may be higher than Individuals for feminine and male drivers. Gals can cut costs so long as charges are not also extreme. Do not be anxious about the “nonbinary price” for youthful motorists. (vehicle insurance policies assert) (gap insurance coverage); auto coverage | {
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What You Need to Know About Trump’s Plan to Restrict Birth Control Access
June 15, 2017
By Andrea Flynn
Donald Trump’s updated contraceptive rule was recently leaked, raising concerns about women’s ability to access affordable family planning. It’s hard to keep track of what we need to be keeping track of these days, especially when it comes to women’s health. So let’s review.
What is the contraceptive mandate?
The contraceptive mandate, aka the “birth control benefit,” was a part of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) Essential Health Benefits, which included the list of ten services that the non-partisan Institute of Medicine determined all insurance providers must cover because, well, they are essential. The rule’s preventive care guidelines meant that women could access the form of contraception they need at no cost.
It’s been great for women’s health, and their wallets.
Thanks to the contraceptive mandate, more than 48 million women no longer face cost barriers to accessing birth control. The National Women’s Law Center reported that in 2013, women saved more than $483 million in out-of-pocket birth control costs, for an average of $270 per woman. The number of women who filled their birth control prescriptions without copays grew from 1.3 million to 5.1 million, and in one year the share of women who had access to birth control with no out-of-pocket costs grew from 14 percent to 56 percent.
As described in a recent report released by the Roosevelt Institute and the Ms. Foundation for Women, these benefits have an outsized impact on women with low incomes and women of color, whose ability to access health care, including contraception, is compromised by stark disparities in wages, employment benefits, and proximity to providers, among many other factors. Historic racial and gendered inequities continue to shape economic opportunities and outcomes for those women and their families.
The benefit sparked outcry from day one.
The birth control benefit has been marked with a bullseye since the moment it became part of the health law. Despite the fact that President Obama included an exemption for churches and other places of worship, there have been more than 100 lawsuits challenging the provision, two of which have made it to the United States Supreme Court. In the first such case, Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. v. Burwell, the Court expanded the definition of what can be considered a “religious” organization and allowed for those non-religious entities to deny contraceptive coverage. To ensure that employees of those organizations could still access birth control, the Obama administration created an “accommodation,” which requires employers to simply sign a form stating their religious objection to providing the coverage, thereby triggering a process by which a woman can get coverage directly through her insurance provider.
Everyone moved on, right? Wrong. A number of organizations protested, saying that even signing the form was a violation of their religious liberty because it enabled women to access a service they find at odds with their beliefs. So the Supreme Court heard a second series of cases, including Little Sisters of the Poor v. Burwell, punting a decision to a later date. Given how loudly the new administration has lobbied for so-called “religious freedom” at the expense of women’s health, the future of the birth control benefit in the courts is murky, at best. In a recent ceremony at the White House, President Trump told nuns from the Little Sisters of the Poor, “Your long ordeal will soon be over, okay?”
What would this leaked rule do?
The rule would vastly expand an employer’s ability to deny birth control coverage. It would allow any employer—not just faith-based organizations—to deny coverage based on moral objections and exempt those workplaces from the accommodation. Because the leaked rule modifies existing regulations and not law, it can go into effect as soon as it is published in the Federal Register. This is just one way the administration can undermine women’s health without having to actually repeal the ACA.
What would this mean for women?
Tens of thousands of cisgender women, transgender individuals, and people who are gender non-binary are at risk of losing access to affordable family planning of their choice.
But can’t women just go elsewhere for their contraception?
The current head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has said there isn’t one woman who can’t afford contraception.
Not so fast, Secretary Price. First and foremost, family planning is a central part of women’s preventive care, and we should be able to access it alongside a host of other health services, not have to jump through hoops to get it. For women with low incomes, and young women in particular, birth control costs are prohibitive, with serious implications for their health. Before the birth control benefit, women had to shoulder the costs of their chosen contraception method, which can exceed $1,000 annually. Nearly one in four women with incomes under $75,000 put off seeing a doctor for a birth control prescription to save money.
Current versions of the new health care bill also defund Planned Parenthood, which would decimate communities’ access to responsive and stigma-free care. The administration has also moved to weaken Title X, the nation’s only federal family planning program. This has put the sustainability of local family planning providers in jeopardy even as the administration’s larger policy agenda of austerity is likely to drive up demand for their services.
There will be significant health and economic consequences.
Without access to affordable contraception (and to be clear, access to unaffordable contraception is not really access at all), women’s economic security and safety is compromised. In addition to the financial toll, the rule takes decision-making power away from women, which impacts how power plays out in interpersonal relationships and with sexual partners. The consequences will be most acutely felt and borne by women with no alternatives for getting contraception – namely, women with low incomes and women of color.
We don’t need to guess what will happen if the administration succeeds at rolling back access to reproductive health care. Over the past five years, Texas has passed several similar bills. As a result, claims for long acting reversible methods of contraception (like the IUD) dropped by one-third, thousands of women have attempted self-induced abortion, the maternal mortality rate doubled, and the percentage of births covered by Medicaid has increased. Given that the costs to the government – yes, *you* the taxpayer – rise, the economic consequences of denying birth control extend far beyond individual circumstance.
Want to do something about it?
Find out if your state guarantees contraceptive coverage with no copay and contact your representatives at the state level. Earlier this month Nevada became the fifth state to codify the ACA’s birth control benefit into state law. At least 15 states have similar legislation pending.
Support organizations on the ground. The Ms. Foundation for Women funds women-led grassroots organizations fighting for women’s health across the country. Check out grantee partner Raising Women’s Voices for resources on how the ACA has benefitted women and why it is so critical that we expand access to the full range of reproductive health services. | {
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When you think about insurance coverage for your car there are a selection of elements that may impact your insurance coverage top quality. Your quality could be lessened by getting treatment to drive prudently and properly. Additionally it is essential to take into consideration your automobile design, make, worth, And just how usually you drive your vehicle. Prolonged length driving has started to become far more frequent, and raises the prospect of currently being at fault in a collision. The most effective way to cut back your coverage premium is acquiring the policy that most accurately fits your needs.
Car or truck entrepreneurs that are common of their investing might be accountable for expending everywhere involving $1100 and $five,000. It is vital to understand that charges differ from condition to point out. In certain states comprehensive protection can Expense in excess of the least protection. Under are a few suggestions to help you discover the most worth for funds. Even though a bare minimum liability limit can be essential in some states, total protection usually comes with a $five hundred deductible.
You’ll want to make the proper choice when choosing an auto. Sure cars and trucks are costlier that others, which can lead to larger insurance premiums. In addition, specified autos are more expensive to fix and switch, so their coverage premiums are frequently dearer. A cleanse driving document is more useful and can bring about reduce premiums. Costs will also be affected by gender and age. Young drivers are generally extra dangerous than older motorists. Moreover, some insurers use credit scores to ascertain the price of insurance. Selected states have passed laws banning the use of credit scores.
You will find 6 sorts of insurance plan guidelines for autos. It is possible to customise your plan to meet different cases by incorporating this type of protection. You’ll also want to make certain that you have got legal responsibility protection. While liability insurance coverage is obligatory in many states, you can decide on other types of protection. Legal responsibility insurance policy guards you just in case you’re at fault in a mishap. Nevertheless, Additionally, it covers the other motorists who will be inside your motor vehicle. It may protect damages to others or injuries, together with health-related prices.
A typical coverage will have several types of coverage, together with liability, collision, extensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and health-related payments. They are all significant and it’s essential to make certain that you’ve sufficient of these. Some coverages can be mandatory in certain states, while others may not. Freeway Insurance policy presents the best options for insurance coverage coverage for autos. Freeway Insurance delivers a broad range of coverage alternatives that can help you preserve time, dollars and also your wallet and time.
Every condition has its have bare minimum vehicle-insurance demands. They’re broken down into a few distinctive numbers. In California For illustration, you’re necessary to have at least fifteen/thirty/five bodily harm liability protection as well as thirty/fifty/5 for residence problems legal responsibility. Yow will discover these figures in various states, so be sure to Check out your condition’s demands before you vacation. Even though choice insurance policy is possible, it’s not usually a really perfect selection.
Nearly all of states involve bare minimum protection. Even so, some lenders would require whole protection. Complete coverage refers to complete and collision insurance policies, and it might be necessary by your lender should you be financing your vehicle. Liability insurance coverage covers damages to the property of other people in case of a mishap, even so not your car. To provide the best safety and at a reasonable Price, you can mix house harm legal responsibility and bodily injuries insurance policies.
It really is all dependent on your individual condition is. Even though You aren’t necessary to have it legally nevertheless, lenders may well call for it If your intention is always to finance your vehicle. For those who have a property finance loan, lenders may demand you to order collision coverage. This coverage is required by many people who finance a new or applied motor vehicle.
Collision insurance plan addresses your automobile’s overall price inside the event of a mishap. Even though the insurance company will include for all repairs, it may not be more than enough to exchange your motor vehicle if it receives harmed or stolen. It could be required to spend particular dollars with the auto’s substitute. You should definitely study and comprehend the terms and conditions prior to purchasing insurance policies for your vehicle. The deductible is distinctive from the collision deductible.
When looking for car or truck insurance plan There are a lot of things to consider. Certain states hold the minimal requirements to address Property and Uninsured Motorist coverage. The protection pays the difference between your prices and the limit of your plan for your at-fault driver. Specific states Really don’t have to have the protection for underinsured motorists be provided. They are some tips that may help you choose the top coverage coverage to suit your requirements. These ideas is likely to make the entire process of looking for coverage lots easier and can conserve you revenue.
So as to be certain your property and oneself towards accidents, legal responsibility coverage is necessary for automobile insurance policies. Should you be discovered being at fault in a mishap, this protection will go over the price of settlement or defense. There are a selection of varieties to choose from, so it’s important that you are aware of what Just about every will protect to stay away from any uncomfortable unanticipated prices. State Farm features common charges for many coverage levels. It might be much more useful to pick out a medium coverage level.
In nearly all states, legal responsibility coverage is needed to be covered inside your insurance policy coverage. It covers any damages or injuries that might cause damage to the assets of An additional. Such a coverage also safeguards you in the event you induce an accident with An additional driver. This protection is normal in virtually all states and extremely recommended to drivers of a number of nations. It’s important that you realize the boundaries of liability insurance plan For each state. Your liability limit establishes the quantity of insurance policies you might want to address damages.
In almost every condition, driving without having legal responsibility coverage is from the law. Liability insurance policies covers the cost of repairs should you induce assets injury. On the other hand, your insurance policy plan for autos will never go over your vehicle’s harm. You might have to confirm the plan prior to purchasing it. The safety within your finances is contingent over the protection of the residence. When you bring about a mishap, you are able to keep away from big insurance policy expenditures.
So as to buy the cost of a collision, your insurance policies plan ought to incorporate some sort of assets problems coverage. The coverage will cover any harm you need to do to your car or truck of A different and includes repairs. Also, it covers the removal of particles following a collision. Three quantities are accustomed to define home coverage. They include bodily accidents insurance policies for each accident as well as residence injury protection for every accident. But, larger limitations can provide much more security. If there are actually any limitations or exclusions, Be sure to read through your coverage.
Big apple features uninsured motorist coverage. This is certainly if one other occasion will not be insured to pay for the expenses with the accident. This protection covers accidents where the motive force hasn’t been determined or maybe the target continues to be strike-and-run. The Insurance coverage Regulation SS 5217 supplies that uninsured motorist protection is just offered while in the event of the Actual physical collision. However, the courts have interpreted this provision to only implement to Actual physical mishaps.
Even though the protection for uninsured and underinsured motorists is optional in certain states you will need to have both equally in Other folks. You can obtain additional coverage from the party you need to pay out health care expenditures or other fees by getting the two coverages. If an uninsured driver triggers an accident for your motor vehicle and You aren’t insured, the coverage for uninsured motorists can pay for the repairs. While this protection isn’t expected, it may be a smart concept to carry with the pretty the very least the least volume of legal responsibility protection.
If you’ve in no way considered it, vehicle insurance plan bargains are an awesome option to economize and remain eco-friendly. Several new autos have safety attributes for instance airbags and anti-lock brakes that will lower your insurance expense of coverage. For protection characteristics installed in the car or truck like anti-theft alarms as well as daytime running lights, you may get added special discounts. For 12 months, payment anxieties might be removed by shelling out your coverage premium every year in full. Actually, just about 50 % of insurance firms supply special discounts on this type of payment.
Your plan may well qualify you to get discounts if it has been in existence for many decades. Special discounts presented will differ according to just how long you may have had your plan. Having said that, several businesses present discount rates to shoppers who’re loyal. Reductions is as significant as 15 per cent If your plan was bought at least 7 days in advance of renewal. Various companies offer special discounts for particular occupations, Along with these savings. Lecturers are qualified for ten% lower price on their Liberty Mutual premiums. Geico gives reductions of 15% to army associates.
Have you been on the lookout for very affordable automobile insurance policies? To save money on the automobile insurance coverage, here are a few strategies: Expanding your deductible, obtaining a no-statements discount, and obtaining a plan using an insurance provider in your area. These ideas could help you save a huge selection of 1000’s annually on vehicle insurance. These guidelines will make certain that you receive the most aggressive prices. Continue reading for more. You’re going to be happy that you did.
Young drivers can reduce the expense of vehicle insurance policy by driving safely and securely, lowering the quantity of miles they travel and allowing the insurance provider keep an eye on their driving conduct. Shopping about for auto coverage might also help cut down the expense of your insurance coverage. Younger motorists are generally remaining billed better prices by a lot of insurers So, ensure you Go searching. There are many online equipment that let you to match quotations and allow it to be uncomplicated. Moreover you may be able to ask for bargains for those who possess multiple automobiles and also have them insured by the exact same business.
When searching for a coverage, make sure you Examine a number of rates before settling on the one particular with the best price tag and the best high quality. It is possible to look for an agent who can increase along with you and permit you make changes Whenever your driving history adjustments. It is important To guage policies giving equivalent different types of protection. Dissimilarities from the deductibles or restrictions could make a a massive distinction. It is vital to acquire satisfactory coverage when you are a younger driver.
Decreasing your every month rates is possible by receiving an insurance policies discounted that does not have to have claims on car insurance. It really is worthwhile to talk to the insurance provider the things they can do to obtain it. Depending on your insurer the price cut can be well worth 30% to sixty five p.c immediately after a person yr and approximately 65 per cent just after five years. It is important to notice that you’ll eliminate two many years worthy of of no-claims bonuses if you have an accidental. Also the numerous statements could erase all of your no claims reward. You have to notify your insurer straight away in case you are associated with a collision. If this is not completed, long term promises may very well be denied.
For the nominal fee of about PS25, most insurers provide no-promises low cost insurance coverage. This lets you file a minimal level of claims each year, without needing to worry about your premiums growing. You can even include things like it in an insurance plan plan If the no promises reward is offered. Furthermore, it is possible to transfer your no statements low cost to another insurance company if you want. It is suggested to change insurers each year to protect your no claims discount.
Among the finest methods to cut down on the expense of your coverage when trying to find cheap automobile insurance policies is to raise your deductibles. Based on some estimates, you can help you save in between fifteen-thirty percent off your top quality by boosting your deductibles. The savings you can find will rely on your driving behaviors as well as your driving heritage and also the laws of your respective condition. A rise in your deductibles could reduce your annually coverage premium by approximately 40 per cent
Even though boosting your deductible might not be the right option for each and every individual, it can assist you conserve countless numbers around the extended-term. Industry experts suggest preserving at most two months of dwelling bills. Also, it’ll reduce your insurance premiums every month. If you at any time need to file an insurance policies assert, you will conserve significant revenue.
A regional coverage business is a superb alternative for people with weak credit score scores. It’ll help you save you money every month on the expense of your coverage rates and likewise present exceptional client guidance and discount rates. It can be done to obtain insurance coverage with any regional insurance provider across all fifty states of the United States. Moreover you may look up rates by point out to compare essentially the most aggressive rates. It can be crucial to note that the credit score rating could possibly be a little bit sluggish and people with inadequate credit rating may very well be having to pay in excess of $400 yearly.
Erie Coverage is an additional regional insurance policy company that provides very low-Charge auto insurance policies. The Pennsylvania-based insurance agency has been around considering the fact that 1925. Erie provides vehicle insurance policies, as in addition to assets and daily life insurance. Erie does not give coverage in each individual point out. It’s about thirteen,000 unbiased agent throughout America. You could choose an agent or regional insurance company depending on your requirements. On the other hand, it is usually recommended that you choose to examine all information before you make a option.
Substantial-chance motorists really should Review car insurance rates to find the greatest deal. It is also worth checking the protection accessible in your area to ascertain when you are qualified for any lessen fee. For anyone who is not as likely to acquire hurt, or Have got a reduce deductible it would be more cost-effective to order a lot more coverage. It really is all dependent on your specifications. There are various selections.
If you’re looking for the cheapest car coverage prices for top-threat motorists, then you’re in luck. It will take just two mouse clicks to find just one. The net will present you with many different estimates and protection for any fraction the cost of standard automobile insurance. You can even Enroll in insurance extra quickly as a result of the web. It is really all You need to do is full an online type and pay back the high quality. You can receive a certification within the insurance company as evidence of one’s insurance protection. At the time that is definitely accomplished, you can start driving utilizing your insurance coverage policy.
Many insurance policy providers think about you a high-risk driver When you’ve got bad credit rating. This is due to the fact that it is a lot more very likely that you’re going to file an insurance policy declare than someone that has an excellent credit history score. Insurance policy providers see your credit rating to get a major part. By way of example, a DUI/DWI could enhance the Price tag of your insurance plan by approximately sixty five per cent. This adds up to $477 for a six-thirty day period coverage. Insurers also take into consideration your driving report. Your quality could be greater by as much as $174 Should you be convicted of the arrest for DUI or DWI. The expense of a dashing ticket could also include nearly somewhere around forty five%.
When you’ve got an DUI within your heritage, you could decide on the bottom insurance company for your motor vehicle. State Farm, American Household and Progressive present decisions for drivers with higher possibility. Additionally they offer lower charges. As well as your credit history score, they may also consider it when analyzing your level. When figuring out the amount to pay for for your coverage, coverage companies take into consideration these components. You can have your insurance charges go up if you have bad credit. Before making an expenditure, It really is very important To judge your credit score score.
When selecting the most effective automobile insurance policy for younger drivers, there are a selection of things you must acquire into consideration. Your marital position and age Engage in a giant role as part of your auto insurance coverage fees. Your top quality could be influenced by the sort of automobile you travel. It’s costlier for high-general performance autos than you would probably for low-performance ones. So, the first step in finding the bottom Price insurance policy for young motorists is to locate a vehicle with various protection characteristics.
One of the better approaches to cut down on the cost of car or truck insurance for youthful motorists is to lower the quantity of coverage you need. You may be considered a scholar or getting driver teaching and get savings out of your insurance provider. It is feasible to pay for quite a bit a lot more In case your insurance coverage protection is Slash. This is why you’ll want to diligently weigh the benefits and go for the very best rate.
Teens deal with a challenge finding lower-Expense car insurance policy. A coverage for a 16-calendar year previous driver is much more high priced than one for an adult. But, it is possible to reduce the rate by adding a teenager on to an existing coverage. This feature improves premiums by somewhere around $one,461 a year, having said that it is normally less costly than acquiring a further plan. Should you be a young driver, chances are you’ll qualify for reductions or other personal savings.
Your driving history along with other elements can effects the price of your car coverage. It can be well worth in search of low-risk insurance. Insurers contemplate a variety of components when selecting on an insurance coverage, which includes your driving record along with demographics and danger ranges. Listed here are five essential variables to recollect when looking at insurance policies offers. Will not sacrifice excellent for low insurance plan prices aren’t normally the simplest.
To begin with, contemplate your zip code. You pays additional whenever you reside in spots with significant crime. Insurance providers also consider into account site visitors quantity. You should also Be certain that you don’t have any accident experiences or promises, that can raise the expense of your insurance coverage. It is usually suggested to compare your premiums each month so as to ensure you don’t pay out a lot more. Discounts for multiple policies are an option In case you have multiple plan Along with the exact same insurance provider.
While credit score scores usually are not legally made use of in a few states by insurance policies companies, they can continue to be significant when comparing costs from automobile insurers. Motorists with lousy credit score in Hawaii pays a lot more than drivers which have great credit rating scores. motorists. Drivers with large risk in Massachusetts pay out thirty% a lot more than motorists which have clean up data. Motorists that are new towards the condition are more likely fork out larger premiums for DUIs, speeding tickets, and inadequate credit history. Make sure you get several quotations prior to creating a decision.
The price of insurance policy is contingent on the location you reside in. Insurance policy quotations are more expensive if you reside in a region which has higher criminal offense rates and incident prices. The price of insurance coverage can be influenced by elements which include visitors quantity and also the heritage of incidents, among the other variables. Insurance plan businesses usually study the driving report of the driver to find out what charge they’re going to charge for his or her policy. Normally, drivers who definitely have a very poor driving record fork out a lot more for protection more than those who have a very good driving history.
Due to mounting Health care expenses Automobile insurance plan rates have elevated by $50 to $a hundred among 2005 and 2010. Uninsured and PIP coverage are mandatory for drivers. The requirements are in excess of the average. Ny is the only state by using a necessity to the insurance policy of liability. Even so most states Do not call for drivers to obtain it. These optional coverages increase the expense of insurance coverage, and can frequently elevate the cost of insurance coverage. Motorists ought to also validate the boundaries of their protection as some insurance policies may need considerably less coverage.
The common New Yorker spends two.eight p.c of their earnings on insurance for his or her vehicle. It is a little higher when compared to the nationwide typical of 2.forty%. The typical price might be somewhat decreased for those who are of their 40s, 50s and 30s. Rates for motorists more mature than 70 will likely be better than those with significantly less driving knowledge. Having said that, the premiums for married drivers are larger than single drivers.
Motorists could also qualify for defensive driving classes at decreased costs. These courses final 320 minutes and canopy the attitudes of drivers and also website traffic principles. Additionally they instruct defensive driving skills that may considerably lower the expense of insurance policy. A system can assist help your driving record and lessen the expense of insurance coverage for autos. The Insurance coverage Info Institute can assist you determine the level of coverage you’ll need.
Though gasoline prices differ in Just about every state, it is feasible for your automobile coverage to be significantly less or dearer in A further condition. It is possible to take into consideration the subsequent variables such as the number of uninsured motorists and also the point out’s rules about coverage. Moreover, the frequency at which theft happens. Moreover, the frequency of terrible weather conditions can change the cost of insurance coverage in numerous states. Below is usually a desk which shows the common car insurance plan premiums for various states. These estimates are made depending on the comparison of state insurance plan necessities.
Missouri is considered the most cost-effective state for comprehensive coverage car insurance policies, costing only 944 dollars lessen than Louisiana. Additionally, the point out is fifth in conditions cost of residing and in addition has one of the most cost-effective premiums for each capita. Texas motorists devote 33% in their revenue on insurance coverage for his or her cars and trucks. This can be owing partly for the substantial quantity of uninsured Texas drivers and the various lawsuits.
The normal Expense for entire protection automobile insurance policy is $1771 each year. Louisiana could be the state which has the highest premium for insurance plan with a fee of $2,839. This 19% raise on 2020. Maine’s ordinary insurance coverage Charge is $858. It’s because no-fault states have a tendency to acquire bigger insurance policy rates. Additionally it is probable that the price of car or truck insurance policy insurance policies in other states to differ drastically. Just take into account all features, including the legislation inside your condition on coverage.
You can find low-Expense insurance coverage for high-threat drivers close to you In case you are looking for higher-possibility car insurance policy. High-hazard motorists tend to spend increased rates for coverage than typical motorists. Since They are much more very likely to Use a history of violations and accidents, superior-possibility drivers pay back better insurance costs. According to the point out, the limit might be 3 or even five years. In certain cases, you can find discounts if you take a driver protection course.
The national averages for top possibility driver car or truck coverage are relatively constant. On the other hand, rates differ appreciably involving states and the subsequent. Usually there are some businesses that adapt their costs based on the state These are in. You could come across one particular insurance company offering you the most effective protection in a decrease Expense even if your condition just isn’t involved. State Farm provides the ideal higher-chance driver insurance in my region. It’s got a standing for great customer care and getting very affordable.
It is achievable to Identify substantial-danger automobile insurance for motorists close to me by coming into your ZIP code and looking out up estimates. Even though the price of high threat car or truck insurance policies near you will vary among states, most substantial insurers give this kind of insurance policies. They’re professionals in large-threat insurance coverage, like Countrywide Basic. If you have exceptional grades, a minimal risk automobile, and you simply are capable of obtaining a lower policy you may be able to obtain a single.
Evaluating insurance coverage companies for vehicles delivers many pros. In this post We’re going to go over many of the most important attributes, such as savings and rankings. It is vital to select the correct policy for you protection and protection. Go to the trouble to take a look at guidelines from various firms. Right after looking through this text, you can make a choice about which insurance plan service provider delivers the best protection for an inexpensive rate. Below are a few guidelines to assist you pick the finest one.
You could Evaluate offers from various businesses to discover the greatest vehicle insurance coverage level. Insurers use many things to ascertain the price of coverage. It is important to know your own needs and then Consider the prices of assorted insurance plan providers. For illustration, sporting activities cars and trucks, is usually costlier to insure than common autos. Your driving report and your place of home can impact on the costs you fork out. A comparison tool will let you ascertain the bottom prices for the exact protection that have the same deductibles.
Coverage premiums are topic to major versions. It really is for that reason critical to know how Each individual policy operates. The expense of coverage might be impacted by the driving file, age as well as credit historical past. It is usually attainable to take a look at the advantages that every enterprise features, like roadside guidance and accident forgiveness. While this could seem like a daunting task, It really is useful to compare prices from different suppliers and select the suitable a person. Here are several suggestions To help you in your quest.
J.D. may very well be your best possibility In relation to evaluating automobile insurers. The J.D. Energy score of auto coverage businesses. The ratings are based upon the outcomes of surveys of hundreds of shoppers who purchased automobile coverage across the country. The outcome are then set jointly into numerical scores that symbolize the normal consumer satisfaction score for every company. These rankings are published per year, and the very best automobile insurance policies firms in Every single classification are awarded gold medals. How will you establish whether the insurance policies corporations you are considering are very good?
There are lots of elements that could be utilised To judge the financial power of car-insurance policy companies. The 1st is to check the AM Best insurance coverage rating. This gives monetary stability scores to insurance plan corporations. You have to Learn the way protected the insurance company is ahead of signing up for any policy. This is a vital facet of customer support. Be sure you evaluate and comprehend the good print just before selecting.
There are plenty of special discounts provided by motor vehicle insurance businesses. Sure discount rates aren’t accessible to Every person. It is important to head over to the web site of the corporation to make sure you’re suitable to the bargains that you are eligible for. There are plenty of reductions provided by firms. Call your insurance company to find out if they provide any specific price reduction. The procedure is typically rapid and normally takes much less that one hour. Here are a few examples of discount rates on car insurance plan.
Legacy Savings for New Motorists If a driver is new and buys their coverage by way of their parent’s enterprise the vehicle insurance provider could provide a discount. This discount is generally close to ten percent. This price reduction may be used to show your appreciation on your mothers and fathers throughout many years for their aid of your small business. It also can allow you to get monetary savings on coverage for your car. A lot of insurance coverage firms offer special discounts for legacy for youthful motorists. You must Test to see if the corporation you might be with provides a single. American Family, Farmers or USAA deliver insurance policies.
You can find only a few organizations that regularly present Fantastic customer support from the insurance coverage sector. Esurance was Amongst the 5 businesses that scored four out 5 within the J.D. Its customer care electrical power rankings are a superb indicator the mum or dad business is held to high expectations. The corporation was rated greater in all regions that its competition did including pricing and guidelines plus the excellent of assistance and customer treatment presented by its Get in touch with Centre and Web site Reps. (customized support)
Despite the fact that protection is the first element of car insurance plan, customers also value customer care. Customers want prompt, friendly provider Any time they call their insurers. What this means is prospects want to hear from their insurers promptly and manage to speak to somebody that will listen and provide answers. Certain vehicle insurance coverage organizations offer outstanding customer support. (rideshare insurance coverage) (just couple of clicks) (insurance policies options).
Several factors influence the price of insurance policies for autos by providers. The two major components are age and driving history. Someone having a poor driving heritage or simply a weak credit history score will likely have more expensive rates. The expense of living in your local region can even affect the rates. Due to this, it’s important to check fees of various insurance suppliers to determine the one which is ideal suited towards your funds and driving procedures. There are many approaches to reduce your premiums. Such as, you’ll be able to Reduce coverage or enroll inside a defensive driving course. A full calendar year of coverage is bought upfront. (bill on line),(worker Bargains)(for the fault of Accident)(included Accident)
You’ll find other aspects that can boost your insurance policy rates, In combination with Those people described. The quantity you purchase coverage will probably be reviewed Whenever your insurance company finds out that you have filed a assert in the last few days or had been convicted of the website traffic offence. On top of that, special discounts may very well be provided to individuals who have taken a secure driving course. Insurance policies businesses are consistently bettering their prices. It’s feasible that you’re going to observe a rise in your rates Even when you haven’t altered your driving records. (use centered insurance policies),(rental autos),(automobile fix) (Protected driver low cost).
A comparison of automobile insurance plan is a wonderful tool to avoid unreliable insurance coverage corporations. If a suggestion isn’t going to consist of specific coverage, or relies on incorrect assumptions regarding the driving behavior of one’s driver, it could be inaccurate. Uncover The most cost effective insurance policy providers within your location by investigating their scores as well as A.M. Best rankings. Examine car or truck coverage prices to save cash. Next, Look at the top insurance policies businesses to locate the most very affordable selling price in your case. (incident free)
Your score on your own coverage’s credit is undoubtedly an indicator of hazard that you would possibly acquire, even so it shouldn’t establish your prices. Insurance policy corporations are not able to use your credit score record only to increase the charges you fork out. This is certainly in violation with the federal legislation. Having said that, states including California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont have legal guidelines which prohibit insurance plan corporations from using your credit rating background to determine the rates of insurance policies. (could preserve)(new car or truck)(auto claim)
Even so, this type of insurance plan isn’t going to implement to all states, which implies shoppers are not able to determine if a corporation is using your score to make a decision what amount of money to demand them. California, Hawaii Massachusetts Massachusetts, Michigan and Massachusetts all ban credit rating-based mostly protection. A number of other states also prohibit using credit rating-based mostly insurance plan scores. Ultimately, you may have to determine yourself no matter whether your insurance plan score based on credit rating is appropriate for your requirements. (bike coverage) (roadside support protection) (“bundling automobile”)(pet insurance policies);real income price);top-quality promises services);(yacht insurance provider)
Age is amongst the principal things that impact savings on auto insurance policies. The rate you fork out is affected by your age by a lot more than 30. In some states, a young driver may fork out Virtually four-moments over a thirty-12 months-previous. Inexperience is another important motive, since youthful motorists are more likely to be involved with collisions. If you know the factors that impact your insurance policies premiums, you are able to negotiate decrease rates for yourself. Here are some approaches that your age impacts car coverage.
The price of insurance policy is mostly lessen for youthful motorists. If you’re a male, even so, the expense of your car coverage will boost in case you age. Younger male motorists pay significantly less for auto insurance than their older counterparts. On the other hand, premiums are greater for motorists who’re of their 60s or 70s. Statistics clearly show that males are two-and-a-fifty percent instances much more more likely to get into a vehicle crash than their female counterparts. As a result, the gap concerning genders in premiums for insurance coverage decreases with expanding age. (coverage solutions)(homeowners insurance coverage)
It isn’t surprising that a person is more likely to purchase vehicle insurance than the usual Woman. Numerous Adult men make inadequate driving choices which may result in additional incident or assert. But There are some aspects that make motorists a lot more highly-priced to go over. Here are some of the best reasons why. You may browse further more to find out about probably the most commonplace aspects that impression vehicle insurance policies costs dependant on gender. Below are a few strategies to lower your insurance policy rates if you are still not distinct. (auto insurance plan insurance policies)(automobile insurance policy quote)(car or truck coverage amount)
Oregon Division of economic Regulation directed vehicle insurance policy businesses to support customers who Really don’t point out their gender. Insurers are needed to file fees starting off in January one, 2019 for almost any driver who discriminates from non-binary people. These rates could possibly be larger for feminine motorists than for male motorists. Ladies can Reduce costs as long as they are not also higher. Don’t be worried about the “nonbinary level” for motorists who will be younger. (car or truck insurance assert)(gap coverage)(car policy) | {
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How We Grow
An Interview with Azure D. Osborne-Lee
This series will explore questions of gender, power, and politics in the work we are making, how we are making it, and how it is received.
“Folks want to include the idea of us but not the reality of us,” I heard from playwright, director, and performer Azure D. Osborne-Lee on the subject of trans casting. I first met Azure three years ago when I was looking for trans actors for a play of mine. I emailed Roots and River Productions, a community of queer artists of color to say I was looking for a transmasculine actor. Azure, the artistic director, wrote back. That was before I knew any trans actors, before I knew other trans theatre artists, before we’d started this whole big conversation about trans casting and trans narratives. Since then we’ve had meetings and written articles, we’ve had showcases and are moving towards our first convening. And Azure has been a part of this conversation all along. An extremely generous and thoughtful participant, Azure is full of compelling ideas and a driving desire to make things happen.
I'd love to see more stories with characters that are incidentally and also intrinsically trans. I'd love to see more non-binary trans characters; folks who are somewhere in the middle of the gender continuum, even after transition.
I have also had the honor of getting to know Azure’s work: imaginative, creepy, magical, expansive plays full of complicated characters I fall in love with. I was particularly affected by his play Crooked Parts, in which Freddy, a trans artist in his twenties, visits his family home for the first time in a while after a hard break-up. This story is woven with the story of Winifred, a twelve-year-old girl living in the same house eighteen years earlier who is getting used to being the only black girl at her new school. The story leapt off the page for me. I felt deeply grateful for this creative and articulate expression of trans experience—how our genders change over time, how coming out and transitioning are actually life-long processes of discovery and change, how rich and complicated our connections to family of origin can be. I wanted know more about Azure’s work and his smart thoughts on trans people in theatre and so I caught up with him to talk about Crooked Parts, trans narratives, trans casting, and more.
Tell me about Crooked Parts: how did you get started writing it, what inspired it, etc.?
I look at Crooked Parts as a natural continuation of the work I started during my first stint in graduate school. I was working on an MA in Women's & Gender Studies and was specifically studying Black women's hair care and aesthetics. I spent a lot of time thinking about the way that Black women feel about themselves in relation to their hair, and also about the transmission of knowledge from one generation to the next. So basically I was thinking a lot about myself and my relationship with my mother.
I finished that MA in 2008 and moved to New York City in 2009. I had an internship with Freedom Train Productions, and one of the perks of the internship was automatic admission to their writing workshop series. I had never written a play before that summer.
Crooked Parts was born out of a writing exercise. Aurin Squire, who was leading the workshop series, had us write about a childhood ritual and the moment that ritual stopped. I decided to write about the time in my life when I decided I wanted to start getting my hair relaxed. My mom had braided my hair for me up until that point. When I decided that I didn't want that anymore, our relationship changed.
I love how you move between times in this play, showing a character at different parts of their gender journey. How did that part of the play evolve? Where did the idea come from?
Crooked Parts started out as Winifred's story. It was a play about puberty, about choosing which pieces of yourself to hold onto as you grow. It was about Black hair and music, the 90s and fraught relationships. That was back when the play was just one-act in the late 00s.
Years later, in 2013, I moved away from Brooklyn when my relationship fell apart. I was depressed, in my high school bedroom at my parents' house, mustering up the courage to give New York City one more try. And I decided to do what my ex-partner had been encouraging me to do for years: write a second act for Crooked Parts.
I started writing about now grownup Freddy and his relationship with his family as a way for me to figure out what the hell was going on with my life as I went through the thick of my Saturn Return. Then I sent the now full-length play off to a couple of places.
I ended up getting accepted to Rising Circle Theater Collective's INKtank, a play development lab for writers of color. Through INKtank I started rewriting “Crooked Parts” under the mentorship of Migdalia Cruz and Deepa Purohit. Migdalia advised me to try blending the two storylines to break the continuity up. She suggested that I might be too familiar with how the story went, and that by wrapping the stories of Freddy and Winifred around one another, I'd be able to find something new. She was right.
Tell me about other plays you are working on. Where do your ideas tend to come from?
The play that I'm currently working on is called Glass. I think it's really indicative of the direction my work as a playwright is headed in. It definitely falls under the umbrella of speculative fiction—it's not science fiction, not quite fantasy, but it's definitely speculative.
I'm the child of engineers. My dad is a chemical engineer, and growing up I modeled a lot of my tastes after his. So I was the kid on the playgound packing a couple of decks of Magic the Gathering and a thousand-page Tor novel.
I still really love science fiction and fantasy. I listen to short stories on PodCastle and EscapePod when I get the chance. One day I decided to try my hand at writing the kind of work I love to read. So I just let my imagination roam and stopped worrying about whether what I was writing was stageable.
Glass is an origin story, a game, and an exploration of the concept of home. It's a crossroads story set in two different worlds, one of which looks a lot like our Deep South. There's magic and people with the characteristics of animals. I should be done with the first draft by the end of summer.
What kind of trans stories do you see a lot? What stories do you wish you saw more?
I see a lot of coming out stories and a lot of stories about binary trans people. I'd love to see more stories with characters that are incidentally and also intrinsically trans. I'd love to see more non-binary trans characters; folks who are somewhere in the middle of the gender continuum, even after transition.
What unique challenges do you think trans artists face? What about trans artists of color?
I think that trans artists, and actors in particular, often face the challenge of not looking the way people want them to. So say you're a trans actor, and a casting agent reaches out to you because they've heard that you're trans and you've got chops. But then they see you and you're not what they had in mind. Maybe you're too short or too tall or too fat or too youthful. I think this happens a lot. Folks want to include the idea of us, but not the reality of us.
Who are some trans artists you love and want to plug?
I'm just gonna throw in a quick plug for my buddy and actor extraodinaire, Jax Jackson. He's really talented and you should hire him. | {
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I have been looking forward to this novella since I interviewed Sarah Gailey almost six months ago (listen to the interview here). How could you hear this premise and not immediately want to read it? Hippo cowboys! I say again: HIPPO COWBOYS. Right?
The novella was just as fun as the premise suggested. When people talk about ‘the perfect holiday reads’, this is the kind of thing that comes to mind for me. It’s fun, tongue in cheek, action-packed. I just wish it wasn’t over so quickly.
‘Are they finally just comparing cocks and ’aving done with it?’
The novella extrapolates on a real-life event. When the US was facing a food shortage, the government floated the idea of importing hippos for farming. Of course, the idea was squashed – hippos are feral, dangerous, and HUGE. Sure, they would have provided a good deal of meat, but the infrastructure needed to farm them safely would have required an enormous investment. But Gailey runs with this idea and asks ‘what if’…
River of Teeth follows a group of criminal characters taking on a lucrative job for the government. No, this isn’t a tale of bad guys going straight – this is all about them using the opportunity to make some cash while enacting revenge. Leader of the group, Winslow Houndstooth, is after revenge on those who burned down his ranch and stole his livelihood. Each of the characters have their own motivations, from relieving the boredom of retirement to backstabbing and betrayal. The operation – not a caper – involves ridding a stretch of the river of feral hippos in order to open up a free trade route. But in-fighting, betrayals, and the blinkers of a mind set on revenge might be too much for this operation to get off the ground.
‘…I am determined to live. And determination is everything, is it not?’
I’ve seen some people decry the levity of the novella, as though Sarah were trying too hard to be fun. I disagree. This is a fun story, it is not meant to be taken too seriously. Though the tone does vary quite dramatically in parts, from having the characters laughing about relationships to a brutal killing of an innocent child in the blink of an eye. But it works in much the same way as it does for Joss Whedon. These scenes feel real. Real life tragedy doesn’t wait for an appropriately ominous time to strike and neither should it in fiction.
At times, the characters do feel a bit like caricatures, but this didn’t bother me too much. To me, it seemed that this was what she was going for, so I accepted it and ran with it. They are all obvious archetypes given the OTT treatment. I mean, why not? It’s a story about hippo cowboys after all, it is hardly going to be a particularly nuanced affair, is it?
‘If he had a first name, nobody seemed to know it. If he had a soul, Houndstooth had certainly never glimpsed it.’
This is, at its core, an entertaining story. It isn’t trying to explore heavy philosophical questions. As Gail Carriger says, there’s nothing wrong with just wanting to entertain your readers and make them laugh. River of Teeth is a very quick and easy read, and while it isn’t aiming for literary greatness, it could use some polish. This is the first longer publication for the author and it shows. Having said that, there are also hints of greatness to come, with some beautiful descriptive prose slipping in every now and then (for example, ‘…his voice as silky as a snake’s belly sliding over a bed of marsh grass.’). While I appreciate the inclusion of non-binary characters, I still struggle with ‘their/they’ as the preferred usage – I find it confusing to read at times and would much prefer it if Spivak became the more popular non-gendered language option.
If I were to have on major complaint it is that the story is far too truncated. Instead of feeling like a story that really suited a novella format, it instead felt like a novel cut off at the end of the first third. While this works to leave the reader wanting more it was also frustrating, leaving me feeling a tad cheated. The story just starts to get going when we’re told it’s all over.
Verdict: Fun debut that embraces the action-adventure spirit. Show’s a lot of promise for things to come, Gailey is an author to watch.
Rivers of Teeth is published by Tor.com. The second novella in the series, Taste of Marrow, will be published in September. | {
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It is not shocking to understand that automobile coverage fees for males are more expensive than Girls. There are various reasons why Males push badly, resulting in far more incidents and promises. But there are a few variables that make Guys more pricey to insure. These are typically the best causes. Find out more with regard to the major variables that influence car insurance policies rates by gender. These guidelines will let you decrease your rates if you are even now Doubtful. (car insurance plan procedures)(car insurance plan quotation)(automobile insurance fee)
Oregon Division of monetary Regulation has issued instructions to automobile insurance plan companies to accept individuals who do not specify their gender. Insurance coverage providers are necessary to report premiums commencing January 1, 2019 during the celebration of discrimination from non-binary people today. These fees could possibly be larger than These for female and male drivers. Women of all ages can lower your expenses provided that they don’t seem to be way too high. Will not be concerned about the “non-binary” charge for younger drivers. (auto insurance coverage declare), (hole Coverage) (automobile policy). | {
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New show opens Wednesday 25 September from 6-8pm. Show runs 25 Sept - 20 Oct
Momentary obliterations, meditations and creations of a body. These practices play an important part in Ohni’s life and function as a survival strategy as a chronically ill and disabled non-binary person. These works explore ritual practices that create a collapsing of stable categories into a production of new truths.
Machines don’t have eyes but birds do
Alexandra Nemaric, Zoe Whitson, Jemi Gale, Alice Mcintosh and Lei Lei Kung
Machines don’t have eyes but birds do is an exhibition of multi-disciplinary works by artists Alexandra Nemaric, Zoe Whitson, Jemi Gale, Alice Mcintosh and Lei Lei Kung. Machines don’t have eyes but birds do uses birds, buses and bread-sticks to explore senses of disorientation, isolation and disappointment to depict individual truths and autonomy through magic and imagination.
Collapse: Please, I just want to lie down explores the tedium of spending prolonged stretches of time in galleries and institutions and the artist’s developed habits for bearing the banality. As enthusiasm dwindles and time drags on, the body longs to lounge wherever it can. Boland’s practice attempts to utilise an affinity for idleness by developing an assortment of furnishings for supplementing the body’s desire for rest, in an effort to achieve a comfortably languorous experience.
Gallery 3 & 5
Shirin Towfiq, Elham Eshraghian, Elyas Alavi, Katya Abedian, Mahdi Aliyar, Mona Forghani, Mei Swan Lim, Manisha Anjali and Angelique Hiscock. Curated by Angelique Hiscock
Potluck is a group exhibition that incorporates emerging and established artists from inter-state Australia and overseas. Potluck facilitates discussion on the need to listen, understand, empathise and most importantly, collaborate with voices that respond to the ever-growing demand to build a cohesive society. It adopts the perspective of mixed-cultural identities, contemporary religious voices, those with cultural beliefs and others who identify as migrants or refugees.
Like many things, anomalous images have found new life over the internet. Proliferating alongside developments in camera technology which have unleashed individuals with the ability to render once ethereal visions into concrete form. In the late 1950s, psychiatrist Carl Jung categorised UFOs and other such mass visions as the byproducts of a global psychic distress. Humanities cry for benevolent liberation from it’s earthly dilemmas that had resided itself in societies unconscious. Over recent years, such analysis has been in need of revisiting. Following the development of advanced imaging devices that, for the first time, have granted masses of individuals the ability to capture such entities. | {
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FUCK FASHION WEEK
Kicking off with a 'F**k Fashion Week' launch party held during Fashion Week (Wednesday 12th of Sept) at Queen of Hoxton, the residency will celebrate the diverse, bold and beautiful side of future-fashion. Designed to empower and inspire confidence, happiness and joy, this rebel September issue will be anything but skinny.
Celebrating our SuperCulture residents Doughnut Sexii Mama, Sinead O'Dwyer and Madam Storm's upcoming events series, we welcome you to the biggest Wednesday night in London. Event launch tickets available for £5 here.
Hosted by renowned drag artist Manolo Colonic, you are invited to an evening of comedy, music, burlesque and drag showing that, despite Donatella Versace and Karl Lagerfeld's best efforts, that fat, non-white, non-binary bodies exist and have always existed.
While you're here, visit Doughnut Sexii Mama's pop up shop and grab a free doughnut on her multi-coloured light up dance floor; and feel free to shout FUCK FASHION as you dance.
MADAM STORM"MY MISSION IS TO HELP WOMEN ALL OVER THE WORLD, ONE STRUT AT A TIME" - MADAM STORM
What is fashion without a strut and a pair of high heels?
We are honoured to host international dominatrix, night-club performer and confidence coach, Madam Storm for our Fuck Fashion September residency. Turning heads and stopping conversation when you walk into a room is not about size or shape; it’s about the confidence that comes from your core. Did you know there were 5 ways to walk? Join Madam Storm in this special anniversary monthly series of Strut Masterclasses at the Queen of Hoxton; celebrating how to strut with elegance, grace, sass and confidence; all on our light up dance floor.
In keeping with Halloween vibes, on the 25th October, at Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen Madam Storm invites you to meet her in an informal cabaret-style evening of storytelling and fun. Engage with her and she will share some of the rich and seminal events in her life. She will answer your questions about projecting confidence, attracting the right sort of attention, sex and sensuality, S&M and the art of seduction.
DOUGHNUT SEXII MAMA“PEOPLE OF ALL SHAPES AND SIZES DESERVE STRETCH LYCRA!” – DOUGHNUT SEXII MAMA
Join Doughnut Sexii Mama for the ultimate anti-fashion-week party, UP YOURS, VOGUE! at Queen of Hoxton on Wednesday September 12th. Join us for a comedy, music, burlesque and drag night showing that, despite Donatella Versace's best efforts, that fat, non-white, non-binary bodies exist and have always existed. With lizard trash queen Manolo Colonic as MC, it’s sure to be the biggest Wednesday night in London.
Later in the year, Doughnut will host her debut Autumn/Winter Collection November 24th at Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen. Watch our for limited tickets to feast your eyes on the parade of feathers, leathers, lycra and colour that is the cavalcade of joy that Doughnut Sexii Mama brings to what can so often be a stressful experience: buying clothes that make you feel good.
SINEAD O’DWYER“I BECAME A BIT OBSESSED WITH THE IDEA OF INSERTING THE BODY INTO FASHION AGAIN IN A WAY THAT I FEEL IS KIND OF MISSING.” – SINEAD O’DWYER
From Dazed and i-D to Bjork, people are taking notice of our third resident, fashion designer Sinead O’Dwyer. Exploring how fashion can be used as a tool of self-love and self-loathing; creating fiberglass shell moulds for her graduate collection to explore the lack of body at the centre of how clothes are designed.
We are delighted to have Sinead join us for some unique workshops and panels exploring the questions around image distortion and fashion. Her first will be at Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen, on Sunday 21st October, for families. The workshop aims to introduce children and parents to thinking critically about what they are being fed visually in the media. Sign up for this unique event, which will use simple games and activities to get families thinking and experimenting with the power of media and representation.
Sinead will also hold a panel on the 20th November at The Book Club with fellow young designers and artists working in a post-instagram lens on fashion; and how body image is being moulded by sizing and gender constructs that just aren’t as relevant to a younger generation. | {
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At one point I tried this and had problems with it. Don’t remember why, and I didn’t try that hard to fix it, but I can revisit. Thanks for the ideas!
A totally valid concern, and this goes beyond the package name. On the other hand, of a trans person selects a name that reflects their gender identity, presumably this tool would pick that up. Not sure how to deal with the binary nature though - do you have any suggestions?
Not exposed at the moment, you’re correct. You can do GenderInference.NAMES to get the dictionary for now. I agree it would be good to expose it more directly. I think based on earlier discussion I’m going to split out data curation from data queries, which might make this a bit more straightforward.
Interesting - the only downside being killing track of which years have data as the data set expands. And keeping track of two different vectors (or I guess I could have a vector if tuples).
Solid idea. Should be easy
I guess the ambition is to support more countries, do you think it would be sufficient to be more explicit that it’s only a US dataset for now?
I would hold off with the two different vectors until you determine that it’s really necessary. Subtracting two numbers adjacent in memory should be cheap enough for most applications, and I suspect that a low memory footprint would be preferred over saving a nanosecond per lookup. There are also cache benefits to having a single, more compact, vector, so it might not even be slower in practice.
As for the total size of the dataset – I’m seeing 97,310 unique names, so with one count per 140 years that’s 13,623,400 counts, which for 32 bit counts corresponds to ~52 MiB of data. That doesn’t sound terrible to me, but if you add support for more countries for example, it might add up.
One way to reduce the memory footprint would be to use a variable number of bits per name to store the counts. So, for the name William for example, you might need 22 bits to represent the maximum count, while for a name like Xzaviar, 7 bits may be enough. And then pack the counts as tightly as possible (bit by bit). I’m guessing that the majority of names are quite rare, so this would save a ton of space.
You could also save only the range where each name has any data. So if the first year that Xzaviar appears is 2001, and the last is 2017, there’s no need to store a bunch of zeros for years 1880 - 2000. You could store the first year (2001), the count of years (17), the bit size (7), and then 17 * 7 bits of counts.
Well, I think it’s sensible just to provide a model over the census data as it is, that’s the packages purpose. I didn’t look at that part of the code too closely but it looks like that’s what you’re doing already. If the model is specific to the US census data, maybe it makes sense to have name the package in a way that makes that obvious.
Ah, right- social security data, not census. Thanks for the correction!
Or perhaps NameGenderDemographics.jl, or something sort of like that? I dunno, it’s hard to come up with something that’s both generic and obvious. In any case, I’m glad that you see my point and are giving it some thought.
For sure! Probably the best thing to do is ask some gender queer people rather than trying to speculate about what they would find objectionable. I only know one trans person (to my knowledge). Maybe Twitter?
So after a little more thought, I’ve sort of found myself having settled on an stronger position than I had at first: basically, I think that it is categorically impossible for an ethically sound model like this to exist at all.
Here’s a brief article on this specific use case from an HCI researcher who I admire: https://ironholds.org/names-gender/ I find their arguments very convincing, so I think at this point I would urge those in the thread to to consider this carefully, and excuse myself from the discussion.
From my point of view, it seems like that when you did get the opinion of a person like you described, and who additionally is actually a researcher whose area of expertise is precisely what we are discussing, you quickly dismissed them and decided that you know better.
(edited, since I think I was a little combative originally… sorry about that)
Doesn’t need to be. I’d be happy to discuss over DM or email or another forum if you’d rather not continue the conversation here.
Not a quick dismissal, I take this perspective seriously. Also don’t think I know better, I’m just not entirely convinced that this is everywhere and always a bad idea, and would like to hear more perspectives. I’ve reached out to my trans friend (who also works with a lot of trans people).
Also, recall that we were discussing the name of the package, not whether the method itself was ethical.
I am pretty convinced that this is not a good way to measure diversity at a conference or in a company, which is that author’s main thrust it seems. I’m interested in using it to measure gender representation in publications (See here for an example), where it is not feasible to survey or otherwise determine the gender of hundreds of thousands of authors, so the work just wouldn’t be done without this or similar methods. We are also up front about many of the limitations of this method that are mentioned in the blog post.
I do think I will include a link to that post in the README, so users are at least made aware of that perspective.
It’s a fraught subject. Makes sense that one or both of us would get combative. No hard feelings
I’m reviving this thread based on comments from here. This revival will be focused on the ethics of the approach rather than the technical aspects. For those uninterested in this aspect of the discussion, please feel free to unwatch/unsubscribe (and also feel free to DM me if you don’t know how to do that).
I don’t think it comes down to different readings. Rather, I think the author is responding to situations (like conferences) where a survey would be just as easy, yield better/more accurate data, and not have all of the problems this approach has. I agree that the author would likely extend the argument to other use-cases, but doesn’t really address them, and as a consequence, I find it less persuasive.
The third objection that it’s usually unnecessary only addresses the conference situation, and no solution for my use case is offered. Yes, surveys of academics are possible, but far more costly and time consuming, and suffer from their own problems of bias. I’m any case, I would be unable to do this due to time and budget constraints. So one could argue that the work isn’t worth doing, given the other objections. Or one could argue that there’s a better way to do it, given time and budget constraints, but these arguments weren’t made.
The final objection, that it’s morally horrifying, I just find unconvincing. Quoting from the piece here:
The voids in these datasets don’t cover everyone evenly. Rather, they often fall straight down lines of race, culture and ethnicity.
Accordingly, names that are largely unique to non-white groups are far more likely to be excluded from a top-N dataset than common names used by white people, for the simple reason that there are fewer non-white people .
This has a glimmer of truth but not for the reasons started. As I said above, most of the software I’ve seen (and this package) use datasets that are far more inclusive. There are lots of non-white babies born in the US, and so lots of non-white makes included in the datasets. Add to that, there are plenty of non-white babies named David or Sara.
That said, there are clearly biases. I’ve already mentioned a general problem of Asian names, especially when given romanized spelling, but there’s also the problem of non-ASCII characters being excluded or paved over in a way that obscures/changes the implied gender, plus the fact that the entire continents if Africa and South America tend not to publish such data sets.
Congratulations: your methodology is racially biased.
So, this is true, but that’s different than saying it’s racist.
The result is, invariably, that you end up with a model that underrepresents people of colour, be they from European/North American contexts or elsewhere. Both are vital, non-excludable populations to consider in even the most half-hearted inclusion initiative.
I agree with all of this, but all models are wrong. Some are useful. This author seems to be arguing that, unless you can get a census-like count, there’s no value in assessing the gender make up of anything, ever. From earlier in the post:
there’s considerable variation in the data: ambiguous names that you can at best probabilistically tie to a binary gender. “Sam” could be of any gender or none.
Again, stipulated. This point is written as if it’s some kind of scandal. In some situations, a probabilistic model can provide valuable, if imperfect insight. At least, I think so. I’m open to being persuaded.
The issue of erasure of trans/non-binary people is the part I’m most conflicted about, though I find this person’s arguments really unconvincing, eg
Frankly, claiming that birth name maps immutably to gender in the first place is the kind of essentialist TERFy nonsense that has no place in inclusion efforts.
This feels like fighting a straw man - I would certainly never claim such a thing. I won’t go through them all, but many other points strike me to way - as if my algorithm would say that Sam is 80% likely to be male, so whenever I met someone named Sam I’ll treat them like a stereotype of a man and refuse any other information.
There’s no argument that addresses what to do if I have a dataset of 100 Sams, 100 Sallys, 100 Roberts and 100 Yishans. Should I say that, because the Sams and the Yishans are ambiguous, and that some of the Roberts and Sallys might be trans or non-binary people that I have absolutely no information?
But even getting past all of that, it could be possible that simply trying to study the inclusion of women, without addressing trans people, is too exclusionary. Does this mean that we can’t talk about the gender pay gap without taking about figuring out whether there’s a trans pay gap? Can we talk about how women take on more childcare responsibilities in general, and how this is being exacerbated by COVID with children being out of school, if we can’t also assess the impacts of childcare responsibilities on non-binary people?
I 100% believe that trans and non-binary people have very different experiences, are generally more marginalized, and deserve to be acknowledged and taken seriously. And the same for POC. If I were on a committee that oversees grant proposals, I would absolutely look to fund efforts trying to assess their contributions in science publishing, which could obviously not be done with this method. But none of that send to indicate that trying to address the role of women (even if it mostly only applies to cis women) is bad.
I don’t mind at all . You’re right - this was not the best way to refer to this person. In the heat of the moment, I was responding to someone that I felt was accusing me if the equivalent of “I have a friend who’s black, so I can’t be racist.” I don’t think that having a non-binary friend means that I can’t have bias, but I sought out that person’s opinion because they are non-binary and also spend their life and career in trans-activism. My response was intemperate, to be sure, but I don’t think the author of that piece necessarily had more credibility than my friend.
This is an excellent paper! I think I will need to re-read a couple of times (currently in vacation, so didn’t do a deep dive), but I think that there’s a lot of stuff that’s relevant to my research and to this package.
I will note though that these authors took a similar approach for one of their papers, and are not arguing against the practice categorically. They offer a number of suggestions to make such research more aware of and cognizant of these biases to be sure - and I think this is super valuable.
Congratulations: your methodology is racially biased.
So, this is true, but that’s different than saying it’s racist…
A distinction without a difference. I guess all I can say at this point is that while I hope these exchanges have been valuable, I also hope that they haven’t inadvertently contributed to a little bit of precedent for the Julia forums being a place where the upsides of self-consciously trans-exclusionary and racially biased research methodologies can be discussed openly.
I hope that the Julia forums will remain a place where all kinds of research methodologies can be discussed openly, even if they are imperfect from a particular point of view.
Working with data always involves trade-offs and assumptions, some of which are prone to biases. Sometimes it is difficult to do any better though (until someone comes up with a better methodology, or data), in which case it is important to be aware of these biases.
Stifling discussion about them would have the opposite effect. | {
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I’m performing tonight (Mon, Nov 7) at Oakland.Secret, a fab venue, to support the Bushwick Book Club’s West Coast Tour. I’m joined by my dynamic duo of Andy Halo and Jeanine Adkisson on bass and drums, and it’s gonna be a blast. 577 5th St, Oakland, CA, 7-11 pm.
Big news: Two of my songs were selected for inclusion in [Trans]formation, a new stage production which “explores the naked truth of gender identity as a new devised theatre work. Designed and directed in the style of The Living Canvas, this world premiere co-production is devised from the works of and performed by transgender, genderqueer, and non-binary artists.
[Trans]formation opens in The Vault at Collaboraction Studios (1579 N. Milwaukee Ave.) on November 17 and runs through December 17th. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale at http://nothingwithoutacompany-thelivingcanvas-transformation.brownpapertickets.com/.”
Exciting stuff! Hope you can make it out to support both of these great art events. Thanks as always for your support of my art! | {
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When Sam arrives in Beijing for an impromptu getaway, she begins dreaming about a priest and a warrior from ancient China. Strangely enough, Jon is having the same recurring dreams. Will remembering their past make them fulfil a promise made long ago?
“Are you feeling better?” came a soft voice from the entranceway. Sa held a silver tray of tea cups, rice porridge, and a plate of sliced peaches and apples. He gave a slight smile, then entered the room.
Gan nodded. “I feel better, thank you.”
Setting down the tray on the small table in the room, Sa held up a tea cup and said, “I am certain you need more rest, but I am glad you are on the mend. The dragon god must have heard your prayer.”
Gan smirked as he accepted the tea. “Thank you.” After a moment, he added, “Do you really believe in the white dragon?”
Sa raised his left brow and said, “You are the one who nearly died, asking for his protection. Do you not believe after all?”
“I want to believe,” said Gan, carefully sipping the piping hot tea.
“What stops you?”
Gan took a moment before answering. He felt the pain of his shoulder and grimaced.
“Does it hurt again?” Sa asked, almost as if he read Ga’s mind.
Nodding, Gan put down the tea. Reaching into a small linen bag around his waist, Sa pinched a small amount of herbs into Gan’s tea cup. He then mixed it with a wooden spoon. “Drink,” he ordered, handing the cup to Gan.
Slowly sipping the tea, Gan tasted the bitterness of the herbs. He wanted to spit it out, but something about the priest’s green-eyed gaze made him drink it down.
“I want to believe… but I have lost too much to believe in gods. If they exist, why don’t they stop the evils of the world?”
Sa nodded, then sat down at the table, gracefully folding his legs. Motioning for Gan to do the same, he sipped his own tea. Gan sat down across from the priest and reached for a slice of apple.
“The gods do not work for us, my friend. Despite what humans think, they are not our servants.”
“Then what are they?” asked Gan.
Sa grinned. He took a peach slice and said, “The gods are like the rivers, the mountains, the trees… They are our forebears… Our teachers. They are not our slaves to be told what evil they must slay. To demand their favor is foolish human pride. Instead, we should ask politely for their kindness, and perhaps, if they are willing, they will abide.”
Who is this man? Ga thought with a gulp of apple. He acts as if he is above mere mortals. He even looks and moves like a god, but… I cannot be sitting with an actual god. That’s not possible. It can’t be.
Sa smiled, again seeming to know Gan’s mind. “I am not a god, my friend. I am a simple man… though I try my best to listen, and learn, and pass on the knowledge I may attain.” Sa picked up the tea pot and offered to fill Gan’s cup.
“No, thank you,” he whispered, still confused by the mysterious, almost divine, nature of his host. Every move Sa made intrigued Gan, even the way his fingers picked up the pot. There was a grace and beauty that couldn’t be described with words, and it was beginning to excite his passion.
A bite of… Lyra Shanti, aka Aryl Shanti
Q1: What do you feel is most important to remember as a writer when writing about love? And do you see any difference in writing LGBTQ as opposed to ‘straight’ romance?
The most important thing to remember when writing about love is the same as any other subject. Keep it real. Make sure that the characters feel realistic and honest with their emotions, at least to the reader. When they fall in love, it has to come across to the reader as genuine, even if it seems crazy or cliche. As long as the character truly feels it in their heart, so will the reader.
As for writing LGBTQ+ romance, it’s no different than writing for straight characters. Other than which body parts are being used during a love scene, there’s no difference whatsoever. If I write two men or two women (or a non-binary couple) in love, they feel the same kind of intensity and confusions as a straight couple would. There may be the element of societal issues getting in the way for an LGBTQ couple, but other than that, it’s exactly the same. Love is love.
Q2: The underlying theme of this book seems to me to be the undying nature of love, and how a love sufficiently strong transcends time. Do you think such a love is truly possible?
I know it’s possible because I have it in real life with my soul-mate and partner, Timothyne. However, familiarity and passion isn’t enough to make a relationship transcend time. It takes a ton of communication, understanding, and patience to make it last, but it can be done, if two people really want to work for it.
When it comes to Promise of the Opal, Sam and Jon (or Sa and Gan from their past) have a relationship that is deep and passionate, but extremely complicated. Are they soul-mates? I guess you’ll have to read the book series to find out. (Book 2 is coming soon!)
Q3: Would you rather live in this world or the one you create in your books?
Oh, definitely in one of my books, probably the world of Shiva XIV. I’d love to travel the universe and hang out with Axis (a shape-shifting sphinx) and maybe go to Ohr where they have great beaches and underwater mer-type people. I’d also love to see Kri with all their ancient Roman looking statues and giant libraries. I’d probably never want to leave, which is why I’m going to eventually return to that world for an upcoming prequel series.
It’s hard for a writer to leave the world they love to write. I guess that’s a bit like living there, at least in our minds. 😉
A transmasculine novelist, editor, poet, playwright, and songwriter who currently lives in Florida with partner and spouse, Timothyne, and their two insane cats. Author of the award-winning science fantasy series, Shiva XIV and a dreamer of worlds far away. More books include The Artist, a wild tale of love, madness, and redemption, as well as The Rainbow Serpent, a re-imagining of Adam and Eve. You can find Aryl on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and his own website. | {
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The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that athletes can determine their own sex in international sports like the Olympics.
Health refers to physical, mental, and social well-being. It’s a broad category that contains fitness and exercise, nutrition, health science, and mental health.
Studies have shown there is no single determinant of sex, gender, or sexuality. In terms of both sex (genetic) and gender (a social construct), a binary distinction of “male or female” fails to describe a wide range of humans in practice. Meanwhile, sexuality (a preference) eludes any simple categorization as well. Simply put, despite some binary aspects (for example a person either has a Y gene or they don’t), Gender, Sex, and Sexuality are all non-binary and each is instead a complex spectrum… and we can prove it with science and logic.
Nettie Stevens and Edmund Beecher Wilson independently discovered the chromosomal XY sex-determination system (that males have XY and females have XX sex chromosomes). | {
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In terms of auto insurance, there are various various factors that may have an effect on your premium. You can lessen your high quality by driving safely and securely and responsibly. Other aspects to consider when evaluating prices include things like your vehicle make and product, the value of your car, and how you employ it. If you often travel very long distances, you usually tend to be involved with accidents. In the long run, The obvious way to reduced your insurance quality is to find a plan that matches your needs.
In terms of insurance, the typical car or truck owner is to blame for spending anywhere from $one,one hundred to around $5,000 a yr. It is important to understand that charges can vary broadly from condition to point out. In a few states, entire protection expenses two times approximately minimal protection. Mentioned down below are some strategies to help you get the most beneficial cost. A minimal liability limit is barely required in some states, while total coverage commonly includes a $five hundred deductible.
Deciding on the suitable automobile is very important since some vehicles are dearer than others, leading to increased insurance coverage rates. Also, some vehicles are dearer to restore and exchange, so their insurance coverage rates tend to be greater. Drivers by using a clear driving history are likely to receive more affordable prices. Age and gender also play a part in deciding insurance costs. Younger drivers are generally far more dangerous than more mature drivers. In addition, some insurers use credit rating scores to ascertain insurance plan rates. On the other hand, some states have handed guidelines prohibiting these kinds of use.
There are actually 6 basic different types of vehicle coverage coverages. This coverage permits you to customise your coverage to address a variety of different cases. You can expect to also want in order that you might have legal responsibility protection. Legal responsibility insurance policies is required by law in the majority of states, however, you can choose a unique sort of coverage if you’d favor. Liability insurance plan addresses you just in case you’re at fault in a collision, but In addition it covers other drivers in your car. It will pay for Other individuals’s damages or accidents, and it can also address professional medical payments.
An ordinary coverage will include numerous forms of coverage, including liability, collision, thorough, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments. They’re all essential, and you must get plenty of of them. A few of these coverages can be necessary in a few states, while some may well not. To discover the best automobile insurance plan protection for your preferences, stop by a web-site for instance Freeway Coverage. You will discover a wide variety of protection alternatives and help you save time and cash.
Each state sets its own least car insurance policy prerequisites, and these legislation are broken down into a few individual figures. In California, by way of example, you’re necessary to have at the least fifteen/thirty/5 in bodily harm liability coverage, and thirty/50/5 in assets hurt legal responsibility. These figures can vary widely, so it’s best to check your condition’s necessities before driving. Even though alternate insurance could possibly be a possibility, it’s actually not usually a good idea.
The bare minimum coverage expected by your point out is normally legal responsibility coverage, but a lot of lenders need total protection. Total coverage refers to each collision and extensive insurance coverage, and it could be expected by your lender if you are financing your car. Legal responsibility coverage addresses damages to other people’s residence inside the function of a mishap although not your very own auto or self. Bodily damage legal responsibility and residence problems liability insurance plan could be blended to give you the most effective coverage at an exceedingly reasonable price.
Whether you have collision coverage on your vehicle insurance coverage plan is determined by your circumstances. Even though you may not be required by legislation to own this coverage, lenders will probable involve it if you propose on financing your automobile. Lenders may additionally need you to hold collision insurance plan When you’ve got a bank loan, which implies that you simply must buy comprehensive coverage auto insurance coverage. This protection is usually a necessity for most people who finance a car, whether new or utilized.
Collision protection pays the entire worth of your vehicle while in the celebration of an accident. Though the insurance provider pays the entire cost of repairs, it will not be ample to switch the vehicle if It truly is stolen or totaled. You may also should shell out some private revenue to switch the car. When you have this type of coverage, ensure you recognize the conditions and terms just before purchasing motor vehicle insurance policy. You should also comprehend the deductible, which can be individual within the collision deductible.
There are plenty of elements to think about when purchasing for a car or truck insurance policy Monthly bill. Some states have to have bare minimum limits on Assets and Uninsured motorist protection, which pays for the difference between your expenses along with the policy Restrict of your at-fault driver. Other states do not demand underinsured motorist coverage. Here are several recommendations that may help you shop for the right coverage policy for your needs. With any luck ,, the following tips will make the process a little simpler and conserve you money.
Liability coverage for car insurance plan is critical so as to safeguard on your own plus your home in opposition to statements of harm or residence hurt. This protection can deal with the price of protection or settlement do you have to be discovered at fault for a collision. There are plenty of kinds of protection, so it is vital to find out the difference between them to avoid pricey surprises. Condition Farm features ordinary prices for numerous levels of coverage. You could possibly come across it more beneficial to decide on a medium coverage level.
In many states, you might be needed to have legal responsibility protection in the plan, which handles damages to Other individuals’s residence and accidents to Other individuals. This type of protection also shields you in case you trigger a collision with An additional driver. This coverage is definitely the default coverage in most states, and is recommended for motorists in several nations. Nonetheless, it is important to understand that liability insurance boundaries are quite unique in each condition. Your liability Restrict will decide just how much you will have to pay to include damages.
In nearly each and every condition, it is unlawful to push without the need of legal responsibility coverage, which incorporates assets damage liability. When you induce damage to somebody else’s assets, legal responsibility protection pays for repairs. On the other hand, your auto insurance policies coverage won’t go over your own private automobile’s damages. Your state can have distinct bare minimum prerequisites for legal responsibility coverage, so it’s important to check your plan prior to buying it. House protection can be critical to your economical security. It helps you steer clear of staying remaining with huge insurance charges if you lead to a mishap.
Your insurance policy coverage must have some kind of residence destruction coverage to compensate you in the celebration of a collision. This coverage pays for virtually any damages you induce to another particular person’s car or truck, together with repairs. Furthermore, it pays for your elimination of particles just after a mishap. Assets coverage is commonly penned with three quantities, like bodily harm protection for each incident and house injury protection per accident. Bigger boundaries, on the other hand, give far more protection. Make sure you examine your plan and talk to your insurance policy consultant if you will discover any exclusions or restrictions.
In Ny, you can declare uninsured motorist coverage if one other driver doesn’t have more than enough insurance policies to go over the cost of your collision. This protection applies when another driver is not really determined in any respect plus the incident is a success-and-operate. The Insurance policies Law SS 5217 specifies which the uninsured motorist protection has to be purchased in any Actual physical collision, but courts have interpreted this provision to only apply inside of a physical collision.
Underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage are optional in certain states, but in other states, you must have them both. Shopping for both of those coverages will supply you with additional coverage just in case you must fork out professional medical expenses or other charges. In case the uninsured driver leaves you with a damaged vehicle, the uninsured motorist protection can purchase the repairs. While this coverage is not required, it could be a smart thought to hold at the least the minimum amount of legal responsibility coverage.
If you’ve never considered it, auto coverage bargains are a terrific way to save money and stay inexperienced. Several new cars and trucks have protection functions which include airbags and anti-lock brakes that can decrease your premiums. You may also get additional bargains for owning security capabilities with your auto, for example daytime working lights or anti-theft alarms. Shelling out your premium in entire each and every year will even take out payment worries for twelve months. In reality, about 50 percent of insurers provide a discount for this sort of payment.
You might also be qualified for special discounts should you’ve experienced your policy for a number of yrs. These savings differ based on the period of time you’ve had your plan, but quite a few organizations supply discount rates for getting loyal for their clients. You may well be qualified for a reduction of up to 15% if you purchase your policy at the least seven days just before your renewal day. Aside from these discount rates, some companies even offer you bargains to Those people in specified occupations. As an example, teachers acquire 10% off their premiums from Liberty Mutual. Military services personnel receive a fifteen% discount from Geico.
Are you presently a young driver on the lookout for auto insurance policies cheap prices? Here are a few ideas you can observe to save money on vehicle insurance protection: Boosting your deductibles, obtaining a no claims discount, and obtaining a policy by using a regional insurer. The following tips could help you save many hundreds of bucks yearly with your automobile insurance coverage coverage. In addition they allow you to get the lowest premiums feasible. Keep reading to understand extra. You can be glad you probably did!
Youthful drivers can get monetary savings on automobile coverage by driving more safely, lowering the amount of miles they generate, and allowing the insurance company track their driving patterns. You can also minimize your premiums by buying about for automobile coverage. A lot of insurers demand a better amount for young motorists, so it is important to shop about. Fortunately, you can find no cost on the net quote comparison resources which make this easy. Additionally, you are able to ask for a reduction In case you have multiple cars and also have them insured by the same business.
When searching for a coverage, Be sure to Evaluate many quotations and select the very best value and excellent. You can also try to look for an insurance plan agent who’ll expand along with you, making it possible for you to generate changes as your driving record adjustments. Be sure you Assess procedures which offer very similar types of coverage, as deductibles and limits can make a giant distinction. In case you are a youthful driver, It’s also wise to get adequate coverage to stay away from economic catastrophe.
Getting a no claims discount on car or truck include is a terrific way to cut costs on the rates, and it could be worthy of asking your insurance company how to use it. Depending on the insurance company, the low cost could be worth between thirty% after a calendar year to as much as 65% just after 5 years. Remember that For those who have an accident, you can reduce two several years of no promises reward. Additionally, several statements may also wipe out all of your no claims bonus. It really is vital to notify your insurance provider promptly of any mishaps that you’ve got, as failing to take action could necessarily mean that potential statements will probably be turned down.
Most insurers supply no statements price reduction defense to get a cost of close to PS25. It helps you to make a certain range of promises per annum without having worrying regarding your premiums heading up. Additionally it is feasible to add it to a brand new policy Should you have a no claims bonus. Additionally, you are able to transfer your no claims discounted to another insurance company if you want. To maintain your no statements lower price, it is best to look at switching companies every year or two.
When looking for a inexpensive car insurance policy quote, elevating your deductibles is a terrific way to get reduced rates. Some estimates say It can save you amongst 15 and 30 p.c on your quality by elevating your deductibles. These financial savings can vary widely dependant upon your driving record, the type of car or truck you travel, and also your point out’s legal guidelines. Raising your deductibles also can reduce your yearly premium by around forty%.
While raising your deductible is not the correct alternative for everybody, it will let you help save 1000s of pounds more than the long run. Even though the amount you end up picking to raise your deductible will rely on your fiscal problem, experts advocate saving at the very least two months’ truly worth of dwelling charges. Also, it will eventually lessen your insurance policies fees each month. You will also save a big amount of cash in the event you ever create a assert.
Getting a coverage with a regional insurance provider might be advantageous for drivers having a weak credit rating heritage. It could help you save dollars each month on your own month to month insurance policies bill, and you may make use of discounts and outstanding customer support. Getting a policy which has a regional insurer is available in all fifty states, and you can Examine fees by point out to discover the bottom fees. Even so, it is important to notice that it may well have a couple of months to lift your credit rating rating, and some drivers having a inadequate credit historical past can wind up spending above $400 a 12 months.
Erie Insurance policies is another regional insurance company that provides low cost automobile insurance coverage. This organization is located in Pennsylvania, and has long been in business since 1925. Erie delivers car insurance plan, lifestyle, and property insurance coverage. Even though Erie only presents protection in selected states, it’s over thirteen,000 unbiased insurance policies brokers in the course of America. You may pick an agent or perhaps a regional insurer Based on your requirements. Even so, it is recommended that you just go through all wonderful print before making a call.
Should you be a higher-risk driver, you must Evaluate car or truck insurance policy quotations and discover the cheapest coverage for your requirements. It’s also wise to look at the amount of protection is out there close to you so you’re able to ascertain if a lower charge is achievable. It might be more cost-effective to acquire far more coverage When you’ve got lessen chance or if you agree for a better deductible. Everything depends on your requirements. The good thing is, there are various alternatives accessible to you.
When you are trying to find The most affordable motor vehicle insurance plan estimate for high-risk motorists, you happen to be in luck. You can certainly find one particular having a handful of clicks on-line. The web can give you many different quotations for coverage in a portion of the cost of regular vehicle insurance policy. Don’t just that, however it can even make signing up for insurance lots simpler. All It’s important to do is complete a straightforward on the net kind, fork out your quality, so you’re accomplished! The insurance company will then print you a card as proof of your respective insurance policies protection and you’ll have a policy over the road.
For those who have a lousy credit rating history, you are viewed as a large-risk driver by several insurance policies organizations. This is due to you usually tend to file an insurance claim than the usual driver with very good credit score. Your credit score is really a factor in how insurance policies corporations check out you, along with a previous DUI/DWI will raise your top quality by as much as sixty five%. This is reminiscent of an additional $477 on the 6-month policy. A further element that insurers consider is your driving historical past. A DUI/DWI can boost your quality by up to $174, and a dashing ticket can include as many as about 45%.
Should you have a DUI on your own document, it is possible to opt for The most cost effective vehicle insurance service provider. Corporations including State Farm, American Family members, and Progressive have some good solutions offering decrease premiums for top-danger motorists. Additionally they contemplate your credit score rating when analyzing your high quality. Insurers look at these components when deciding simply how much you fork out for the coverage. A bad credit score rating could cause insurance policy charges to skyrocket, so It is really critical to grasp your credit score prior to making a choice.
There are a variety of elements to look at when choosing The most affordable automobile insurance for younger drivers. Your age and marital position play a large part within your auto insurance charges. The kind of car you travel might also have an impact in your premium. As an example, high-general performance motor vehicles are typically more expensive to insure than reduced-efficiency autos. As a result, the first step in finding The most affordable vehicle insurance for young motorists is to locate a auto with numerous security capabilities.
A terrific way to lessen the price of car insurance plan for youthful drivers should be to lessen the protection you need. Lots of insurers offer you reductions if you are a fantastic college student, or Should you be in driver training. Having said that, cutting down your protection could cause massive out-of-pocket fees In case you have an accident. Consequently, be sure to weigh the dangers of this feature very carefully, and generally err within the facet of obtaining better value.
Young people Have got a challenging time securing low-cost car insurance coverage. Though the expense of a policy for a sixteen-year-aged driver is far higher than that of the adult, it might be minimized by adding a teen to an present coverage. This option boosts prices by an average of $one,461 a year, but is usually much less expensive than obtaining a separate policy. What’s more, if you are a youthful driver, try to look for discounts along with other techniques to save lots of.
The cost of vehicle insurance plan may differ extensively according to your profile, which can mean that you ought to store close to for the cheapest insurance policy for small-risk drivers. Insurers look at several aspects when determining on an insurance plan, together with your driving history, demographics, and Total threat level. Shown down below are classified as the 5 most crucial things to contemplate when evaluating insurance plan estimates. Remember that lower insurance policies prices Really don’t indicate that you have to sacrifice excellent.
First of all, contemplate your zip code. Individuals in superior-criminal offense places will experience larger premiums. Also, insurance coverage organizations consider site visitors quantity into consideration. Also, make certain you don’t have any incidents or statements on the file, as these will raise your rates. Finally, Understand that you’ll want to Examine premiums every 6 months to prevent spending over you have to. It’s also advisable to take into consideration getting a multi-plan discount if you’ve got more than one policy with a particular insurance provider.
Even though credit scores are not legally used by insurers in certain states, they’re continue to critical considerations when comparing vehicle coverage prices. In Hawaii, motorists with lousy credit score pays 168% in excess of comparable clean motorists. In Massachusetts, superior-hazard motorists pay out thirty% greater than thoroughly clean motorists. For brand spanking new motorists, a DUI, speeding ticket, and bad credit rating will boost prices more than others. You’ll want to acquire a couple of estimates prior to making a choice.
The zip code you live in is An important Consider the cost of coverage. If you reside in a place with large crime and incident costs, you may be expecting to pay much more for coverage quotes. On top of that, elements like targeted traffic volume and incident historical past can increase the price of insurance policy. Most insurance policies corporations also consider a driver’s driving heritage to determine what level they need to cost for his or her plan. Ordinarily, drivers by using a poor driving historical past fork out extra for coverage than People by using a clean driving document.
Car insurance has risen by $50 – $a hundred in the last five years, as health and fitness care prices have been raising. Drivers are also required to have uninsured and PIP insurance coverage, that are higher than-average point out requirements. Numerous states only need legal responsibility insurance, but The big apple needs drivers to hold equally. These optional coverages increase the cost of coverage, and can often raise the overall premium. And finally, motorists ought to check their coverage restrictions, as some procedures Possess a decrease least degree of protection than Other individuals.
In Big apple, the common individual spends two.8 p.c of their profits on car insurance policy, which can be a little bigger compared to the countrywide regular of two.40 per cent. People in their 30s, 40s, and 50s pays marginally below the average. The 70+ age group will pay greater premiums than drivers with a lot less driving practical experience. Those people who are married pays a little increased premiums, but still decrease than one men and women.
Together with lower prices, motorists could also choose defensive driving programs. These classes are 320 minutes in duration, and include conversations of driver Mindset and targeted traffic rules. They also teach defensive driving tactics that may drastically minimize the price of insurance policy. They also can assistance to further improve their driving history, so finishing a course can lower the price of an auto insurance plan quote. Having said that, if you are Not sure about the exact coverage you will need, it is possible to check Together with the Coverage Info Institute.
When gasoline prices change by state, the expense of a vehicle insurance plan estimate in other states could possibly be larger or reduced than your own. Some elements could account for this, including The proportion of uninsured motorists, condition insurance policies legal guidelines, and the speed of theft. Also, the incidence of terrible climate can improve the expense of insurance in different states. The following desk reveals regular vehicle insurance policies premiums in numerous states. These estimates are based on a comparison of state insurance plan necessities.
Missouri is The most affordable condition for whole-protection automobile coverage, paying out just $944 lower than Louisiana. In addition, this point out has amongst the lowest expenses for each capita, and it is rated fifth regarding price of dwelling. In distinction, Texas motorists shell out quite possibly the most for their car insurance, shelling out about 33% in their yearly revenue in overall. This disparity can be as a result of The reality that the condition contains a superior quantity of uninsured drivers and a lot of lawsuits.
The countrywide typical for entire coverage auto coverage is $one,771 a calendar year. The state with the costliest insurance coverage quality is Louisiana, with a premium of $two,839, a 19% improve from 2020. Conversely, Maine’s common insurance policies quality is barely $858. It is because no-fault states have higher coverage rates. The expense of an automobile coverage policy in other states can vary drastically. There are several factors to take into consideration, including your state’s regulations on insurance coverage.
In case you are searhing for high-hazard driver auto coverage in the vicinity of me, you might be wondering ways to get a small-Value plan. High-risk motorists pay out bigger coverage premiums than regular motorists. This is because they tend to get more mishaps or violations on their own file. Dependant upon the point out, the Restrict may very well be 3 decades or five years. In some cases, you can obtain special discounts if you are taking a driver security class.
Even though the nationwide averages for top-threat driver automobile insurance policy close to me are rather steady, you can find that rates range wildly from point out to point out. Some providers modify their fees to distinct states, Therefore if you reside in a certain state, you could learn that just one insurance company gives you the best protection to get a minimal price tag. The cheapest high-possibility driver motor vehicle insurance policies in close proximity to me emanates from Condition Farm, which has a long-standing status for providing outstanding support.
The easiest way to locate a higher-hazard driver car insurance plan near me would be to enter your ZIP code and Look at quotes. The price of significant-hazard vehicle insurance policy in the vicinity of me can differ from state to point out, but most huge insurers give such protection. A few of these firms focus on significant-chance protection, for instance Countrywide Standard. You could possibly even be capable of finding a cheaper policy if you have superior grades and also a minimal-threat car or truck.
There are various benefits of comparing automobile coverage companies. In the following paragraphs, We’re going to focus on some of The most crucial characteristics, for example rankings, discounts, and customer service. Selecting the ideal policy is important for your security and defense, so make the effort to compare the different guidelines from distinctive organizations. By the time you complete looking at this article, you will have an idea of which insurance provider features the ideal coverage at the lowest cost. Below are a few ideas to pick the suitable 1 for you personally:
To find the ideal level, it is best to Evaluate vehicle coverage rates from various organizations. Insurers use several aspects to determine the price of insurance policy. It’s essential to discover your personal desires and Assess price ranges from a number of providers. As an illustration, athletics automobiles can Charge much more to insure than standard autos. In addition, your locality and driving record might also affect the prices that you’ll be quoted. By making use of a comparison Device, you’ll find the lowest rate on the exact same protection Using the identical deductibles.
Insurance plan rates could vary drastically, so it’s important to understand how Just about every policy functions. Amongst the aspects that impact premiums are driving heritage, age, and credit rating historical past. You can also Examine the perks that each corporation gives, which include roadside support or accident forgiveness. Whilst this might appear to be a daunting endeavor, it may help to match estimates from different suppliers and choose the proper one particular. Outlined underneath are some ways to get you begun.
In regards to comparing vehicle insurance coverage corporations, you should start with the J.D. Electric power car insurance provider ratings. These are definitely based upon buyer fulfillment surveys that study A large number of auto insurance coverage buyers nationwide. The results are compiled into numerical scores that stand for the companies’ typical consumer pleasure score. These rankings are released each year, and the ideal automobile coverage corporations in Just about every class are awarded gold medals. But how do you know if the businesses you are considering are any fantastic?
There are plenty of ways to evaluate the money energy of car insurance plan companies. For starters, you can Test the AM Very best insurance company rating, which delivers economical steadiness scores for car coverage providers. If the car or truck insurance provider has an A, B, C, or F ranking, it is important to understand how steady it can be ahead of picking a plan. This is an important aspect of customer support, so be sure to study the critiques and skim the good print before you make a decision.
Vehicle insurance coverage providers offer various special discounts. Quite a few of those special discounts will not be available for everyone, so it is important to examine the business Internet site to be sure to qualify with the savings that use to you. Some businesses present many bargains, and You may as well ask your insurance policy agent If they’re eligible for virtually any specific discounted. Having said that, the procedure is a snap and sometimes normally takes under an hour or so. Below are a few examples of probable auto insurance policy reductions.
Legacy Savings: A vehicle insurance provider might offer a discount to new motorists who invest in their plan by their mother and father’ enterprise. This discounted is mostly all around ten per cent. This is often one method to thank your mother and father for your organization over time, and it could help you save dollars on your automobile insurance policy protection. Quite a few firms provide legacy bargains to young motorists, and It is really worthy of checking to discover In the event your insurance provider features a single. You may also consider policies made available from American Relatives, Farmers, or USAA.
Within the insurance coverage field, Here are a few corporations that persistently excel at customer support. Esurance, for instance, scored four out of five while in the J.D. Electricity rankings for customer service, a large mark for an organization whose parent firm won’t. The business scored greater than its competition in all other locations, such as plan choices and prices, as well as the high-quality of provider furnished by its Get in touch with Heart Associates and Web site.(personalised services)
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The Oregon Division of economic Regulation has instructed auto insurers to support customers who Really don’t specify their gender. Discrimination against non-binary individuals can be grounds for unfair discrimination expenses, and insurers must file fees for people drivers starting in January 2019. These charges may be greater than All those for male and feminine drivers. Assuming that they don’t seem to be too much, women should be able to save cash. Also, Don’t be concerned regarding the “non-binary” charge for youthful drivers.(motor vehicle insurance assert)(hole insurance policies)(car plan) | {
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Hi guys! Guess who nearly forgot that I was supposed to write this blog post! In my defense I’ve been working all week and um… it’s my birthday tomorrow?
Anyway, this post is part of a blog hop to promote a new collection of essays put together by the amazing Evelyn Deshane called #Trans about how transness intersects with technology and the internet. It’s subject that’s near and dear to my heart because (like a lot of people) I discovered that I was trans because of the internet. If it wasn’t for the community and support I’ve found online, I would probably still be very alone and confused. I believe the internet and online communities have revolutionized the queer experience, allowing otherwise isolated young queer people to discover a community of people like them, to connect and grow together.
My essay, which is called Trans Romance and Radical Love: My Autobiography in Binder Rippers (couldn’t pass that title up,) is about existing as a trans person in the larger LGBT+ romance community. I talk about both the good and bad aspects of it, from discovering my identity alongside other non-binary authors, to the difficulty trans authors in the communities have faced and continued to face. It was actually a pretty difficult essay to write because some of the stuff I talk about is still pretty upsetting for me, but Eve was an absolutely phenomenal editor and she helped me turn my personal ramblings into an essay that I’m pretty proud of.
#Trans is an essay collection featuring the works of twenty transgender and nonbinary writers as they share their experiences with online communities, video games, and dating apps–among other technologies. Each author’s experience of their identity breaks away from the typical transgender narrative that is predominantly hung up on surgery and medical intervention. While that aspect is still a part of the story for some of these writers, surgery has never been the sole inspiration which pushes these writers forward.
Whether it was the love of a particular movie, the desire to share a feeling on social media, or a song they couldn’t get out of their heads, these twenty writers’ experiences of their identity have been shaped by media, technology, and the internet. And now, #Trans is ready to share with all of you.
It’s also going to be available in print on March 31st. If it sounds at all interesting, please go check it out, and maybe leave a review if you feel up to it! That would be great!
You can check out the official site here, and I’ll list the other stops on the blog hop below.
Thanks for reading, and hope you’re all having a great spring! | {
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We are now well into Pride Month, one of the most colorful times of the year. With rainbows everywhere, this isn’t the only color combo that symbolizes the LGBTQIA+ community.
During this monumental month, people proudly raise their flags to symbolize the love and camaraderie within the LGBTQIA+ community. As pride and society continue to progress, there have been many renditions of pride flags popularized throughout history. Combined with the proliferation of social media, there have been a lot more flags than just the rainbow flag that have become important symbols for the LGBTQIA+ community.
What better way to celebrate pride than by getting acquainted with some (of the countless) flags out there? Learn about the history and meaning of these 18 pride flags that you may see hanging about whether it’s Pride Month or not.
Gilbert Baker Pride Flag
In 1977, Harvey Milk, the first openly gay politician to be elected to office in California, gave Gilbert Baker the privilege (and pressure) of designing a flag to represent the LGBTQIA+ community.
Gilbert Baker was an artist, activist, and openly gay military veteran. Said to be inspired by the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz’s song “Over The Rainbow”, Baker created a rainbow flag containing 8 colors.
“A Rainbow Flag was a conscious choice, natural, and necessary,” Baker said about his iconic flag. “The rainbow came from the earliest recorded history as a symbol of hope,” referring to God’s promise to Noah (of Noah and the Ark fame) and his family at the time after the great flood.
In 2015, Baker told CNN that “we needed something to express our joy, our beauty, our power. And the rainbow did that,” with each of the 8 colors having its own special meaning.
Hot Pink – sex
Red – life
Orange – healing
Yellow – sunlight
Green – nature
Turquoise – magic and art
Indigo – serenity
Violet – the spirit of the LGBTQ people
“We’re an ancient, wonderful tribe of people,” Baker said. The creator of the flag that started it all, Baker expresses that “We picked something from nature. We picked something beautiful.”
Updated Rainbow Flag (7-colored flag turned 6)
There have been two updates to the original Gilbert Baker rainbow flag. On November 27, 1978, Harvey Milk was assassinated, and there was an increasing demand for the rainbow flags. Baker decided to forgo the hot pink color because of the difficulty to find this fabric for production.
One year later, Baker chose to remove another color – turquoise – from the flag. This would allow the flag to be split into an even number of colors. This later became the standard flag representing the LGBT community. It was also adopted by allies and businesses during Pride Month.
Philadelphia Pride Flag
In 2017, Philadelphia launched its “More Color More Pride” campaign. Black and brown stripes were added to the rainbow flag to represent LGBTQIA+ people of color who were not always included/considered in public gay rights movements in the past.
This flag also gained traction after American actress, producer, and screenwriter Lena Waithe donned the flag as her cape at the 2018 Met Gala.
Created in 1999 by trans woman Monica Helms, this flag utilizes the colors we most associate with baby boys and baby girls. Monica Helms is the founder of the Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA), being a US Navy veteran herself.
According to Helms, the white in the middle represents the intersex members of the community, those who are in the process of transitioning, as well as those who do not identify with any gender.
The design of the flag was also done in such a way that no matter how you hold it, it will always be right-side up. This may also symbolize our constant search for “correctness” in our lives.
In 2013, Morgan Carpenter came up with the intersex flag as the president of Intersex Human Rights Australia. Intersex people have bodies that differ from the standard binary of male and female. This may be caused by (but is not limited to) varying chromosome combinations and/or being born with both genitals.
Like the non-binary flag, intersex flag creator Morgan Carpenter wanted to deviate from the colors generally associated with gender.
Purple and yellow are generally viewed as gender-neutral colors. The simple but solid circle at the center of the flag is meant to represent the wholeness of intersex people. The unbroken circle serves as a reminder that intersex people are perfect as they chose themselves to be.
Carpenter has described the intersex community as “still fighting for bodily autonomy and genital integrity,” adding that “this symbolizes the right to be who and how we want to be.”
Progress Pride Flag
A symbol of the evolving nature of Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community, the Progress Pride Flag is the culmination of many flags into one. In 2018, non-binary artist Daniel Quasar designed the progress pride flag. Adding that the black and brown stripes were also meant to represent those living with HIV/AIDS, those who’ve passed away from it, and the general stigma that still surrounds the sickness to this day. This flag has been seen as a response to the Philadelphia Pride Flag.
Just last year, this flag was updated to further promote inclusivity by giving more visibility to the intersex community. Intersex writer Valentino Vecchietti added to this design to include intersex representation in the progress flag. This has become the modern pride flag, celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
Queer People of Color Flag
Adding a raised fist with different skin tones to the 6-colored rainbow flag, the Queer People of Color Flag (QPOC) was popularized at the height of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Along with showing support for the BLM movement, the flag also brings together the experience of the queer and Black communities. Although it’s uncertain as to who exactly created this flag, the raised fist is believed to represent unity as well as boldness and resistance.
This flag was created in 2014 by Kye Rowan when they were 17 years old. Meant to represent the people whose gender identities do not conform with the traditional male/female binary, each color on the flag attests to this.
Yellow – represents the people who generally identify as being outside of the cisgender male/female binary
White – as the presence of all colors, white represents multi-gendered people
Purple – people who incorporate a combination of both male and female aspects which may or may not fluctuate for them
Black – as the absence of color; represents those who feel like they have no gender/do not identify with a specific gender (agender people)
Created in 2010, the asexual flag was made by the Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN), inspired by its logo.
Asexuality may be considered as an umbrella term, with its precise definition deferring depending on who you ask. It may center on one’s lack of sexual attraction towards others, but it may also include being uninterested in sexual activity and/or favoring other types of attraction more/rather than sexual attraction. The many meanings for the umbrella term are embedded in the meanings of each color found within the flag.
Black- asexuality in general
Gray- refers to gray-asexual people, those who are mostly asexual but still take part in sexual activities from time to time; the color gray may also represent the demisexual community (those who need to form a deep emotional bond with someone before being able to develop any sense of sexual attraction with them)
White- non-asexual partners and allies of the asexual community
Purple- the asexual community
Created by Michael Page in 1998, this flag is all about the blending of a person’s attraction from one gender to another just like what bisexuality is all about. This may be seen in the way that pink and blue are on the outer edges of the flag, and in the center is purple which is a combination of the two colors.
More specifically the colors represent:
Pink- attraction to the same gender
Blue- attraction to a different gender
Purple- bisexuality, the attraction to two or more genders
The previous design of the lesbian flag originally came with a red lipstick kiss and was only made up of varying pink to red shades mimicking the varying shades of lipstick.
Not all members of the lesbian community felt like they were represented by this flag, like, for example, the butch lesbians. This design was further forgotten when the creator of this in 2010, Natalie McCray was known to have transphobic and racist ideologies.
The result of all this turmoil is the new and improved lesbian flag containing shades of pink to orange. Emily Gwen created this flag in the hopes of encapsulating all lesbian subgroups under the lesbian community, uniting them all under one flag with meaningful colors.
Dark orange – gender non-conformity
Orange – Independence
Light orange – community
White – relationships/connections unique to womanhood
Light pink – serenity and peace
Pink – love and sex
Dark pink – femininity
Created in 2010 with the original artist unknown, this flag represents those who are attracted to a person regardless of what their gender identity may be. The meaning of each color on this flag is similar to that of the bisexual flag in the way that they represent the different attractions that pansexual people have.
Pink – attraction to women
Blue – attraction to men
Yellow – attraction to those who don’t identify with the gender binary
Pansexuality is sometimes viewed as a branch of bisexuality, though it may also be considered a more inclusive term for this. The creation of the flag aims to differentiate it from bisexuality. Pansexuality rejects the gender binary.
Gender Fluid Flag
Created by J.J. Poole in 2012, the 5 colors represent what the gender fluid community is all about. With each color, the flag emulates the fluid nature of those who identify as gender fluid – shifting from different areas of the gender spectrum.
Pink – feminine
White – all genders
Purple – a combination of the masculine and feminine
Black – a lack of gender/ androgyny
Blue – masculine
According to Poole, the flag became popular after they submitted it to a Tumblr blog that centered on genderfluidity and gender fluid people. After receiving much love from this blog, the flag just “took off”.
In 2011, Marilyn Roxie created this flag to unite all genderqueer and non-binary people, although Kye Rowan would later create their own flag for all non-binary people specifically. Similar to being non-binary, those who identify as genderqueer do not see themselves as fitting under one category of the male/female gender binary. While the two terms may sometimes be exchanged with one another, genderqueer may be seen as the broader, umbrella term, which encapsulates all gender identities outside of heterosexuality.
This flag makes use of three colors to represent the genderqueer community:
Lavender – again, seen as the mix of pink and blue which are traditionally associated with male and female, in this flag it represents androgyny
White – the agender community
Green – the non-binary community
“Queer” is a term that, in the past, was used in a derogatory manner although the LGBT community has fought hard to reclaim it (but some are still uncomfortable with using it/being called this way).
Those who identify as aromantic do not experience romantic attraction, as compared to, for example, asexual people who do not experience sexual attraction.
Dark green – aromanticism
Light green – the aromantic spectrum
White – platonic and aesthetic attraction/relationships
Gray – similar to the gray-asexual, this represents the gray-aromantics who may occasionally feel romantic attraction in certain situations
Black – the sexuality spectrum as a whole
Green was chosen as one of the main colors to be featured as it is viewed as the opposite of red (which is mostly associated with romance/passion).
In 2014 Salem X designed a flag for all the people who do not identify with any gender (whether within or outside the gender binary).
Black and white – the absence of gender
Gray – semi-genderlessness
Green – non-binary genders
Similar to the transgender flag, the agender flag’s design makes it so that it is always correct no matter what the orientation is.
As mentioned earlier, demisexuals are people who need to make a strong emotional connection before they can experience any sort of sexual attraction toward others.
Black – asexuality
Gray – demisexuality
White – sexuality
Purple – community
Since demisexuality exists under the non-binary spectrum, the colors are similar to the non-binary flag, although it has its own unique layout.
Straight Ally Flag
Overlaying a rainbow-shaped letter “A” on a black and white background has become the flag for allies of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Allies are any heterosexual/cisgender people who believe in the need for equal rights and fair treatment of all those who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
With the numerous flags out there, and the help of the internet spreading a thousand ideas all at once, there has been some debate as to which flag is considered the “official” one to represent a certain group under the LGBTQIA+ community.
What’s important during this Pride Month is to find the one that speaks to you the most (because there are truly many more out there). This month is all about visibility and celebrating the unique experiences that we all have, and how love unites them (and us) to one another – no matter what pride flag we choose to raise.
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While choices may may play a role in exactly how pansexuals date while having intercourse, they aren’t necessarily restricted to 1 or 2 sex identities. Pansexuals have actually the capability to love individuals across genders and now have intercourse with individuals across genders. Needless to say, both face discrimination because of their tourist attractions. This will be something which Zoë ended up being fast to point out.
“I think individuals perceive pan individuals the same manner they perceive bi people: Some kinda greedy unicorn that exists with regard to threesomes,” Zoë explained. “Mind you, we undoubtedly don’t brain a threesome, but there’s a lot more nuance than that. It touches on objectifying individuals predicated on their sex, just like just what lesbians proceed through. Myself out there for the sake of dating, I want people to understand that all genders are welcome, and that your label doesn’t really matter to me that much when I put. What truly matters will be your character as well as your precious face.”
What exactly is dating like as a pansexual?
Because pansexuals aren’t restricted by sex identity, they have to see sexuality that is human love in a manner that right or homosexual individuals is almost certainly not in a position to. I was immediately impressed by her experiences with people of varying gender identities when I first started dating Zoë. From cis men to trans ladies, Zoë knew a great deal regarding how cis, trans, and bodies that are nonbinary, and she’s often made me feel more affirmed as a trans girl by telling me personally exactly how trans and cisgender women’s bodies actually aren’t all that distinct from one another whenever their clothes go off.
It’s ironic that i’d started to that summary as a lesbian, however, because for ZoГ«, her pan love life is simply another section of life. She explained for me that she truly doesn’t concentrate greatly on her behalf sexuality, she simply allows her heart, her emotions, and her individual experience of other people do the speaking.
“I’ve been in a position to date some extremely diverse and people that are interesting my adult life to date. Yet, my sex is not actually what I’m considering during these experiences,” ZoГ« explained. “It’s concerning the other individual. It’s about connection. We scarcely want to myself, вЂWow, I’m in a lesbian relationship’ nowadays, and because I recall this excellent section of myself that We don’t normally think of. if i actually do, we surprise myself just a little”
Needless to say, Zoë’s additionally fast to indicate that she’s a pansexual girl with geographic privilege. She lives right outside of the latest York City and spends almost all of her waking life in the city. The main good reason why she’s have been in a position to freely explore her sex is that she’s in a relatively queer-friendly area. There’s also the undeniable fact that ZoГ«, that is Jewish and Argentine, is white-passing and nearly because pale as i’m as well. We blend appropriate in as a middle-class that is white couple, regardless of if the tale is much more complicated than that.
“I suppose staying in among the queerest aspects of the entire world allots me some convenience with regards to being myself being queer,” Zoë explained. It nevertheless does), it might be an unusual tale.“If I became in times where my sexuality and sex painted a target back within my straight back (to a qualification”
What’s it prefer to date a pansexual?
Since it ends up, dating a pan girl is not all of that different from dating other people. Zoë and we frequently discuss our choices. While I’m mainly attracted to cisgender and transgender females, Zoë expresses affection for folks over the gender spectrum.
Whether that’s feminine men or androgynous females, non-binary people or genderqueer people, her pansexuality does not block the way associated with relationship we share. In reality, I’d argue so it makes our relationship much more special. Zoë’s sexual and orientation that is romantic taught me personally more about how pansexual individuals reside and encouraged me to remain open-minded. Listening and supporting my girlfriend, in change, taught me more I love women like my girlfriend about myself and why.
That does not suggest ZoГ« is not drawn to me personally according to my sex identification, needless to say. My trans womanhood absolutely plays a role that is major our relationship, exactly how we navigate the whole world https://datingranking.net/xdating-review/, and exactly why we link the way in which we do. However in the conclusion, dating a pansexual individual is just like normal as other things. We continue dates, we just take getaways, we battle, we compensate, we play video gaming, and now we hold arms while walking regarding the boardwalk. ZoГ« just experiences love and attraction a little differently than me personally, that is all.
How to assist my pansexual partner?
Listening plays an role that is incredibly important dating a pan individual. When your partner is preparing to explore their sexuality, hear them away with an open brain. Every person that is pansexual a different reason behind determining as pansexual. They might need your help while being released and figuring by themselves down. That said, be afraid to don’t ask concerns as soon as your partner is able to field them. They may n’t have most of the answers immediately. But so long as you’re willing to walk together with this journey, then you’ll be there whenever it matters.
That’s precisely how Zoë and we managed her coming away. Me she identified as pan, I gave her the room to share as much (or as little) as she wanted to when she told. As it was an opportunity for myself, who had never dated a pan person before. I really could pause, allow my gf speak, and realize her attraction to other people and myself a little better.
“If you’re dating somebody who’s pan, inform them that their sex won’t block the way of one’s relationship, and produce open a discussion on how they experience their sex,” ZoГ« said. “Be here for the partner. Sex is stressful and weird, particularly when you’re first figuring it out.”
Editor’s note: this informative article is frequently updated for relevance.
Ana Valens is a reporter focusing on online communities that are queer marginalized identities, and adult article marketing. This woman is Frequent Dot’s Trans/Sex columnist. Her work has showed up at Vice, Vox, Truthout, Bitch Media, Kill Screen, Rolling rock, as well as the Toast. She lives in Brooklyn, ny, and spends her spare time developing adult that is queer.
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Karen calls masks вЂpagan rituals of Satanic worshippers’ during school board conference | {
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As people work from home full time, children are being homeschooled, finding a work-life balance can be tricky.
Many women are already familiar with the challenges of balancing work with childcare, caregiving of elderly parents, and taking care of the household . Women, more often than not, find themselves in the position of being responsible for everyone and everything, while pursuing their own work and organizing in our communities.
I know this very well from my own personal life, as I took an active role in the care of my ailing mother while working from home full-time as a freelance communications professional, and volunteering as a community organizer for a number of social causes in what was left of my spare time.
It can be overwhelming, but there is strength in solidarity.
We invite you to the webinar For Women: Balancing Home, Work, and Community Organizing During COVID-19 on Thursday, May 28 at 3 p.m. EST. Let’s share our stories, experiences, and learn from - and support - each other.
To get the conversation started, we have an inspiring guest: Valentina Harper. Valentina grew up in Chile during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. She does lots of work to support self-determination for Indigenous people in Canada and is one of the founders of the first “Caremongering" group in Canada.
This webinar is free and aimed at women and non-binary people, but is open to anyone who needs a place to talk, vent, and share about the topics we will be discussing.
To join just RSVP and a link will be sent to you.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Paula E. Kirman and Raul Burbano | {
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'Critical Limit: An Urgent Call for Collection Action' presents works from the City of Yarra arts collection and beyond with an environmental focus. Across moving image, photography, painting, prints and sculpture the works explore issues contributing to the climate emergency and its impact on our animal life and natural ecologies.
The #everydayclimatecrisis Visual Petition is the result of a call out to all women and non-binary people of Australia to create images about Australia's climate crisis, in their local area and country-wide. The Petition's 1,248 printed images showing the effects of climate change were delivered to Federal Parliament in Canberra on 9th June 2022. The ultimate aim is for them to be waved around in Question Time, not a lump of coal. CLIMARTE is thrilled to present artwork from this incredible collaboration.
Produced by Centre for Projection Art, EVANESCE features work by artists whose practice deeply engages with critical issues associated with the Climate Emergency. EVANESCE is a collaboration between CLIMARTE and the Centre for Projection Art, and officially launches CLIMARTE's ART+CLIMATE=ACTION program to present powerful climate justice artwork and creative projects on an ongoing basis.
P.P.P.P. - POSTER PROJECTS PAST & PRESENT Posters remain a dynamic form of communication. From propaganda to grassroots organising, from infographics to memes, from advertising to subvertising, posters have informed, influenced, mocked, roused and inspired generation after generation. The CLIMARTE Poster Projects have visited Melbourne’s streets since 2016 provoking public dialogue and accelerating a response to climate change. P.P.P.P. is an exhibition of all our Posters.
Artists FIONA LEE, JODY GRAMHAM, BENEDICT SIBLEY, ANDY ACKLAND predictive services specialist in the CFA bushfire team and CAM WALKER CFA volunteer and member of Australian Firefighters Climate Alliance joined Jo Lane from CLIMARTE in a discussion about FIRE and ART in our FIRE FORUM.
CLIMARTE was proud to start 2022 with FIRE, an exhibition by artists who have experienced or make work about fire. More extreme and ferocious fires, particularly in Australia, are a huge consequence of the changes in climate due to global warming caused by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Artists in FIRE have experienced its ravaging effects first hand.
CLIMARTE was proud to open the world’s first Climate Emergency Gallery with HEAR, an exhibition of contemporary Indigenous art calling for all Australians to listen to and care for Country. For CLIMARTE, it was critically important that the Gallery open with First Nations artists’ voices. We were humbled by the opportunity to present this exceptional collection of deeply engaging artwork. | {
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Vigilance and speaking up are essential. If we want to see real change we need to draw attention to harmful actions and the damage they cause. Calling for respect and acknowledgement is rarely an easy path, especially when it involves confronting long standing societal norms. Change is difficult, even change we truly want, and being a catalytic thorn is all too often a draining and thankless job. So it’s important for our own psychological, physical, and emotional health to make sure we are putting ourselves through it for the right reasons. Are we truly battling for change or are we lashing out because we’ve been hurt? Are we genuinely trying to usher in lasting change or are we trying to settle old scores?
My first, and admittedly optimistic, impulse is to credit everyone over the age of two and half with the understanding that our actions have impact on the people around us. As our societal consciousness and awareness expands we have no choice but to realize and acknowledge some of our most seemingly innocuous habits of language and attitude can have shockingly harmful effects, intentional or not, on those outside the general norms. It is an important realization, a confusing and painful adjustment, and an incredibly difficult process to curate. While I would argue zealously wrapping one’s self in willful ignorance is more an act of fear than inherent evil sadly there are those who choose to deliberately harm those they don’t understand, who take their reactions and attitudes to extremes. The vast majority of people, however, don’t want to harm those around them. Especially not in ways they might not even be fully unaware of.
Drawing people’s attention to these impacts is a crucial, uphill, and frustratingly fragile process. If we want a behavior or habit to change we have to point it out, develop and cultivate awareness of it, nurture the commitment to do the work it takes to change, and be both ceaselessly pushing forward and also patient in allowing the change to take the time it always takes. Think of it like bad posture, something as a full time dance teacher I spend a lot of time dealing with. Your bad posture doesn’t just suddenly disappear because someone points it out to you. The first step is having the misalignment illustrated and realized, then comes the demonstrating and experiencing of correct posture, followed by a period of being consistently reminded and guided towards realignment. Finally, the stage which requires all the work and patience, is the gradual reprograming of the body in order to reset the natural standard. You don’t just suddenly have perfect posture you start catching yourself slouching and correct it. The more you work at it the less slouching there is to catch until eventually your body’s default settings have been changed. It doesn’t take forever but it does take time.
The difficult part when looking at this in terms of societal changes is that instead of just dealing with a physical habit which only affects the individual we are dealing with social behaviors which can potentially be deeply harmful , even if unintentionally, to those around us until they are corrected. And in some cases we are talking about literal life and death potential consequences. Even with things such as racially bigoted or sexually inappropriate language which are so glaringly harmful and out of line, and which are easy to spot given that they have to be deliberately pushed into the ebb and flow of generic day to day interactions, we are still struggling as the decades tick by because of imbalanced social structures which have actively resisted and silenced the ‘call attention and illustrate’ stage.
So then what do we do about much more widely spread, and seemingly innocuous, concepts such as references to gender or relationship status or spiritual beliefs? Racial animosity is deliberate and targeted and thus a relatively less complicated thing to call out and confront, or at least it should be, but when we are looking at something as deeply rooted and universally interwoven as references to ‘him’ and ‘her’ or assumed motivations around romantic relationships confronting those habits can seem to feel like we are asking people to completely re-write their understanding of the world they know. We can’t simply wave a wand and disappear such universal concepts and language but we cannot ignore the impact their casual use can have on those outside of the generally assumed norms.
Genuine inclusiveness is the approach and attitude which can help us navigate around and through these challenges. If we approach these hurdles and difficulties with the intention of welcoming, inviting, and including then the goals are all focused on commonalities and compatibilities rather than differences and disqualifications. That’s the ideal, and one worth striving for, but getting everyone involved or affected into that mindset can take a lot of painstaking and delicate work. Change is always difficult and uncomfortable so getting people to feel welcoming of it is never easy. It requires that all important and fragile balance of raising awareness, asserting accountability, but avoiding the temptation to become fixated on being punitive. Fairly or not the lion’s share of this kind of work will always ride on the shoulders of those pushing for change, the ones carrying the wounds and the pain, rather than on those who are being challenged to change.
Speaking up and ‘calling out’ are important parts of the process but they are not the sum total. Promoting inclusion and preventing exclusion may branch from the same initial source, the desire for change to prevent harm, and they may seem like opposite edges of the same blade but their core aim is fundamentally different. Preventing exclusion is outwardly active, on the attack, and very much a blade. Promoting inclusion is internally focused, much more of a shield intended for defense and protection. Preventing exclusion can be a necessary and crucial part of initiating change and there are times when it is absolutely necessary to attack. But it is, at its base, a punitive focus and therefore an ineffective source for generating genuine lasting change. Punishment is not rehabilitation, no matter what the action movie paradigm tries to tell us. Taking the offensive isn’t automatically or inherently ‘bad’, at times it is necessary, but it is an approach which needs to be used judiciously and eventually set aside to allow the slow genuine growth to occur.
Purely focusing on promoting inclusion isn’t the perfect and only solution. Simply saying ‘let’s all just love and hug one another’ does not guarantee change or erase harm, though more loving and hugging is certainly needed in the world. Even spaces aiming to be intentionally inclusive can get it wrong, as in the case of a non-binary friend who was invited to speak to their experience as a performer and creator as part of a panel about gender diversity and representation in theater only to be misgendered by the panel’s moderator the entire time. Even the best and purest of intentions do not guarantee effective execution and it can be incredibly difficult and unfair to have to be the level headed and patient party when you are the one being hurt but we have to keep asking ourselves what is our core goal? Are we trying to invite and guide change or to punish misbehavior? Both have their place and purpose but the more we fixate on the punitive the less it becomes about change and instead becomes more about racking up victories as if we’re trying to make some kind of ‘call out’ quota. That might make us feel better temporarily but it focuses on eliminating concepts and expressions rather than including them and doesn’t leave any lasting change in its wake.
And that is the key metric for determining if what we are doing, pushing for, rallying behind is promotive or punitive. Are we making space for more people and ideas or are we seeking only to punish and evict? Are we expanding concepts, definitions, and attitudes or are we simply seeking to supplant and replace existing paradigms? Behaviors which are intentionally and intrinsically harmful, such as those which are racially bigoted and sexually assaultive, need to be directly confronted and fought. Some things unquestionably need to be evicted from our societal lives in the name of simple common decency. But true lasting change, the kind of change which can potentially eradicate those kinds of harmful attitudes and behaviors, requires the engine of inclusion. The more we are able to help people realize that the presence of ‘other’ does not banish or destroy ‘same’, the more we can move people away from seeing ‘different’ as a disqualification, then the more we lessen the impulse to villainize and dehumanize that which we don’t recognize or understand.
The goal of inclusion is to make ‘everyone’ truly mean and encapsulate everyone. To deal with the very real and large scale threats and challenges facing us on a planetary scale we are going to need everyone and we’re not going to have the time to sound us all off by name and sit us at separate tables before trying to move forward. | {
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From 1994-2010, the Walker Art Center presented an annual month-long screening series featuring women directors, starting with a touring program “Women in the Director’s Chair (WIDC): Homegirls”, which blossomed into the Walker’s very own “Women With Vision” (WWV) festival. This March, the Walker Art Center will celebrate the legacy and influence of these groundbreaking programs that both launched and inspired so many women directors from our region.
Celebrate the legacy and influence of the Walker’s Women with Vision programs, which supported female filmmakers and sought to bring their experiences and perspectives to the forefront. Celebrated international directors screened side by side with local artists at all stages of their careers. Two past participants, Melody Gilbert and Kelly Nathe, guest curate and pay tribute to this era of film programming, largely helmed by Senior Curator Sheryl Mousley.
“My indie filmmaking career kicked off in 2002 when Sheryl Mousley selected my first indie doc Married at the Mall to screen at the Walker in the Women with Vision program. I was so honored, and I know there are so many other women in our region who came up through this program just like me. Finding those filmmakers and having a reunion as well as celebrating the up-and-coming women filmmakers of today are reasons why I wanted to guest curate this program with Kelly Nathe. We both had life-changing experiences by screening films at the Walker, and we wanted to find out what happened to the others. And with the Academy Awards leaving women off the best director list again, we thought now would be a good time to do this.” —Melody Gilbert
The four-day program includes shorts screenings, on-stage conversations, introductions of new films by emerging local directors and a celebratory reception.
“I have always believed that filmmaking is women’s work. When I came to the Walker in 1998, I took on the annual film program that had started in 1994 called “Women in the Director’s Chair” which had a local sidebar called “Homegirls.” I turned the program into Walker’s “Women With Vision” film festival, always keeping the local filmmakers at the center,” states Sheryl Mousley, Senior Curator, Moving Image. “After my eleven years with the festival, and only when a woman, Katherine Bigelow, in 2010 finally won the Oscar for Best Picture and Best Director, did I hear the shout, “We’ve won!” While ending the series on a high note, I vowed to continue showing women filmmakers at Walker throughout all our programs. I am proud to say that 25% of the Walker Dialogues are women, and the year-round cinema program continues to give voice to local filmmakers and celebrate the legacy and influence of women in international cinema. I am proud of all the Minnesota filmmakers who have shown their films at Walker. It is a wonderful history and confirmation of home-based talent.”
“My very first short film, Rock-n-Roll Girlfriend, screened in the WIDC: Homegirls program back in 1995 when I was still a student, and I can’t begin to explain how much my inclusion in the program meant to me back then. It remains a badge of honor to this day! I’ve always wondered what happened to all the women who started here. Where did they end up and how did the Walker program that focused on women directors shape their careers? Melody Gilbert and I were co-chairs of Film Fatales in Minnesota, an international organization of women and non-binary directors of feature films, and we both pondered that question and decided to go on a journey together to find these women as well as celebrate the emerging filmmakers in our region.” adds Kelly Nathe
Enjoy a sampling of recent works directed by MN women and selected by Film Fatales, a national organization of women and non-binary filmmakers advocating for intersectional parity in the film industry. The evening’s screening is followed by an onstage conversation led by Film Fatales about making the leap to feature filmmaking in our region.
Film Fatales Twin Cities Reel, 10 min
Santuario, Christine Delp & Pilar Timpane, 3 min. (excerpt)
A Winter Love, Rhiana Yazzie, 4 min. (excerpt)
Master Servant, Julie Anne Koehnen, 3 min. (excerpt)
North Side Boxing Club, Carrie Bush and Amanda Becker, 3 min.
Peeled, Naomi Ko, 2 min.
Muslim Sheroes of MN: Nimo Omar, Ariel Tilson, 4 min. (excerpt)
The Coyote Way, Missy Whiteman, 4 min. (trailer)
Oh My Stars, Cynthia Uhrich, 3 min. (excerpt)
Happily Married After, Alison Guessou, 3 min. (excerpt)
Little Men, Ayesha Adu, 3 min. (excerpt)
Untitled Hmong Doc, Joua Lee Grande, 3 min. (excerpt)
Mack Lecture Series April 8–29, 7 pm$15 ($12 Walker members, students, and seniors)Walker Cinema
Hear directly from explorers of our culture and contemporary moment during the Mack Lecture Series. Throughout the month of April, artists, writers, and other great thinkers at the forefront of diverse fields share their vision on topics ranging from artificial intelligence in performance art to gender politics and gonzo journalism.
Writer-director Annie Dorsen tries “to make perceptible how ideas change over time: where they come from, how they influence and are influenced by politics and culture, and how they take root in the body, physically and emotionally.” For this conversation, she explores the intersection of algorithms and live performance with artificial intelligence researcher and computational linguist Catherine Havasi, moderated by Simon Adler, a producer for WNYC’s Radiolab.
Annie Dorsen’s performance work Yesterday Tomorrow, takes place in the Walker’s McGuire Theater March 27–28.
Genderqueer political activist, visual artist, and musician JD Samson is perhaps best known as leader of the band MEN and one-third of the electronic-feminist-punk band Le Tigre. As a self-defined “gender outlaw,” she will investigate the precarious masculinity of the butch/masculine-of-center body, play with traditional concepts of ownership and destruction, and break down the charged heteronormative history of queer sex dynamics.
Fifth Annual Mother Tongue Film Festival Runs Feb. 20–23
The Smithsonian’s Recovering Voices Initiative will host a film festival that showcases films from around the world. Centered around the United Nation’s International Mother Language Day Feb. 21, the fifth annual Mother Tongue Film Festivalwill offer visitors the opportunity to see 21 films featuring 28 languages from 22 regions and hear from filmmakers who explore the power of language to connect the past, present and future. The four-day festival runs Feb. 20–23.
Recovering Voices is an initiative of the Smithsonian founded in response to the global crisis of cultural knowledge and language loss. It works with communities and other institutions to address issues of Indigenous language and knowledge diversity and sustainability. Recovering Voices is a collaboration between staff at the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of the American Indian and the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
“The Mother Tongue Film Festival provides a forum for conversations about linguistic and cultural diversity,” said Joshua Bell, curator of globalization at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History and director of the Smithsonian’s Recovering Voices Program. “It gives the public an opportunity to talk with directors, producers and scholars who devote their lives to documenting the human experience.”
Screenings will take place at multiple locations across the Smithsonian and Washington, D.C. A complete schedule of screenings, including times and locations, is available on the festival’s website. Doors will open approximately 30 minutes before each show. All screenings are free and open to the public, with weekend programming for families.
The festival kicks off with an opening reception Thursday, Feb. 20, at 6 p.m. at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. Festival highlights include:
A performance by Uptown Boyz, a local intertribal drum group, before the screening of Restless RiverFeb. 20 at 7 p.m. in the National Museum of the American Indian’s Potomac Atrium. The film is set at the end of World War II and follows a young Inuk woman as she comes to terms with motherhood after being assaulted by a soldier. It is based on Gabrielle Roy’s 1970 short novel Windflower (La Riviere Sans Repos). This film contains a scene of sexual violence that some viewers may find disturbing.
The world premiere of Felicia: The Life of an Octopus Fisherwoman Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. in the National Museum of Natural History’s Q?rius Theater. Felicia is one of the thousands of Malagasy fishermen and women on the Velondriake archipelago whose way of life is increasingly threatened by poverty and political marginalization. As an orphan and later as a mother, she turns to the sea as a means for sustenance, even when migration and commercial trawling threaten small-scale fishing operations. Like many other women in Madagascar, she embodies a steadfast willingness to keep moving forward in the face of major challenges.
The North American premiere of Ainu—Indigenous People of JapanFeb. 22 at noon in the National Museum of Natural History’s Baird Auditorium. The film tells the stories of four elders from the declining Ainu population in Japan. It sheds light on their traditions, both past and present, and the efforts to keep the culture and language alive in Japan. A Q&A with the director will follow the screening.
Age-appropriate viewers can enjoy Québec beer courtesy of the Québec Governmental Office during a late-night screening of Blood QuantumFeb. 22 at 8 p.m. in New York University Washington, D.C.’s Abramson Family Auditorium. The dead come back to life outside the isolated Mi’gmaq reserve of Red Crow, except for its Indigenous inhabitants who are strangely immune to the zombie plague. The local tribal law enforcement officer must protect his son’s pregnant girlfriend, apocalyptic refugees and the drunken reserve riff raff from the hordes of walking corpses infesting the streets of Red Crow. This film contains strong bloody violence and may not be suitable for younger audiences.
A screening of One Day in the Life of Noah PiugattukFeb. 23 at 3 p.m. in Georgetown University’s ICC Auditorium. The film is set in April 1961 as the Cold War heats up in Berlin and nuclear bombers are deployed from bases in the Canadian Arctic. In Kapuivik, north of Baffin Island, Noah Piugattuk’s nomadic Inuit band live and hunt by dog team as his ancestors did. When an agent of the Canadian government arrives, what appears as a chance meeting soon opens the prospect of momentous change, revealing Inuit-settler relationships humorously and tragically lost in translation. The events playing out in this film are depicted at the same rate as the characters experienced them in real life.
INDIgenesis: GEN 3, A Showcase of Indigenous Filmmakers and Storytellers, March 19–28
Presented over two weeks, the series INDIgenesis: GEN 3, guest curated by Missy Whiteman (Northern Arapaho and Kickapoo Nations), opens with an evening of expanded cinema and includes several shorts programs in the Walker Cinema and Bentson Mediatheque, an afternoon of virtual reality, and a closing-night feature film.
The ongoing showcase of works by Native filmmakers and artists is rooted in Indigenous principles that consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations. GEN 3 connects perspectives and stories from the past, present, and future to convey Indigenous truths, teachings, and values.
“Indigenous artists use the creative process of filmmaking for revitalization and narrative sovereignty,” says Whiteman. “Our stories tell us where we came from, re-create our truths, affirm our languages and culture, and inspire us to imagine our Indigenous future. We come from the stars. How far will we take this medium?”
Throughout the program, join conversations with artists and community members centered on themes of Indigenous Futurism, revitalization, and artistic creation.
Opening Night: Remembering the Future Expanded Cinema Screening/Performance Thursday, March 19, 7:30 pm Free, Walker Cinema
Combining film, a live score, hoop dancing, hip-hop, and spoken word, a collective of Indigenous artists led by curator Missy Whiteman creates an immersive environment that transcends time and place. Guided by ancestral knowledge systems, traditional stories, and contemporary forms of expression, the expanded cinema program features performances by DJ AO (Hopi/Mdewakatonwan Dakota), Sacramento Knoxx (Ojibwe/Chicano), Lumhe “Micco” Sampson (Mvskoke Creek/Seneca), and Michael Wilson (Ojibwe). Archival found footage and Whiteman’s sci-fi docu-narrative The Coyote Way: Going Back Home(2016), filmed in the community of Little Earth in South Minneapolis, illuminate the space.
Indigenous Lens: Our RealityShort films by multiple directors Friday, March 20, 7 pm, $10 ($8 Walker members, students, and seniors), Walker Cinema
This evening of short films showcases a collection of contemporary stories about what it means to be Indigenous today, portraying identity and adaptability in a colonialist system. The program spans a spectrum of themes, including two-spirit transgender love, coming of age, reflections on friends and fathers, “indigenizing” pop art, and creative investigations into acts of repatriation. Digital video, 85 mins
Copresented with Hud Oberly (Comanche/Osage/Caddo), Indigenous Program at Sundance Institute (in attendance).
Lore Directed by Sky Hopinka (Ho-Chunk Nation/Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians)
Images of friends and landscapes are fragmented and reassembled as a voice tells stories, composing elements of nostalgia in terms of lore. 2019, 10 min. View excerpt.
Culture Capture: Terminal Adddition Directed by New Red Order: Adam Khalil (Ojibway), Zack Khalil (Ojibway), Jackson Polys (Tlingit), Bayley Sweitzer
The latest video by the public secret society known as the New Red Order is an incendiary indictment of the norms of European settler colonialism. Examining institutionalized racism through a mix of 3D photographic scans and vivid dramatizations, this work questions the contemporary act of disposing historical artifacts as quick fixes, proposing the political potential of adding rather than removing. 2019, 7 min. View excerpt.
Mino Bimaadiziwin Directed by Shane McSauby (Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians)
A trans Anishinaabe man meets a young Anishinaabe woman who pushes him to reconnect with their culture. 2017, 10 min. View excerpt.
The Moon and the Night Directed by Erin Lau (Kanaka Maoli)
Set in rural Hawaii, a Native Hawaiian teenage girl must confront her father after he enters her beloved pet in a dogfight. 2018, 19 min. View excerpt.
Shinaab II Directed by Lyle Michell Corbine, Jr. (Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa Indians)
A young man seeks to honor the memory of his late father in a film that looks at Ojibwe ideas surrounding death and mourning. 2019, 6 min.
Viva Diva Directed by Daniel Flores (Yaqui)
This road trip movie follows Rozene and Diva as they make their way down to Guadalajara for their gender affirmation surgeries. 2017, 15 min. View excerpt.
Dig It If You Can Directed by Kyle Bell (Creek-Thlopthlocco Tribal Town)
An insightful portrait of the self-taught artist and designer Steven Paul Judd (Kiowa), whose satirical manipulations of pop culture for an Indigenous audience are gaining a passionate, mass following as he realizes his youthful dreams. 2016, 18 min. View excerpt.
The Walker Arts Center continues to flesh out what is considerably a very dynamic exhibition schedule for the next two years. Additions to the Walker Art Center’s 2020–2021 exhibition schedule include two new solo exhibitions by female artists, Faye Driscoll: Thank You for Coming(February 27–June 14, 2020) and Candice Lin(April 17–August 29, 2021) as well as a Walker collection show of women artists, Don’t let this be easy(July 16–March 14, 2021). For her first solo museum exhibition, Faye Driscoll incorporates a guided audio soundtrack, moving image works, and props to look back across the entirety of her trilogy of performances Thank You For Coming—Attendance(2014), Play(2016), and Space(2019)—works that were presented and co-commissioned by the Walker and subsequently toured around the world over the past six years. Another newly added exhibition, Candice Lin, is the first US museum solo show by the artist, co-organized by the Walker Art Center and the Carpenter Center for Visual Arts (CCVA). Lin is creating a site-specific installation that responds to the space of the gallery at each institution, allowing the shape of the work to evolve over the course of its presentation.
The Walker-organized exhibition Don’t let this be easy highlights the diverse and experimental practices of women artists spanning some 50 years through a selection of paintings, sculptures, moving image works, artists’ books, and materials from the archives.
The initiative is presented in conjunction with the Feminist Art Coalition (FAC), a nationwide effort involving more than 60 museums committed to social justice and structural change.
Other upcoming exhibitions include An Art Of Changes: Jasper Johns Prints, 1960–2018 (February 16–September 20, 2020), a survey of six decades of Johns’ work in printmaking drawn from the Walker’s complete collection of the artists’ prints including intaglio, lithography, woodcut, linoleum cut, screenprinting, lead relief, and blind embossing; The Paradox of Stillness: Art, Object, and Performance (formerly titiled Still and Yet) (April 18–July 26, 2020), is an exhibition that rethinks the history of performance featuring artists whose works include performative elements but also embrace acts, objects, and gestures that refer more to the inert qualities of traditional painting or sculpture than to true staged action.
Additional exhibitions include Michaela Eichwald’s (June 13–November 8, 2020) first US solo museum presentation, bringing together painting, sculpture, and collage from across the past 10 years of her practice; Designs for Different Futures (September 12, 2020 – January 3, 2021)—a collaborative group show co-organized by the Walker Art Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Art Institute of Chicago—brings together about 80 dynamic works that address the challenges and opportunities that humans may encounter in the years, decades, and centuries to come; Rayyane Tabet(December 10, 2020– April 18, 2021), a solo show by the Beirut-based multidisciplinary artist featuring a new installation for the Walker that begins with a time capsule discovered on the site of what was once an IBM manufacturing facility in Rochester, Minnesota.
AN ART OF CHANGES: JASPER JOHNS PRINTS, 1960–2018, February 16–September 20, 2020
When Jasper Johns’s paintings of flags and targets debuted in 1958, they brought him instant acclaim and established him as a critical link between Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art. In the ensuing 60 years, Johns (US, b. 1930) has continued to astonish viewers with the beauty and complexity of his paintings, drawings, sculpture, and prints. Today, he is considered one of the 20th century’s greatest American artists.
In celebration of the artist’s 90th birthday, An Art of Changes surveys six decades of Johns’s work in printmaking, highlighting his experiments with familiar, abstract, and personal imagery that play with memory and visual perception in endlessly original ways. The exhibition features some 90 works in intaglio, lithography, woodcut, linoleum cut, screenprinting, and lead relief—all drawn from the Walker’s comprehensive collection of the artist’s prints.
Organized in four thematic sections, the show follows Johns through the years as he revises and recycles key motifs over time, including the American flag, numerals, and the English alphabet, which he describes as “things the mind already knows.” Some works explore artists’ tools, materials, and techniques. Others explore signature aspects of the artist’s distinctive mark-making, including flagstones and hatch marks, while later pieces teem with autobiographical imagery. To underscore Johns’s fascination with the changes that occur when an image is reworked in another medium, the prints will be augmented by a small selection of paintings and sculptures.
Curator: Joan Rothfuss, guest curator, Visual Arts.
Exhibition Tour Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh: October 12, 2019–January 20, 2020 Walker Art Center, Minneapolis: February 16–September 20, 2020 Grand Rapids Art Museum, Michigan: October 24, 2020–January 24, 2021 Tampa Art Museum, Florida: April 28–September 6, 2021
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Catch up on all your NGC favorites from the past year, including The Hot Zone, Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, Running Wild with Bear Grylls and more!
See why IndieWire named National Geographic one of the top five Best Television Platforms of 2019!
Don’t forget to plan movie night! Academy Award-winning documentary film Free Solo airs Dec. 26 at 9/8c.
Tune in for two full weeks of marathon programming beginning today.
That’s a wrap! National Geographic is saying goodbye to 2019 with some of your all-time favorite National Geographic Channel programs of the year. From the dangerously frigid Alaskan terrain to the 3,200-foot summit of El Capitan, explore breathtaking sights, heart-pounding adventure and groundbreaking science from wherever you’re spending the holidays. After a year of such amazing content, we won’t judge if you stay on the couch for the whole two weeks.
This year’s breadth of programming continued to break boundaries through thrilling exploration, risk-taking and transcendent storytelling. Highlights of the two-week blitz include the following:
To kick things off, Nat Geo is exploring new life and old legends with Expedition Amelia: Bob Ballard’s Search (Dec. 23 at 8 p.m.), on the search for renowned aviator Amelia Earhart’s remains, and episodes of Lost Cities with Albert Lin (Dec. 23 at 9 and 10 p.m.), as the National Geographic Explorer uncovers the greatest mysteries of ancient cities from El Dorado, to Stonehenge, to Petra!
You thought the cold weather was tough! Catch the animal kingdom’s most epic survival stories as Bear Grylls guides you through Hostile Planet (Dec. 24 at 11 a.m.), showcasing the world’s most extreme environments and the animals that have adapted to cruel evolutionary curveballs.
The year 2019 was a milestone one for the multi-Emmy-winning series Life Below Zero (Dec. 25 at 9 a.m.) as it celebrated its 100th episode. Meet some of the toughest individuals in the world as they attempt to survive in the most unforgiving and remote corners of America. After watching all day, tune in to a new special episode on Dec. 25 at 9 p.m.
Spend the holidays with some of Hollywood’s most beloved celebrities as they push physical and mental limitations on Running Wild with Bear Grylls (Dec. 26 at 9 a.m.). With guests including Brie Larson, Cara Delevingne, Armie Hammer, Channing Tatum, Bobby Bones and more, you won’t want to miss the chance to catch up on the boldest season yet.
Grab some popcorn (and your seats!) — don’t miss the Academy Award-winning documentary film Free Solo (Dec. 26 at 9 p.m.), as climber Alex Honnold sets out to achieve his lifelong dream: climbing the world’s most famous rock, 3,200-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, without a rope.
Looking for some not family-related drama? Tune in to Nat Geo’s most-watched scripted series yet, The Hot Zone (Dec. 28 at 5 p.m.). An edge-of-your-seat thriller inspired by Richard Preston’s international bestseller, The Hot Zone recounts the appearance of Ebola on U.S. soil in 1989 and the courageous heroine who put her life at risk to stop this deadly killer. These episodes will include never-before-seen enhancements with real archival footage, scientific interviews and more, diving into the true story behind this lethal outbreak.
Forget your classic holiday libations! Gordon Ramsay serves up a taste of adventure in Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted (Dec. 29 at 9 a.m.) as he travels across the globe to learn about local flavors. His journey takes him to Peru’s Sacred Valley, Alaska’s panhandle, New Zealand’s rugged south, Morocco’s mountains, Hawaii’s Hana Coast and Laos’ Mekong River.
In addition to the marathons highlighted above, there’s even more. Don’t miss your chance to watch wildlife prosper in America’s National Parks (Dec. 24 at 5 p.m.) or explore the depths of the oceans with all kinds of sharks (When Sharks Attack beginning Dec. 30 at 9 a.m.) (yes, that rhyme was intentional). And better yet, see what’s in store for 2020 with a sneak peek of the reimagined Brain Games hosted by Keegan-Michael Key (Dec. 29 at 10 p.m.).
For more information on the two-week best of Nat Geo Channel marathon, visit www.natgeotv.com
Film Independent announced that Aubrey Plaza will return to host the 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards. The Spirit Awards are the primary fundraiser for Film Independent’s year-round programs, which cultivate the careers of emerging filmmakers and promote diversity in the industry. Nominees were announced by Zazie Beetz (Atlanta, Joker, Deadpool 2) and Natasha Lyonne (Russian Doll, Ad Astra, Orange Is the New Black) on November 21. Best Feature nominees include A Hidden Life, Clemency, The Farewell, Marriage Story and Uncut Gems. The show will be broadcast live exclusively on IFC at 2:00 pm PT / 5:00 pm ET on Saturday, February 8, 2020.
“Like all great independent film performances, this one deserves a sequel,” said Host Aubrey Plaza. “The people have spoken. Bow down to your host!”
“At a time when the world is so bitterly divided and civil discourse is almost impossible, it’s nice we can all agree that Aubrey Plaza is the greatest host in the history of hosting,” said Josh Welsh, Film Independent President. “We are thrilled to have her back. Today is also the last day to join Film Independent as a Member to get access to the nominated films and vote on the winners. Only a fool would not watch the Spirit Awards on IFC on February 8, 2 PM PST / 5 PM EST.”
“Aubrey is back! Last year, fear of her signature take on hosting duties kept that other awards show host-less. We are excited to see what she brings to the tent this year,” said IFC Executive Director, Blake Callaway.
Now in its 35th year, the Film Independent Spirit Awards is an annual celebration honoring artist-driven films made with an economy of means by filmmakers whose films embody independence and originality. The Spirit Awards recognizes the achievements of American independent filmmakers and promotes the finest independent films of the year to a wider audience.
Plaza will next be seen starring in Black Bear, a suspenseful meta-drama, opposite Christopher Abbott and Sarah Gadon. The film, which she also produced, will premiere at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. She is currently in production on Lina Roessler’s Best Sellers opposite Michael Caine which is based on an original screenplay that won a 2015 Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting award. Plaza’s other feature film credits include: Ingrid Goes West (which she produced and received a 2018 Film Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature), Jeff Baena’s The Little Hours (also producer), Hal Hartley’s Ned Rifle, Colin Trevorrow’s Safety Not Guaranteed, Edgar Wright’s Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and Judd Apatow’s Funny People, among others. On television, she most recently starred in Noah Hawley’s Legion on FX and is well known for her role on NBC’s Parks & Recreation.
This year marks the 35th edition of the awards show that celebrates the best of independent film. Past Spirit Awards hosts have included Nick Kroll and John Mulaney, Kate McKinnon and Kumail Nanjiani, Fred Armisen and Kristen Bell, Patton Oswalt, Andy Samberg, Joel McHale, Sarah Silverman, Samuel L. Jackson, Eddie Izzard, Queen Latifah and John Waters, to name a few. The show, which will be held on the beach in Santa Monica, will be executive produced and directed by Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions for the sixth consecutive year. Shawn Davis returns as producer for his 18th year, Rick Austin returns as producer for his fifth year and Danielle Federico and Andrew Schaff also return as co-producers.
Winners, who are selected by Film Independent Members, will be announced at the Spirit Awards on Saturday, February 8, 2020. The awards ceremony will be held on the beach in Santa Monica, just north of the Santa Monica Pier.
Winners of the Spirit Awards Filmmaker Grants will be announced at the Film Independent Spirit Awards Filmmaker Grant and Nominee Brunch on Saturday, January 4, 2020, at BOA Steakhouse in West Hollywood.
Get into the award season spirit with three weeks of free films just for Walker Arts Center members. The annual presentation of the Film Independent Spirit Awards nominees showcases creativity and innovation in visual storytelling with the best of indie cinema. Now is the perfect time to buy a mewmbership to get ahead of films sure to heat up the awards race in the next few months. The 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards, hosted by actor Audrey Plaza, will be broadcast live exclusively on IFC cable channel at 2:00 pm PT / 5:00 pm ET on Saturday, February 8, 2020.
New Museum Openings Enhance Month Of Significant Discounts At More Than 40 Museums
Every February, savvy travelers look to Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, where big savings can stack up for arts and culture lovers of all ages with Seattle Museum Month. From Feb. 1-29, 2020, travelers who stay at any one of nearly 60 participating downtown Seattle hotels receive 50 percent off admission prices to more than 40 museums and cultural institutions. February also historically offers lower rates for airfare to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and special hotel packages to entice winter travelers. To see the full list of participating museums and hotels, visit the Seattle Museum Month website at www.seattlemuseummonth.com.
Seattle Museum Month is produced by Visit Seattleand funded by the Seattle Tourism Improvement Area (STIA), a dedicated marketing fund assessed from guests at 73 downtown Seattle hotels. The program was created to encourage travelers to visit Seattle in February and celebrate the remarkable collection of unique museums in the region.
“Seattle has a richly diverse and world-renowned collection of museums that draw people to our city year-round, but Seattle Museum Month offers unparalleled discounts for our visitors,” Visit Seattle Senior Director of Cultural Tourism Tracey Wickersham said. “Engaging hands-on experiences with history-making computers, vintage pinball machines, and experiential music galleries where you can look, listen and re-create some of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest moments mean our museums entertain as well as educate. You’ll find mind-blowing gardens made of glass and ancient artifacts that explore all facets of life on earth, and art from around the globe. A trip to Seattle for Museum Month will make memories that last a lifetime.”
Seattle Museum Month celebrates with a host of museum openings that give travelers the opportunity to explore Seattle’s cultural legacy.
The Seattle Art Museum hosts the grand re-opening of the Seattle Asian Art Museum February 8 and 9. After a two-year renovation and expansion, the museum reopens with a reimagined collection installation that breaks boundaries with a thematic, rather than geographic or chronological, exploration of art from the world’s largest continent. Set in Seattle’s picturesque Volunteer Park, the historic Art Deco-era museum underwent a $56 million renovation and expansion to more fully display one of the largest collections of Asian art in the nation. Visitors wishing to attend the historic re-opening weekend on February 8 and 9 can reserve free timed tickets online. Beginning Feb. 12, Museum Month passes will be accepted.
With 16 million objects in its collections and infinite stories to tell, the recently re-openedBurke Museum of Natural History and Culture– the oldest museum in Washington state – welcomes visitors to an entirely new experience. Locally known as The Burke, the museum is located at the north end of The University of Washington Seattle campus and re-opened in October 2019. The new building designed by Olson Kundig creates unprecedented opportunities for visitors to see university faculty, researchers and students uncovering dinosaur skeletons, analyzing insects and collaborating with Native communities every day.
Enjoy renowned favorites as well like Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), The Museum of Flight, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and explore other regional museums, like LeMay – America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, USS Turner Joy Museum Ship in Bremerton or the Bellevue Arts Museum in downtown Bellevue.
Seattle Museum Month discounts are only valid for guests staying at one of the participating hotels, up to four people, during hotel stay dates. Visitors must present an official Seattle Museum Month guest pass at participating museums to redeem the discounts.
Lozano-Hemmer’s First Major Survey in the U.S., Unstable Presence Features Large-Scale Participatory Installations and Immersive Environments
Auerbach’s First Museum Survey, S v Z Traverses the Boundaries Between Art, Design, Science and Craft
Also Opening at SFMOMA, Select Video Projections from Theaster Gates and Cauleen Smith Shown Together for the First Time
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) will present two
major exhibitions celebrating the mixed media work of contemporary
artists Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Tauba Auerbach this
upcoming spring. The artist’s first major survey exhibition in the
U.S., Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence (April
25–November 1, 2020) will explore our presence in fundamentally
turbulent environments through a focused selection of 16 engaging
installations on the museum’s seventh floor. Simultaneously on the
museum’s fourth floor, Auerbach’s first museum survey, Tauba
Auerbach — S v Z (April 25–September 7, 2020),
will highlight her prolific and varied output over the last 16 years.
on view this spring will be select video projections from renowned
interdisciplinary artists Cauleen Smith and Theaster Gates
in Future Histories (April 25–November 1, 2020).
Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence, April 25–November 1,
2020, Floor 7
and water, heartbeats and voices, text and light — these are the
materials of media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer. Over the past
few decades, the Mexico City–born, Montreal-based artist has earned
international recognition for large-scale participatory installations
that frequently incorporate technology and the architecture of public
spaces. On view in the U.S. exclusively at SFMOMA, Rafael
Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence brings together recent
sculptural installations and immersive environments realized on
microscopic and macroscopic scales. These works engage visitors’
sense of play, and anxiety, as they experience the implications of
technology and behaviors of participation in social and political
Presence refers to the dynamic, poetic, but also disturbing
turbulence that characterizes social and technical interrelations,”
said Rudolf Frieling, curator of media arts at SFMOMA. “Materializing
on various scales, from the personal to the geopolitical, the
instability of these layers of presence is powerfully echoed in the
atmospheric but also sculptural installations.”
Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence additionally examines the
concept of “co-presence” by highlighting how our physical
presence and the natural and technological spaces we inhabit form a
continuous stream of interaction. Lozano-Hemmer noted, “Presence
is often associated with existence, continuity in time or material
reality. The ‘unstable’ in the exhibition’s title refers to
interaction, improvisation and performance. The instability brought
by participation allows constant reinterpretation of the work, where
many outcomes are co-present.”
exhibition focuses on three major themes in Lozano-Hemmer’s work:
observation and surveillance; text-based poetic work;
and the instability of systems. Highlights of the presentation
include the following installations, the majority of which encourage
Newscast (2013) projects live news feeds from prominent
international news outlets, such as Reuters, Agencia EFE, Notimex,
AlterNet and AP. When visitors enter the space, their shadows disrupt
the projections and dissolve the projected words into smoke-like
patterns, creating an unstable atmospheric effect.
on Water (2016) is a fountain from which words emerge as
plumes of vapor, produced by hundreds of computer-controlled
ultrasonic atomizers. Fragment by fragment, poems by the celebrated
Mexican writer Octavio Paz briefly materialize in the mist before
dissipating in turbulence.
Spiral (2008) consists of hundreds of incandescent
lightbulbs hanging from the ceiling in a three-dimensional spiral.
This participatory installation records and responds to the heart
rates of visitors holding sensors, transforming their heartbeats into
mesmerizing flashes of light.
Packing: Bach (2018), the largest in Lozano-Hemmer’s
Sphere Packing series, is a three-meter spherical frame
supporting 1,128 loudspeakers, each simultaneously playing a
different composition by Johan Sebastian Bach. Visitors can enter the
sphere and be surrounded by the cacophonous crescendo of Bach’s
entire musical output.
Circular Breathing (2013) is a large sculptural
installation featuring brown paper bags that inflate and deflate at
human breathing rates; a set of motorized bellows and valves that
control the bags; and a sealed glass room with a decompression
chamber. Visitors are invited to enter the glass room to breathe the
air that was previously breathed by earlier participants. The piece
includes warnings about the risks of asphyxiation, contagion and
panic, offering a statement on the limits of the planet’s resources
as well as a commentary on participation, which in this case makes
the air more toxic for future visitors.
Alta [Out Loud] (2008)commemorates the 40th anniversary of the massacre of
hundreds of students in Tlatelolco, Mexico City, on October 2, 1968.
The original site-specific “anti-monument” is presented in the
gallery as a functional prototype: participants are invited to step
up to a megaphone and speak freely, their speech translated into
light flashes via a miniature searchlight. An FM radio transmitter
relays the sounds to which the light corresponds, and an archival
recording of the 2008 memorial plays after a participant has finished
speaking. In this way, the memory of the tragedy in Tlatelolco is
mixed with live participation.
Pavilion (2015) is an interactive installation created in
collaboration with artist Krzysztof Wodiczko. Consisting of
projections fed by computerized surveillance footage, the work uses
face recognition and other tracking algorithms to detect the presence
of participants and record their spatial relationships. Independent
cameras zoom in to amplify images with up to 35x magnification. The
zooming sequences become disorienting as they change the image
landscape from easily recognizable wide shots of the crowd to
Lozano-Hemmer was born in Mexico City in 1967, and lives and
works in Montreal. He was the first artist to represent Mexico at the
Venice Biennale, with an exhibition at the Palazzo Van Axel
in 2007. He has also shown at biennials and triennials in Cuenca,
Havana, Istanbul, Kōchi, Liverpool, Melbourne, Montreal, Moscow, New
Orleans, New York, Seoul, Seville, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and
Wuzhen. Lozano-Hemmer’s works have been featured in solo
exhibitions and performances in numerous institutions, including the
Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo (MUAC) in Mexico City
(2015); SFMOMA (2012); the Museum of Contemporary Art,
Sydney (2011); the Manchester Art Gallery (2010); the
Guggenheim Museum, New York (2009); and the Barbican
Centre, London (2008).
Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence is accompanied by a
catalogue featuring full-color illustrations of works in the
exhibition and contributions covering a range of topical approaches.
It includes a curatorial introduction and four essays from Olivier
Asselin, Sean Cubitt, Tatiana Flores and Gloria Sutton that
explore the poetic and political dimensions of the artist’s work,
along with in-depth examinations of four major works — Zoom
Pavilion, Vicious Circular Breathing, Voz Alta and Pulse Room.
Edited by Rudolf Frieling and François LeTourneux, the
catalogue is published by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
in association with Delmonico Books/Prestel.
Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence is co-organized by the San
Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Musée d’art contemporain
de Montréal. The exhibition is co-curated by Lesley
Johnstone, curator and head of exhibitions and education,
François LeTourneux, associate curator at the MAC and Rudolf
Frieling, curator of media arts at SFMOMA.
support for Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Unstable Presence is
provided by Debbie and Andy Rachleff and
the UK’s most innovative and daring commercials from the creative
world of British advertising. One of the Walker’s most popular
traditions back for the 33rd year, the British Arrows Awards
showcases an eclectic mix of riveting mini-dramas, high-tech
extravaganzas, wacky comedy, and vital public service announcements.
British Arrows is a much-loved program in the Twin Cities with
many people attending year after year. The audiences are moved by the
program, which can be a unique cross-cultural experience, as they try
to figure out brands and products that are not available in the U.S.,
but are cleverly conveyed. It’s a unique experience for American
audiences to view ads that are not invested in the hard sell; rather,
gaining interest in products and services through humor, pathos and a
dynamic cinematography. Although there are 95 screenings this year,
they are sure to sell out quickly.
NIGHT, Friday, December 6, 7 and 9 pm
early and celebrate with a cash bar, plus music by DJ Simon Husbands
of KFAI’s True Brit Radio. Introduced by Clare Donald and Jani
Guest, British Arrows board co-chairs, and Lisa Lavender, operations
Friday, November 29: 3, 5, and 7 pm
Saturday, November 30: 3, 5, and 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 1: 3, 5, and 7 pm
Friday, December 6: 7 and 9 pm: Brits Night. Introduced by Clare Donald and Jani Guest, British Arrows board co-chairs, and Lisa Lavender, operations director.
Saturday, December 7: 5 and 7 pm
Sunday, December 8: 1, 3, and 5 pm
Thursday, December 12: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Friday, December 13: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Saturday, December 14: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Sunday, December 15: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 pm
Tuesday, December 17: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Wednesday, December 18: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Thursday, December 19: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Friday, December 20: 6, 7, and 8 pm
Saturday, December 21: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Sunday, December 22: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 pm
Thursday, December 26: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Friday, December 27: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Saturday, December 28: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Sunday, December 29: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm
Independent documentary filmmaker Julia Reichert has been asking defining questions about workers’ rights, gender roles, taboos, and social change in America since the early 1970s. The pioneering Emmy Award–winner and three-time Academy Award–nominee comes to the Walker Arts Center for a retrospective of her distinguished body of work, Julia Reichert: 50 Years in Film, Feb 1–29, 2020 (at the Walker’s Bentson Mediatheque). Reichert will be on-site February 28 and 29, 2020 to discuss her career and her two recent, widely celebrated documentaries, American Factory and 9 to 5: The Story of a Movement.
Up Female Directed
by Julia Reichert and Jim Klein
February 20, 7 pm Free
wish every high school kid in America could see this film.”
—Susan Sontag on Growing
Growing Up Female is the very first feature-length film of the modern women’s movement. Considered controversial and exhilarating on its release, the film examines female socialization through a personal look into the lives of six women, ages four to 35, and the forces that shape them—teachers, counselors, advertisements, music, and the institution of marriage. A time capsule of a generation’s feminist issues, sometimes intersecting with race and class, the film illuminates a complex system of institutions upholding internal and external oppression. Selected to the National Film Registry in 2011. 1971, DCP, 52 min.
by Julia Reichert, Jim Klein, and Miles Mogulescu
Reichert interviews three “Union Maids” on their experiences as organizing women of the Labor movement. Fighting for humanitarian rights, these radical workers reflect on their lives filled with purpose and struggle. Frustrated by the privileged class’ participation in the women’s movement and caught up in race and gender discrimination within class warfare, their voices echo and contextualize many social justice issues today. 1976, DCP, 48 min.
Red: Stories of American Communists,
Directed by Julia Reichert and Jim Klein
7 pm; $10 ($8 Walker members, students, and seniors)
Reichert brings to light the forgotten history of Americans who joined the Communist Party and the high price many of them paid for their beliefs. Boldly countering traditional myths, the film presents engaging interviews and personal accounts that take on a new resonance in today’s charged political climate. 1983, DCP, 100 min.
Evening Will Feature Live Music by Katy Vernon and PJ Harvey Film A Dog Called Money
The Sound Unseen Film+Music Festival (November 12 – 17, 2019) celebrates 20 years of film, music, and art in the Twin Cities. The opening night event includes a live music performance by Katy Vernon on the Walker Cinema Stage starting at 6:30 pm and a postshow reception in the main lobby. (Visit Sound Unseen for the full schedule of events and locations.)
the fall of 1999, Sound Unseen introduced itself as a unique, cutting
edge “films-on-music” festival in Minneapolis. Formulated as a
cultural organization dedicated to the role of film and music as a
conduit of powerful ideas and diverse viewpoints. Its mission is to
foster a greater appreciation of cinema, to bridge cultures, create
and expand community, provide cultural exchange, networking
opportunities and educational outreach through regular interaction
with great films, filmmakers, musicians and artists.
its inception, It has established itself as one of the premiere niche
festivals in the country, but more importantly as a vital part of the
regional cultural scene. Now in its 19th year, the festival has
expanded to include year-round programming, unique pop-up events, and
special screenings including world and regional premieres.
“One of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals In The World” by Moviemaker
in 2016, the “Best Winter Film Festival” by the Star
2012, and the “Best of the Fests 2010” from Mpls/St
Sound Unseen continues its tenure as the region’s premiere
films-on-music festival. While bringing the best in documentaries,
short films, and music videos it also showcases rare concert footage,
interactive panels, and live music events. As part of its year-round
presence, Sound Unseen offers a successful monthly screening series
and special events throughout the Twin Cities. This diversity in
content is one of the things that separates Sound Unseen from the
typical outdoor mega concerts and film festivals.
Unseen has received press coverage in all major local media including
Star Tribune, Pioneer Press, City Pages, Vita.mn, Secrets of the
City, Walker Art blog, TC Daily Planet, Northland News, Growler
Magazine, MinnPost; local radio stations The Current, KQRS, MPR,
Radio K and television news including NBC, FOX, and CBS. National
media mentions have included Rolling Stone, Paste Magazine, USA
Today, Music Film Web blog, The Playlist,
Independent magazine of New York.
ninth studio album, 2016’s The
Hope Six Demolition Project,
was created through a unique process that blended travelogue,
photography, performance art, and now a documentary feature. It began
when Harvey, looking to develop a new set of politically tinged songs
that would also evoke a tangible sense of place, decided to accompany
award-winning photojournalist and filmmaker Seamus
as he travelled on assignments to war-torn regions in Afghanistan and
Kosovo, as well as to the poor, mostly black neighborhoods of
Washington, DC. As Murphy filmed, Harvey personally interacted with
the members of the different communities and wrote her impressions in
a diary, crafting song lyrics and melodies based on the stories she
uncovered. Back in London, Harvey and her band experimented with
these new songs during a live sound installation called “Recording
at the distinguished
generating an album’s worth of material entirely within a
glass-walled recording studio, with members of the public invited to
watch. Chronicling the entire project, and even including a handful
of songs not on the final album, A
Dog Called Money is
Murphy’s inspiring, expressionistic document of this unprecedented
collaborative experiment. 2019, Ireland/UK, DCP, 90 min. —Clinton
McClung, Seattle International Film Festival
Unseen Opening Night
Tuesday, November 12
Katy Vernon, 6:30pm
Dog Called Money, 7pm
Cinema, $20 ($15 Walker members, students, and seniors)
features have been submitted for consideration in the Animated
Feature Film category for the 92nd Academy Awards®. The submitted
features, listed in alphabetical order, are:
Angry Birds Movie 2”
Day of Life”
in the Labyrinth of the Turtles”
of the Sea”
Tartakovsky’s ‘Primal’ – Tales of Savagery”
to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World”
Lost My Body”
Lego Movie 2: The Second Part”
Secret Life of Pets 2”
Swallows of Kabul”
& Ipin: The Lone Gibbon Kris”
of the films have not yet had their required Los Angeles seven-day
qualifying run. Submitted features must fulfill the theatrical
release requirements and comply with all of the category’s other
qualifying rules before they can advance in the nominations voting
process. To determine the five nominees, members of the Short
Films and Feature Animation Branch are automatically eligible to
vote in the category. Academy members outside of the Short Films and
Feature Animation Branch are invited to opt-in to participate and
must meet a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the
category. Films submitted in the Animated Feature Film category
also qualify for Academy Awards in other categories, including Best
for the 92nd Academy Awards will be announced on Monday,
January 13, 2020.
92nd Oscars® will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at the
Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in
Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television
Network. The Oscars also will be televised live in more than 225
countries and territories worldwide.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of more than 9,000 of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers and executives working in film. In addition to celebrating and recognizing excellence in filmmaking through the Oscars, the Academy supports a wide range of initiatives to promote the art and science of the movies, including public programming, educational outreach and the upcoming Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, which is under construction in Los Angeles.
Festival to open with “Just Mercy,” close with World Premiere of “Verticals”
The ninth annualNapa Valley Film Festival (NVFF) has announced its film line-up, including Opening and Closing Night screenings. NVFF returns this fall with its five-day festival showcasing the year’s best new independent films, November 13-17. Organizers will showcase Napa Valley’s finest food and wine at all special events, including the Festival Gala, VIP receptions and Vintner Circle dinners, and will feature a lively series of filmmaker-chef collaborative demonstrations at the Monogram Appliances Demonstration Kitchen at the Oxbow Commons in downtown Napa. The seven screening venues located throughout the Valley include the Archer Hotel Napa, the historic Cameo Cinema, the CIA at Copia, Charles Krug Winery, Lincoln Theater, Native Sons, and the Uptown Theatre.
are excited to release another eclectic selection of highly-curated
comedies and dramas from established and emerging filmmakers,”
said Napa Valley Film Festival CEO Tom Tardio. “These films
consist of inspiring and compelling stories that will thoroughly
engage and entertain our festival-goers. At the intersections of
film, food, and wine, the festival continues to deliver tremendously
unique and exclusive experiences that only a world-class destination
such as Napa Valley can provide and only that NVFF can deliver.”
Preview Night, Opening Night and Closing Night
will kick off with their Sneak Preview Night on Tuesday,
November 12 with a special presentation of 20th Century Fox’s
Ford v Ferrari. The film is inspired by the remarkable
true story of visionary American car designer Carroll Shelby and the
fearless British driver Ken Miles. Directed by James Mangold, the
film stars Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal, Caitriona Balfe,
Tracy Letts, Josh Lucas, Noah Jupe, Remo Girone and Ray McKinnon.
festival’s official Opening Night film on Wednesday,
November 13 is Warner Bros.’ Just Mercy, a powerful and
thought-provoking true story following young lawyer Bryan Stevenson
and his history-making battle for justice. The film is directed by
Destin Daniel Cretton and stars Michael B. Jordan, Brie Larson and
the festival on Sunday, November 17 is SOMMTV’s world
premiere of Verticals, a series that showcases Napa
Valley winemakers and the human condition through a bottle of wine.
This premiere is also the launch of SOMMTV, the first food and wine
dedicated streaming platform. The series is directed by Jason Wise.
(Neon) – Years of carrying out death row executions have taken a
toll on prison warden, Bernadine Williams. The emotional wedge in
her marriage grows and memories of a recently botched execution
plague her daily. As she prepares to end the life of another inmate,
Bernadine must confront the psychological and emotional demons her
job creates, ultimately connecting her to the man she is sanctioned
to execute. Directed by Chinonye Chukwu and starring Alfre Woodard,
Aldis Hodge, Wendell Price, Richard Schiff and Danielle Brooks.
of a Lady on Fire (Neon) – In 1760 France, Marianne is
commissioned to paint the wedding portrait of Héloïse, a young
woman who has just left the convent. Marianne arrives under the
guise of companionship with the reluctant bride-to-be, observing
Héloïse by day and secretly painting her by firelight at night. As
the two women orbit one another, intimacy and attraction grow as
they share Héloïse’s first moments of freedom. Héloïse’s
portrait soon becomes a collaborative act of and testament to their
love. Directed by Céline Sciamma and starring Noémie Merlant and
The Stars (Samuel Goldwyn Films) – Iris, a bespectacled
and reclusive teen living in a god-fearing Oklahoma town in the
1960s, endures the booze-induced antics of her mother and daily
doses of bullying from her classmates. She finds solace in Maggie,
the charismatic and enigmatic new girl at school, who hones in on
Iris’s untapped potential and coaxes her out of her shell. When
Maggie’s mysterious past can no longer be suppressed, the small
community is thrown into a state of panic, leaving Maggie to take
potentially drastic measures and inciting Iris to stand up for her
friend and herself. Directed by Martha Stephens and starring Kara
Hayward, Liana Liberato, Malin Akerman, Tony Hale, Shea Whigham and
Zero (Amazon Studios) – In a tiny Georgia town in 1977, a
motherless girl named Christmas Flint dreams of life beyond the
confines of her trailer-park home and hopes to make contact with
outer space. When Christmas learns that the winners of the annual
Birdie Scout Jamboree talent contest will be included on a recording
to be sent into space for posterity, she tries to join the local
Scouts troop. When she is rejected by the snobbish group of girls
and their uptight leader Miss Massey, Christmas rallies a group of
elementary-school outliers to start their own chapter. Troop Zero is
an endearing and magical tale of friendship and individuality.
Directed by Bert & Bertie and starring Viola Davis, Mckenna
Grace, Jim Gaffigan, Mike Epps, Charles Shotwell and Allison Janney.
& Response – 2018 was the worst year on record for
natural disasters. Code & Response takes us into the heart of
the aftermath of some of those disasters as we meet the first
responders who are supported by innovative technology. Follow four
coders from around the world (Japan, Puerto Rico, California, and
Mexico) to learn about why they are getting involved, as well as how
they are building technologies to help first responders save lives.
Directed by Austin Peck.
– Bruno is still mourning his wife’s passing when his
in-laws evict him from the home he and wife built together.
Unwilling to let his beloved home fall into disrepair, Bruno sneaks
back to the house and meets the new owner of the home, Marie.
Determined to be the only person to make any changes to the house he
built, Bruno poses as a local handyman and Marie hires him for
renovations. As the two begin work on the house, Bruno is forced to
face the reality that his wife is gone, and he learns to move on
from his grief. Directed by Hernán Jiménez and starring Aden
Young, Parker Posey, Ken Jeong, Beau Bridges and Jacki Weaver. World
the Vine – Mark, a downtrodden CEO, is experiencing an
ethical crisis at work. In an attempt to re-calibrate his moral
compass, he travels back to his hometown in rural Italy. He finds
newfound purpose by reviving his grandfather’s old vineyard,
offering the small town of Acerenza a sustainable future and
reconnecting with his family in the process. Combining magical
realism and Italian neorealism, and set against the backdrop of
Italian wine country, From the Vine is about returning to your roots
and redefining your life when you’re at the bottom of the barrel.
Directed by Sean Cisterna and starring Joe Pantoliano, Wendy
Crewson, Marco Leonardi, Paula Brancati and Tony Cisterna.
Chorus Deep South – In response to a wave of
discriminatory anti-LGBTQ laws in Southern states, the San Francisco
Gay Men’s Chorus embarks on a tour of the American Deep South. The
tour brings a message of music, love, and acceptance to communities
and individuals confronting intolerance. What emerges is a less
divided America, where the lines that separate us in faith,
politics, and sexual identity are erased through the soaring power
of music, humanity, and a little drag. Directed by David Charles
Want My MTV – A nostalgic and thrilling ride, I Want My
MTV takes its audience back to the beginning, when the idea of a
television channel devoted to only videos seemed destined for
failure. The chronicling of this unique journey provides a peek into
how a team of young executives were tasked with growing this seed of
an idea, which would quickly flourish into a beloved and often
controversial cultural juggernaut. Features commentary from Sting,
Billy Idol, The Eurythmics, Jerry Cantrell, Pat Benatar, and more.
Directed by Patrick Waldrop and Tyler Measom, and starring Sting,
Billy Idol, Pat Benatar, Dee Snider, Norman Lear, The Eurythmics ,
Darryl McDaniel and Jerry Cantrell.
All Begins with a Song: The Story of the Nashville Songwriter
– It All Begins with a Song: The Story of the Nashville
Songwriter is a celebration of one of music’s most important
yet underrated forces: the songwriter. These songwriters have penned
melodies and lyrics for some of the biggest stars in the music
industry, yet few know their names. Pull back the curtain to reveal
the process of creating a successful song and learn more about the
origins of some of the world’s most iconic hits. Directed by
Anthony ‘Chusy’ Haney-Jardine.
Land of High Mountains – The Land of High Mountains is the
inspiring true story of the only pediatric hospital in Haiti. In a
country where one third of the population is under fourteen years of
age and foreign NGOs consistently come and go, Saint Damien
Pediatric Hospital has been providing life-saving healthcare to the
most vulnerable families for over thirty years. This is a powerful
account of the incredible people, both Haitian and foreign who,
despite encountering every conceivable obstacle, are working
together to create a brighter future for their patients and for
Haiti. Directed by Will Agee and starring Liferne Forestal, Phadoul
Amisial, Fr. Rick Frechette, Dr. Renee Alce, Dr. Jacqueline Gautier,
Fr. Enzo Del Brocco, Veline , Gaelle , Lourdy , Pierre Nadine,
Sainfleur Jean Israel, Marie Yolene, Vilaire Meralin and Christiana
Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound – Since the invention of
sound in films, sound designers have been influencing the landscape
of cinema. Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound shines a
spotlight on the unsung heroes of sound design throughout cinematic
history. Through interviews with legendary directors and some of the
industry’s most-respected sound designers, we revisit film
classics that helped shape the way we listen to and experience films
today. Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound reveals the hidden
impact of sound in cinema and how the auditory intake of a film
holds so much power over an individual’s experience of
storytelling. Directed by Midge Costin.
A Picture Story – In the 1970s, Martha Cooper was one of a
handful of photographers documenting the first vivid images of
graffiti appearing on New York City’s subway carriages. 20 years
later, she discovers that her book Subway Art has become one of the
most stolen books of all time – inspiring the spread of graffiti
around the globe and making Martha an unexpected icon of the street
art world. Now, at age 75, Martha must navigate her way through the
vastly changed culture of the modern world. Directed by Selina
Beautiful Stutter – After lifetimes of bullying,
isolation, and failed fluency training, witness the incredible
transformation of five kids who stutter when they enter a
groundbreaking program through SAY, The Stuttering Association. Over
the course of a year of events and workshops, these young people of
wildly different backgrounds experience SAY’s revolutionary
mantra: it’s okay to stutter. Directed by Ryan Gielen and starring
– Justice Ginsburg in Her Own Words – How does a person
with three strikes against her rise to the highest court in the
land, the U.S. Supreme Court? RUTH – Justice Ginsburg in Her Own
Words tells the improbable story of how Ruth Bader Ginsburg became
an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. It also reveals both the
public and private sides of a resilient, resourceful woman who has
survived the hostility of the profoundly male universe of government
and law to become a revered Justice and icon for gender equality and
women’s rights. Directed by Freida Lee Mock and starring Justice
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Justice Goodwin Liu, Dean Erwin Chemerinsky,
Irin Carmon, Shana Knizhnik, Delegate Jennifer Carroll Foy, M.E.
Freeman, Lilly Ledbetter and Kathleen Peratis.
Three Drinkers Do Scotch Whisky – Packed full of humour,
personality, and flavour, The Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky is a
drinks-focussed travelogue, where three friends embark on a road
trip through Scotland. From Dufftown and Islay to Elgin and Jura,
they journey through breath-taking landscapes, visiting iconic
distilleries and touching on Scottish culture, tourism and
traditional dishes you can’t even pronounce. This is whisky for a
new, global audience, from twenty-one to ninety-one. Directed by
David Agrawal. World Premiere
Competitions (previously announced)
Me an Avocado, Directed by Maria Mealla and starring
Bernardo Peña, Sarah Burkhalter, Molly Ratermann, Candace Roberts.
Awhile, Directed by Tim True and starring Anna Camp, Steven
Strait, and Joe Lo Truglio. World Premiere
Directed by Stephanie Turner and starring Glynn Turman, Darby
Stanchfield, Josh Stamberg, Daisy Prescott, and Stephanie Turner.
Grandma, Directed by Sasie Sealy and starring Tsai Chin,
Corey Ha, Michael Tow, Woody Fu, Yan Xi, Wai Ching Ho, and Clem
Nomads, Directed by Brandon Eric Kamin and starring Tika
Sumpter and Tate Donovan.
This Town, Directed by Ricky Tollman and starring Ben Platt,
Mena Massoud, Nina Dobrev, Damian Lewis, Jennifer Ehle, and Scott
Up, Falling Down, Directed by Matt Ratner and starring Billy
Crystal, Ben Schwartz, Eloise Mumford, Grace Gummer, Caitlin McGee,
David Castaneda, Debra Monk, and Jill Hennessy.
School, Directed by Li Dong and starring Celine Tsai,
Jonathan Keltz, Michelle Monteith, Mpho Koaho, Darrin Baker,
Jonathan Malen, Matthew Edison, and Vas Saranga. World Premiere
Am Human, Directed by Taryn Southern and Elena Gaby.
Day Jew, Directed by Aliza Rosen.
Directed by Liz Canning.
Pollinators, Directed by Peter Nelson.
Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion, Directed by Lisa Cortes and Farah
Story of Plastic, Directed by Deia Schlosberg.
Is My Home, Directed by Karl Nickoley.
Groomed, Directed by Rebecca Stern.
As You Are, Directed by Richard Wong.
Grass, Directed by Dawn Luebbe and Jocelyn DeBoer.
Directed by Ryan Daniel Dobson. World Premiere
Call, Directed by Gavin Michael Booth.
Directed by Takashi Doscher.
of Life, Directed by Liz Manashil.
Trouble, Directed by Dan Erickson.
Way You Look Tonight, Directed by John Cerrito.
Bread, Directed by Beth Elise Hawk.
Directed by Gab Taraboulsy.
to Tail, Directed by Jesse Zigelstein.
Fancy: Diana Kennedy, Directed by Elizabeth Carroll.
The Culinary Internship, Directed by Abby Ainsworth.
Taste of Sky, Directed by Michael Lei.
festival will also feature Short Film Programs with:
Napa Valley Film Festival (NVFF) is a five-day celebration
that blends the art of film, food, and wine together. Discover the
best new independent films of the year, savor exquisite cuisine
paired with legendary wines, and create lasting memories found only
in the Napa Valley. The Napa Valley Film Festival is presented by
Cinema Napa Valley, a registered 501c3 non-profit organization
headquartered in Napa, California. Cinema Napa Valley’s mission is
to celebrate the cinematic arts and enrich the community by
presenting an annual world-class festival and year-round education
and outreach programs. The Napa Valley Film Festival takes place
November 13-17, 2019. Visit napavalleyfilmfest.org for more
information on passes and festival events.
Designs for Different Futures is organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Walker Art Center, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
role of designers in shaping how we think about the future is the
subject of a major exhibition that will premiere at the Philadelphia
Museum of Art this fall. Designs for Different Futures
(October 22, 2019–March 8, 2020) brings together some 80
works that address the challenges and opportunities that humans may
encounter in the years, decades, and centuries ahead. Organized by
the Philadelphia Museum of Art, theWalker
Art Center, Minneapolis,
and the Art Institute of Chicago,
Designs for Different Futures will be presented at the Walker
(September 12, 2020–January 3, 2021) and the Art Institute
of Chicago (February 6–May 16, 2021) following its
presentation in Philadelphia.
the questions today’s designers seek to answer are: What role
can technology play in augmenting or replacing a broad range of human
activities?Can intimacy be maintained at a distance? How can
we negotiate privacy in a world in which the sharing and use of
personal information has blurred traditional boundaries? How might we
use design to help heal or transform ourselves, bodily and
psychologically? How will we feed an ever-growing population?
no one can precisely predict the shape of things to come, the works
in the exhibition are firmly fixed on the future, providing design
solutions for a number of speculative scenarios. In some instances,
these proposals are borne of a sense of anxiety, and in others of a
sense of excitement over the possibilities that can be created
through the use of innovative materials, new technologies, and, most
importantly, fresh ideas.
Rub, the George D. Widener Director and Chief Executive Officer of
the Philadelphia Museum of Art, stated: “We often think of
art museums as places that foster a dialogue between the past and the
present, but they also can and should be places that inspire us to
think about the future and to ask how artists and designers can help
us think creatively about it. We are delighted to be able to
collaborate with the Walker Art Center and the Art Institute of
Chicago on this engaging project, which will offer our visitors an
opportunity to understand not only how designers are imagining—and
responding to—different visions of the futures, but also to
understand just how profoundly forward-looking design contributes in
our own time to shaping the world that we occupy and will bequeath as
a legacy to future generations.”
about the future has always been part of the human condition. It has
also been a perennial field of inquiry for designers and architects
whose speculations on this subject—ranging from the concrete to the
whimsical—can profoundly affect how we imagine what is to come.
Among the many forward-looking projects on view, visitors to Designs
for Different Futures will encounter lab-grown food, robotic
companions, family leave policy proposals, and textiles made of
of these possibilities will come to fruition, while others will
remain dreams or even threats,” said Kathryn Hiesinger,
the J. Mahlon Buck, Jr. Family Senior Curator of European Decorative
Arts after 1700, who coordinated the exhibition in Philadelphia with
former assistant curator Michelle Millar Fisher. “We’d like
visitors to join us as we present designs that consider the possible,
debate the inevitable, and weigh the alternatives. This exhibition
explores how design—understood expansively—can help us all
grapple with what might be on the horizon and allows our imaginations
to take flight.”
exhibition is divided into 11 thematic sections. In Resources,
visitors will encounter an inflatable pod measuring 15 feet in
diameter, part of the work Another Generosity first created in
2018 by Finnish architect Eero Lundén and designed in this
incarnation in collaboration with Ron Aasholm and Carmen
Lee. The pod slowly expands and contracts in the space,
responding to changing levels of carbon dioxide as visitors exhale
around it, and provoking questions about the ongoing effect of the
human footprint on the environment.
section titled Generations will explore ways in which the
choices we make today may contribute to the well-being or suffering
of those who come after us. Here, visitors will find a model of the
Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a repository that stores the
world’s largest collection of crop seeds. Located within a mountain
on a remote island near the Arctic Circle, the facility is designed
to withstand natural or human-made disasters. The Earths section
of the exhibition speculates on the challenges of extra-terrestrial
communication in Lisa Moura’s Alien Nations installation and
showcases typeface from the 2016 science-fiction film Arrival.
Bodies, designers grapple with choices about how our physical and
psychological selves might look, feel, and function in different
future scenarios. Featured here is one of the world’s lightest and
most advanced exoskeletons, designed to help people with mobility
challenges remain upright and active. Also notable is the CRISPR
Kit, an affordable and accessible gene-editing toolbox, which has
the potential to revolutionize biomedical research and open
opportunities for gene therapy and genetic engineering.
is a section that explores how technologies and online interfaces may
affect love, family, and community. Here, urban experiences of sex
and love are the focus of Andrés Jaque’s Intimate
Strangers, an audio-visual installation focusing on the gay
dating app. Through internet-enabled devices, designers explore the
possibility of digitally mediated love and sex, suggesting what
advanced digital networks hold for human sexuality.
contains projects that explore the future of the human diet.
Among them is a modular edible-insect farm, Cricket Shelter,
by Terreform ONE, which offers a ready source of protein for
impending food crises. A kitchen installation suggests how technology
and design may contribute to new modes of food production, including
an Ouroboros Steak made from human cells.
sections of the exhibition will focus on the future of Jobs and how
Cities will function and look 100 years from now—with
robotic baby feeders, driverless cars, and other
developments—affording a glimpse at how we might navigate living
beyond this planet. Shoes grown from sweat are among the innovations
visitors will find in a section devoted to Materials, while
Power will look at how design may affect our citizenship and
help us retain agency over such essentials as our DNA, our voices,
and our electronic communications in a future where the lines between
record-keeping, communication, and surveillance blur. Data
acknowledges and questions the different ways that information
might be collected and used, with all its inherent biases and
asymmetries, to shape different futures.
curatorial team is comprised of: at the Philadelphia
Museum of Art, Kathryn B.
Hiesinger, The J. Mahlon Buck, Jr. Family Senior
Curator of European Decorative Arts after 1700, and Michelle
Millar Fisher, formerly The Louis C. Madeira IV Assistant
Curator of European Decorative Arts after 1700; At the Walker
Art Center, Emmet Byrne,
Design Director and Associate Curator of Design; and at the Art
Institute of Chicago, Maite
Borjabad López-Pastor, Neville Bryan Assistant Curator of
Architecture and Design, and Zoë Ryan,
the John H. Bryan Chair and Curator of Architecture and Design.
Consulting curators are Andrew Blauvelt,
Director, Cranbrook Art Museum, Bloomfield
Hills, Michigan, and Curator-at-Large, Museum of Arts
and Design, New York; Colin Fanning,
Independent Scholar, Bard Graduate Center,
New York; and Orkan Telhan,
Associate Professor of Fine Arts (Emerging Design Practices),
University of Pennsylvania School of Design,
B. Hiesinger is the J. Mahlon Buck, Jr. Family Senior Curator of
European Decorative Arts after 1700 at the Philadelphia
Museum of Art. Her work focuses on decorative arts and
design from the mid-nineteenth century to the present and includes
the exhibitions and publications Zaha Hadid: Form in Motion
(2011), Out of the Ordinary: The Architecture and Design of
Robert Venturi, Denise Scott Brown and Associates (2001),
Japanese Design: A Survey since 1950 (1994) and Design
since 1945 (1983).
Millar Fisher is the Ronald C. and Anita L Wornick Curator of
Contemporary Decorative Arts at the Museum
of Fine Arts, Boston. She is a graduate of the University
of Glasgow, Scotland, and is currently completing her
doctorate in architectural history at the Graduate
Center of the City University of New York. She is the
co-author, with Paola Antonelli, of Items: Is Fashion
Byrne is the Design Director and Associate Curator of Design at
the Walker Art Center in
Minneapolis. He provides creative leadership and strategic direction
for the Walker in all areas of visual communication, branding,
publishing, while overseeing the award-winning in-house design
studio. He was one of the founders of the Task Newsletter in
2009 and is the creator of the Walker’s Intangibles platform.
Borjabad López-Pastor is the Neville Bryan Assistant Curator of
Architecture and Design at the Art Institute
of Chicago. She is an architect and curator educated at
the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and Columbia
University, New York. She is the author and curator of
Scenographies of Power: From the State of Exception to the Spaces
of Exception (2017). Her work revolves around diverse forms of
critical spatial practices, operating across architecture, art, and
Ryan is the John H. Bryan Chair and Curator of Architecture and
Design at the Art Institute of Chicago.
She is the editor of As Seen: Exhibitions That Made Architecture
and Design History (2017) and curator of In a Cloud, in a
Wall, in a Chair: Six Modernists in Mexico at Midcentury (2019)
and the 2014 Istanbul Design Biennial, The Future is Not
What it Used to Be. Her projects explore the impact of
architecture and design on society.
on the innovative contemporary design objects, projects, and
speculations of the exhibition’s checklist, the accompanying volume
proposes design as a means through which to understand, question, and
negotiate individual and collective futures, giving provocative voice
to the most urgent issues of today. It asks readers to contemplate
the design context within broader historical, social, political, and
aesthetic spectrums. Designs for Different Futures addresses
futures near and far, exploring such issues as human-digital
interaction, climate change, political and social inequality,
resource scarcity, transportation, and infrastructure.
primary authors are Kathryn B. Hiesinger, Michelle Millar Fisher,
Emmet Byrne, Maite Borjabad López-Pastor, and Zoë Ryan,
with Andrew Blauvelt, Colin Fanning, Orkan Telhan, Juliana Rowen
Barton, and Maude de Schauensee. Additional contributions
include texts by V. Michael Bove Jr. and Nora Jackson,
Christina Cogdell, Marina Gorbis, Srećko Horvat, Bruno Latour,
Marisol LeBrón, Ezio Manzini, Chris Rapley, Danielle Wood, LinYee
Yuan, and Emma Yann Zhang; and interviews with Gabriella
Coleman, Formafantasma (Andrea Trimarchi and Simone
Farresin), Aimi Hamraie and Jillian Mercado, Francis
Kéré, David Kirby, Helen Kirkum, Alexandra Midal, Neri Oxman,
and Eyal Weizman.
for Different Futures will be distributed by Yale University
Press. The book was overseen by Philadelphia Museum of Art
publishing director Katie Reilly and editors Katie Brennan
and Kathleen Krattenmaker. It is designed by Ryan Gerald
Nelson, Senior Graphic Designer at the Walker Art Center, under the
direction of Walker design director Emmet Byrne.
part of the exhibition, visitors to the Philadelphia Museum of Art
galleries will also encounter a space for community meetups, public
programs, school visits, and self-directed activities. The Futures
Therapy Lab will weave personal connections between visitors and
the exhibition as part of a collaboration between the museum’s
Education Department and the curatorial team. Weekly programs,
many of which will occur on Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday Nights,
will connect visitors with designers, artists, and locally based
creatives. The Futures Therapy Lab will contain a crowdsourced
Futures Library that includes everything from science-fiction
books to the exhibition catalogue. “Thinking about possible
futures is both exhilarating and anxiety-provoking,” said
Emily Schreiner, the Zoë and Dean Pappas Curator of Education,
Public Programs. “The Futures Therapy Lab is a place for
conversation, critique, and creativity in which visitors can imagine
their own hopes, fears and solutions for the future through
reflection, discussion, and art making.”
Philadelphia, this exhibition is generously supported by the
Annenberg Foundation Fund for Major Exhibitions, the Robert
Montgomery Scott Endowment for Exhibitions, the Kathleen C.
and John J.F. Sherrerd Fund for Exhibitions,Lisa Roberts and
David Seltzer in Honor of Collab’s 50th Anniversary, the Women’s
Committee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Laura and
William C. Buck Endowment for Exhibitions, the Harriet and
Ronald Lassin Fund for Special Exhibitions, the Jill and
Sheldon Bonovitz Exhibition Fund, and an anonymous donor.
Futures Therapy Lab will host a series of weekly happenings:
in the Lab
and designers share their work through talks, demonstrations, and
workshops. Wednesday Nights, 5:00–8:45 p.m.
Designer is In
it out. One-on-one sessions with local designers offer new
perspectives on your everyday life. Thursdays & Saturdays,
readings that explore narratives of the future. Select Sundays,
This fall, the Philadelphia Museum of Artpresents Off the Wall: American Art to Wear, (November 10, 2019 – May 17, 2020) a major exhibition that highlights a distinctive American art movement that emerged in the late 1960s and flourished during the following decades. It examines a generation of pioneering artists who used body-related forms to express a personal vision and frames their work in relation to the cultural, historical and social concerns of their time. Focusing on iconic works made during the three decades between 1967 and 1997, the exhibition features over 130 one-of-a-kind works by more than sixty artists. Comprised primarily of selections from a promised gift of Julie Schafler Dale, it will also include works from the museum’s collection and loans from private collections. Off the Wall: American Art to Wear is accompanied by a new publication of the same title, co-published by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Yale University Press.
Rub, the George D. Widener Director and CEO, said: “This
exhibition will introduce to our visitors an exceptionally creative
and adventurous aspect of American art which took the body as a
vehicle for its expression. We are not only deeply grateful to Julie
Dale for her extraordinary gifts and support of the museum but also
see this as an opportunity to acknowledge the dynamic role she played
in nurturing the growth and development of this movement.”
champions of Art to Wear during the early years were a
few forward-thinking museums, among them New York’s Museum of
Contemporary Crafts (Museum of Art and Design), collectors, and
galleries such as Sandra Sakata’s Obiko, founded in
1972 in San Francisco, and Julie Schafler Dale’s Julie:
Artisans Gallery, which opened the following year on Madison
Avenue in New York. For over 40 years, Dale’s gallery was a premier
destination for presenting one-of-a-kind wearable works by American
artists. Through her gallery installations and rotating window
displays, she gave visibility to the Art to Wear movement. In 1986,
she brought further recognition to the art form by publishing the
seminal book Art to Wear—from which the title of this
exhibition is taken—which provided in-depth profiles of artists
alongside photographs by Brazilian fashion photographer Otta
Stupakoff. Dale’s gallery closed in 2013.
the Wall is arranged in nine sections; the titles of some are
derived from popular music of the ‘60s and ‘70s to suggest the
wide-ranging concerns of the artists. The introductory section, The
Times They Are A Changin’ (Bob Dylan, 1964), contains works by
Lenore Tawney, Dorian Zachai, Claire Zeisler, Ed Rossbach, and
Debra Rapoport to illustrate how textile artists in the late
‘50s and ‘60s liberated tapestry weaving from the wall, adapting
it to three-dimensional sculptural forms inspired by pre-Columbian
1969, a group of five students at Pratt Institute studying
painting, sculpture, industrial design, multimedia, and graphic
design taught each other how to crochet, leading to remarkable
outcomes. Janet Lipkin, Jean Cacicedo, Marika Contompasis, Sharron
Hedges, and Dina Knapp all created clothing-related forms
that they would describe as wearable sculpture, thus establishing a
cornerstone of the Art to Wear movement. A highlight in this
section is a wool crochet and knit Samurai Top, 1972, by
Sharron Hedges, modeled by the young Julie Dale for the book
Creative Crochet, authored by two of the artist’s friends,
Nicki Hitz Edson and Arlene Stimmel.
next section, Good Vibrations (Beach Boys, 1966), traces the
migration of many of these young artists from the East Coast to the
West Coast where they joined California’s vibrant artistic
community and connected with Sandra Sakata’s Obiko. A pair
of colorful denim hand-embroidered mini shorts by Anna VA Polesny
embroidered while traveling conveys this new youthful spirit.
Pacific Rim influences are evident in the Japanese kimono form as a
blank canvas offering infinite possibilities for pattern and design.
Katherine Westpahl’s indigo blue resist-dyed cotton work, A
Fantasy Meeting of Santa Claus with Big Julie and Tyrone at
McDonald’s, 1978, and Janet Lipkin’s Mexico at
Midday, a coat made in 1988 are exceptional examples. A range of
counter-culture influences, evoking ceremony and spirituality,
pervade this section.
Together (The Beatles, 1969) responds to the popular use of
assemblage in art-making, especially the use of nontraditional
materials. It also looks at the art of performance, reflected in Ben
Compton and Marian Clayden’s Nocturnal Moth, 1974,
inspired by Federico Fellini’s film La Dolce Vita
(1960). “Mother Earth,” a nod to the publication Mother
Earth News Magazine, looks to nature and environmental concerns
while This Land is Your Land (Woodie Guthrie, 1940) explores
iconic American imagery including reference to the American West and
Native American cultures. Examples in this section include Joan
Ann Jablow’s Big Bird cape, 1977, made entirely of
recycled bird feathers, and Joan Steiner’s Manhattan
Collar, 1979, which reimagines New York’s skyline in miniature.
Worlds explores fantasy and science fiction, two genres that
offered young people an escape from the period’s cultural and
political upheavals. Noteworthy here are works by Jean Cacicedo
and Nina Huryn, both of whom riff on one of the most widely
read English language books at the time, J.R.R. Tolkien’s
trilogy Lord of the Rings (1965). Cacicedo responded with a
portrait of Treebeard, 1973, a Tolkien character, while Huryn
created her own fantasy world in Tree Outfit, with its flowing pants,
loose shirt and leather sleeveless jacket containing forest and
folklore imagery, a work made especially for Julie: Artisans
Gallery in 1976. Other artists turned to dreams, such as Susanna
Lewis, who created Moth Cape, 1979, in response to a
nightmare that she had of a giant moth enveloping her body.
section called I Am Woman (Helen Reddy, 1971) underscores the
ways in which artists invoked feminism directly and indirectly in Art
to Wear. Janet Lipkin, for example, invested her works
with symbols of freedom while searching for new directions in her
life, as seen in Bird Coat, 1972, Flamingo, 1982, and
Transforming Woman, 1992. Other works like Combat Vest,
1985, by Sheila Perez, feature plastic toy soldiers as
protective armor for the chest area, while Nicki Hitz Edson’s
Medusa Mask, 1975, is a wild expression of fraught emotions
surrounding the breakup of her marriage.
My World (Chicago, 1970) reflects the buoyant rainbow color
spectrum that was ubiquitous during this era. Recently published
works on color theory by Johannes Itten and Josef Albers
provided a cornerstone of the new art education. For Linda
Mendelson, color, typography, and text became inseparable. She
adapted Albers’s ideas relating to after-images in Big Red,
and linked color progression with lines from a poem titled Coat by
William Butler Yeats from which she drew inspiration. Other
artists such as Tim Harding created an effect similar to
impressionist brush strokes by slashing and fraying dyed fabrics, as
seen in his colorful coat Garden: Field of Flowers, 1991.
final section Everybody’s Talkin’ (Harry Nilsson, 1969)
explores the use of text in Art to Wear. JoEllen Trilling
engages in visual word play using common prepositions on a
jacket, while Jean Cacicedo channels her grief over her
father’s death using words taken from the bible that celebrated his
life in My Father’s House, 1994.
Blum, The Jack M. and Annette Y. Friedland Senior Curator of Costumes
and Textiles, who organized the exhibition, said: “We are
looking back at this period with a fresh lens through which to
consider a uniquely American art form that continues to have a
worldwide influence. With roots and connections in fine arts, fiber
art, craft, performance and fashion, there are so many important
artists to appreciate. For this reason I am delighted by the
opportunity to cast a light on such extraordinary talents, including
so many adventurous women who deserve much greater recognition.”
the Wall: American Art to Wear is accompanied by a new
publication of the same name co-published the Philadelphia Museum of
Art and Yale University Press, co-authored by exhibition curators
Dilys E. Blum, The Jack M. and Annette Y. Friedland Senior
Curator of Costumes and Textiles at the Philadelphia Museum of Art,
and independent textile scholar and curator Mary Schoeser,
with a contribution written by Julie Schafler Dale. The volume
provides the social, political, and artistic context for Art to
Wear. ISBN 9780876332917.
Dilys Blum, The Jack M. and Annette Y. Friedland Senior Curator of
Costume and Textiles and Mary Schoeser, Independent Textile Historian
exhibition has been made possible by Julie Schafler Dale, PNC, The
Coby Foundation, the Arlin and Neysa Adams Endowment Fund, Catherine
and Laurence Altman, the Center for American Art at the Philadelphia
Museum of Art, and other generous donors.
The Whitney Museum of American Art announced today that its 2021 Biennial, the 80th edition, will be co-organized by two brilliant members of the Museum’s curatorial department, David Breslin and Adrienne Edwards. The 2021 Whitney Biennial exhibition will open in the spring of 2021 and is presented by Tiffany & Co., which has been the lead sponsor of the Biennial since the Museum’s move downtown.
Pratt Brown Director Adam D. Weinberg noted: “The central
aim of the Biennial is to be a barometer of contemporary American
art. Each Biennial is a reflection of the cultural and social moment
as it intersects with the passions, perspectives, and tastes of the
curators. David and Adrienne will be a great team. They are
inquisitive, curious, and are acutely attuned to the art of the
current moment. No doubt they will bring fresh outlooks to this
historic exhibition and reinvent it for these complex and challenging
a long history of exhibiting the most promising and influential
artists and provoking debate, the Whitney Biennial is the Museum’s
signature survey of the state of contemporary art in the United
States. The Biennial, an invitational show of work produced in the
preceding two years, was introduced by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in
1932, and it is the longest continuous series of exhibitions in the
country to survey recent developments in American art.
Initiated by founder Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in 1932, the Whitney Biennial is the longest-running survey of American art. More than 3,600 artists have participated, including Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, Jacob Lawrence, Alexander Calder, Louise Bourgeois, Joan Mitchell, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Robert Rauschenberg, Claes Oldenburg, Roy Lichtenstein, Agnes Martin, Cy Twombly, Andy Warhol, Ellsworth Kelly, Richard Serra, Lynda Benglis, Frank Bowling, Joan Jonas, Barbara Kruger, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jenny Holzer, David Wojnarowicz, Glenn Ligon, Yvonne Rainer, Zoe Leonard, Kara Walker, Cindy Sherman, Nan Goldin, Mike Kelley, Lorna Simpson, Renée Green, Wade Guyton, Julie Mehretu, Cecilia Vicuña, Mark Bradford, Daniel Joseph Martinez, Ellen Gallagher, Rachel Harrison, Wu Tsang, Nick Mauss, Sarah Michelson, Laura Owens, Postcommodity, Pope.L, Jeffrey Gibson, and Tiona Nekkia McClodden.
The biennials were originally organized by medium, with painting alternating with sculpture and works on paper. Starting in 1937, the Museum shifted to yearly exhibitions called Annuals. The current format—a survey show of work in all media occurring every two years—has been in place since 1973. The 2019 Biennial (still on partial view on the Museum’s sixth floor until October 27) was organized by two Whitney curators, Jane Panetta and Rujeko Hockley. It featured seventy-five artists and collectives working in painting, sculpture, installation, film and video, photography, performance, and sound.
Breslin was recently named the DeMartini Family Curator and
Director of Curatorial Initiatives, a role he will assume this
month. Since joining the Museum in 2016 as DeMartini Family Curator
and Director of the Collection, Breslin has spearheaded the Museum’s
collection-related activities, curating a series of major collection
exhibitions and overseeing acquisitions. Working closely with his
curatorial colleagues, he has organized or co-organized four timely
and thematized collection displays, including Where We Are:
Selections from the Whitney’s Collection, 1900–1960, An
Incomplete History of Protest: Selections from the Whitney’s
Collection, 1940–2017, Spilling Over: Painting Color
in the 1960s, and The Whitney’s Collection:
Selections from 1900 to 1965, which is currently on view on
the Museum’s seventh floor. In 2018, he co-curated (with David
Kiehl) the landmark retrospective David Wojnarowicz:
History Keeps Me Awake at Night.
came to the Whitney from the Menil Drawing Institute, where he
created an ambitious program of exhibitions and public and scholarly
events and helped to shape the design of the Institute’s new
facility. He also oversaw work on the catalogue raisonné of the
drawings of Jasper Johns and grew the collection. Prior to the
Menil, Breslin served as the associate director of the research and
academic program and associate curator of contemporary projects at
the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, MA; he also oversaw
the Clark’s residential fellowship program and taught in the
Williams College Graduate Program in the History of Art.
Breslin co-edited Art History and Emergency: Crises in the Visual
Arts and Humanities (Yale University Press, 2016), a volume that
grew from a Clark Conference he organized with art historian Darby
2018, Adrienne Edwards was named Engell Speyer Family
Curator and Curator of Performance at the Whitney. Previously,
she served as curator of Performa since 2010 and as Curator at
Large for the Walker Art Center since 2016.
the Whitney, Edwards curated Jason Moran, the artist’s first
museum show, now on view on the Museum’s eighth floor. She
originated the exhibition at the Walker in 2018; it previously
traveled to the ICA Boston and the Wexner Center for the
Arts. The exhibition features a series of performances, Jazz on a
High Floor in the Afternoon, curated by Edwards and Moran. She
organized the event commencing the construction of David
Hammons’s Day’s End, featuring a commission by composer
Henry Threadgill and a “water” tango on the Hudson
River by the Fire Department of the City of New York’s
Marine Company 9. Earlier this year, Edwards organized Moved
by the Motion: Sudden Rise, a series of performances based on
a text co-written by Wu Tsang, boychild, and Fred Moten,
which presented a collage of words, film, movements, and sounds.
Performa, Edwards realized new boundary-defying commissions,
as well as pathfinding conferences and film programs with a wide
range of over forty international artists. While at the Walker, she
co-led the institution-wide Mellon Foundation Interdisciplinary
Initiative, an effort to expand ways of commissioning, studying,
collecting, documenting, and conserving cross-disciplinary works.
Edwards’s curatorial projects have included the critically
acclaimed exhibition and catalogue Blackness in Abstraction,
hosted by Pace Gallery in 2016. She also organized Frieze’s
Artist Awardand Live program in New York in 2018. Edwards
taught art history and visual studies at New York University
and The New School, and she is a contributor to the National
Gallery of Art’s Center for the Advanced Study in Visual Art’s
forthcoming publication Black Modernisms.
Rothkopf, the Whitney’s Senior Deputy Director and Nancy and Steve
Crown Family Chief Curator, said, “David and Adrienne truly
represent the best spirit and ideals of the Whitney. Not only are
they devoted to—and beloved by—living artists, but they bring to
the art of our time a deep historical and scholarly awareness. The
most recent editions of the Biennial have reaffirmed its vitality and
relevance, and I look forward to discovering how another pair of
Whitney curators will lend their voices to our signature exhibition.”
countries have submitted films for consideration in the International
Feature Film category for the 92nd Academy Awards®. An
international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion
picture (more than 40 minutes) produced outside the United States
with a predominantly non-English dialogue track. Ghana, Nigeria and
Uzbekistan are first-time entrants.
this year, the Academy’s Board of Governors voted to rename
the Foreign Language Film category to International Feature
Film and expand the shortlist from nine to 10 films.
2019 submissions, listed in alphabetical order by country, are:
“The Delegation,” Bujar Alimani, director;
shortlist of 10 films will be announced on Monday, December 16,
2019. Nominations for the 92nd Oscars® will be announced
on Monday, January 13, 2020.
92nd Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2020,
at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in
Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network.
The Oscars also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and
Short Film Captures the Brand’s Quest to Create One of the World’s
Most Innovative Retail Experiences
Marking the first anniversary of one of its most iconic spaces to date, RH announced the release of “RH New York, The Movie,” a short film documenting the creation of RH New York, The Gallery in the Historic Meatpacking District. This first-of-its-kind, 90,000-square-foot retail experience features a skylit six-story atrium with transparent glass elevator, Rooftop Restaurant, Barista Bar & Wine Terrace, Interior Design Firm, “New York Night,” a dramatic art installation by Alison Berger, and full floors dedicated to RH Interiors, RH Modern, RH Outdoor, RH Baby & Child, and RH TEEN.
took seven years of improvising, adapting and overcoming all of the
obstacles until it became what it is today, which is arguably the
most innovative new store in the world, in the most important city in
Chairman and CEO Gary Friedman says in the film’s opening moments.
not a better place to express truly what you believe in.”
experience RH New York, The Movie, visit
Andy Warhol—From A To B And Back Again, The First Major Reexamination Of Warhol’s Art In A Generation, To Open At The Whitney On November 12
Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again—the first Andy Warhol retrospective organized in the U.S. since 1989, and the largest in terms of its scope of ideas and range of works—will be an occasion to experience and reconsider the work of one of the most inventive, influential, and important American artists. With more than 350 works of art, many assembled together for the first time, this landmark exhibition, organized by The Whitney Museum of American Art, will unite all aspects, media, and periods of Warhol’s forty-year career. Curated by Warhol authority Donna De Salvo, Deputy Director for International Initiatives and Senior Curator, with Christie Mitchell, curatorial assistant, and Mark Loiacono, curatorial research associate, the survey debuts at the Whitney on November 12, 2018, where it will run through March 31, 2019.
While Warhol’s Pop images of the 1960s are recognizable worldwide, what remains far less known is the work he produced in the 1970s and 80s. This exhibition positions Warhol’s career as a continuum, demonstrating that he didn’t slow down after surviving the assassination attempt that nearly took his life in 1968, but entered into a period of intense experimentation, continuing to use the techniques he’d developed early on and expanding upon his previous work. Taking the 1950s and his experience as a commercial illustrator as foundational, and including numerous masterpieces from the 1960s, Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again tracks and reappraises the later work of the 1970s and 80s through to Warhol’s untimely death in 1987.
(Following its premiere at the Whitney, the exhibition will travel to two other major American art museums, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and The Art Institute of Chicago. Bank of America is the National Tour Sponsor)
“Perhaps more than any artist before or since, Andy Warhol understood America’s defining twin desires for innovation and conformity, public visibility and absolute privacy,” noted De Salvo. “He transformed these contradictory impulses into a completely original art that, I believe, has profoundly influenced how we see and think about the world now. Warhol produced images that are now so familiar, it’s easy to forget just how unsettling and even shocking they were when they debuted. He pioneered the use of an industrial silkscreen process as a painterly brush to repeat images ‘identically’, creating seemingly endless variations that call the very value of our cultural icons into question. His repetitions, distortions, camouflaging, incongruous color, and recycling of his own imagery anticipated the most profound effects and issues of our current digital age when we no longer know which images to trust. From the 1950s until his death, Warhol challenged our fundamental beliefs, particularly our faith in images, even while he sought to believe in those images himself. Looking in this exhibition at the full sweep of his career makes it clear that Warhol was not just a twentieth-century titan but a seer of the twenty-first century as well.”
Occupying the entirety of the Whitney’s fifth-floor Neil Bluhm Family Galleries, the adjacent Kaufman Gallery, the John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation Lobby Gallery, the Susan and John Hess Family Gallery and Theater, Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again will be the largest exhibition devoted to a single artist yet to be presented in the Whitney’s downtown location. Tickets will be available on the Whitney’s website beginning in August.
Through his carefully cultivated persona and willingness to experiment with non-traditional art-making techniques, Andy Warhol (1928–1987) understood the growing power of images in contemporary life and helped to expand the role of the artist in society, making him one of the most distinct and internationally recognized American artists of the twentieth century. This exhibition sets out to prove that there remains far more to Warhol and his work than is commonly known. While the majority of exhibitions, books, articles, and films devoted to Warhol’s art have focused on a single medium, subject, series, or period, Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again will employ a chronological and thematic methodology that illuminates the breadth, depth, and interconnectedness of the artist’s production: from his beginnings as a commercial illustrator in the 1950s, to his iconic Pop masterpieces of the early 1960s, to the experimental work in film and other mediums from the 1960s and 70s, to his innovative use of readymade abstraction and the painterly sublime in the 1980s. The show’s title is taken from Warhol’s 1975 book, The Philosophy of Andy Warhol (From A to B and Back Again), an aphoristic memoir in which the artist gathered his thoughts on fame, love, beauty, class, money, and other key themes.
Building on a wealth of new materials, research and scholarship that has emerged since the artist’s untimely death in 1987, as well as De Salvo’s own expertise and original research conducted by the Whitney’s curatorial team, the checklist of works has been carefully selected from amongst the thousands of paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, films, videos, and photographs that Warhol produced during his lifetime.
Adam D. Weinberg, the Alice Pratt Brown Director of the Whitney, commented: “This exhibition takes a fresh focus, while continuing the Whitney’s decades-long engagement with Warhol’s work which we presented in 1971 in a traveling retrospective and in Andy Warhol: Portraits of the 70s, organized by the Whitney in 1979–80. Few have had the opportunity to see an in-depth presentation of his career, and account for the scale, vibrant color, and material richness of the objects themselves. This exhibition, to be presented in three cities, will allow visitors to experience the work of one of America’s greatest cultural figures firsthand, and to better comprehend Warhol’s artistic genius and fearless experimentation.”
The exhibition covers the entirety of Warhol’s career, beginning with a concentrated focus on the commercial and private work he made between 1948 and 1960. Arriving in New York from his native Pittsburgh in the summer of 1949, Warhol began his career in an advertising world that was increasingly technological, and, concurrently, an art world obsessed with originality and the authenticity of the hand-made mark. The 1950s were a foundational period for the artist, a young gay man, beginning to find his way in the city. Though far less known than his later work, the commercial art that Warhol produced during his first decade in New York lays the groundwork for many of the themes and aesthetic devices that he would develop throughout the length of his career.Continue reading →
This summer, The Whitney Museum of American Art will present the first museum solo exhibition of Eckhaus Latta, the New York-and Los Angeles-based fashion label, founded in 2011 by Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta. Eckhaus Latta: Possessed highlights the work of this compelling young design team who belong to a new generation of designers operating at the intersection of fashion and contemporary art.
Untitled (Preparatory drawing for Possessed), 2018. Colored pencil on paper. Image courtesy the artists
Eckhaus Latta’s fashion designs—for which they are currently finalists for the 2018 LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers—explore, in part, identity and reflect the fluid nature of gender and sexuality. While they fully participate in the fashion system, Latta and Eckhaus remain self-aware of their roles in a consumer society. Their recognizable designs have featured experimental knitwear; a wide range of materials including lace, rust, and recycled fabrics; and a general approach that supersedes gender binaries. At times, models are sent down the runway wearing clothes that challenge traditional definitions of male and female. Vanessa Friedman, fashion director and chief fashion critic at the New York Times, wrote that their clothes “are a kind of petri dish of associative splicing,” and that they “grapple honestly with what is on the designers’ minds: questions of gender and difference and the details of fallible beauty…”
This will be the first exhibition related to fashion at the Museum in twenty-one years, since The Warhol Look: Glamour, Style, Fashion (1997).
Eckhaus Latta: Possessed is organized by Christopher Y. Lew, Nancy and Fred Poses Associate Curator, and Lauri London Freedman, head of product development.
The exhibition, part of the Museum’s emerging artist series, will be on view in the first-floor John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation Gallery from August 3 through October 8, 2018. Access to the gallery is free of charge.
Mike Eckhaus (b. 1987, New York, NY) and Zoe Latta (b. 1987, Santa Cruz, CA) met as students at the Rhode Island School of Design while studying sculpture and textiles, respectively. They are known for using unexpected materials, emphasizing texture and tactility in their designs, and for incorporating writing, performance, and video into their practice. Through their emphasis on collaboration—with artists, musicians, and others—and an approach that plays with, and against, industry conventions, Eckhaus Latta addresses the crosscurrents of desire, consumption, and social relations. Their work has been featured in Greater New York 2015 at MoMA PS1 and Made in L.A. (2016) at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles.
“As part of the Whitney’s emerging artist program, we sometimes showcase creative figures outside of the visual arts,” said Lew. “These figures from fields such as fashion, music, architecture, design, and food approach their disciplines in ways that are akin to visual artists, often questioning the systems and parameters that define what they do, speaking to the broader cultural moment, and blurring the boundaries between disciplines.”
“Working with Mike and Zoe has challenged us to consider the roles that our Museum spaces play and the objects that are presented. They pushed us to ask broader questions such as ‘How can we reexamine the format of an exhibition?’ and ‘What is the best way to exhibit an artist’s work?’ said Freedman.
For their Whitney exhibition, Eckhaus Latta will create a new three-part installation that embraces and brings into conversation various aspects of the fashion industry, from advertising and the consumer experience to voyeurism. At the entrance to the gallery will be a sequence of photographs that play on the tropes of iconic photoshoots found in fashion advertisements and magazines. These photographs explore how Eckhaus Latta’s unique aesthetic functions in relation to the highly polished look of the industry’s media. The core of their installation will be an operational retail environment in which visitors are welcome to touch, try on, and purchase clothing and accessories designed specifically for the show. This space is made in collaboration with more than a dozen artists whom Eckhaus Latta has been in dialogue with over the years who have created functional elements such as clothing racks, display shelves, and a dressing room. The exhibition concludes with a darkened room, evocative of a security office, which features a bank of screens depicting surveillance footage. Visitors will have a voyeuristic view of not only the rest of the installation but a glimpse of the tracking and surveillance that so often accompanies the experience of shopping.
The featured collaborators are Susan Cianciolo(b. 1969, Providence, RI; lives and works in Brooklyn, NY), Lauren Davis Fisher(b. 1984, Cambridge, MA; lives and works in Los Angeles, CA), Avena Venus Gallagher (b. 1973, Seattle, WA; lives and works in New York, NY), Jeffrey Joyal(b. 1988, Boston, MA; lives and works in New York, NY), Alexa Karolinski(b. 1984, Berlin, Germany; lives and works in Los Angeles), Valerie Keane(b. 1989, Passaic, NJ; lives and works in New York, NY),Jay Latta (b. 1951, Santa Cruz, CA; lives in works in Santa Cruz, CA), Matthew Lutz-Kinoy(b. 1984, New York, NY; lives and works between Los Angeles, CA and Paris, France), Annabeth Marks (b.1986, Rochester, NY; lives and works in New York, NY), Riley O’Neill(b. 1992, Los Angeles, CA; lives and works in Los Angeles, CA), Emma T. Price (b. 1987, Santa Cruz, CA; lives and works in Los Angeles, CA), Jessi Reaves(b. 1986, Portland, OR; lives and works in New York, NY), Erica Sarlo(b. 1988, Briarcliff Manor, NY; lives and works in Brooklyn, NY), Nora Jane Slade(b. 1986, Washington, D.C.; lives and works in Los Angeles, CA), Sophie Stone(b. 1987, Boston, MA; lives and works in New York, NY), Martine Syms(b. 1988, Los Angeles, CA; lives and works in Los Angeles, CA), Torey Thornton(b. 1990, Macon, GA; lives and works in Brooklyn, NY), Charlotte Wales(b. 1986, Farnborough, UK; lives and works in London, UK), Eric Wrenn(b. 1985, Southfield, MI; lives and works in New York, NY), and Amy Yao(b. 1977, Los Angeles, CA; lives and works in Long Beach, CA and New York, NY).
Major support for Eckhaus Latta: Possessed is provided by the John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation. Additional support is provided by Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner.
The Whitney Museum of American Art is located at 99 Gansevoort Streetbetween Washington and West Streets, New York City. Museum hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 10:30 am to 6 pm; Friday andSaturday from 10:30 am to 10 pm. Closed Tuesday. Adults: $25. Full-time students and visitors 65 & over: $18. Visitors 18 years & under and Whitney members: FREE. Admission is pay-what-you-wish on Fridays, 7–10 pm. For general information, please call (212) 570-3600 or visit whitney.org.
This summer, the most complete presentation to date of the work of artist, writer, and activist David Wojnarowicz will be on view in a full-scale retrospective organized by the Whitney Museum of American Art. David Wojnarowicz: History Keeps Me Awake at Night is the first major re-evaluation since 1999 of one of the most fervent and essential voices of his generation.
David Wojnarowicz with Tom Warren, Self-Portrait of David Wojnarowicz, 1983–84. Acrylic and collaged paper on gelatin silver print, 60 × 40 in. (152.4 × 101.6 cm). Collection of Brooke Garber Neidich and Daniel Neidich, Photograph by Ron Amstutz. (The exhibition is organized by David Breslin, DeMartini Family Curator and Director of the Collection, and David Kiehl, Curator Emeritus, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York.)
Opening at the Whitney on July 13 and running through September 30, David Wojnarowicz: History Keeps Me Awake at Night features more than a hundred works by the artist and is organized by two Whitney curators, David Breslin, DeMartini Family Curator and Director of the Collection, and David Kiehl, Curator Emeritus. The exhibition, which will be installed in the Museum’s fifth floor Neil Bluhm Family Galleries through September 30, draws upon the scholarly resources of the Fales Library and Special Collections (NYU), the repository of Wojnarowicz’s archive, and is also built on the foundation of the Whitney’s extensive holdings of Wojnarowicz’s work, including thirty works from the Museum’s collection. It will travel to the Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid, in May 2019, and to Mudam Luxembourg – Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean, Luxembourg City, in November 2019.
Scott Rothkopf, Deputy Director for Programs and Nancy and Steve Crown Family Chief Curator, remarked, “Since his death more than twenty-five years ago, David Wojnarowicz has become an almost mythic figure, haunting, inspiring, and calling to arms subsequent generations through his inseparable artistic and political examples. This retrospective will enable so many to confront for the first time, or anew, the groundbreaking multidisciplinary body of work on which his legacy actually stands.”
Beginning in the late 1970s, David Wojnarowicz (1954–1992) created a body of work that spanned photography, painting, music, film, sculpture, writing, performance, and activism. Joining a lineage of iconoclasts, Wojnarowicz (pronounced Voyna-ROW-vich) saw the outsider as his true subject. His mature period began with a series of photographs and collages that honored—and placed himself among—consummate countercultural figures like Arthur Rimbaud, William Burroughs, and Jean Genet. Even as he became well-known in the East Village art scene for his mythological paintings, Wojnarowicz remained committed to writing personal essays. Queer and HIV-positive, Wojnarowicz became an impassioned advocate for people with AIDS at a time when an inconceivable number of friends, lovers, and strangers—disproportionately gay men—were dying from the disease and from government inaction.
After hitchhiking across the U.S. and living for several months in San Francisco, and then in Paris, David Wojnarowicz settled in New York in 1978 and soon after began to exhibit his work in East Village galleries. Largely self-taught, Wojnarowicz came to prominence in New York in the 1980s, a period marked by great creative energy and profound cultural changes. Intersecting movements—graffiti, new and no wave music, conceptual photography, performance, neo-expressionist painting—made New York a laboratory for innovation. Unlike many artists, Wojnarowicz refused a signature style, adopting a wide variety of techniques with an attitude of radical possibility. Distrustful of inherited structures, a feeling amplified by the resurgence of conservative politics, Wojnarowicz varied his repertoire to better infiltrate the culture.
His essay for the catalog accompanying the exhibition Witnesses: Against Our Vanishing (curated by Nan Goldin at Artists Space in 1989–90) came under fire for its vitriolic attack on politicians and leaders who were preventing AIDS treatment and awareness. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) threatened to defund the exhibition, and Wojnarowicz fought against this and for the first amendment rights of artists.Continue reading →
Exhibition Brings Large-Scale Installations From Famed Desert Gathering to Washington
Cutting-edge artwork created at Burning Man, the annual desert gathering that is one of the most influential events in contemporary art and culture, will be exhibited in the nation’s capital for the first time this spring. “No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man” will take over the entire Renwick Gallery building, exploring the maker culture, ethos, principles and creative spirit of Burning Man. Several artists will debut new works in the exhibition. In addition to the in-gallery presentation, the Renwick exhibition will expand beyond its walls for the first time through an outdoor extension titled “No Spectators: Beyond the Renwick,” displaying sculptures throughout the surrounding neighborhood.
Michael Garlington and Natalia Bertotti, Totem of Confessions, 2015. Photo by Daniel L Hayes.
Burning Man is both a cultural movement and a thriving temporary city of more than 75,000 people that rises out of the dust for a single week each year in late summer in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert. During that time, enormous experimental art installations are erected, some of which are then ritually burned to the ground. The desert gathering is a uniquely American hotbed of artistic ingenuity, driving innovation through its philosophies of radical self-expression, community participation, rejection of commodification and reverence for the handmade.
“The scale, the communal effort and the technical challenges inherent in creating works for the desert are part of what sets Burning Man apart from other art experiences,” said Stephanie Stebich, The Margaret and Terry Stent Director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. “It is an amazingly creative laboratory where innovators go to play and to push the boundaries of their craft. Displaying the art of Burning Man at the Renwick is the latest example of our focus on new directions in craft and making.”
FoldHaus, Shrumen Lumen, 2016. Photo by Rene Smith.
Nora Atkinson, the museum’s Lloyd Herman Curator of Craft, is organizing the exhibition in collaboration with the Burning Man Project, the nonprofit organization responsible for producing the annual Burning Man event in Black Rock City, for facilitating and extending the culture that has issued from Burning Man into the wider world and for cultivating its principles reflecting an immediate, non-commercial and participatory culture. The outdoor extension of the exhibition is presented in partnership with Washington, D.C.’s Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, a 43-square-foot neighborhood that stretches from the White House to Dupont Circle. The Burning Man community across the globe was instrumental in suggesting artworks for inclusion in the exhibition.
“No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man” opens March 30, 2018. The Renwick is the sole venue for the exhibition, which will close in two phases. The first floor will showcase works by Candy Chang, Marco Cochrane, Duane Flatmo, Michael Garlington and Natalia Bertotti, Five Ton Crane Arts Collective, Scott Froschauer, Android Jones and Richard Wilks and will close Sept. 16, 2018. The second floor, featuring works by David Best, FoldHaus Art Collective, Aaron Taylor Kuffner, HYBYCOZO (Yelena Filipchuk and Serge Beaulieu), Christopher Schardt and Leo Villareal, will remain on view through Jan. 21, 2019. “No Spectators: Beyond the Renwick,” will be presented in the surrounding neighborhood through December 2018.Continue reading →
Philadelphia Museum of Art Presents a New Work by Rachel Rose, On View May 2 through August 18, 2018
Rose is the Inaugural Recipient of The Future Fields Commission in Time-Based Media Grant
The Philadelphia Museum of Art will present a new video installation by Rachel Rose, the inaugural recipient of the Future Fields Commission in Time-Based Media, which has been jointly awarded to the artist by the Museum and the Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. A project under development for nearly two years, this commission represents the most ambitiously scaled production in the artist’s career to date, leading to the creation of a work that will enter the collections of these two institutions. Titled Wil-o-Wisp, Rose’s work will be on view from May 2 through August 18, 2018, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It will then travel to the Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo in Turin, Italy, where it will open in November.
Production image from Wil-o-Wisp, 2018, by Rachel Rose (Jointly owned and commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. Funding is made possible for the Philadelphia Museum of Art through the Contemporary Art Revolving Fund). Photo by Nancy Green, on-site at Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts, 2017.
Timothy Rub, the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s George D. Widener Director and Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Seeing this project evolve since the awarding of the commission has been deeply gratifying. It demonstrates just how vital it is for institutions like ours to support emerging talent at precisely the time when such support is needed. This collaboration with our partners in Turin has also provided a wonderful opportunity to expand and strengthen our engagement with contemporary art.”
Production image from Wil-o-Wisp, 2018, by Rachel Rose (Jointly owned and commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. Funding is made possible for the Philadelphia Museum of Art through the Contemporary Art Revolving Fund). Photo by Nancy Green, on-site at Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts, 2017.
In 2016, the two esteemed arts and culture organizations established the Future Fields Commission in Time-Based Media as a collaborative initiative to jointly commission and acquire new work by artists from around the world who are active in video, film, performance, and sound. The Commission supports the creation and production of a new work every two years that will be presented at both the Museum and the Fondazione. With its unique focus and its commitment to the joint acquisition of the works produced with the support of this initiative, the commission aims to give unprecedented opportunities to international artists who are exploring new territory in these experimental modes of contemporary art. Rachel Rose is the inaugural recipient.
Production image from Wil-o-Wisp, 2018, by Rachel Rose (Jointly owned and commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. Funding is made possible for the Philadelphia Museum of Art through the Contemporary Art Revolving Fund). Photo by Nancy Green, on-site at Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts, 2017.
Rachel Rose has emerged as an important voice in contemporary video, widely recognized for her deft digital editing that aligns disparate visual images and historical references. This new commission has provided her with an opportunity to widen the scope of her interests by investigating narrative devices and story-telling. In Wil-o-Wisp, the artist has directed a live action video in which a woman’s fate becomes inextricably tied to moments of upheaval, suspicion, and persecution in 16th century agrarian England, a time during which the Enclosure Movement led to the privatization of land throughout the country. The video follows various vignettes of Elspeth’s life, cycling between familial moments and tragedy, the practice of magic and her persecution.
Rose strings dramatic moments together with temporal shifts, varying rhythms, an emotive score, and carefully constructed visual effects. The work reflects upon the harsh realities of English rural life during a time of a rising culture of suspicion in which women, such as Elspeth, engaging in nontraditional healing practices were often seen as threatening to an increasingly regulated society. The title of the work, Wil-o-Wisp, refers to ghostly lights that could be seen hovering at night over bogs and marshes and that, in folklore, could have the sinister effect of leading people astray. In Rose’s work, the title speaks to the characters whose paths are determined both by willful choices and the power of coincidence.
Directing a cast and crew of about thirty people, Rose shot the work at Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum in Plymouth, Massachusetts, that offered a period setting of houses in an English vernacular style and an austere winter landscape. Working with both trained and street-cast actors, as well as Plimoth Plantation guides, Rose both utilized the character of the site and added to it, creating her own imagined world within this setting. From costumes to set decorations, Rose combined period and contemporary materials.
Production image from Wil-o-Wisp, 2018, by Rachel Rose (Jointly owned and commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. Funding is made possible for the Philadelphia Museum of Art through the Contemporary Art Revolving Fund). Photo by Nancy Green, on-site at Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts, 2017.
Rose’s video is characterized as much by her intensive approach to post-production as by the attention she gives to the script and on-set staging. After filming the work in Plimoth, she added components such as a narrative sung by an ethereal voice in iambic pentameter. Orchestral and electronical scores serve to gather momentum and produce an emotional effect. Animals and people generate ghostly doubles, and a bright green moss seems to take over the barren landscape. In this work, Rose also continues her use of Medieval marginalia: drawn characters that populated Medieval manuscripts are here collaged to form words announcing certain protagonists and moments within the larger narrative. These elements coalesce with the depicted dramatic events to create a world in which the circumstance of history meets the coincidence and magic of fate.
Installed as a single-channel video and approximately ten minutes in length, Wil-o-Wisp will fill a large gallery that will include an eighteen-foot widescreen. It will be framed within an environment which is currently under development by the artist.
Erica Battle, The John Alchin and Hal Marryatt Associate Curator of Contemporary Art, said: “While Rachel Rose’s carefully woven narrative is set in the past, it speaks to larger themes and concerns that are relevant to our world today. Wil-o-Wisp reflects the inescapable feeling that history is cyclical.”
Rachel Rose (American, born 1986) creates video installations that combine video, sound, and architectural elements. She has had solo exhibitions at the Kunsthaus Bregenz, Austria (2017), the Aspen Art Museum (2016), the Museu Serralves in Porto, Lisbon (2016), the Serpentine Sackler Gallery in London (2015), and the Whitney Museum of American Art (2015). She was the recipient of the Frieze Artist Award (2015), and her work is collected by prominent institutions such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; LUMA Foundation, Arles; Musée d’Art Moderne, Paris; Ishikawa Foundation; Tate, London; and the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, among others. Rose received a BA from Yale University, New Haven, as well as an MA from the Courtauld Institute of Art, London, and an MFA from Columbia University, New York.Continue reading →
Producers Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd today announced the second slate of presenters for the89th Oscars® telecast. Hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, the Oscars will air live on Sunday, February 26, on the ABC Television Network.
“These actors are why we love to go to the movies,” said De Luca and Todd. “From blockbusters to art house films, these artists deliver every time and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the 89th Oscars stage.”
The presenters, including past Oscar® winners and nominees, areHalle Berry, Jamie Dornan, Chris Evans, Gael García Bernal, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Shirley MacLaine, Kate McKinnon and Hailee Steinfeld.
Berry won an Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for “Monster’s Ball” (2001). Her feature credits also include “X-Men: Days of Future Past” (2014), “Cloud Atlas” (2012), “Frankie & Alice” (2010), “X-Men The Last Stand” (2006), “X2” (2003), “Die Another Day” (2002) and “X-Men” (2000). She will next appear in “Kingsman: The Golden Circle” and “Kings.”
Dornan’s film credits include “Fifty Shades Darker” (2017), “Fifty Shades of Grey” (2015) and the Oscar-winning film “Marie Antoinette” (2006). Additionally, he has appeared in “Anthropoid” (2016) and “The Siege of Jadotville” (2016). His upcoming films include “Fifty Shades Freed,” “Robin Hood” and “Untogether.”
Evans is known for “Captain America: Civil War” (2016) and the Oscar-nominated features “Captain America: The Winter Solider” (2014) and “Marvel’s The Avengers” (2012). His film credits also include “The Iceman” (2013), “Puncture” (2011), “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (2010) and “Fantastic Four” (2005). Evans will next appear in “Gifted,” “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Jekyll.”
García Bernal’s credits include the Oscar-winning films “Babel” (2006) and “The Motorcycle Diaries” (2004) as well as the Oscar-nominated films “Y Tu Mamá También” (2001) and “Amores Perros” (2000). Additionally, he has appeared in “Neruda” (2016), “Desierto” (2016) and “Bad Education” (2004). His upcoming films include “Z” and the animated feature “Coco.”
Jackson earned an Oscar nomination for Actor in a Supporting Role for “Pulp Fiction” (1994). Notably, he also appeared in the Oscar-winning films “The Hateful Eight” (2015), “Django Unchained” (2012) and “Inglourious Basterds” (2009). Jackson will next appear in “Kong: Skull Island,” “The Hitman’s Bodyguard,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “The Incredibles 2” and “Inversion.”
Johansson appeared in the Oscar-winning features “Her” (2013), “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” (2008) and “Lost in Translation” (2003) as well as the Oscar-nominated films “Iron Man 2” (2010), “Match Point” (2005) and “Girl with a Pearl Earring” (2003). Her credits also include “Captain America: Civil War” (2016) and “Lucy” (2014). Johansson will next be seen in “Ghost in the Shell,” “Rock That Body” and “Avengers: Infinity War.“Continue reading →
TV Commercials To Increase Brand Awareness Will Air Concurrently On Networks Including Fox News, CNN and Bloomberg
The Independently-Owned, Ad-Free SVOD Service Created By The Discovery Channel Founder Now Offers Over 1,500 Titles In History, Science, Nature, And Technology
All Titles Are Available For Instant Access By Subscribers With Annual And Monthly Subscription Plans Available for SD, HD, and 4K Streaming
John Hendricks, the Founder of CuriosityStream and the Founder and Former Chairman of Discovery Communications, announced today that CuriosityStream, which is currently available in 196 countries worldwide, is launching its first print ad campaign with a theme of positioning the SVOD service as “the antidote to ‘reality’ TV.”
During the week of February 6, 2017, the print campaign will launch in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and other major newspapers. Concurrent with the print campaign, CuriosityStream has begun to test television commercials designed to increase brand awareness. With commercials currently being tested on networks such as CNN, Fox News, and Bloomberg, the TV campaign has been created around the theme “Long Live the Curious.”
Hendricks stated, “The economic realities of ad-supported linear television have understandably driven most cable networks toward ‘reality’ TV programming which appeals to the large audiences for amusement content. As a result, the curious 25% of television viewers have witnessed a dramatic loss of choice in high-qualityprograms in science, history, nature, and technology. CuriosityStream is now available worldwide with a mission to satisfy the demand of audiences who are eager to learn about the mysteries of civilization, recent advances in science, fascinating breakthroughs in technology, in-depth explorations of current events, and the wonders of nature.”Continue reading →
Every day all around the world, gender is making headlines, weaving its way into conversations big and small, in settings from the government to households, from schools to places of employment. The two-hour National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC (trailer here) approaches the topic of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture, all woven together by personal stories and experiences.
National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)
In GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC, premiering Monday, Feb. 6, at 9/8c, National Geographic set out to explore this evolving concept of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture. Produced by Katie Couric Media with National Geographic Studios and World of Wonder Productions, the special will also air on National Geographic around the globe in 171 countries and in 45 languages.
To extend the life of this important documentary beyond its Feb. 6 television broadcast, National Geographic and Picture Motion are partnering on the Gender Revolution Tour, allowing any high school, college, university or nonprofit to sign up to host a free screening and discussion. The tour will harness the momentum of the conversations happening around the globe and offer an opportunity to have an informed dialogue on one of the most complicated and evolving issues in the current zeitgeist. The Gender Revolution Tour is being managed by impact agency Picture Motion.
Requests to participate in the Gender Revolution Tour can be made by filling out the request form at http://bit.ly/NatGeoGenderRevolution. Screening hosts will be sent a DVD of the film and an extensive discussion guide (LINK), created by Journeys in Film, that provides additional resources on understanding gender.
At the time of this release, more than 100 universities, high schools, and non-profit groups have already scheduled screening events of the GENDER REVOLUTION leading up to and during the week of the film’s television premiere on National Geographic.
Katie Couric Media develops and produces content, programming, and documentaries for TV networks and digital distribution platforms, focusing on compelling issues the award-winning journalist and best-selling author has covered throughout her career. Katie Couric Media projects include the “Katie Couric” podcast from Earwolf, which features the host in candid, unscripted conversations about American life and politics; the National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION; and the upcoming movie “Flint” with Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, about the drinking water contamination in Flint, Michigan. Katie Couric is the executive producer of “Fed Up” (2014) and “Under the Gun” (2016), both documentaries that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
“From the very start, it was my hope that as many people as possible would be given the opportunity to see this film,” said Couric. “I am thrilled that along with National Geographic and Picture Motion we are going to be able to share GENDER REVOLUTION and our accompanying discussion guide with groups all over the country.”
“National Geographic is about exploration and discovery. Through the Gender Revolution Tour we want to encourage constructive conversations that will allow people to connect with each other over material that is science-based, investigative and in some cases deeply personal,” said Chris Albert, Executive Vice President, Global Communications for National Geographic. “We believe this is a timely and groundbreaking documentary, and are thrilled to make it available for free to any organization interested in expanding its knowledge on the gender discussion.”
“We are so thrilled, but not entirely surprised, to see GENDER REVOLUTION so embraced. From Catholic Colleges to LGBT advocacy groups, city-based Sororities to mid-west High Schools, Gender Studies programs to Trans Support Groups for Parents; there has been an outpour of support for a film like GENDER REVOLUTION,” said Christie Marchese, CEO and Founder, Picture Motion.
GENDER REVOLUTION is produced by Katie Couric Media, World of Wonder Productions and National Geographic Studios for National Geographic. For Katie Couric Media, executive producers are Katie Couric and Mitch Semel. For World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and Jeremy Simmons serve as executive producers. For National Geographic Studios, executive producers are Jeff Hasler and Brian Lovett. For National Geographic, Tim Pastore is president, original programming and production, and Michael J. Miller is executive producer.Continue reading →
Exhibit Spans Two-and-a-Half Decades of Work by Photographer and Filmmaker Lauren Greenfield And A Visual History of the Growing Obsession with Wealth That Has Come to Define a Generation
On April 8, 2017, the Annenberg Space for Photography will premiere GENERATION WEALTH by Lauren Greenfield, a multimedia exhibit by internationally acclaimed photographer and filmmaker Lauren Greenfield that investigates the global obsession with wealth over the last 25 years. Through a collection of 195 color-saturated prints, 42 riveting first-person interviews, multimedia projections and short films, Greenfield creates a revelatory cultural exhibition that documents the values of materialism, celebrity culture, social status and media saturation that have touched nearly every corner of the globe.
“There’s no hiding from the eye of a truly great photographer. Lauren Greenfield has given us nothing short of an x-ray of our ambitions and ideals. In all of contemporary photography, no one is better at exploring the tension between what we covet and who we really are—between the mad dash for affluence and the price we pay for that pursuit,” said Wallis Annenberg, Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO of the Annenberg Foundation. “To me, Lauren Greenfield is so much more than a groundbreaking artist; she’s a sociologist, a storyteller, an ironist and a keen humorist. This is a wonderful, timely, thought-provoking body of work and, now more than ever, it’s one we all need to see.”
The exhibit marks Greenfield’s third collaboration with the Annenberg Space for Photography and first solo exhibit. In March 2009, Greenfield was chosen to be a featured photographer in the venue’s inaugural exhibition, L8S ANG3LES, which explored the lives and rituals of the youth of Los Angeles. In May 2011, Greenfield was a featured photographer in the Beauty CULTure exhibit and was also commissioned by the Annenberg Foundation to direct a 30-minute documentary film about the subject, investigating our obsession with beauty and the influence of photographic representations of the beauty landscape.
The photographer’s latest collaboration, GENERATION WEALTH by Lauren Greenfield, is a multi-platform project that started in L.A. 25 years ago with Fast Forward, her exploration of the lives of young Angelenos growing up in a media-saturated society and their relationships with money and celebrity. In 2008, she revisited this evocative milieu with a short film, kids + money, which was selected by the Sundance Film Festival and broadcast on HBO. In 2012, she returned to Sundance with the opening night film The Queen of Versailles, which documents a Florida family’s efforts to build the largest house in America against the backdrop of the economic crisis. After a sensational opening at Sundance, the film was acquired by Magnolia Pictures and Greenfield was honored with Sundance’s Best Director Award. This work serves as the basis for many of the themes Greenfield has continued to explore throughout her career: consumerism, media influence, gender and self-esteem, and the pervasive quest for the American Dream. Since the success of The Queen of Versailles, Greenfield’s journey has taken her across America and beyond, revealing stories of students, single parents, and families overwhelmed by crushing debt yet determined to purchase luxury homes, cars and clothing. From Bel-Air to Monaco, Russia, and China, Greenfield exposes a pervasive aspirational gap between what we want and what we can afford and reveals a consumer appetite unprecedented in human history. Her #LikeAGirl video was seen by 214 million global viewers and garnered more than 100 awards.
Coinciding with the exhibition, Phaidon will publish the highly anticipated monograph Lauren Greenfield: Generation Wealth (May 15, 2017), an extraordinary visual history of rampant materialism and our growing obsession with wealth. Beginning April 8, the Annenberg Space for Photography will serve as the exclusive retailer of the book before its wide international release.
“GENERATION WEALTH documents a seismic shift in values and in the concept of the American Dream,” Greenfield explains. “Beginning in Los Angeles in the ’90s, I examined the ‘influence of affluence’ as media and globalization exported our notions of success around the world. The title of the project and some of the pictures could mislead the reader to think that this is a work about the one percent, about people who are wealthy. It is not. This work is about the aspiration for wealth and how that has become a driving force—and at the same time an increasingly unrealistic goal—for individuals from all classes of society. Bringing together 25 years of analog and digital photography, interviews, andfilmmaking, I could never have realized this mammoth undertaking without the incredible support and encouragement of Wallis Annenberg, who is an unparalleled champion of artists and with whom I have been grateful to collaborate with on three exhibitions. The story of GENERATION WEALTH began in Los Angeles and I am deeply honored to debut this work in my hometown.”
The Annenberg Space for Photography is a cultural destination dedicated to exhibiting both digital and print photography in an intimate environment. The space features state-of-the-art, high-definition digital technology as well as traditional prints by some of the world’s most renowned photographers and a selection of emerging photographic talents as well. The venue, an initiative of the Annenberg Foundation and its trustees, is the first solely photographic cultural destination in the Los Angeles area, and it creates a new paradigm in the world of photography.
H&M Hennes & Mauritz is pleased to announce the debut of their holiday short film “Come Together“, directed by Wes Anderson starring Adrien Brody. The story takes place on a train traveling through a snowy landscape where Brody plays the conductor. Watch the “Come Together” Holiday Film here or visit hm.com.
Academy-Award winning actor Adrian Brody in still from the H&M’s 2016 Holiday Film, “Come Together” directed by Wes Anderson.
“The winter train ride, under Wes Anderson’s direction, is the perfect setting for H&M’s holiday collection full of relaxed, wearable elegance. It’s about mixing the informal with a sense of occasion, capturing the holiday mood for both dressing up and getting cozy with loved ones.” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director.
Academy-Award winning actor Adrian Brody and the cast in still from the H&M’s 2016 Holiday Film, “Come Together” directed by Wes Anderson.
In the film, lone passengers are traveling to join their loved ones for the holidays, but winter weather conspires to way-lay them.
“This story may resonate more than ever at a time in the world where we could all do with giving a stranger a hug.” says actor Adrien Brody. | {
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In 2017, Abdul-Aliy A. Muhammad refused to take their HIV medication until Nurit Shein, the Executive Director of the Mazzoni Center, Philadelphia’s LGBT clinic, was fired. It was under her tenure, that people living with HIV had been abused by medical staff and let down by the organization as a whole via systemic bias. Muhammad’s demonstration was successful. Shein stepped down.
As a co-founder of the Black and Brown Workers Cooperative, Muhammad was already known within East Coast organizing circles, yete merged from the medication strike with even more followers. They used this larger platform to further draw attention to racial, gender, class and sexual based bias, and increase the general public’s awareness of the specifics of living with HIV in the present, often with a focus on desire, disclosure and surveillance. Two of their widely read essays are Desiring Intimacy After an HIV Diagnosis, in a Time More Naked Than Sexy on The Body, and Grindr of Gears: An App for the Surveillance State for The Gran Varones.
Muhammad’s writing talents do not end with essays and journalism. Last year, they also released a chapbook of poetry entitled, A Flower Left to Wilt. Around this time, they released a series of beautiful and erotic photographs of themselves taken by Ero Rose. While the images were a work of art on their own, they also reinforced a message: Muhammad is a sexy, sensitive, political person living with HIV who will not be ignored.
Similarly, Louie Ortiz-Forseca is a force to be reckoned with. Long a voice within AIDS activism, the last five years has seen Forseca focus his vision into a multi-prong project called The Gran Varones that, as the project tag line makes clear, works to amplify “Queer & Trans history and the stories of Latinx & Afro-Latinx Gay | Queer | Trans | Bisexual Men & Bois.” This is done a variety of ways, including a network of information-sharing via links on social media platforms, hosting conversations, and Forseca’s own writing about HIV and culture. Within his writing, Forseca blends a love and knowledge of media, and HIV history that rivals most of his contemporaries, with the deft skill of a culture worker who knows how to use nostalgia, affect, and shared knowledge to cultivate interest and understanding. Some highlights from his writing include That Time A Sitcom Beautifully Handled HIV Disclosure, about the under-watched show, Half and Half, and his running commentary on the TV series Pose.
Related to the connections that Forseca creates online is the work he does to build community offline. Forseca recently launched a YouTube show, Kikis with Louie, made in partnership with Advocates of Youth, which provides fresh perspectives and information to viewers around sexuality, race, gender and other pillars of contemporary lives. Similarly, Forseca has started the GV Fellowship, an opportunity for a new generation of activists to learn, be listened to, and make a positive impact. In looking at Forseca’s output, a driving force seems to be ensuring that the work of world-building continues and that the past is not forgotten.
With all of this in mind, it should come as no surprise that Muhammad and Forseca are friends, and support each other not only in their work but also supporting each other in life. In the conversation below, the pair begin by working through a terrible situation Muhammad went through, as Fonseca first listens, and then provides his own perspective. Together, the two end up discussing what it means to be queer, black, brown, and living with HIV, including. the role disclosure, families, and cultural pressure play in their lives.
While the conversation has historical content, it also dives into contemporary issues, including the HIV prevention medication Truvada known as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis); and the slogan U = U, created by the Prevention Access Campaign, which stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable, a short way of saying if a person living with HIV is on a treatment that reduces their viral load to a medically approved minimal amount, then the virus is no longer transmittable.
To the uninitiate in the world of HIV, the conversation may bring up a lot of questions, but for people long in the life, the conversation offers itself as a salve, a healing contribution to the ongoing global response to HIV that too often is not about the inner lives of people with HIV as this conversation is.
– Theodore (ted) Kerr
Abdul-Aliy A. Muhammad: We live in a world that doesn't know how to show up for HIV positive people, or for black people. I am reminded of it every time I am rejected for my status. Like the first time I disclosed to someone, in the middle of a date and saw their whole body language shift. Their response was “Oh, you know, you're a nice person. Thank you for that. We can be friends.” It was painful. It just adds to that constant feeling of being inadequate but also feeling criminalized and policed by my friends.
Louie Ortiz-Fonseca: Right, like you courted disaster.
AAAM: But here is the thing, it shouldn’t matter. But as we know, it does. Like that time I got to Chicago for this event, and this person said I could stay with them, and this person was—I will just say it—attractive. We were having a conversation all night on the couch, and I was under the impression that I was supposed to sleep in this person's room, and that they were going to sleep elsewhere. But it became clear at some point that something changed. Next thing I know, the person started disrobing me. It happened so fast. And then we had to have the disclosure conversation later, on the phone, when I was back in Philly. They became irate and started saying because I lied to a black person about my intentions, I was upholding white supremacy. And I am like, how am I a white supremacist because you are AIDSphobic? And it did not stop there. The word rape got used. I got really scared, now the chance of law enforcement getting involved is closer. But also, we had sex consensually.
LOF: Was that the end of it?
AAAM: No. Because then I reached out to a friend for support, they said something like, no, I can't support you. It was rape, I worked in the domestic violence movement, and I know what consent is. As a seronegative person to say something like that to me at that point… I mean, I was done…but the world wasn’t, because then the social sanctions happened. I was made to feel predatory, dangerous, and criminal. Mediation was brought up, and I was willing. Regardless of how I feel, if this person feels harmed, I am going to listen and be accountable. Meanwhile, they made a social media status about that night, and because people are so misinformed it comes down to me, as the poz person, left holding all the burden of responsibility, not just for my health, but for the health of the sexual partner and the community. What are your thoughts about that?
LOF: So, first, let’s name the obvious. That is a lot to go through. Thanks for sharing that with me. Second, I am going to respond, but let me get there. Okay?
AAAM: Of course.
LOF: Okay, so whenever there is some HIV news breakthrough or AIDS-related headline, I am almost always upset by how supposed AIDS-aware people react. I see in their reposting and comments that they still frame HIV as a one-sided thing. And you know what, it is so often people with access to advanced social justice language who frame their misinformation and judgments as intersectionality. HIV exposes the limit to so many people’s analysis around race, class, gender.
AAAM: People have it on their minds that we are predators who don’t need or get to have intimacy, and that HIV is something we invited in just by living our life. Like, before we are human, we are a walking vector, a risk to public safety, and yet hardly any of these social justice warriors are stopping to question who is this public they are speaking of? I remember working at Mazzoni, Philadelphia’s LGBT health center, and a lot of people working in the testing program would say things about people who didn't disclose to their sexual partners, and it became clear to me that the staff did not understand the very real fears of rejection and retribution facing people living with HIV, regardless of how non-transmittable the virus is. The staff just failed to see people with HIV as fully human, and so how incredibly strange it is to have to disclose anything to a stranger or a loved one, let alone something like HIV. I am not trying to go medical before we hook up.
LOF: I remember in the late nineties when a friend of mine who seroconverted came to me to tell me that he wanted to get tested for an STI. This was years before I found out my own status, and in my head I thought, bitch, you didn't learn. I, like so many other people, thought that HIV was a lesson that you had to learn. You know what I mean?
AAAM: I feel like it comes down to it, people feel that HIV is something you have to make amends for, or, maybe, it is proof that you need to make amends for something, a sign you have harmed yourself and everyone around you.
LOF: I compare it to recovery, as there's no room for slipping. Once you name your status (be it poz, sober, or both), you have to be inspirational. That is how you make amends. And I think as queer men we just accept this, like, we just accept that once we disclose it is supposed to be our life’s mission to END AIDS, with no real consideration what it means to END it, and what an END means for the living. I feel this especially for black and brown folks. We are supposed to just be working for redemption in order to find love after great failure.
AAAM: Right! Like you are supposed to be handing out condoms and lube—ALL THE TIME! It is such a fucked up feeling. Immediately after testing positive, my first two thoughts were: I need to see a doctor, and I need to give back to the community. Like, why the fuck was I socialized to think that way? Any other person when trauma happens to them are given space, provided a chance to step back and begin to recover.
LOF: But not black and brown people with HIV. Nope, we have to volunteer, share our story, be of service to the AIDS service organizations. And this way of being works for a while because you make a community, but there is a limit to how much service I can do after the shock of diagnosis is over. The fatigue kicks in.
But listen, I also need to say this: disclosure matters. And I am talking about how we reflect and show up for each other. Over the years, I have seen how when you know more people living with HIV, it changes your relationship to the epidemic. Think about it, less people get dragged on social media for a positive status now than they did ten years ago. Disclosure is not a perfect arrangement, because it still puts the responsibility of ending stigma and the virus on us, but there is some power in seeing others and not feeling alone.
AAAM: Yes, and within that work we all have different ways of making it happen. Like, for example, there are some people who really take on the HIV STOPS WITH ME rhetoric, or the people living with HIV who are really into being on the PrEP squad or talking about U = U all the time.
LOF: True, true, which brings up something I want to talk about: maybe a sign of progress is that HIV-positive folks can be problematic now, too. You know what I mean? I see so many people with the virus who cultivate, what I call, a third status, which is, they are positive but feel the need to declare as much as they can that they are undetectable. They think it makes them attractive.
AAAM: That's interesting, the idea of the third status. Like, a 21st-century way of creating a division between the “good people” with HIV, and “the bad,” creating a divide among the already oppressed, without taking into consideration health access and the difference in people’s ability to take and respond to treatment. But, I mean, now that you mention it, we see this kind of division happening when it comes to HIV criminalization laws. Some folks are trying to modernize the laws so they reflect the U = U science, so instead of criminalizing all people with HIV it just criminalizes people who are not undetectable, and to me that is bad. We don’t need the laws modernized, we need them abolished.
But wait, can we switch gears? I have a question for you that I will preface a bit. So, as you remember, in 2017, I refused to take my meds until Mazzoni Center CEO/Executive Director Nurit Shein stepped down after years of allowing abuse of people happen under her watch. And #humble brag, it worked, and I resumed my medication. What I have realized since then, is that it was that activism that put my positive HIV status on people’s radar. And then I started to get a lot of hits and messages on social media, much of it intense. You, of course, are the founder of Gran Varones, a cross platform and network that amplifies trans and queer pop culture history and the stories of latinx and afro-latinx gay|queer|trans|bisexual men and bois, and so I am wondering that since in the work you are also public about your status, what are some of the weirdest questions you have gotten about HIV?
LOF: I have gotten random and misinformed questions, but never downright malicious comments or anything. The thing that happened to me was, my status was disclosed in a tweet, by me. I was still trying to figure out what Twitter was, and I put my status in the last tweet of a thread assuming it would be buried. I didn’t know that the tweet alone could be retweeted.
AAAM: But you had shared your status before, right?
LOF: Yes, but because people read the way they do, it was glanced over. And I was okay with that, because what I had not told my family.
AAAM: Because you were afraid?
LOF: No, I just didn't want to be a burden, I didn't know how to be that vulnerable. Of course, once my family found out, they were supportive, as much as they could. I was worrying about nothing, but not really, because you never know.
AAAM: I had the same experience. I didn’t want to tell my mother. The first person I told was my younger sister, Badriyah. We were watching BET, and something came up about HIV. My body got hot. I knew this was an opportunity, so I was like, Badriyah, I have to tell you something: I am HIV positive. I think she cried. We had a moment. And then I told her that I didn't want her to tell my mother because my mother was dealing with cancer at the time and, as you know, later passed from it. So, I had similar thoughts about being a burden, in part because since I was a gay teen, people always told me to be careful, referring to the streets in general, but a lot of warning from older people about HIV.
LOF: Oh, I can relate. When I was in the hospital with pneumonia, in the ICU, my mom called me out of the blue. She didn’t know I was in the hospital. She said, God told me to call you. What's going on down there? And let me tell you, I was too weak to walk but not too weak to keep up a facade. I wanted to protect her, and I didn’t want her rushing up from Florida to see me. That, for me, would have confirmed that I was dying soon, and I was not ready. But eventually I did tell my aunt Janet. She was like my best friend, and she was dealing with cancer. I was in DC, and she had just found out she was stage four. She was not okay, and so I said, Janet, I'm gonna tell you something, and I need you not to cry. I'm only telling you because a lot of what you're feeling I have felt, too… I just wanted to make the world less shitty for her. We navigated her being sick and me disclosing. And I'm glad that I told her because she is really important to me, and she is someone connected to my mother. So, I didn’t tell her as a form of burden, but to share.
AAAM: You have a beautiful way of telling stories, like all the ones about your brother.
LOF: I think you relate to those stories because your relationship with your brother is very similar to mine with Nicholas, one filled with frustration, resentment, but an awareness growing up that we are all we had. So, maybe you understand how telling stories about him has been about letting him off the hook. I know that he didn't create all the systems that have impacted him. You know what I mean? Like, for years I blamed him and my mother. I would see Nicholas making decisions that I wouldn't have made, and I almost let it get me depressed. Like, sometimes I was literally killing myself over the fact I couldn’t change him, or anyone. I had to learn that you can love someone, but you can't make decisions for them. And your frustration about what they're doing does nothing to shift how they move in the world. It just makes you more embittered. Which is hard because there was a lot of projection going on at the time. I was making decisions I wanted him to be making. But here is the thing, in the end, we ended up in the same place, we are both living with HIV, making our lives work. So, it is confusing. I thought by making different choices, I could avoid everything I wanted me and my brother to be saved from. But it didn’t work. And you know why, because I was still doing all the same shit he and everyone else was doing, but I was doing it in secret.
AAAM: I hear you, and it makes sense to me.
LOF: And looking back, I get it. I understand why I had these narratives of about my brother, and about me, and these ideas about how we were going to beat the odds or whatever. It was due to the bad ways we are taught history. We get all these stories about great people, but no context, no web of relationships, no nuance. And so I thought we could control our fates through individual choices. But that is not how it works. Our lives are interconnected. You know what I mean?
AAAM: Yes, I do, and this kind of big picture to look at things that I am talking about. With your social media presence, and Gran Varones, you provide the fuller picture when you are talking about your family, or HIV history, or even when you talk about celebrities (people forget that pop culture matters, that it provides context.). You provide a place for me to feel myself, and to see myself reflected back at me.
LOF: Thank you for saying that, and you are naming something vital to me. Like, I love the work of Joseph Beam and Essex Hemphill, and I love hearing their stories, and telling their stories as interconnected. I love the way they exist as history together, it is amazing, and I love that they were friends and were creative together. It is a good reminder, people have friends, and witnesses, and lovers.
AAAM: Yah, I cannot get behind that historical trend of isolating people. Like, we know Bayard Rustin was not alone being gay in those streets, or James Baldwin. And we know that even when people do isolate parts of themselves to protect their loved ones, their loved ones are part of the story. I am thinking about all the House Ball mothers who dealt with HIV in silence because they didn't want to be out about their status, fearing their children, who were also poz, would leave. These mothers, even in their silence, were in community.
LOF: I mean, this brings me back to thinking about my mother, and I just have to say, it's not that I was protecting her, I don't think I sat down and said, let me not tell my mother about my HIV status because I want to protect her. It was more like breathing; I was socialized not to be a problem, and rather, to be of service. The message growing up was: if we are needed in the world, then the world won't take us out so quickly. I think that is a story within the existence of blackness. Like we need to be more special than the next person. You know what I mean? It’s always like, let me do this, because if I die now without doing that thing for you, what makes me different from any other motherfucker that died on the block?
AAAM: Ooh, wow. I want to talk about that. Did you ever read The Calendar of Loss: Race, Sexuality, and Mourning in the Early Era of AIDS by Dagmawi Woubshet? There is a great quote from the book:
The recurrent practice of enumerating the dead in mass in social media seems to conform to the logics of accumulation that structure racial capitalism, in which the quantified abstraction of black and trans deaths reveals the calculated value of black and trans lives through states’ grammar of deficit and debt.
For me, what Woubshet is saying, is that the counting of the dead, if we are not careful, can fall in line with capitalism. Like, in capitalism we need numbers to track, count, and validate. And so, his example of trans women is powerful because the media right now only reports about their lives in terms of compounded loss. It gets to a point where the reporting does not seem like it is about bringing humanity to the women, or casting light on what we could be doing to save lives, but instead each report seems to validate the last one, as if accumulation is justification. But for me, I am like, should we only care because there was a high loss of people? As if one death isn’t enough.
I think this can be similar to concerns around self-worth. We get trapped into thinking we need to matter in order to be cared for, and let’s be honest, the bar to mattering is unstable and ruled by market forces. How do we know when we matter? Is there is a number? Like, today was the 34th anniversary of the MOVE bombing. And I was just thinking, do I need the number 34 to remember that black radicals are targets? Do I need enough people on Facebook to share a story about MOVE in order to be reminded? People can write eloquently about what happened, but is it real for them? Because for me, that moment in time is my life right now, and I can’t chart that, or quantify for anyone to understand.
LOF: Right, like does HIV only matter because millions of people have died with the virus? Or—going back to HIV-positive influencers—do we only pay attention because they have a blue mark by their name? All of this makes me think about the ACT UP days, and how they were fighting against the pharmaceutical companies and then pharmaceutical companies said, “okay, well help us—join our team.” And some people did, and that caused fracturing within the movement. Now some folks were co-opted; they were on the side of pharmaceutical companies feeling important because they were being flown to talk about how their activism got pharmaceutical companies to lower their prices. Meanwhile, other people were not included in that conversation, in part, because they didn’t have a story to market, or they didn’t want to curate a narrative for consumption. And these same dynamics are alive today. I see it online, the race to be the AIDS poster child. And I’m like, okay, if that is your brand.
AAAM: I was part of a social media fellowship, and it was really shocking to me how people were being pushed into becoming sponsored activists. It should not have been surprising since I worked in the nonprofit world of Philly, but it was strange to see how people were hoping for Gilead to sponsor them.
LOF: I get it. But I have no patience when a sponsored activist comes for me, my work, or someone I care about.
AAAM: Agreed. Let's do one more swerve and then we have to wrap this up.
AAAM: So, here is the thing, we are two people who have gone through a lot, and try to give a lot. We have figured out that we can be of service not because we have to be, but because we can and we want to be, and we can do it on our own terms, in ways that are for us and by us.
LOF: Yes. And I think we understand that all of this work within the field of HIV response is more than just meds. Like, we have not even really spoken about medication, I think because we both come from this place where we understand we need to have access to healthcare that involves choice and getting what we need before we lose more t-cells.
AAAM: We need healthcare so I am not just waiting until I find myself in the emergency room, because now I am not thinking about money because I am almost dying.
LOF: And I think for us, we are interested in where does that healthcare start? I see the work you do, and I think for you maybe it starts in the street…
AAAM: I mean, it starts where people are. So, yah, the street, if that is what is needed. But also in the home, and online. I think most of my work, or the times I am most happy being of service is when I am just talking to people, and we are showing up for each other. Sometimes that is connecting people to services, or organizing a demo, or writing an article, but honestly, sometimes it is just this: talking about everything.
LOF: My work is also where people can access it. I think meeting in person is great, but also social media is big for me.
AAAM: Online is important.
LOF: We work through so much within digital spaces when we can really show up for each other, and share information we might not get.
AAAM: Okay, now you are starting a whole new conversation about access, geography, and so much more, BUT WE HAVE TO GO TO BED!
LOF: Ok. I love you very much.
AAAM: And I love you. But one last thing, did you see Paula Abdul almost slice that woman’s head off with a fedora during that dance number?
LOF: That is how you enter a room!
AAAM: And how to wrap up a conversation.
Louie A. Ortiz-Fonseca is an HIV Positive Queer AfroBoricua award-winning HIV activist and artist. For over twenty years, he has worked with influential, nationally recognized agencies and has been an integral part of HIV prevention and youth development programming in Philadelphia. He is the Director of LGBTQ Health & Rights at Advocates for Youth, where he works in partnership with young people living with HIV to combat stigma, and hosts a YouTube series for LGBTQ youth, Kikis with Louie. Outside of the organization, Louie is the creator of The Gran Varones, a digital storytelling project that amplifies queer history and is a Ford Public Voices Fellow.
Abdul-Aliy A. Muhammad is a black queer HIV+ non-binary jawn from Philadelphia, PA. They’re a cofounder of the Black and Brown Workers Cooperative, which focuses on workers’ rights and racial justice using an intersectional framework. Recently they released a poetry project, A Flower Left To Wilt, a work interested in intimacy, Blackness, bodily autonomy, and HIV. When they’re not organizing, they write for various outlets about state surveillance, impacts of displacement, and institutional white supremacy. | {
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- Beauty Secrets
- Season 1
- Episode 143
Saweetie Shares Her Energy-Boosting Skin Care Routine—And Strategy for Perfect Brows
Filmed at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills
Released on 02/21/2020
[upbeat pop music]
Okay, okay, okay,
sorry I'm just a little goofy sometimes.
Hey what's up ya'll,
it's the icy girl Saweetie.
Today I'm chilling with Vogue's Beauty Secrets
and today I'm gonna walk you through
my skincare routine
and I know I like to do the natural makeup look
I wear a lot of makeup to get that look.
So make sure you stay tuned.
So the first thing I do is, of course,
wash my face 'cause who wants to
put makeup on a dirty face.
That's a strike.
So before I start I'm gonna run some warm water
on this towel because I don't want to get my lashes wet.
So I got my warm water,
here to open up my pores.
And I got my rag to make sure
that none of this gets on my lashes.
And for my favorite cleanser
I have Tatcha and I really love it because
it's a deep cleanse but it's super light
and it makes your fin, your fin.
Your skin feel really smooth.
When I was like in fifth grade
I had a really bad puberty outbreak
but I was living with my dad and you know
men don't really know what to do with like skincare
so my dad would just tell me to get like a hot rag
and put it on my face. [giggling]
So then when I went to go visit my mom
she was like horrified and was like,
What's going on with your skin?
And immediately put me onto like skincare products.
I don't know what they were but my face,
you know, cleared up immediately.
It kinda goes without saying, you know,
if you know better you do better.
But since I didn't know I was washing my face
with hot rags and like, body soap.
There are certain face masks that I like to do
before I put on my makeup because
it just gives your girl that extra glow.
So for my face mask I like to use
the Tatcha Radiance Mask.
Ooh, look at that.
Ladies make sure you rinse,
especially for my girls with big pores,
with cold water.
You do not want to leave, you know,
your pores open for the makeup to seep in
because that creates pimples.
So make sure you wash with cold water.
Okay so now that my mask is off
for girls who have skin like me, super oily,
you know sometimes there's a little bit of dirt left
and I like to use Ole Henriksen for the toner.
So make sure you're moving quick not answering a,
you know a Facetime or shaking your coffee
because you want to put your lotion on
immediately after your toner.
And what I do is I put eye cream on by Tatcha.
It just gives me that extra boost
and for me I barely sleep
'cause I'm working so much,
so it really helps my bags out.
I put it right here.
And then I put a little bit on my eyelid.
So I get this Truth Serum by Ole Henriksen,
it smells amazing.
And a lot actually comes out
so you don't want to do too many pumps.
And I just rub my hands together.
So we gone let that dry
and you can follow it up with
the Ole Henriksen C-Rush Brightening Gel Creme.
Now, okay, so I've showed this before
and a lot of people came for me because they thought
I was trying to lighten my skin.
No, I like my melanin.
This is for like dark spots.
So for example, right here I had a really nasty pimple
and that shit was so ugly,
it was really coming for my life
and it just was not cute.
However, I had this and it brightened up that dark spot.
Not my face but the dark spot.
Because if you're like me
you like to pop your pimples.
It's like, I just can't have pimples on my face
and I have to pop them.
So sometimes, you know,
the consequence is a dark spot
and I have to clean it up.
Oh my gosh.
And what I really love about the serum
it like, burns your skin.
Y'all ready for this beat.
So after the moisturizer's you know, locked in,
let's put some primer on
to make sure that it stays in place.
I like to use the YSL primer.
It's like some real icy girl primer,
you know it's icy, it's shiny and all that good stuff.
And then make sure you also put it on your eyebrows
to make sure that that is set as well.
I like to use the Anastastia Dipbrow, the granite color,
with the Anastasia brush.
Before I start, this is the Urban Decay All Night.
I know you're supposed to finish it with it
but I actually, you know,
show my girl Anastasia a little bit of love
and I spray it in there and it makes it a little dewy.
I like wet-looking eyebrows, so,
instead of using water this actually
just works a little better.
I don't know why, just.
Put a little bit on there.
So I'm kinda like forming the shape right now,
And then I take the brush and I brush 'em out.
I find that when I do that it makes the eyebrows
a lot less harsh.
So for my concealer brow I like to use tan sand by Tarte.
Put it here
and just dab it
and then I kind of just like create a shape roughly.
This is not the end result
but just want to make sure that the product is there.
And I do that just to make sure the product
is as close as the eyebrow is possible,
but I would not recommend trying to shape
your eyebrow with like a brush this big.
And that's when I come in with the little babies.
You know, something real small
and real easy so you get that concise shape.
So that's how you get a Sweetie brow, y'all.
Makeup is something that I've always been interested in.
My auntie was like a top makeup artist in the Bay Area.
So happy I had her in my life 'cause if I didn't,
I don't think I'd know how to put on makeup.
So for the foundation part.
Boom, right here.
The consistency is very,
I wouldn't say it's light and I wouldn't say it's thick,
I would say it's kind of in the middle
and it spreads super good.
And I use my Tarte brush.
I used to think this was all hype but this
honestly and truly smooths out the foundation.
It just like, it's like butter.
Now for my favorite part,
concealer helps me out so much.
Okay so after I'm done doing that,
I like to get the Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist.
I try to cover up my lashes.
Okay call me crazy but I like to use two concealers,
I don't know why it's just my preference.
It just really highlights underneath my eyes
and I use the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal.
It's super light and I like to apply it
on top of whatever concealer I'm using.
This is what it looks like.
Oh my gosh this looks beautiful.
If I'm going to you know a quick little meeting,
no press, my makeup look takes me 15 to 20 minutes.
But if I'm going to, you know, a little party,
if I'm gonna go see my boo,
if I'm trying to be a real beat,
you know it can take me up to, you know, two hours
'cause I don't know how to contour so sometimes
I mess up on my contour and I have to like,
re-highlight and re- you know, shape
and that actually takes me awhile.
The concealer is my first favorite part
but my second favorite part is powder.
And we gone, you know, go to my girl
Laura Mercier for the powder.
Ain't nobody touching her with this powder,
I'm sorry, yo.
It's very loose,
it has like,
you know I've tried several powders,
some of them have a yellow tint.
This has, it's like pure white.
It just does magic to my skin so I get this.
And this is a side note,
I used to wet my beauty blenders.
I don't no more because
when I'm applying loose powder to my skin
and my beauty blender is wet it can
kind of like make your makeup patchy.
You don't want that to happen
'cause then you really got to start over.
So make sure your beauty blender is dry and not wet.
Phew, alright y'all.
So as you can see I bake for a little bit.
I have kind of like a,
it's real loose.
It's nothing too stiff, nothing too soft
but something firm to you know, wipe the excess off.
And for me like,
I don't like getting powder in my hair
'cause it puts a tint into my hair
so make sure your hair is pulled back.
So now your skin is real, just, porcelain-y.
Oh my gosh, not a pore in sight.
Okay so at this point my face is probably
about two shades above my body which is fine.
It's okay, ladies,
'cause we're about to contour and we're about to bronze
and that's what, you know, Laura does.
She kinda just brightens real quick
but we gone bring it down real quick.
And we're gonna do that with my boo,
Fenty Beauty Island Ting.
So this is where, it just really depends on your preference
'cause I use two types of contour:
one for my forehead and one for my cheeks.
You know a quick little warm.
Feeling cute, y'all.
Okay so I'm like really scared to contour my nose
because I just, just never know what might happen.
Any you know when it's with powder
and not a concealer or foundation,
you know a light little brush goes a long way.
With the excess of the Laura Mercier, you know,
just bring that in real quick
and give it a little bit of definition.
What I do is I get the same powder that I used
for my contour and I warm my eyes up
It's real quick, it's real simple, ladies.
Put that in there.
And the dope thing about, you know,
the concealer underneath your eyebrows,
when you put this to contrast with it,
it automatically like highlights that brow bone.
Cute, real simple, you know if you feeling froggy
and you wanna leap with some shimmer.
Too Faced, the Chocolate Bar.
It smells so delicious.
I get the caramel, this is the caramel,
and you know it's real cute, real fast, real light.
You just kind of brush it on there,
just for a quick little shimmer.
Boom, your eyes are done like in two minutes.
So I'm gonna contour one more time
and that's with the Translucent Medium B.
But I'm only gonna do my cheekbones.
Put a little bit on my brush.
Please ladies, do not put this directly
onto your skin 'cause you will have a patch.
And then you'll have to, you know,
rework whatever you just messed up.
I contour all this right here.
So you might wanna just test it
on your hand really quick and then you just brush it.
Do not put this on your forehead.
I don't know if it's like the skull [laughing]
or if it's just the tightness of your forehead
but like putting this on your forehead
gives it like a highlight up there
and you don't want to highlight your forehead.
Are y'all still there?
'Cause you know I'm still here, boo,
and I'm looking real good now.
If you want to make your life simple
I found a hack and shout out to them
because this is for your body.
They said that you could use it for your face
but I've never seen anybody use this for they face.
I get the Cover FX, the bronze or the yellow.
I use the bronze for like the Winter Fall time,
and the yellow one for Spring and Summer.
Please ladies be careful with this because
this is some good quality, like this, goes a long way.
Pour some of it onto your skin,
like right there, that's all you need.
You mix it a little bit, get on your finger.
On my cheekbone.
And what I really love about this is that
for a highlighter to really pop you have to put like,
you have to mix water or coconut oil,
which I've done before and it works, too,
with your highlighter.
But for this, this is just real quick
and it's real simple, boo, you know.
The rules are simple, don't make it complicated.
I hate highlighters that are like gray,
or it doesn't look like a highlighter it looks like
a piece of makeup just wiped across your cheek.
You've worked too hard to get this beat face,
don't mess it up with your highlighter.
Wow, let's get into this glow.
Pink blush, I kinda stay away from it
because it just makes me look a little too cartoon-y.
For my skin type I like to use the Taj Mahal by Nars.
And this is really quick
and it's really fast and simple.
And please ladies, like your highlighters,
do not apply too much.
That's too much.
See all that?
This is literally like a hint.
You want that, everything is,
you know, just a hint.
Have them wondering,
have them thinking it's, you know, just natural.
So you get it, smile, boom.
I don't know if you can really see it
but it makes the slightest difference.
You literally just, boop.
So I like to overdraw my bottom lip.
And this is Hoover by the way from Mac.
I love Hoover and I love Cork
'cause it kinda like goes with the color of my lip.
So you wanna overdraw the bottom lip
and then for the top lip I just outline it
because I don't like that overdramatic look
on my top lip.
Real light, real slight
because I'm about to do a clear gloss.
So then I take my finger and I kinda,
the clean finger,
so you don't want foundation on it,
and I kind of blend it out
just so that the liner looks like lip and not like liner.
So this I my lip gloss, super exclusive,
hasn't been released yet because, you know,
I'm just perfecting the formula.
But this one, the clear gloss, is ready to go.
I wanted to make a lip gloss because
ever since I was a little girl
I've just been in love with it.
Like my lip gloss collection is crazy.
But we're not done yet.
Lastly, I never knew this made a difference,
but it literally just, it sets your makeup
and it makes your highlighter pop.
It's called All Night
and it holds your makeup so long.
Typically I have a fan.
If not, I just use my hands.
Alright ladies, I like to call this
a natural beat with hella makeup.
And this can be used, this can literally,
you can go anywhere with this.
You can go on a date, you can go on the red carpet,
this is just, it's a all for one.
It's like a one size fits all.
You know, I've done got these beauty secrets
off of trial and errors.
So hopefully it works for y'all and until next time.
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As I navigate this tumultuous show called life, some of my childhood naïveté has begun to wear off. I’ve seen… things. Heard things. Been told… things. Things about who I am, things about what’s expected of me, what the world, what this society thinks is appropriate for me.
Because I’m a woman.
It all starts so innocently too, you know. Being told in high school to cover up my shoulders and my collarbone. Boys in my grade being surprised that I drove a stick-shift for my first car. I was told I was too loud and I talked too much. As I grew older, it became common practice for my girl friends and I to pretend we were gay so that creepy men would leave us alone in the bars. We’d avoid indulging at strange places because we’d heard the horror stories of drunken rape. We stopped wearing cute outfits out because the catcalls made us beyond uncomfortable. Always being polite and having a nice smile, to avoid causing a scene. More subtly than that, as well, when I entered the work place. I was figuratively pushed aside because I was a young woman who surely didn’t know what she was talking about. Male coworkers would talk over me with their loud and boisterous voices. Inside, I was confident and self-assured, but on the outside, I was mild-mannered, polite, agreeable, easy to work with… submissive.
Without anyone trying, I’d grown into a submissive female.
I didn’t actually notice until I broke out of a long relationship I was in – six years that should’ve ended at two or three – entered the early stages of my new relationship. I had some submissive nervous ticks that I’d developed from being yelled at, trodden on, and peer-pressured. New Boy helped restore me back to my original sense of self. My return to Martial Arts helped as well. I grew louder and more boisterous, my confidence shone through again. Even my parents noticed.
As I noticed my own growth and change, I realized that there were some parts of me that still remained more “submissive” – such as a tendency to “not cause trouble” or be polite and nod and smile even when I was afraid or uncomfortable. I realized that that’s not me or my fault or part of my personality – that it was something that society had corrupted inside me.
And that I wasn’t alone.
An alarming amount of women feel the exact same way. Even the most confident, beautiful, self-assured women. There will be times when their ‘creep radar’ gets the better of them. When they nod and laugh and die a little inside because some guy just grabbed their ass in the bar, then held up his hands and brushed it off with a “just a joke, honey.” Because we don’t want to make a scene. When they – like I have – pretend to be gay or to have a boyfriend just so they can enjoy their damned drink at the bar in peace.
To all those women, I present to you:
Le Portraits d’une Femme Fatale.
I am passionate about spreading the word about strong women; about how to be one, how to empower each other. I want to participate and continue the uprising of humanism, of women and men treating each other like proper human beings. I want to inspire the young people to make their voices heard, that they will not be perpetuating the cycle of this… “rape culture” we live in. And the old people too. Basically everyone. I want to encourage people to change their language, their mindset; stop telling boys to “man up” or “don’t be girly”, as if being a female is a terrible weakness. Stop dismissing people’s feeling because it was “just a joke” – you don’t get to decide if what you said hurt someone or not. For people to stop thinking they are entitled to anyone’s time or body. For people to cease thinking that physical strength and stature is the height of supremacy.
This dream is the catalyst for this project. I shall be interviewing a series of women – martial artists – and asking them to comment on strength, society, advice for the young men and women coming up in this generation. They will comment on family, on martial arts, on stereotypes, on high school drama (I plan to get some teens perspective). Through their interviews, I hope to breed inspiration and confidence, I hope to open the doors to conversation, I hope to change the language, to change the mindset.
After all, who better to interview than a bunch of badass ladies?
I hope for the women reading these interviews to know that they are not alone. I hope for the men reading these to have insight on what it’s like to be a woman, and they can use their strong voices for positive change. I hope too, for the non-binary folks out there – my LGBT readers – to be assured in knowing they aren’t alone either, that they do not need to succumb to gender stereotypes and binaries.
“Woman” does not equate weakness.
“Man” does not equate strength.
We are warriors. We are Femme Fatales. And we will be heard. | {
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Can a German version of a book be more politically correct than the original? For International Translation Day on September 30, here are some of the challenges faced by translators updating classics of literature.
It's a debate that's revived every time an expurgated version of a classic of literature is published: Should offensive terms be removed from books or should they be left in?
One famous example in Germany came with a new edition of Astrid Lindgen's Pippi Longstocking books. In Pippi in the South Seas, originally published in 1948, the father of the main character was described as a "Negro King"; the 2009 new German translation of the cult classic changed that to "South Sea King." Incidentally, the original English translation of the book from 1950 had already avoided the use of the N-word by describing him as a "Cannibal King" — which, while avoiding the derogatory term, obviously evoked another form of stereotype.
The politically incorrect Huckleberry Finn
In 2011, a new English edition of Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn came out that got rid of the word "nigger" — which appears 219 times in the original version of the book published in 1884. While the reasons to do so are understandable, that "betrays a great anti-racist novel in the process," wrote Twain expert Peter Messent in The Guardian at the time.
Andreas Nohl came to a similar conclusion; he kept "Nigger Jim" in his 2010 German translation of the book. The translator, who has since specialized in new translations of classic works, from Bram Stoker to Robert Louis Stevenson and from Rudyard Kipling to Jack London, points out that he always includes footnotes in his books and that offensive terms such as "nigger" "are clearly defined as racist," Nohl told DW.
And, as Nohl points out, Huckleberry Finn was already politically incorrect at the time of its original publication. Still, despite the provocative use of racial slurs, academics widely view Twain's work as an anti-racist novel.
Gone with the Wind: A monument of cultural history revisited
That's not a label generally applied to the work Nohl is now translating with his partner Liat Himmelheber: Gone with the Wind. Margaret Mitchell's bestselling and Pulitzer Prize-winning book, first published in 1936, is set in the southern US state of Georgia during the American Civil War (1861–1865) and the Reconstruction Era (1865–1877).
Gone with the Wind, which was also adapted into an Oscar-winning film (top picture), remains extremely popular to this day; a 2014 poll found it to be the second favorite book of US readers, just behind the Bible. But several critics have noted the novel's nostalgic portrayal of slavery. Just like Confederate monuments are coming down in the south of the US, debates as to how this monument of pop culture should be approached today have been ongoing for the past few years.
In Nohl's interpretation, Gone with the Wind is not an anti-racist book, but it's not a racist one either: "It describes a period of racism — and that's completely different." He definitely views the work as one that deserves a renewed translation in German: "It is without a doubt one of the most influential books of international entertainment literature to this day." His goal is to update the language in its German translation to properly reflect that fact. In this case, the N-word used in the 1937 translation is replaced with "blacks" or "slaves."
But in the end, Nohl says, the historical context in which such books have been written cannot be changed. "We are not George Orwell's language police — we don't rewrite the whole world anew." If that were the case, he adds, there wouldn't be much left in a new politically correct translation of the Bible either.
The non-fiction book by James Bladwin is considered one of the most influential works about race relations in the US
Dealing with the N-word
Translator Miriam Mandelkow is retranslating one of the most powerful voices of African-American literature: James Baldwin. Among the titles that have already been published is a new German version of his debut novel from 1953, Go Tell It on the Mountain, and The Fire Next Time, his influential 1963 essays on the role of race and religion in US history.
Unlike the first translation from the 1960s, Mandelkow avoided using the N-word in German, except when Baldwin himself gives a political meaning to the term, when he refers to it as an insult used by whites, since "Schwarze" (Black) does not provide all the connotations of "Negro," she points out.
She explains thoroughly her approach in an afterword in the 2019 book: "Any present-day translation confronted with the N-word cannot avoid translator's comments," she told DW.
Despite her reflected approach, the translator was criticized at a public event in Berlin for even mentioning the N-word while discussing how she tackled it in her translations.
Such strong reactions incited Mandelkow and fellow translator Ingo Herzke to organize a discussion at the upcoming Frankfurt Book Fair, titled "N-word and Gender Gap: How politically correct are translations?," which will take place at the fair on October 17.
The problem with 'race'
Some terms might not sound offensive in English, but are considered problematic in German. "Race" is one of them. "In Germany we tend to distrust the term, since the experiences we've made with these [racial] divisions were 100% negative," says Ingo Herzke.
In September 2019, German scientists from the University of Jena called for the term "race" to no longer be used, since there is no biological basis for such categorizations.
Mandelkow, who has also translated Ta-Nehisi Coates' 2015 bestselling work of non-fiction, Between the World and Me, which also deals with race relations in the US, therefore says that the German term "Rasse" cannot simply serve as a translation without being italicized, hyphenated or discussed through a footnote.
Adopting English terms instead
Perhaps contradicting this idea, Mithu Sanyal recently published an article in The Guardian titled "Suddenly, it's OK to be German and to talk about race." The cultural scientist is another one of the participants of the upcoming discussion in Frankfurt. In her article, she mentions that "the German term for people of color is: people of color. We really haven't got a language for it."
And when one uses "people of color" in Germany, Sanyal told DW, it's a concept that cannot translate 1:1 to describe the country's own post-war experience of discrimination, which targeted so-called guest workers from Turkey — but also from Poland or Italy.
"The debates about racisms in Germany are still in their infancy compared to the debates in the US and the English-language world," says Sanyal. She argues that Germany needs more debates on the topic and that the public needs to participate in these discussions.
Gender politics found in translation
Another major issue for German translators is how to properly translate terms designing groups of people. If the English version of this text can talk about "activists" without having to think twice about who's included, the German translator needs to decide how this word will appear to include people of all genders.
There are currently different options to do so, either by feminizing the term that would otherwise normally be written in the masculine form, by capitalizing the "I" in the feminine form (AktivistInnen), adding an underscore (Aktivist_innen), or an asterisk (Aktivist*innen) to include non-binary people.
"This is something that is stirring the literature scene in Germany," says Ingo Herzke. He mentions that whenever the association of translators VdÜ — which recently adopted the asterisk in its official title — discusses this topic, "it provokes very intense, almost physical reactions."
"People can understand that something like this is used in official forms for democratic-social reasons, but it's unthinkable for them in literary texts because they feel it's ugly," Herzke adds.
But obviously, Herzke points out, "for all those questions, there are no clear answers; this is a process of mutual understanding that is constantly evolving."
"I'm a friend of gray zones and not of rules or bans," says Herzke. After all, he adds, this is literature — you can't start applying industrial standards to it. | {
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I was in Paris for a couple of days this week but I just missed the new opening from the Dover Street Market clan. I’m back again on Friday though so I’m planning to pop in to Dover Street Parfums Market, the new outpost that focuses solely on beauty. I feel it’s a good time for an entirely new beauty concept store and who better to orchestrate it than Rei and Adrian, with the help of Sarah Andelman (of Colette fame)?
“I want to find the equivalents of Simone Rocha and Craig Green in the beauty business,” says Dover Street Market CEO Adrian Joffe in WWD (pay wall). Disrupting traditional beauty retail with a discovery-based layout that rejects the usual glass cabinets and
supermodel super-actress ad campaigns, the Marais-located store will sell mass, niche and ultra niche fragrance brands accompanied by skincare, hair care, make-up, grooming and wellness. The unpredictable high-low mix is all part of the DSM fashion DNA and should translate just as seamlessly to beauty.
Also key: a non-binary approach, and a skew to organic and ‘natural’ brands as per the current consumer mood. Thom Browne’s new perfume range is an exclusive, while Gucci’s The Alchemist’s Garden collection and Byredo are obvious crowd pleasers. Lesser known are AER, a German botanical fragrance line and Ormaie, a Parisian fragrance brand inspired by art, nature and creativity. The bottles are made by a sustainable glassmaker with sculptural wooden tops carved from beech sourced from renewable forests.
As is the Dover Street Market way, the store will host guest brands and pop-up ‘activations’, including – currently showing – an exhibition of wigs by fashion show darling, Julien d’Ys.
Westman Atelier, the make-up line by Gucci Westman is likely to pull in a few punters and I love that there’s a MAC Cosmetics corner, showing some love to the 90s originals. Refillable luxury lipstick brand La Bouche Rouge is also present, with an exclusive black lipstick created especially for Dover Street Parfums Market. On the skincare front, Francisco Costa’s Costa Brazil line gets the ultimate seal of approval – Joffe says he uses its Kaya anti-ageing oil every day.
WORDS: Disneyrollergirl / Navaz Batliwalla
IMAGES: Dover Street Parfums Market and WWD
NOTE: Some posts use affiliate links and PR samples. Please read my privacy and cookies policy here. | {
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When I wake Saturday morning, the power has gone out. Outside, Fredericton is blustery and grim, threatening rain, and smoke hangs over the neighbourhood of the Charlotte Street Arts Center from a nearby construction fire; as I turn onto Charlotte street, firefighters are still extinguishing the gutted, half-finished apartment building.
Thankfully, the CSAC has power, and is warm, dry, and well-lit. I make my way to Connexion Artist-Run Center’s office and gallery, where Indigo Poirier of Wangled Teb is setting up a workshop on Ableton Live. Suspended in the middle of the room is an exhibit of miniature-scale couture creations titled Weight of Power, by local fashion designer Tracy Austin: lush, dark, gowns ornamented with petals, thorns, and branches. Workshop attendees are seated in a row of chairs beneath the exhibit, making it seem like they are haunted by a brace of regal fairies floating in midair.
With their computer screen projected on the wall, Indigo begins demonstrating various Ableton functions and plugins that they use while performing. While most of the technical details go over my head, it is fascinating getting to watch Indigo reveal the workings of several of their Wangled Teb sets, including one or two pieces I have previously seen in performance. Most of the workshop participants are other Flourish performers, including the duo behind VERSA Visuals, and folk singer Kylie Fox. The workshop feels collaborative and open, and Indigo takes various questions and suggestions from the attendees, showing them how to create particular effects they request, demonstrating how to map tracks and effects onto electronic consoles, and explaining how to free up processing speed for more complicated pieces.
For the second half of the workshop, Indigo invites the participants to bring out their own computers and instruments to experiment with Ableton. Though part of me wants to stay and listen, when the group breaks for coffee, I thank Indigo, and make my way downtown.
It is stormy and raining by the time I reach Bellwether, a local vintage and art consignment shop. Inside, Erin Muir and Corey Bonnevie of Wrote have begun playing. Muir’s soft soprano voice and muted, finger picked guitar ballads are accompanied by the sound of clothes hangers faintly clicking as people search through racks of clothing from Flourish pop-up Ok My Dear Vintage. Seated on a vintage wood-and-floral-velvet bench, with her boots neatly removed and tucked behind her, Muir sings about watching houseplants wither, and lupin-planting as grief work. Surrounded by local artwork and macrame plant hangers, Wrote’s music feels at home in the small, intimate setting of Bellwether, each song’s soft, organic tones a refuge from the rain.
The next performer is Kylie Fox, arriving from the Ableton workshop. Her set begins with a cover of Joni MItchell’s “Case of you,” executed so tenderly that I am convinced the song was written precisely for her voice. Backed by acoustic guitar, Fox’s voice is bold and ethereal, with an almost operatic vibrato at its peaks and sweet, delicate tones when she sings softly. Her down to earth humour runs through the storytelling between songs, as well as in the songs themselves. Fox’s song “Avocado” is dedicated to a friend who, while pregnant, discovered one week that her baby was the size of an avocado. “People ask if it was planned and you say– bitch –under your breath,” sings Fox, peppering what could easily have been a sentimental topic with enough sarcasm, reality, and empathy to make it unmistakably genuine.
While heading back to the CSAC, I am caught in a sudden downpour, and end up taking shelter from the rain in the newly opened library of NBCCD, Fredericton’s local craft college. This weekend, the library is hosting Flourish’s annual zine and craft fair. Local and visiting artists are set up to sell their wares: comics and postcards by Patrick Allaby and Laura K. Watson, zines by Al Cusack and Olivia Thompson, hand-sewn scrunchies by Sackville-based designer Jeska Grue, issues of Fredericton-based literary Qwerty Magazine, and more.
Even as I am delighted by the art on display, something begins to nag at me: I am the only brown person in the room. I can’t say this is unusual in the Maritimes, and I’m generally desensitized to being the only person of colour around, but for whatever reason, the presence of several white people with waist-length dreads at the zine fair makes me suddenly hyper-aware of the room’s overwhelming whiteness. It’s hardly shocking, but at the same time, it is. Saying anything about this feels like a risk. I could too easily become a villain, the stereotypical angry brown femme meant to be laughed at and dismissed. I know any anger or discomfort I feel is loneliness, the reminder of how isolated I am from communities that understand this feeling, too.
Scanning my festival program, I realize there are only two visible people of colour among the hundred or so performers featured all weekend. One of the two, Wabanaki fashion designer Mariah Sockabasin, is scheduled to showcase some of her designs at the same time as the event I was headed to before being interrupted by the rain–an open jam session for women, trans, two-spirit, and non-binary youth hosted by Girls+ Rock Camp at the CSAC.
Being torn between the two events is a visceral reminder of the way in which QTBIPOC are made to choose between our communities, forced to abandon our ethnic communities to feel included for our genders or sexualities, or forced to closet ourselves in order to belong with our racialized kin. Even on such a small scale–me, alone, with all my privilege to choose between attending one amazing art event or another–it hurts to defer part of your identity.
I arrive rain-soaked and out of breath at the Girls+ Rock Camp session. Members of various bands performing at Flourish, including Motherhood’s Penelope Stevens, songwriter Jane Blanchard, and Indigo Poirier are guiding about a dozen young people as they play on several drum kits, keyboards, synth tables, and guitars scattered around the CSAC auditorium. A constant groove emerges from the various rhythm stations, and a song begins to take shape as I watch. Two young girls wearing pastel hijabs join Indigo at the mic, and sing about everyone becoming mermaids. Other kids around the room chime in gradually, singing and laughing along, swapping instruments and making new friends.
After stopping to warm up with a coffee from Milda’s Pizza and More, I make my way back through the rain to Gallery 78, a historic, turreted house on the South bank of the Wolastoq river. Featuring several exhibits by local artists, today, the gallery’s main room hosts a pop-up installation by classical/songwriting duo Pallmer and Montreal-based electronic artist Charles Harding.
On the floor, Harding has taped off a large square with arrows pointing through it, accompanied by the words “Step Study.” Pallmer cellist Emily Kennedy and violist Mark Kleyn are set up at opposite corners of the square, and play from scored composed by Harding: though the scores contain standard lines of musical notation, between each line, there are sections denoted by colourful, abstract blobs and waves. The performance begins with Pallmer playing an airy, minimalistic duet, but the twist is revealed when Harding walks through the outlined square, and invites the audience to do the same. As soon as anyone walks into the square in the center of the room, Pallmer’s playing becomes a musical interpretation mimicking the person’s steps.
Tiptoeing through the square incurs soft, plucked harmonics. Stomping results in loud, heavy chords. When three women dance into the square together, holding hands and spinning, the music becomes a raucous waltz that follows their every movement. Pallmer’s improvisations echo the speed, weight, and feel of the audience’s interventions as people become bolder and begin to experiment: one man removes his shoes and slides across the floor; a Flourish volunteer gets down on the floor and log-rolls through the square; some people try squeaking their rain-wet shoes against the hardwood to test the effect; and at one point, people try throwing coats and keys into the ring, incurring a variety of sustained harmonics and chords.
Throughout the performance, the art gallery becomes a dance floor and soundpad, where the audience is invited to collaborate in the music, using their bodies as instruments. Step Study is an invitation to play along with the performers, not just in the musical sense, but in the childlike, imaginative realm. As the piece comes to a close, the final audience intervention that modifies the score is when Erin Goodine (of Fredericton band Terre Wa) pulls up a corner of the tape delineating the square soundpad, breaking the barrier between the scored and improvised music for a moment before gently putting it back. After enthusiastic applause, Harding explains that his goal is to make performance interactive. The performances of his piece at Flourish are also data-gathering expeditions, as Harding intends to compose a future piece based on the step and sound patterns recorded during the festival. As everyone leaves Gallery 78, we leave as co-conspirators and collaborators in this future composition.
Contribution by Rebecca Salazar (she/her)
Rebecca Salazar is the author of the knife you need to justify the wound (Rahila’s Ghost) and Guzzle (Anstruther Press). Recent publications include poetry and non-fiction in Briarpatch, Minola Review, and The Puritan. Rebecca is currently a poetry editor for The Fiddlehead and Plenitude magazines, and a PhD candidate at UNB. | {
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Hey, how are you? You know I really must say that it is great to be able to connect with you this way. I sense it and I appreciate it. I’m digging the vibe that we’ve got going. Thanks for sharing the flow.
Can I show you something?
Look at this number.
It’s a big number isn’t it? Do you know what it represents?
It represents something that’s all around you everyday. It represents something that’s surrounding you and flowing through you and between you. It’s true at home, it’s true at work, it’s true in your car. And you know what, that number is getting bigger all the time. Every year the atmosphere gets more densely packed with it. What is it?
There’s so much, but we ignore it. We don’t pay it any mind. It just is. We can’t see it, it’s just too tiny. Do you know what it is? If you ask people if they believe in this thing they will almost always say yes. In fact I know of no-one in my world that would deny its existence. We know about these things and we accept them. They have become our fractal of truth and our truths are aligned about them. They exist and they are real. What is it I am talking about?
You thought I was going to say tachyons didn’t you? And you’d be right.
But you’d be wrong. I mean sure they are tachyons, because tachyons are everywhere, but this thing I’m talking about specifically is the humble byte.
In 2013 we sent 18 exabytes of data wireless, through the ether around the planet. Here, have a read:
The Mobile Network in 2013
Global mobile data traffic grew 81 percent in 2013. Global mobile data traffic reached 1.5 exabytes per month at the end of 2013, up from 820 petabytes per month at the end of 2012.
Last year’s mobile data traffic was nearly 18 times the size of the entire global Internet in 2000. One exabyte of traffic traversed the global Internet in 2000, and in 2013 mobile networks carried nearly 18 exabytes of traffic.
The full article from Cisco can be found here.
You accept these bytes into your phone. You send these bytes from your phone. They float around you and through you everywhere you go. You know they are there and you use them to live your life, to connect, to communicate. There is no question in your mind of their existence.
Did you notice how fast these things are multiplying by? In 2013 there were 81% more data bytes floating around you and through you in a rush to get to the device they’ve been sent or called to. If the growth rate stays the same that means by 2017 there will be around 200 exabytes of traffic whizzing around and through us everywhere we go. To illustrate, check out this image. It’s an artists impression of satellites currently orbiting Earth. All of them are pinging back data bytes in some form or another.
So let me ask the obvious question. If you believe that the data byte is real, without question, are you willing to believe that the tachyon byte is real as well?
If we are electric as I keep saying, then is it so much of a leap of logic to then think of tachyons as data bytes of sorts? They are a bit small to visualize I grant you, but if we are so willing to believe in the invisible wi-fi byte, why not the invisible tachyon byte?
Is it because that when you search your soul of souls, your heart of hearts, you don’t really believe that we are electrical? Well don’t worry about that, live in the Question remember. If you live in the Question you can just let it be. Regard it as one of the many fractals of truth in this amazing universe. Imagine if…
So are we good so far? Still with me? You are so awesome, thank you.
OK so this is the key element for today that I’d like you to consider, data bytes are everywhere, data bytes are actually tachyons when we strip them back to their bare essence.
However, data bytes (ie tachyons) can be coded with information in two different ways, did you realize that?
Remember as I’ve always said, we live in a Duality, so there are always two elements to things, the same goes for data. It is the clarification that there are two ways of coding data into the tachyon that makes me call it the Duality of Data.
This information is nothing new, it’s always been around. However as technological advancement takes us in leaps & bounds into the future we just happen to be interacting with one of the two types of data much more regularly then ever before. That big number at the top of the post proves it.
So what are those two data types I hear you ask?
Well one of them is represented by the humble data byte that passes through you on the way to your phone as you receive that text message. This data type is quite obviously known as binary data. That makes sense doesn’t it? The category of binary data is real and we believe in it as I mentioned earlier.
For the sake of simplicity for the moment I shall call the other type of data, non-binary. It’s a bit vague I know, but stick around, I’ll explain it further.
So we have 2 data types, binary and non-binary.
I guess I could call them Data Type a) & b). Or maybe Team blue & Team red. Any two names would be fine I guess. But for my purposes I like to think of these two types of data as the Square and the Circle.
Why? Because binary (square) data is much more structured. It follows strict rules of coding and transmission. It travels in straight lines if you like, just like the edges of a square. Just like this representation of 64 bit data.
Non-binary (circle) data is different, it has far less structure, it flows differently, like water it avoids straight lines. That’s why I call it circle data. Think about it a bit like this image a a crop circle. The data flows in a circular spiral motion.
So the take out for today.
We believe in the wi-fi transmitted, binary coded (square) data byte, there is no question about our belief in that. In fact if you’ve downloaded this via wi-fi the binary coded tachyons that went into making up this post probably passed through you on the way to your device before you read this.
If you’re like me you interact with the humble binary coded (square) data byte everyday through texts, videos, email, photo’s, music, blogs, books, apps…..this list grows everyday. It’s pretty hard to deny their existence and it’s getting harder and harder to be somewhere that they are not.
Binary data is very structured. The information is coded within the specific rules of binary, zero’s and one’s, on and off, black and white. That is why I call the binary coded byte square data.
But what about the non-binary data bytes? What about circle data? What is that? How do those data bytes work? Are they just as real as the binary type? Can we use them in our technology? How can an understanding of non-binary data enhance our lives just as our understanding of binary data has done?
I am humbled once more by your support. Thank you for reading. | {
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It all depends on what your circumstance is. It is not required by legislation but lenders will most probably demand it should they’re financing your motor vehicle. In case you have a home loan or personal loan, the lender might call for you to acquire collision insurance coverage. For many people financing a vehicle either new or second hand, this protection is necessary.
Collision protection pays the total value of your vehicle in case you’re involved with an accident. The insurance provider may address the entire cost of repairs but it surely will not be in a position to replace your automobile if the car is harmed past repair service or stolen. You might also must pay some personalized dollars to switch the vehicle. This kind of insurance plan may possibly demand you to be aware of the phrases ahead of you purchase vehicle insurance policies. It’s also wise to have an understanding of the deductible, which can be independent from the collision deductible.
There are several elements to take into account when selecting on a vehicle insurance plan Monthly bill. Sure states require bare minimum levels of Residence and also Uninsured motor vehicle insurance policies. It addresses the difference between your charges plus the coverage restrictions of the at-fault motorist. Other states don’t involve underinsured driver protection. Here are some handy strategies that may help you locate the most effective insurance policy plan to fulfill your preferences. The following tips are supposed to help you slender your search and save cash.
To be sure your protection from accidents in addition to residence damages, you may have to have legal responsibility insurance coverage on your automobile coverage. In case you are identified for being at fault in a mishap, this coverage will go over the cost of settlement or defense. There are a number of choices accessible to pick from for insurance policies. It is important that you already know the distinctions among them to prevent highly-priced unanticipated charges. Condition Farm provides an average amount for different types of protection. A medium coverage level could confirm being much more advantageous.
In the vast majority of states, it’s necessary to own liability insurance policies inside your policy, which handles damages towards the assets of Other individuals in addition to injuries to Other individuals. This type of insurance plan will likely cover you in case you trigger a collision with other drivers. This can be the regular coverage in the majority of states and encouraged For a lot of motorists globally. It’s important to realize that the bounds for liability insurance coverage in each condition are distinct. Your liability limit will ascertain exactly how much coverage you will require.
In nearly every point out in the vast majority of states, driving with no legal responsibility insurance is in opposition to the legislation. Legal responsibility coverage will include fix fees in the event you bring about harm to assets. Your auto insurance plan coverage won’t be capable to deal with harm to your vehicle. There could exist distinct demands during the condition you reside in for liability protection. It’s important that you choose to confirm your coverage plan prior to purchasing it. Also, you require property insurance policy to safeguard your money security. You are able to stay clear of large insurance charges in the occasion during the celebration of a mishap.
So that you can protect you in case of a crash the plan you choose to invest in ought to include coverage for property problems. This protection handles any problems you need to do to the car of An additional and contains repairs. Also, it handles the removal of debris subsequent an accident. A few figures are commonly used to cover house. This covers bodily damage insurance policy for each person and home destruction protection per specific. Greater boundaries supply higher protection. If you’ll find restrictions or exclusions, be sure you evaluate the plan.
Big apple law permits you to declare uninsured driver protection if A further driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance policy. Such a protection is obtainable in the event that the motive force who induced the collision is not really identifiable along with the incident was a hit-and–operate. The Insurance plan Regulation SS 5217 states which the uninsured motorist insurance policy should be purchased in almost any Bodily collision, however courts have interpreted this provision to only apply in a Actual physical collision.
In selected states, the uninsured motorist and underinsured coverage can be obtained as an option. In other states, having said that The 2 are required to be obtained. Both of those of these coverages will be able to be blended to offer supplemental security while in the function of professional medical bills as well as other bills. Uninsured motorist coverage will pay for repairs If your motorist is not insured. It’s not at all mandatory, but it might be advantageous to possess the minimum legal responsibility protection.
When you haven’t viewed as auto insurance policies, it’s a great way to save money although also remaining eco-friendly. Minimize your insurance plan premiums by purchasing a car with protection options like airbags and antilock brakes. Other protection options, for instance anti-theft alarms/daytime functioning lights, can assist you get reductions. Payment anxieties might be eliminated if you pay your top quality each and every year in the total amount of money. About fifty percent of insurance firms present a discount in this way of paying.
Your policy could possibly be eligible for savings if it’s been in existence for quite a few years. The discounts supplied vary according to how long you are actually Together with the plan. Nevertheless there are various corporations that offer bargains for loyal consumers. If you buy your policy inside seven days within your renewal date, you may well be suitable for an extra 15 per cent discount. These special discounts are not the only real benefits furnished by sure firms. Some companies also provide discount rates to workers in specified professions. Academics, As an example, get 10% off of their rates by Liberty Mutual. Geico presents 15% price cut for navy staff.
Are you presently a young driver trying to find low-cost automobile insurance quotes. There are a variety of belongings you can do to save money when getting automobile insurance plan. The following tips can save you countless bucks annually in your auto insurance coverage. Additionally, you will manage to get the ideal costs. Continue reading To learn more. You will be glad for it.
Younger drivers can reduce their automobile coverage expenses by using safer driving, driving a lot less and permitting the insurance company observe their driving habits. You can even minimize your rates by shopping all around for automobile coverage. You should Go searching for by far the most reasonably priced auto insurance policy rates for yourself. This is not hard Using the no-Value online estimate Resource for comparison. Moreover, many autos is usually place alongside one another and made available a discount with the similar coverage service provider.
In case you are searching for a coverage, You should definitely Examine numerous estimates prior to selecting the a person with the highest selling price and the best high-quality. Additionally it is attainable to uncover an insurance company who will do the job together with you. This lets you adjust the policy as your driving practices transform. Make sure to have a look at insurance policies that offer comparable kinds of protection during the sense that the deductibles and boundaries could generate a an unlimited variance. A superb plan ought to incorporate adequate protection for motorists who’re younger in order to avoid economic destroy.
Discounts for no claims on auto coverage is a great way in your case to save cash on the rates. Inquire your insurance company how they implement the lower price. Depending upon the insurer the discount can range concerning thirty and sixty five% in the primary calendar year as much as sixty five% in 5 years. Keep in mind that if you have a collision, You will be chargeable for two a long time of no statements reward. Many promises could also do away with the no-claims bonus. It’s imperative to notify your insurance company instantly Should you be wounded in a collision. If this is not completed, subsequent promises may be denied.
Insurance plan businesses supply no-claim lower price safety for around PS25. You may make a predetermined number of statements for every annum without worrying about the expense of your insurance coverage soaring. It is possible to include it to an existing policy When you’ve got no-statements reward. Also, you can transfer your no-claims low cost to a different insurance company if you wish. Switching suppliers every year is a great way to protect the no-statements lower price.
Should you be in search of very low-Charge car insurance plan, escalating your deductibles will aid in acquiring lessen costs. Raise your deductibles to avoid wasting 15%-thirty% on the Value, dependant on selected estimates. The savings you can obtain will rely on your driving practices plus your driving history as well as the laws of one’s state. Your yearly top quality might be diminished by increasing your deductibles to as many as 40%
Even though increasing your deductible might not be the ideal choice for every single particular person, it could make a change in saving you 1000s of dollars Ultimately. Experts propose that you just save at the least two months of dwelling charges, irrespective of simply how much you select to lift your deductible. It can even lessen the cost of insurance policy you pay back every month. It may even preserve you an important sum of money must you at any time need to file an coverage claim.
For the people with lousy credit, it is achievable to acquire a plan by means of an insurance provider that is regional. This will help you save cash each month on the cost of your monthly insurance plan and likewise offer great consumer assist and Distinctive discounts. It is achievable to find the coverage in all 50 states. It’s attainable to also Review premiums across states to ascertain essentially the most reasonably priced price. It is important to understand that it’s possible you’ll demand constructing your credit score rating more than the course of. Specified motorists with bad credit histories will pay a lot more than $400 per annum.
Erie Insurance policies features reasonably priced car insurance policies. The corporation is situated in Pennsylvania and is particularly operating because. Erie delivers auto insurance policy, as In combination with assets and daily life insurance. Erie gives coverage only in specific states. There over thirteen,000 independent brokers all through The usa. You’ll be able to select in between an agent or an insurance company that is certainly regional depending on your necessities. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you simply read all wonderful print before you make a choice.
It is best to Assess vehicle coverage prices if you are a higher danger driver. Discover the most suitable coverage for your requirements. Look into the degree of coverage that is offered in your area to find out if it is possible to get more cost-effective charges. It could be extra economical to order far more protection if there is much less chance. It truly is all depending on your prerequisites. There are several possibilities.
If You are looking for the cheapest motor vehicle coverage estimates for high-threat drivers, Then you really are in luck. With only a couple of clicks, you should be able to locate just one. World-wide-web can provide you with quite a few estimates and protection for under standard insurance plan for cars. The online world will make signing as much as insurance policy quick. It truly is all You should do is complete an on-line application and pay your high quality. You are going to receive a card from your insurer as evidence of one’s insurance plan protection. The moment that is accomplished, you can begin driving using your insurance plan plan.
A lot of insurance policies organizations view you being a large-danger driver If you have a poor credit history score. As you are not as likely in order to file an coverage claim than somebody with great credit history, this is because of The reality that: Credit scores are a significant Consider the way insurance policies firms look at you. A DUI/DWI might result in your quality to increase by as high as 65 per cent. This quantities to your $677 improve on a six month plan. Insurance plan firms also consider your driving report. A DUI/DWI could raise your insurance policies top quality by approximately $174. In addition the expense of a rushing ticket could improve your premium by forty five%..
A DUI conviction on the report could assistance you end up picking quite possibly the most affordable insurance provider. There are a number of alternatives, which includes American Family, Progressive, State Farm and American Family members. These companies give lower rates to high-danger drivers. They are going to also bear in mind your credit history score in analyzing the premium. Coverage providers consider these facets when deciding just how much you spend for your personal plan. You can get your insurance policy fees better When you’ve got poor credit rating. Before making an financial commitment, it is important to assess your credit rating score.
There are a variety of elements to consider into account When picking quite possibly the most affordable automobile insurance policies for motorists who will be younger. Your marital position and the age of Your sons or daughters are substantial in the expense of your car insurance. Your top quality could also rely on the sort of vehicle that you just push. It is really dearer to insure higher-general performance automobiles when compared to lower-efficiency vehicles. It is crucial to select a automobile with a lot of safety features to receive the lowest auto coverage.
A great way to reduced the price of auto insurance coverage for young motorists is to cut back the amount of number of coverage you involve. Insurance policy companies ordinarily give savings for students and motorists who’re in education. For anyone who is wounded in a mishap even so, slicing your coverage may end up in massive out-of-pocket fees. This is often why you should very carefully weigh the advantages and select the most worth.
It is difficult for teens to seek out very affordable car insurance coverage. A coverage for any sixteen-year old driver is dearer than just one for an adult. Having said that, you can reduce the Expense by including a teenager on to an existing coverage. The typical Charge is elevated by $1,461 per year, but is usually much less expensive than paying for an insurance plan coverage By itself. If you’re a young driver, you might qualify for special discounts together with other Advantages.
The expense of vehicle insurance policies may differ In keeping with who you happen to be. This could lead to Those people with superior risk wants the least reasonably priced insurance policy. Insurance plan corporations consider into consideration various facets when deciding whether or not they must insure you. These contain your driving file and demographics along with your In general hazard profile. Five vital features to recollect when comparing insurance offers. Understand that lower rates Never demand you to sacrifice high quality.
To begin with, consider your zip code. Persons living in parts with superior criminal offense fees will encounter more expensive premiums. Insurance policies firms just take the volume of site visitors into consideration. Insurance policy organizations also take into account traffic volume. This will affect the expense of your insurance policy. Make sure to Look at your regular monthly premiums to be able to keep away from spending extra. If you have several insurance policies within the exact same insurance company, you could be in the position to avail a discount for several insurance policies.
Whilst credit history scores might not be lawfully employed by coverage firms in each individual condition nevertheless, they have to be deemed when comparing vehicle policy fees. Hawaii drivers with bad credit score might be billed 168% more than related clean drivers. Massachusetts superior-danger drivers make thirty per cent more than standard motorists. Fees will rise for drivers who will be new resulting from DUI, speeding tickets and inadequate credit. It is vital to take a look at numerous estimates prior to deciding to make your mind up.
The cost of coverage is enormously impacted by where you reside. If you live in a place with an excessive amount of criminal offense and significant prices of mishaps, you can expect to be charged extra for insurance plan offers. The price of insurance can be afflicted by things like site visitors quantity or accident history. Insurance policy organizations also consider into account a driver’s driving report in deciding the price they need to demand for their coverage. Commonly, motorists having a bad driving heritage are billed far more above those who have a superb driving report.
As the expense of wellbeing treatment carries on to rise, vehicle insurance policies has amplified by 50-one hundred pc in the last five years. Uninsured and PIP coverage are obligatory for motorists. These necessities are increased than typical. New York, not like other states, involves motorists have PIP and legal responsibility insurance. These optional coverages boost the price of insurance policy and may elevate the expense of insurance policies. Also, it is necessary to concentrate on their coverage boundaries considering the fact that some insurance policies give you a decreased minimal degree of protection than other policies.
New Yorkers shell out 2.eight p.c on their own vehicle insurance. This is certainly slightly reduced when compared to the nationwide normal of two.40 per cent. The standard person pays slightly below Those people of their 30s and 40s. The premiums are better for anyone aged 70and about than Individuals with a lot less driving encounter. Couples pays a little additional, but nonetheless decreased than solitary men and women.
In combination with reduce rates, motorists can also enroll in defensive driving courses. The courses operate for around 3 hrs and contain discussion about driver Perspective and traffic guidelines. They instruct defensive driving which can help to lower coverage costs. They may also assistance to boost their driving techniques by completing a category, which could reduced the expense of a car or truck insurance quotation. Nevertheless the Insurance plan Details Institute is in a position To help you in pinpointing the precise protection you demand.
Although fuel price ranges may perhaps vary throughout states, car or truck coverage prices in other states might be A great deal kind of when compared to the prices within your own private point out. The proportion of drivers that are uninsured, point out insurance rules and the rate for theft may well all play a role During this. Bad temperature may also affect the cost of insurance policy. The next desk illustrates the expense of car or truck insurance in each state. These estimates had been dependant on an Assessment from the insurance coverage needs of every state.
Missouri is the only point out which gives car insurance plan coverage with entire coverage for less than the expense of Louisiana. Missouri charges just $944 over Louisiana. Furthermore, it has the lowest cost for every capita and it is fifth in price of residing. Texas motorists commit 33% in their earnings on car insurance. This is probably going on account of superior numbers of drivers who’re not insured in Texas and several lawsuits.
The typical countrywide expense of total coverage automobile insurance coverage in The usa is $one,771 for each annum. The condition which has the most costly insurance Value is Louisiana, by using a top quality of $two,839, a 19% raise from 2020. Maine’s insurance policies common premium is $858. This is because no-fault states have greater insurance plan premiums. It is feasible that the cost of vehicle coverage in A further condition is drastically costlier than listed here. You need to think about several variables, such as the legislation of the condition concerning insurance plan.
Are you presently in quest of higher-chance driver insurance policies in your area? Superior-possibility drivers often pay back bigger rates for insurance plan than normal drivers. This is due to they have a tendency to acquire extra incidents or violations on their information. The condition may limit some time for this to get 3 many years, 5 several years, or perhaps extended. In some cases, special discounts may be supplied if you are taking a driver basic safety teaching study course.
Whilst the nationwide averages for prime chance driver motor vehicle coverage around me are rather regular, you will find that rates change wildly from condition to condition. There are many organizations that adapt their premiums in accordance with the condition They may be in. You may discover one insurance service provider that gives the most thorough safety at a decreased Charge even if your point out is not provided. The most affordable significant-possibility driver car or truck insurance coverage in close proximity to me arises from Point out Farm, which has a long-standing standing for providing fantastic services.
You’ll find large-hazard driver car or truck insurance policies near to me by typing as part of your ZIP code and comparing estimates. Even though high-danger coverage on automobiles may be priced in another way in different states, many significant insurers will give the coverage. Nationwide Common along with other superior-risk companies offer you coverage protection. For those who have excellent grades, a low risk automobile, and can easily obtain an insurance policy coverage that is certainly lessen you could possibly get 1.
Comparing car insurance policies companies has a lot of Advantages. We’ll talk about A very powerful factors, like scores and reductions in addition to customer support. It is crucial to pick the greatest plan for your basic safety. So choose time and energy to go through the insurance policies of various organizations. By the point you end reading this publish, you will have a clear notion of which insurer delivers the very best protection at one of the most economical Expense. Here are several suggestions to assist you pick the ideal just one.
You are able to examine estimates from distinctive firms to find out the most competitive car or truck insurance coverage charge. Insurance policy fees are determined by several factors. It is necessary To judge your certain needs and Look at quotes from numerous organizations. It is dearer to insure sports vehicles than typical cars. Your driving file and your home of home can affect on the prices you pay out. It is possible to compare rates and establish the lowest Expense Along with the identical coverage plus the similar deductibles through the use of a comparison Software.
The price of insurance policy is subject to sizeable variations. It truly is thus essential to master the way in which Each individual plan operates. The key components that impact the expense of insurance policies consist of driving historical past, age, as well as credit rating background. Review the benefits provided by Each individual corporation, which include accident forgiveness or roadside aid. This might look daunting even so It is really attainable to compare estimates from unique companies and select the most fitted one. Here are a few tips that can assist you get heading.
When it comes to the comparison of vehicle insurance plan firms it is usually recommended to start with the J.D. The J.D. Energy score of car or truck insurance coverage providers. They are really dependant on the results of purchaser fulfillment surveys that take the form of surveys that survey hundreds of customers of vehicle insurance policy nationwide. These scores are transformed into numerical scores which reflect the standard purchaser pleasure rating. These rankings are revealed once a every year. The gold medals are awarded to the best-rated insurance firms for every class. How does one find out if the insurance policy organizations you are looking at are highly regarded?
There are a number of solutions to assess the monetary power of automobile insurance policy corporations. First of all, you can Examine the AM Most effective insurance company rating, which provides economical stability scores for motor vehicle insurance plan organizations. Prior to choosing the suitable coverage, it is vital to know When the insurance provider is steady. This is a crucial facet of customer support. Prior to deciding to make a selection, be sure you go through all of the assessments and high-quality facts.
There are many discount rates made available from insurance corporations. The discount rates made available from vehicle insurance plan firms aren’t available to all buyers. So, It truly is important to Examine the website to see regardless of whether you qualify for that bargains. A great deal of organizations present many bargains. It is possible to question your agent For anyone who is capable to receive any discounts. The procedure is often rapid and normally takes much less that one hour. Below are a few samples of attainable car insurance policy savings.
Legacy Discount rates: Motorists who will be new can be qualified for a discount if they order their plan in the mother and father. The price reduction ordinarily is about 10%. This low cost can be employed to thank your dad and mom through the years for his or her help of your organization. It could also allow you to lower your expenses on coverage for your automobile. Many insurance businesses provide savings for older motorists. It can be worthy of on the lookout into regardless of whether your small business provides such bargains. Additionally it is possible to look at the procedures made available from American Family, Farmers, or USAA.
There are many organizations that regularly deliver Extraordinary customer treatment from the insurance field. Esurance, one example is, gained a rating of four from five while in the J.D. Customer care Electrical power Rankings are a fantastic indicator that the mum or dad company has higher requirements. The corporation scored much better than its rivals in all other parts, such as pricing and coverage alternatives in addition to its World-wide-web existence and connect with centre Reps. (personalized company)
While coverage is the most important issue for individuals when purchasing coverage for their car, the customer service is equally critical. Customers want to be able to Make contact with their insurers speedily and acquire courteous support. What this means is shoppers need to hear back again from their insurers swiftly and be capable of speak to someone who is ready to hear and provide methods. Though all car insurance coverage organizations could provide wonderful customer care, specific are better than Many others. (Rideshare insurance policy) (just two clicks).
There are several aspects that affect the rates of automobile insurance coverage businesses. Driving historical past and age are two big aspects. Rates will increase for drivers with bad driving documents or minimal credit score scores. The price of living in the region you reside in can even effects the premiums. For this reason, it can be crucial to compare rates of different insurance coverage companies to find out the one which is greatest suited for your budget and also your driving techniques. There are a variety of strategies to lower the expense of insurance, like slicing your coverage or using a defensive driving study course. You may also shell out upfront for the complete 12 months of protection. (Monthly bill on-line) (personnel discounted) (at fault accident or lined incident
Other components could improve your quality In addition to People outlined. Your insurance policy provider may perhaps reassess the premium Should you have recently produced a declare or ended up billed which has a visitors violation. You may additionally be suitable for a discount in case you finish a safe driving study course. Coverage organizations constantly modify their versions as a way to ascertain the costs they demand. If you do not Have got a driving record, it’s possible you’ll notice a minimize in the price of your insurance. (use-primarily based coverage) (rental cars and trucks);(vehicle repairs);(Safe and sound driver price reduction).
A comparison of insurance policy will let you to stay away from unreliable companies. If a quotation won’t involve certain protection or assumes incorrectly in regards to the driving routines within your driver, it can be inaccurate. You can look at the rating of insurance coverage firms as well as their A.M. Finest ratings to ascertain probably the most dependable insurance plan service provider in the region. Find out how car coverage comparisons could make it easier to lower your expenses. Subsequent, Assess the top insurance providers to discover the most very affordable offer for you. (incident cost-free)
Your rating on insurance based upon credit rating can be a very good indicator of the chance you are more than likely to tackle, but you shouldn’t Permit it dictate your costs. Insurance plan firms are not allowed to use credit rating background on your own to lift charges. California, Massachusetts Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah and Vermont have rules in opposition to insurers from using credit history background to find out the premiums of insurance plan. (could help you save)(new vehicle)(vehicle claim)
This type of insurance policy just isn’t presented in every condition. Shoppers are not able to come to a decision if a company takes advantage of your credit score to ascertain the amount they will be charging. California, Hawaii and Massachusetts prohibit insurance plan based on credit score. Other states have similar limitations. The ultimate determination is your choice as into the degree to which your credit score is appropriate for you. (motorcycle insurance policy),(roadside support protection),(bundling motor vehicle)(pet insurance plan),(genuine worth of income value),(outstanding assert service) (yacht insurance policy).
The price of motor vehicle insurance policies discount rates is motivated by many different aspects, such as age. Age contains a higher impression around 30 percent of your charges. In certain states, youthful motorists will be able to fork out practically four periods as much for automobile insurance policy as being a thirty-yearold. Inexperience is yet another main cause, given that young motorists are more likely to be associated with mishaps. You can obtain lessen charges by comprehension the variables that affect your rates. These are definitely just a few of the numerous ways that your age could affect your insurance policies for your car.
Usually the more mature you will be the reduced your insurance policies premiums might be. The expense of vehicle insurance policy will be impacted in the event the male is more mature. Whilst more youthful male motorists are less expensive than older counterparts, premiums for motorists that are within their sixties and seventies maximize radically. Figures indicate that males are twice as prone to be in a vehicle accident than females. The gender gap as we age also shrinks. (coverage choices)(homeowners insurance coverage)
It isn’t shocking to find out that car insurance policy charges for males are costlier than Women of all ages. There are several explanation why Gentlemen generate badly, leading to a lot more accidents and statements. But there are a few aspects that make men much more high priced to insure. These are the top factors. Learn more with regards to the major variables that effect car insurance policy premiums by gender. The following pointers will help you reduce your rates if you are however Uncertain. (car coverage policies)(vehicle insurance coverage estimate)(auto insurance policies rate)
Oregon Division of monetary Regulation has issued Guidelines to automobile insurance plan providers to accept individuals who tend not to specify their gender. Insurance policy companies are necessary to report costs commencing January one, 2019 inside the party of discrimination in opposition to non-binary men and women. These prices may very well be larger than Those people for feminine and male motorists. Gals can lower your expenses so long as they’re not also large. Do not be concerned about the “non-binary” level for younger drivers. (car or truck insurance policy declare), (gap Insurance policies) (vehicle plan). | {
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The Maghreban, GIRLS NIGHT OUT & Coven Code
10 October 2018
Summer House Cafe
The son of Egyptian immigrants, The Maghreban aka Ayman Rostom is a DJ and producer from the UK, who has released music under various names and in various genres on R&S, Eglo, Versatile, Black Acre, and his own label, Zoot.
He has been creating hip-hop beats under his Dr. Zygote moniker for the better part of two decades and is one of the most unique and respected beat makers working in house and techno today. The Maghreban is his house music leaning project, with his debut album 01Ideas being released earlier this year to much acclaim. His DJ sets reflect his diverse influences and record collection: any genre is fair game as long as it makes people move.
Coven Code is India’s first all female collective promoting art, music, non-binary culture and freedom, based in New Delhi. Coven Code started out in March 2018 with more than 19 founding members from diverse backgrounds who came together through their common love for music, and a need to shake up the status-quo in the nightlife and the music industry.
GIRLS NIGHT OUT is the brainchild of Vijayant Singh. Based in New Delhi, he plays a diverse set of sounds ranging from wave, industrial and post-punk to EBM, new beat and left-field techno. | {
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Revealed: Billy Joel's ode to Uptown Girl Christie Brinkley was inspired by rival model Elle Macpherson
She may have played Billy Joel's Uptown Girl in the video for his 1983 hit.
But it turns out the track did not start out as an ode to Christie Brinkley, the model who went on to be come his wife.
Rival model Elle Macpherson also served as inspiration for the young singer, according to a new book, The Girl in the Song.
'Downtown man': Elle Macpherson played a part in inspiring Billy Joel's hit Uptown Girl, which later became an ode to Christie Brinkley
As authors Michael Heatley and Frank Hopkinson tell it, Joel was on holidaying in the Caribbean when he met three models staying in the same hotel - Macpherson, Brinkley and a young and then unknown Whitney Houston.
Video star: Christie star in the clip for Uptown Girl and went on to become the singer's wife
He went on to date Macpherson, now 47, in the early Eighties after his marriage to Elizabeth Weber ended.
The original name for the song was Uptown Girls.
But he later split from the Australian, turned his affection to Brinkley and made her the focus of his song.
Joel, 61, and Brinkley, 56, divorced in 1994 after nine years of marriage.
They have a daughter Alexa Ray, 24, and remain on good terms.
Last year Joel split from his third wife, television host Katie Lee, after five years, with sources blaming the 33-year age gap.
He has recently been spotted keeping company with a mystery young blonde.
Brinkley, who has been married four times, is believed to be single following a very bitter divorce from Peter Cook.
The pair, who have two young sons together, parted ways in 2008 after he admitted to having an affair with an 18-year-old store assistant.
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Most days, John Elizabeth Stintzi tries to forget that they are just weeks away from being a published author, not just of one book but two. “It very selectively feels insane,” Stintzi says by phone from Kansas City, where the writer, poet, and visual artist teaches critical and creative writing at the Kansas City Art Institute. “It’s very overwhelming and I can’t think about it too directly.”
Stintzi’s books would be forever linked even if they weren’t being published within days of each other – the novel Vanishing Monuments (Arsenal Pulp Press) appears on April 1, followed by the poetry collection Junebat (House of Anansi Press) on April 7. Stintzi describes the books as being “like siblings,” both written during a crucial period of self-examination in which they came out as non-binary and grappled with the personal ramifications of that.
The writer, now 29, hadn’t fully reckoned with their own gender identity until Alani Baum, the protagonist of Vanishing Monuments, forced them to revisit the issue. Alani is a middle-aged non-binary photographer coming to terms with their past after they return home to their ailing mother, who has dementia, in Winnipeg.
“As I saw similarities between Alani and myself, I realized, Oh shit, I think I’m non-binary,” Stintzi recalls. “We have gone on this journey together of getting through all the stereotypes. To make this person more human, I had to make myself realize how human I was.”
Growing up on a cattle farm in Bergland, Ontario, a four-hour drive southeast of Winnipeg, Stintzi was rarely exposed to the possibilities of queer identity. While studying English literature at the University of Manitoba, they embarked on a journey of self-understanding, coming to identify as genderqueer.
“I didn’t really unpack what that meant or think about it that deeply,” they say, speaking in a casual drawl. “I grew up in a place where I barely knew that gay people existed and were, like, real.”
Vanishing Monuments was Stintzi’s thesis project for their master of fine arts program at Stony Brook Southampton, based in the luxury playground of the Hamptons. As summer of 2016 came around and socialites descended on the shoreline, rents soared, driving Stintzi to decamp to a sweaty Jersey City apartment 100 miles west.
“I thought, I should try the whole New York thing, because that seems like the thing you are supposed to do as a writer,” they say. “There were ambitions that I would somehow meet the person who was going to publish my book. I didn’t end up doing any of that stuff.”
Instead, Stintzi found themselves at a crisis point – unemployed, depressed, and navigating their gender identity. Stintzi channelled that emotional chaos into the poetry included in Junebat.
“I had now figured it out enough that I couldn’t go back into the cave and pretend that the shadows are real anymore,” they recall. “Rather than the thing that is going to destroy me, this is a part of me as well.”
Nearly a third of the poems deal directly with the eponymous figure, a shifting being that is often described yet defies classifications. In “Cataphatic Junebat” and “Apophatic Junebat,” Stintzi adopts theological forms that historically attempted to describe the divine by what it is or is not. In “Cataphatic Junebat,” they write, “A Junebat is an analogy / a ghost / an apology / a gender / a joke / simple / a metaphor / a fault line / synonymous / complicated / a sexuality / a solitude / relative / anonymous / a lack of gender / a question / too much gender / natural / a shape.” “Apophatic Junebat” is the same poem reframed by adding the word “not”: “A Junebat is not an analogy / a ghost / an apology …”
Stintzi had already been in talks with House of Anansi editor Michelle MacAleese about fiction projects when they won the 2019 RBC Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers for “Selections from Junebat.” Emboldened by the prize, they submitted a full manuscript of poetry to Anansi’s poetry editor Kevin Connolly, who Stintzi says accepted the project within a day.
“It’s the first work of its kind, to my knowledge,” Connolly says in an email. “To render in a book-length work of poetry the circumstances and struggle that comes with a crisis of gender anxiety, and to do so from the eye of the storm.”
At the same time, Stintzi had sent Vanishing Monuments to Arsenal Pulp Press. Publisher Brian Lam emailed Stintzi after their Bronwen Wallace win to congratulate them and ask to read their manuscript. An algorhythmic misfire almost derailed that connection – Lam’s email went to Stintzi’s spam folder. “It terrifies me that I almost missed it,” they say.
Arsenal’s history of publishing LGBTQ2S+ writing – including recent success with Casey Plett’s Amazon.ca First Novel Award winner Little Fish – made it an ideal home for Vanishing Monuments, which in part explores shifting identity experienced through the narrative perspective of a non-binary character. “The transness is not the focus of the book,” Stintzi says. “I didn’t want to send it somewhere and [have them] be like, ‘Can we just make this all about gender?’ They seemed [more] open to having it be just an aspect of the character than another press that was maybe not as familiar with trans books.”
Vanishing Monuments was originally conceived as a short story but ultimately grew into an epic. The novel’s structure changed more than five times. At one point, it comprised several novellas, then Stintzi expanded the first one, which focused on Alani. Arsenal Pulp editor Shirarose Wilensky gave the manuscript what Stintzi calls a “20,000-word trim.”
The finished product still paints on a vast canvas. Alani reflects on the identities and gender expressions they have tried on, discarded, and absorbed: Sofia, a photographer in Germany; Hedy, named for Alani’s mother, a persona reclaimed as they are cautiously flirting with a life in Winnipeg; and the masc and femme binary poles embodied by Al and Annie.
Alani looks back on the lives they’ve lived while exploring their childhood home – the “memory palace” as Alani calls it, a reference to Cicero’s mnemonic device of mapping a speech onto a familiar building so that portions of the text are recalled by visualizing walking through the rooms. The dreamy, high-concept conceit reflects Stintzi’s abiding love of the unconventional.
As does the book’s cover, which they designed themselves. The illustration references a scene in which Alani wraps a crowbar, which as a teenager they had used to pry open their bedroom window, with a strip of film negatives featuring them dressed as a “monument against fascism” in Germany.
“I think it’s one of the more strikingly weird things that happens in the book,” Stintzi says, adding dryly, “I don’t think there is another book out there that has a pry bar with negatives wrapped around it. I hope.”
Stintzi has grown to appreciate the strange and inscrutable. When they first studied Wallace Stevens in grad school, Stintzi was not a fan. “I hated ‘Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird’ the first time I read it,” they say. “As I’ve gotten older and thought about it more, it’s more like we’re never taught that it’s okay to not know what the hell is going on.”
Junebat features four poems that reference Stevens directly, including “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Junebat”: “If you’d like to see me as a Junebat / call me mister or sir and you will / see me, crumpled paper bird, / in the flash of the rubble. / In my polite tolerance of you.”
Though they were directly inspired by a poem published 66 years ago, poetry feels like a medium for the moment for Stintzi. The form has famously discovered a new audience online, who read poems interspersed among breaking political news, birthday greetings, and baby Yoda memes. “You go on an online mag and read some poems,” Stintzi says. “You go on there and want to read a story, you have to stare at a screen for 20 minutes. [Poetry] fits the internet better than other forms do in a weird way.”
Junebat may be Stintzi’s first full-length collection, but they predict it will also be their most direct treatment of gender. “I am interested in a great many things and gender and transness will probably be ancillary to a lot of the stuff that I do in the future,” they say. Stintzi is currently experimenting with non-fiction. “I’m having a few little pieces come out, but I don’t know that I am going to call myself a non-fiction writer,” they say.
“Who the hell knows? I might write an even more trans book next!” Stintzi speculates, raising their voice melodramatically. “Hopefully we’ll move past that. Because I don’t want to answer a bunch of questions about gender for the rest of my life.”
Photography by Thomas Fricke | {
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Social diversification, injustices, and Pareto optimality with non-binary preferences
We prove the existence of a Pareto optimal state of a finite society that has socially differentiated persons, each with non-binary personal preferences that quasi-order a finite set of alternatives. Everybody engages in a volitional act of choice by maximization of non-binary preferences. As a consequence of interpersonal interaction among social creatures, the social interaction outcome defined as belonging to a nonempty social maximal set exists, and thus is Pareto optimal. Injustices inflicted by one group of persons upon a socially distinct one, arising from social diversification, are, however, consistent with such a collective outcome. (95 words)
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- George A. Akerlof & Rachel E. Kranton, 2000. "Economics And Identity," The Quarterly Journal of Economics, MIT Press, vol. 115(3), pages 715-753, August.
- Kenneth J. Arrow, 1998. "What Has Economics to Say about Racial Discrimination?," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 12(2), pages 91-100, Spring.
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There are many things to admire about pint-sized eco-warrior Greta Funbag, such as her courage, intellect, shiny locks, and cute-as-a-button nose. She also has an appropriately finger-wagging demeanour which is beautifully complimented by a cold stare so piercing it could make an make an organic onion cry.
But her two most impressive features have little to do with pigtails or principles. In fact they have little to do with Greta at all, as they exist purely to gift middle-class liberals a cast-iron reason to pretend environmentalism is the most important political movement of 2019 and anyone who disagrees is a cross between David Ike and Norman ‘Ripper’ Stebson. Because as we all know, the two bestest things about Greta are the fact that she’s a) 16. And b) a disabled. And not just any old disabled, but a mental one. Perfect!
At least it is for now. The older she gets the harder it is to suggest that criticising her is akin to punching a toddler, which should make us all the more grateful that her incurable autism will probably afflict her for the rest of her life. Phew!
But times change fast and one day her PR team may have to take steps to remain relevant by upgrading her disability and buying her a hearing aid or wheelchair. It’s not as guaranteed to boost her victim cred as losing an eye or a leg but Milan wasn’t built in a day: we can always wait until she’s finished having a protracted public breakdown before disfiguring and mutilating her.
In the meantime, the fact that she’s still a child – and a weirdo to boot! – is more than enough for left-wing radicals and salivating media figures determined to make her the public face of a movement more interested in promoting pie-in-the-sky socialism than saving the planet.
Because putting Greta upfront and centre has nothing to do with giving a voice to disaffected youth: the entire purpose of her elevation is to ringfence Climate Change activists from criticism. And it’s part of a long noble tradition that existed long before Ms. Funbag became the poster girl for vacuous green platitudes. Indeed, critics of environmental alarmism have been getting shut down and labelled right-wing shills or gas-guzzling lunatics since at least 10 years BG (Before Greta).
So you could 100% believe in Climate Change. (Or as it used to be called, ‘Global Warming’, a term quietly ditched around 2016, presumably after activists got sick of ignoring awkward data showing that parts of the earth were getting cooler.) You could be a passionate supporter of green policies. You could even be a decorated scientist who 100% believes in Climate Change, is a passionate supporter of green policies, and spends his days commuting by mountain bike and drawing knobs on the bonnets of Ford Transits.
You could be all of the above and more. But if you point out that numerous catastrophic predictions have failed to materialise then you’re a denier. Believe that much of the supposition-based alarmism is a tad over the top? You’re parroting right-wing propaganda. And dare to suggest there is still much debate in the scientific community about the extent to which human activity affects the climate and you might as well say the earth is flat, the sun isn’t real, and Stanley Kubichek filmed the moon landing on Blyth beach using Star Trek figures and paper aeroplanes.
Fortunately, thanks to relentless doom-mongering by the likes of former First Lady Al Gore and principled Guardian hack George Mondeo – whose desire to save the planet is matched only by his hunger for freshly-squashed M25 hedgehog – it was decreed long ago that Climate Change discussions must be conducted in the most intolerant, hysterical manner imaginable. A perfect backdrop, in other words, for the widespread movement to defend Greta – or rather, what Greta represents – at all costs.
Of course, when bigging up her crusade to save the planet by scowling at politicians and fannying about on a yacht, it’s important to remember which Greta you’re going to bat for. Because as anyone who’s observed the passionate, ultra-creepy way she’s discussed online knows, she’s either a sophisticated young adult perfectly at ease with her new found fame, or a vulnerable adolescent being harassed by nasty middle-aged white men like Julia Hartley-Brexit.
Luckily, she has an impressive roster of A-list support, with all manner of thick actors, thick musicians, and thick politicians gleefully shrieking “stop picking on the teenager!” the second anyone suggests her stroppy hellfire sermons are a wee bit extreme. Even more brilliantly, many of the blue tick liberals admonishing right-wingers for piling on a teenage girl were more than happy to pile on a teenage boy in January after a race-baiting lunatic banged a drum in his face.
Which taps into what it is about Greta that so excites both her allies and detractors. It’s not because she’s a young rebel with a cause: it’s because she’s a young rebel with the right cause. Or the wrong one, if you’re a Nazi. As a result, her treatment at the hands of internet trolls generated considerably more condemnation than that dished out to the smirking red-capped racist who melted fascist hearts eight months ago. And it’s patently clear that the alt-right cretins mocking Greta would put aside their uneasiness about child exploitation if she were supporting Trump, fighting for Brexit, or invading Poland. Similarly, if Greta were campaigning for any of the above her leftist cheerleaders would be demanding her parents’ arrest, insisting she’d been brainwashed by The Scum, and calling her a sour-faced slag with a voice like petrified sandpaper. (I know I bloody well would.)
Either way, whatever side of the aisle you’re on – decent liberal or right-wing shithead – we can all agree that exploiting, attacking, or unnaturally obsessing over children for political gain is undoubtedly a Good Thing. Indeed, it’s a shame the people who hate Greta and the people who think she’s Lady Marvel can’t put aside their differences and bond over how much they all want to fuck her. Or at the very least, stick her on stage dressed as a bright green vagina surrounded by 58-year-old male lesbians throwing crumpled fivers at her. Anything to avoid the boring stuff your average braindead teenage girl gets up to, like riding bikes, playing netball, and being force-fed vodka and roofies by marginalised Muslims in northern kebab shops.
Thankfully, Greta has avoided such humdrum rites of passage thanks to a principled cabal of politicians and public figures who’ve decided that, like non-binary child stripper Desmond Does Dallas, her every waking minute should be spent in a hyper-politicised bubble designed by her proud-as-punch parents. Because the modern left love nothing more than using children to score a point. Indeed, Twitter and Facebook are awash with mams and dads recounting heart-warming anecdotes about sage-like kids spouting the same bland orthodoxy as their kale-munching parents. “Look, even my 2-year-old daughter thinks Boris and Trump are Nazis! And she has a COCK too!”
Children also provide a perfect excuse for liberals to indulge their favourite subject: The Future. Because whether it’s post-Brexit Britain, post-apocalypse earth, or post-Handmaiden’s Tale America, progressives never tire of issuing warnings about stuff that hasn’t happened and probably never will. And why not? It’s far easier than addressing what is or isn’t happening now. Why run the risk of looking silly when it’s revealed that the modern western world is nowhere near as hellish as we want it to be? An awful future is way more politically useful than a fairly-okay present.
Still, we might obsess over The Future but that doesn’t stop us romanticising the past, particularly those mythical years leading up to the horror of Brexit and Trump, when no-one was ever racist and life in the developed world was one long multi-coloured Mardi Gras where everyone’s face was painted EU-blue and families celebrated each new day by holding hands and saying a prayer to St. Barack of Honolulu.
Which is why now more than ever we need young activists like Greta to make old activists feel relevant. And the fact that she’s gone way beyond mere environmental activism to become a bona fido far-left figurehead speaks volumes about how successfully she’s been programmed. But it shouldn’t stop here, as there are a plethora of other progressive causes that could benefit from Greta’s endorsement. Rest assured, if she ever gets bored of being a human shield for the most privileged protest movement on the (dying) planet, I’m sure she’d be more than happy to incite a gang of Islamic gents from Rochdale into grooming her. Why should dumb working-class girls from care homes get all the cred? She could even give a speech to the UN about her experiences and tell them how empowered she felt after her third abortion. I wouldn’t put anything past this formidable young lady.
It’s this kind of selflessness that has elevated her to star status. And the way her people have thrust her into a limelight she seems woefully unprepared for without considering the potential mental health implications amply demonstrates their deep love for this wonderful child. Because what happens to her when she’s older is unimportant: all that matters is what’s happening to her – and who she’s helping – now.
The Future of the planet – and more importantly, The Future of left-wing activism – will always trump the future of a disabled teenager.
Is it possible for Britain’s so-called Prime Minister to sink any lower? It’s a question I’ve asked myself repeatedly over the past two months.
Like most people I assumed beastly Boris had reached his nadir when he defied democracy and prorogued Parliament, a move so horrifying I immediately did a quick Google to find out what it meant. Needless to say, I was even more disturbed when I learnt that a ‘prorogue’ is neither a sex-toy nor that dinosaur thing out of Games Of Thrones that chins sheep and fucks farmhands.
But amazingly, the bigoted buffoon keeping St. Jezza’s toilet seat warm went one better, out-viling himself by having the blonde balls to lie to the Queen. Yes, really. This disrespectful act outraged all manner of leftists, who temporarily forgot their longstanding republicanism to howl in disgust at Johnson for telling porkies to some miserable old hag they’d happily behead if it meant putting the Dear Leader on the iron throne.
You’d think this foul behaviour would represent Boris at his absolute worst. Surely even he couldn’t scrape the barrel more than fibbing to a monarch? Think again. Because last night he plumbed depths that were disgraceful even for him, traumatising Parliament and shaking the House of Commons to its core. Yes, fresh from brutalising his child bride by arguing with her in earshot of a pair of Guardian readers, the same vile specimen who grossly offended liberals everywhere with his infamous ‘picaninnies’ column that none of them read pulled off his most disgusting trick yet:
He said the word ‘humbug’.
Yes. Humbug. HUMBUG. In 2019. On live television. To a Labour MP whose life is such a non-stop fright-fest she spends every waking hour in Westminster terrified that the Thatcher statue might come to life and eat her up. This is our Prime Minister, people.
But that’s not even half of it. Because he didn’t merely drop the H-bomb: he said it in response to being bravely called out for crudely calling the Mr Benn Brexit Bill the ‘Surrender Act’. That’s right. SURRENDER ACT. He went there. For shame.
And he wasn’t merely sticking two fingers up at brave Labour MP Pauline Sherriff for exposing his attempt to incite fascists into killing mediocre backbenchers by deploying the notorious alt-right dog whistle of stringing together two inoffensively beige words. No, he was also scoring a cheap point against people he disagrees with by exhuming the cadaver of Joe Cox. And as everyone knows, only left-wingers are allowed to do that.
Of course, the fact that he reached for the vile racially loaded term ‘humbug’ when replying to Pauline not only demonstrates his commitment to Nazi principles but also his complete lack of imagination. Because while progressives pride themselves on their ready wit, Johnston completely missed the easy tap-in, blissfully unaware that Sherriff had gifted him the chance to crack a joke about whips, horses, or running her out of town. He can’t even get his puns right.
Instead, he showed his true colours by turning to the catchphrase made famous by Ebeneezer Goode, the protagonist from Charles Darwin’s Great Expectations. Needless to say, it’s no surprise that Johnston is a huge a fan of this problematic tome, which revolves around the insanely silly idea that an evil capitalist deserves to be redeemed and forgiven for his past misdeeds, as opposed to shunned, cancelled, and imprisoned for crimes against humanity.
The book also takes place at Christmas, which no doubt filled notorious Islamophobe Johnston with glee as he read about Baabar Cratchitt’s marginalised family being force-fed non-halal turkey during the climactic diner scene: finally free from poverty but forever in debt to their tyrannical white saviour and his insistence on inviting the kids around to listen to Cat Stephens records and chat shit with Mohammad’s ghost. I’m surprised the toffee-nosed twat hasn’t made it compulsory reading. Give it time.
It shows his desire to reach the sizable minority of homicidal fascists who take their cues from posh politicians that he chose a word as inflammatory as ‘h****g’ to deliberately piss all over Joe’s legacy. And deliberately piss all over it he did, despite the fact that it was Sherriff who brought her up first. Indeed, it’s always Labour or Remainer MPs who bring her up, such is their commitment to honouring Joe’s memory by using her bullet-ridden corpse to win an argument. She’d be soooo proud.
Thankfully, no left-wing or pro-EU politician ever uses provocative language, and the multitude of comments calling Brexiteers ‘fascists’, ‘dictators’, and ‘worse than Nazis’ should be flatly ignored and filed away in the same memory hole as David Lamby’s expenses receipts.
Similarly, no left-wing journalist, activist, or whateverthefuckOwenJonesis-ist has ever accused their ideological foes of murder, or wrote a single syllable suggesting they deserve to be punched, imprisoned or decapitated. And if you do find evidence of any of the above then in no way whatsoever can it be classed as ‘incitement’, no matter how many alt-right loons say otherwise. We’re talking about people who are so wrapped up in bigotry they think a religious text explicitly instructing its 1.8 billion followers to commit murder is more likely to inspire violence than a Daily Fail headline calling a bunch of judges ‘traitors’. They’re insane.
Basically, when you’re on the Good Side you can be as inflammatory as you like without having to worry about lowering the tone. Indeed, the one good thing to come out of President Pussy-Grab’s administration has been the way he’s inspired mild-mannered politicians of all hues to unleash their inner Trump, in all its drunk-tweeting, shite-talking, dead-mother-and-wife-exploiting glory.
Needless to say, this is why left-wing politicians are so beloved on social media, and why last night’s brave, ballsy, cynically opportunistic performances by Pauline Sherriff et al caused ripples all the way from Facebook to Twitter. Of course, in the real world most people find words and phrases like ‘humbug’ and ‘surrender act’ about as inflammatory as the scene in the Downtown Abbey movie where Bertie says “oh hang!” after spilling brandy on Cora’s tits. But that’s because people in the real world are the ones most likely to be brainwashed into killing left-wing politicians by such foul language.
In the defiantly middle-class world of TV studios, newspaper offices, and mammoth Twitter threads exploring how murderous right-wing psychos are radicalised by Rod Lidl’s hair, the threat is very real. And it’s down to us to keep reminding each other exactly how real it is in order to convince ourselves there’s actually a point to spending every day waving our dicks at complete strangers like any of it actually fucking matters.
The only worry is what Johnston might say next, and what foul acts he’ll inspire the dumb public to carry out in his name. Having already shifted the Ovaltine Window so far right we can’t see it anymore, it’s time to buckle up and be prepared for the barrage of Brexiteer violence set to erupt the second Johnston drops his biro at the despatch box and screams “knickers!” .
A terrifying prospect but these are terrifying times. The best way to be ready for the onslaught is to watch the PM like a hawk and analyse his speeches for secret shout-outs to alt-right assassins. I’ve been doing this for some time and it’s repeatedly paid dividends, especially since discovering his sick habit of dropping offensive terms into every sentence.
For further evidence of what we’re up against I’ll leave you with the painful memory of Johnston calling St. Jezza a ‘big girl’s blouse’. Or so we thought. I myself wasn’t convinced. So, petrified of where this revolting government’s abusive verbal attacks could lead, I hired Aaron Pastrami’s personal lip-reading specialist to analyse the footage. Needless to say, I was shaken, outraged, but not remotely surprised when he confirmed to me that what vile Johnston actually said was:
Knowledge is valuable. It wins arguments, defeats enemies, and gifts modern leftists an arsenal of truth-bombs in the fight against fascism, such as “Transwomen are women”, “Jeremy has battled racism his whole life”, and “Leave voters are uneducated morons with hands for feet”.
Sadly, for every good piece of knowledge there’s a bad one that destroys everything progressives pretend to treasure, like “People with PHDs voted for Brexit”, “The anti-racist Labour leader has spent his career supporting racists”, and “A bearded plumber who thinks he’s a woman is as ‘female’ as a plant-pot in knickers”.
But the most noxious dollop of knowledge to stink up 2019 peaked in March, reappearing last month via a crudely-doctored YouTube film. Yes, I’m talking about the scandalously true rumour that heart-breaking Michael Jackson doc Finding Neverland has all the journalistic integrity of a National Examiner scoop by Johann Hairy.
To be fair, the film omits so much info about Jimmy Robson and Wade Safechuck you’d be forgiven for thinking director Dan Reid had something to hide. Fortunately, to know he concealed important details casting huge doubts on Robson and Safechuck’s credibility, you’d have to know there were important details casting huge doubts on Robson and Safechuck’s credibility. And as anyone who’s read an FN Twitter thread knows, people who are utterly convinced by the film usually know as much about Jackson’s accusers as I do about quantum mechanics. Indeed, it seems most viewers’ experienced FN the following way: Watched film. Signalled disgust on social media. Forgot about film, safe in the knowledge that the sky is blue, the grass is green, and Michael Jackson fucked little boys.
That none of the allegations were corroborated is irrelevant, as are the film’s glaring inconsistencies, illogical scenarios, and demonstrable lies. Because unless you’d spent an hour researching them you’d have no idea there were any glaring inconsistencies, illogical scenarios, and demonstrable lies. And for god’s sake, it’s 2019: if a man says a celebrity finger-banged his arsehole, a celebrity finger-banged his arsehole.
Still, despite widespread refusal to investigate the full story, a small army of MJ-obsessives, paedo-apologists, and weirdos who believe in due process have started playing dirty. Their sneaky MO involves flooding the net with all manner of sworn statements, court transcripts, and grubby propaganda videos proving conclusively that Robson and Safechuck have a long history of telling wildly contrasting stories depending on who they were talking to and how much money was on offer.
Much of this ‘evidence’ concerns the lawsuits they’ve been filing against the Jackson estate for six years. Unsurprisingly they all failed thanks to the sinister influence of the dead singer’s empire, and nothing whatsoever to do with the unreliability of the complainants. Thankfully, most viewers know nothing of these lawsuits as Reid wisely avoids mentioning them. But that hasn’t deterred the nonce-lovers, whose most recent half-hour hit-job included a 2016 deposition video featuring Robson admitting to perjury and contradicting himself by giving a description of the first time Jackson abused him vastly different to the version he recounts in Finding Neverland.
I’ll spare you the sickening details. The film and others like it are on YouTube: you can ignore them for yourself like everyone else has. Suffice to say, as well as being narrated by a robot, it makes several shocking claims about the two men, each more shamefully factual than the last.
Sticking the boot into Safechuck from the get-go, it rubbishes his story about Wacko abusing him in a train station on Nevermind Ranch early on in their relationship – which lasted from 1988 to 1992 – on the flimsy grounds that the station wasn’t built until 1994.
Jesus, where to begin? Well first of all, there is ZERO evidence that the station was built that year, apart from time-stamped photographs, time-stamped video, and time-stamped construction permits, all of which were clearly doctored by Jackson’s crack team of Zionist lawyers.
Secondly, as Dan Reid eventually conceded (after initially accusing the Jacksons of lying about the year the station was completed): “Yeah, there seems to be no doubt about the station date. The date they have wrong is the end of the abuse”. Which makes perfect sense, if you ignore the fact that to suggest the abuse ended years later than Safechuck claimed in FN completely undermines its key narrative: that Jackson cut off contact with the boys as they matured because he didn’t fancy them anymore.
Thankfully, this is easy to ignore. All you need to do is convince yourself it’s entirely possible Safechuck got mixed up between his prepubescent and 16-year-old selves, and that two/three/four/five/six years after Wacko shunned his victim, he temporarily forgot he was a paedophile and invited a older, taller, hairier Safechuck back to his lair for one last fiddle. Simple.
The film then sinks even lower by claiming a key FN sequence – where Safechuck horrifies Guardian and Sun-readers alike by producing a ‘wedding ring’ Jackson gave him – was filmed eighteen months after the rest of the interview. Predictably, the MJ-cult accused Reid of audience manipulation, a charge they also levelled at him for including footage of Jackson’s lawyer Mick Geragos threatening the singer’s accusers, when in actual fact Geragos was talking about an airline company who secretly filmed Wacko on a private jet. That’s right, apparently documentarians are now required to tell the whole story, as if Bowling For Columbus auteur Michael Moore’s entire career never existed. Unbelievable.
They even accused Safechuck of lying when he claimed Wacko tried to bully him into testifying at his 2005 trial, despite the fact that the judge had already decided not to call Safechuck. It shows how demented these crazies are that they think this illustrates Safechuck’s dishonesty rather than the Jackson team’s penchant for mind-games and bribery.
The YouTube flick also laughs in the faces of survivors by mocking the timing of Safechuck’s realisation that he was abused by Mr. Creepyface, a memory which suddenly came back to him when he saw Robson on telly in 2013, not long after learning his parents were facing financial ruin due to ripping off their company’s shareholders for millions. Yep, the MJ cult actually believe there’s something suspicious about a broken man recalling with pin-sharp clarity a six-year ordeal that he completely forgot about until he was 35 and his family were about to go bankrupt.
They also claim Safechuck is untrustworthy because, despite saying in a sworn statement that he didn’t remember he’d been abused until 2013, he also said he’d told his mother about it in 2005. Indeed, Ma Safechuck claimed she was so happy when she heard about Jackson’s death that she danced. All of which sounds perfectly reasonable but not to the trolls. So they accused Safechuck of lying again after he appeared on Oprah! in February, his story having changed once more as he went back to saying he didn’t remember the abuse until 2013. That these losers think this proves his duplicity illustrates their ignorance of the confusing impact grooming has on victims, especially ones who can’t lie straight in bed.
But if you think the MJ-cult have it in for Safechuck, wait ’til you see their vendetta against Mr. Robson. One of their batshit theories concerns Robson’s claim – made in both Finding Neverland and his unpublished misery memoir – that Jackson first abused him at the Nevermind Ranch while his parents and siblings were at the Grand Kenyon, an incident he is on records as saying he “never forgot one moment” of. However, during a 2016 deposition months before FN was filmed he appeared to have forgotten several moments as he was asked about the memoir’s version of events and replied that he couldn’t remember when he was first abused. This is further complicated by two separate sworn statements from Robson’s mother which stated he was never alone at the ranch until 1993 and the whole family went on the Arizona trip.
On the surface this suggests the Robsons are incapable of keeping their story straight and making stuff up as they go along. Indeed, according to email records the aforementioned manuscript appears to have been cobbled together from news reports about the porcelain-faced ghoul’s previous victims. However, only someone devoid of critical thinking skills would make such an idiotic judgement. Because Robson’s ever-evolving story demonstrates how the abuse he suffered damaged him so much he’s incapable of remembering it. Or at least he was, until he recalled it perfectly in Finding Neverland.
Luckily, unsuccessfully hawking his painful memoir to uninterested publishers in 2012 had a profound effect on Robson, who used the setback as a catalyst to finally let the world know the truth about Jackson. Via a privately filed $1.5billion lawsuit. Needless to say, trolls suggest this proves Robson is only out for money, pointing to his earlier failure to land a big-money gig choreographing a Jackson estate-produced Cirque Du Solero musical featuring Wacko’s music, a crushing blow which just happened to come not long before Robson decided to write his book.
This cruel rejection exposes the Jackson estate’s determination to punish his victims, taking the same sadistic glee in destroying their dreams as the depraved pop star did in forcing them to wank him off. Happily, their plan backfired, as the combined effect of losing a potentially lucrative job finally made the precocious dancer remember he’d been abused.
Not that that stopped the MJ-cult. The latest YouTube film delights in assassinating his character, focussing on Robson’s appearance at Wacko’s 2005 trial, in which he confidently faced down three prosecution attorneys as he stated unequivocally that Jackson was innocent.
Of course, we know fine well that Robson only testified because he was forced to. As explained in FN, he had no choice but to give evidence as he’d been subpoenaed. Naturally, Robson has never produced this subpoena and the office who would’ve served it have no record of it either, which is both deeply suspicious and completely irrelevant. That a terrified Robson still took the stand to lie so convincingly demonstrates the mortal fear instilled in him by a filthy rich – and filthier fingered – pop star.
All of which makes the cathartic FN sequence when Robson burns his collection of MJ memorabilia so uplifting. Needless to say, the apologists declared the scene a sham as he’d flogged the collection on an upmarket auction site years earlier. They even attacked him for selling the items anonymously, as if withholding your name from the public while purging a lifetime of trauma is a bad thing. The fact that he netted a tidy sum before symbolically burning the collection he didn’t own seven years later is neither her nor there.
Indeed, selling valuable tat isn’t the only thing Robson did on the quiet: his original lawsuit was filed under seal – ie non-publicly. Which is entirely understandable, and in no way devalues his claim that he filed the suit to raise awareness of child abuse. Nor does it support the fallacious theory that the reason the accounts detailed within are completely different to those outlined in FN is because he assumed the Jackson estate would simply hand over the money and no sod would ever hear them.
Sadly, while Robson and Safechuck have successfully fooled the world and kept the trolls at bay, they’re not the only ones in the firing line: the MJ-cult are gunning for Jackson’s other victims too. Luckily, lack of knowledge about the Geordie Chandler and Gary Arvizo cases is even more ubiquitous than ignorance of Safechuck and Robson.
Indeed, to this day the $25m payout to the Chandler family is seen as proof of Jackson’s guilt, despite evidence that he was forced to make the settlement in order to avoid a civil hearing which would’ve prejudiced the criminal trial scheduled to take place afterwards. That Geordie decided he didn’t want to participate in said criminal case once his family had pocketed the money is largely unknown, as is the fact that a grand jury had already ruled there was insufficient evidence to proceed.
Similarly, most people are completely unaware that Geordie’s dad Evian – a Hollywood hanger-on who committed suicide in 2009 – was recorded all-but confessing his plans to fleece Wacko for millions. And even fewer know that Geordie was legally emancipated from his mother a year after the trial and obtained a restraining order against his father after he tried to kill him with a barbell.
Likewise, it’s vital to know as little about the Arvizo family and the farcical 2005 trial as possible. Indeed, the only relevant facts about the car-crash court case are a) it happened and b) Jackson won. Minor details, such as how multiple members of the Arvizo clan descended upon the Nevermind Ranch, stayed for months, then accused Wacko of child abuse after they were asked to leave, are unimportant. Ditto the fact that Arvizo’s mother only pursued the criminal charges because her lawyers told her she had to secure a conviction before she could launch a bumper civil suit.
Very little is known about the actual proceedings either, which heard zero evidence of Jackson’s guilt, saw witness after witness thoroughly discredited, and were largely ignored by the media who chose to report on the lurid details of the allegations rather what actually happened in court.
Fortunately most of these easy-to-find details are largely unknown thanks to the press maintaining a 14-year de facto news blackout to preserve the bankable narrative that Jackson is a paedophile. And what a blackout it’s been, the same people who bemoan tabloid gossip and ‘fake news’ swallowing it wholesale, unaware that this narrative only exists because it generates more clicks than boring puff-pieces about how his accusers are full of shit.
Even better, it’s now reached the stage where the media know fine well the accusations are rubbish but won’t report it because that would be an admission of complicity. Perfect! I rarely have anything good to say about the press but the way they contributed to Jackson spending the best part of twenty years denying he was a child-molester is something they can all be proud of. And we should never forget the key role the allegations played in Jackson’s growing addiction to prescription drugs, such as the infamous ‘milk’ that killed him. It just goes to show what the media can achieve when it puts a shift in.
Unfortunately, despite keeping the truth under wraps there will always be smug contrarians who insist on arguing Wacko’s innocence, arrogantly declaring themselves ‘experts’ on the allegations just because they’ve studied them.
So when you inform them child porn was found in the predator’s home they respond with a shaggy bull story about how the sick stash was actually a few harmless, entirely legal photography books, freely available from Amazon and stored unopened in Jackson’s house with an assortment of junk he’d bought and forgotten about.
Yep, that’s right: because this tall-tale is backed up by court transcripts it’s somehow more reliable than the frontpage of The Scum. Also, according to the apologists the fact that the books were sealed proves Jackson never looked at them, when actually it’s clear he kept replacing them because the pages were stuck together with Jesus Juice. The fact that the only actual pornographic items found were a few legal scruff mags like Rustler is irrelevant.
As is Dan Reid’s omission of Robson’s seven-year relationship with Jackson’s niece. And the repeatedly debunked claim that Geordie Chandler ‘accurately described’ the Thriller-Killer perv’s penis. And the barely known but demonstrably true fact that every one of Wacko’s accusers initially went to lawyers rather than the police. All of the above – and indeed anything casting doubt on Wade and Jimmy – has no bearing on Jackson’s guilt or innocence.
Which is why it’s vital leftists carry on doing the decent thing, Believing Victims, and watching out for right-wing trolls turning our wokeness against us. So ignore anyone who points out the hypocrisy of people who bang on about ‘white privilege’ willingly taking the word of two white men with a shared history of perjury over an African-American found unanimously not guilty 14 years ago.
Give short shrift to people who attack liberals for condemning harassment of minorities while indulging a media that relentlessly harassed a black man because he was an odball who looked funny.
And respond with an ‘up yours, Savile-chops!’ to those who suggests calling Jackson defenders ‘conspiracy theorists’ is a bit rich considering the #JackoWasANonce crowd believe the reason the multi-platinum monster evaded jail was because his crooked lawyers paid off judges, hobbled witnesses, and dazzled the jury with their client’s fame, fortune, and penchant for moonwalking into court with a monkey on his shoulder. (Heaven knows what foul depravities poor Pebbles was subjected to.)
Luckily, judging by the reaction to self-hating black man Dave Shapiro’s latest ‘special’, it seems unwillingness to learn basic facts about the Jackson allegations remains widespread. Indeed, while his awful show was a huge hit in the Real World, it went down like a bucket of sick in Internetland, with almost ten writers for principled clickbait sites like Buzzkill penning savage reviews of the hour-long hate-fest, delivering a huge ‘screw you!’ to the alt-right bigots who gerrymandered a 99% rating on Netflicks. It seems not believing those motherfuckers has done wonders for your brand, baldy.
To compound the shitty special’s failure, I suggest you follow my lead and refuse to watch it. Because we know its transphobic, we know it’s misogynist, we know it spreads disgusting rumours about the two most fragile men on earth. What would watching it achieve, other than confirming what we already know about this POC-turned-SOB? Dave might as well bleach his skin like Wacko and stop pretending to be a brother altogether. Brother? He’s barely a sister.
Conversely, Robson and Safechuck are blacker than Shapiro will ever be. And if one good thing has come from his offensive routine it’s the empowerment of people who are 100% certain Jackson is guilty despite knowing as much about the allegations as they do about animal husbandry. As former songwriting genius Mick Kozelek sang of Wacko on one of his recent unlistenable albums: “He’s bad, he’s bad/He’s dead, and I’m glad”. Now THAT’S knowledge.
Anyway, I must dash. There are some ugly rumours circulating on Twitter about the dubious conviction of misogynist golfer Jeff Boycott which I intend to spend the next few hours avoiding.
As well as the dreafdul films ‘Lies Of Leaving Neverland’, ‘Leaving Neverland: The Aftermath’, and ‘Michael Jackson: Chase The Truth’, many of the inconvenient facts compiled above were sourced from a variety of books, reports, articles, investigations, and in-depth social media threads written by so-called journalists Charles Thompson, John Ziegler, Mike Smallcombe, Damien Shields, Joe Vogel, and Ryan Michaels; Twitter accounts ThinkFathers, VP_Advocacy, Leaving Neverland Facts, and Justice For The Falsely Accused; and a whole host of other deluded MJ apologists who think a person’s guilt or innocence should be determined by the legal process rather than a brazenly one-sided documentary. I take the threat posed by these lunatics VERY seriously – I’ve spelled their names right and everything – and so should you. I urge you to mute, block, report, stalk, harass, or threaten them immediately. And whatever you do, don’t even THINK about reading a single syllable of their deeply immoral ‘research’.
Few things are as painful as a disappointing cinema visit, especially one you’ve avoided paying for by hiding under a seat pretending to be a shadow. Sadly, it’s a trauma all-too familiar to liberals, such is the volume of alt-right propaganda produced by the most left-leaning industry on earth. And while I haven’t paid for a film since 1999, there’s little consolation in knowing the racist trash I’m forced to sit through cost nothing. (Oh and fuck UCI and the fascist bouncers they hired for the opening weekend of Star Wars: Phantom Lord. I hope you choked on my bastard fiver.)
The sad thing is I was under the impression Hollywood had finally embraced modern progressivism and started allowing million-dollar decisions to be routinely dictated by outraged virgins on Twitter. Instead I regularly arrive at my local arthouse for the latest ‘wokebuster’ only to find it’s anything but. Even worse, most of what masquerades as SJW cinema doesn’t merely fail to espouse left-wing ideology: it pisses all over it.
Like cis-gendered wolves in non-binary clothing, Tinseltown has decided the best way to remain relevant is to churn out movies that appear stuffed with progressive values but on closer inspection brim with far-right fury. Exactly the kind of deception you’d expect from an industry run by Nazi Jews and faumosexual rapists.
And in 2019 this dark trend is spreading like cancer, with fresh dollops of fascist dogma stinking up multiplexes weekly. Hence this damning report, which is in no way whatsoever a lame excuse to paste together various stray observations too half-arsed to warrant a whole article.
Which brings me to Lady Marvel. After respectfully waiting a month in order to give the female comic-geek community of Newcastle a chance to see it first, I eventually took the plunge in April, satisfied that the fat goth from Presto and her ugly mate who wanked off my cousin on the X25 had seen it twice. As I made my way into the auditorium disguised as a cleaner I was giddy with excitement. And with good reason, as Mrs. Marvelticked every box: female lead, women chinning blokes, and virtually no white men apart from that English baddy with the girl’s name. Star Brie Lawson also got me in the mood before the movie’s release with a series of interviews stuffed with brave, ballsy platitudes about gender and empowerment or something.
But having duped the usher with a soggy jay cloth and two popcorn cartons taped to my chest, what unfolded over the next two hours shook me to my core. Because far from being a switched-on celebration of victimhood, the film essentially says ‘up yours!’ to modern feminism. Indeed, the internalised misogyny of Lawson’s Karen Danvers finally confirms that summer blockbusters are now completely controlled by the Trump administration.
Consider this: After finding out Danvers isn’t a Martian, we learn that she became a brilliant pilot after working hard and proving herself rather than being parachuted into a job to satisfy diversity quotas. We then see her beating up men because she’s better at fighting than them, and not because they let her win for the sake of intersectionality. And most egregiously, after Danvers saves the day she has the chance to punish crap Caucasian villain Judy Law. Does she do what any self-respecting progressive would and pen a searing blogpost about toxic masculinity? Does she get him sacked because his foot brushed her fanny while she was kicking his head? Not quite. She decides the most fitting punishment for a space alien is to…send him into space. Wow. Why not just give him a farewell nosh while you’re at it?
This is Hollywood. A supposedly PC blockbuster with a female lead who makes her own luck without asking for special treatment and lets a privileged white supervillain off with a slap on the wrist. Basically, the complete opposite of everything modern feminism represents. And as if such tone-deaf chauvinism wasn’t vile enough, five minutes before the end I suddenly realised that Karen Danvers doesn’t have a cock. Yep, after giving leftists the come-on for two hours it turns out the film’s protagonist isn’t even a real woman: she’s a sodding menstruator. With tits and a functioning fanny. Way to alienate your audience, DC.
But this is typical of a film with the most ill-judged casting since HBO denied drug-dealing Maths teachers the opportunity to represent themselves by hiring Brian Cranston to star in Breaking Saul. And it started so well: I was initially blown away by how much the actor playing young Larry Fishbone looked exactly like young Larry Fishbone. “Wow” I thought. “They gave the role to someone who actually resembles the Reservoir Dogs star, rather than just hiring a teenager with the same colour hair!”
Sadly, it soon became clear that I wasn’t watching a member of the Larry Fishbone lookalike community at all. No, the DC suits had gaslighted the real Larry Fishbone into taking the white man’s dollar on the promise that they obscure his wrinkly face with cheap make-up and rubbish GCI. Needless to say I stormed out the second the credits rolled, not even pausing to spit on the usher like I usually do when I’m short-changed by a film I haven’t paid to watch. But the sad thing is, in any normal year a movie as eyepoppingly right-wing as Marvel Girl would be an anomaly, roundly mocked and boycotted by people who’ve never seen it. Things are far from normal in the post-Trump world however, as 2019’s roster of cinematic duplicity demonstrates.
Take Ian McKay’s The Vice, the Dick Chaney biopic that appears to hit all the right notes before disgracing itself in the third act by promoting the most luridly right-wing ideology this side of The Green Hornets. Which is a huge shame as the film gets so much right, spending most of its running time pretending the last two Democrat governments didn’t exist and ignoring the fact that their foreign policy was remarkably similar to the evil Bush regime’s. And naturally Bush and co. are held uniquely responsible for every bad thing the USA has ever done, even though their love of torture and bombing Muslim countries was adopted with gusto by St. Barack.
Chaney’s tyrannical use of executive orders to push through diabolical policies is also attacked, the film suggesting this directly lead to the obscene powers now enjoyed by President Pussy-Grab. Luckily the film avoids mentioning that no President has pursued executive power as hungrily as Obama, who made a hobby of extending his reach throughout his glorious 8 years as LOTUS. Indeed, in line with the modern liberal trend for pretending Obama’s presidency never happened, the script virtually ignores his two terms, McKay jumping straight from Dubya to Trump and standing up for liberal values by erasing one of the most important black men in American history. In fact, Obama and Mr. Hillary Clinton get so few mentions you’d think they’d never been in power. You’d certainly never guess they were responsible for a multitude of reckless interventions every bit as hawkish and warmongery as those carried out by the awful Republicans.
Elsewhere, the film makes much of Chaney supposedly advising his daughter not to back gay marriage when she ran for the senate, causing a longstanding rift with her gay sister. Naturally, we have no way of knowing if Chaney caused the fall-out by talking her into betraying her sibling for political capital. But that doesn’t bother McKay, who decides he must have done because well, as the director is somewhat keen to point out, Chaney was Satan. He even cheekily inserts a false ending which implies that if Chaney weren’t Satan he would have resigned years earlier and kept his daughter’s sexuality a secret. Perfect. And while it may seem strange for a liberal to argue that gay people should keep their gayness to themselves, one of the greatest things about modern leftists is our ability to wilfully contradict ourselves and still be the most progressive people in the room. This is also apparent in the film’s puritanism, with Chaney repeatedly shamed for being fat, unhealthy and – the horror! – liking a drink. A sure-fire sign of diabolical evil, as anyone who’s seen Nigel Farrage swig a pint knows.
Sounds great, eh? And it is. Until the film turns its attentions to terrorism and shits its brains out. Because in an act of cowardice on par with Steven Soderbergh depicting Black November as cold-blooded killers simply because they killed people in cold blood, McKay destroys his good work by suggesting that Islamic extremism is a bad thing. So while every proper leftist knows fine well that the jihad against the West is fully justified because of Islamophobia or something, McKay bottles it and merely blames the US for creating the conditions which allowed Islamic extremism to flourish, acknowledging that we created vacuums and grievances that were exploited by bad people but failing to defend those grievances or side with the bad people.
McKay even highlights the terrorist attacks that have occurred since the Iraq war but chickens out of saying that the victims deserved it. Pussy. He then pathetically tries to make up for it with a half-hearted title card stating that 600,000 deaths were caused by the Iraq War – wisely neglecting to mention that those nice Iraqi Resistance lads were responsible for a big chunk of them – but it’s too little too late. Depressing stuff but I’m not sure why I expected better from a director who put Gareth Bale in a fat-suit rather than giving the role to an actual porker.
A similar desire to court the alt-right pervaded U.S, the smash-hit horror that should have cemented John Peele’s reputation as the hottest new filmmaker in town but instead merely proved that he’s quite happy to betray his people if it keeps whitey happy.
I expected great things from Peele, whose disturbing debutGet Away pitted wealthy white liberals against a self-hating black determined to scupper their plan to empower African-Americans by implanting Caucasian brains into their heads. The thoroughly bleak climax saw Peele bravely eschew happy endings, as the deranged villain slowly wipes out the brave white family, before driving off in search of more middle-class leftists to slaughter simply because they value black people for their skin instead of their minds.
Sadly, U.S offers no such intersectional principles, with its tale of an abandoned underground facility teeming with a shambling army of uncultured, murderous clones desperate to experience life up top. Because what Peele is implying is that it’s not just race that divides America but class, as if social and economic issues affect all groups rather than just the ones the contemporary left have placed at the top of the Oppression League Table. But this is a filmmaker who sells out his brothers by demanding liberal audiences root for a black family who are best friends with a white couple. Sick. My guess is if you were to ‘Peele’ this so-called auteur there’d be nothing but vanilla ice cream underneath.
Still, at least he prepared me for If Beale Street Could Walk. Featuring an all black cast, directed by black Moonlight Mile helmer Barry Tomkins, and based on a book by black crime novelist Mike Baldwin, to all intents and purposes it’s the wokebuster to end all wokebusters. Until it takes a sharp rightwards turn halfway through, sticking two fingers up at #MeMe by suggesting that a man accused of rape might be innocent. Yep, in 2019 a movie is actually indulging the misogynistic myth that sometimes women lie. Subhuman. And to add insult to injury, despite copious black talent on both sides of the camera the film is piss-poor on representation. I mean, would it have killed Tomkins to cast an actual black rapist as the man accused of rape? It’s not as if there aren’t plenty to choose from.
But this is the new normal. As Marvel Womanillustrated, it’s the summer blockbusters that are raising the bar for right-wing messaging. Avengers: Ender’s Gameraked in millions despite its rank fat-shaming and racist belief that the world’s problems can be solved by rich white men with magic spacesuits, while Godzilla: King Of The Munsters was a huge hit even though it demonised the entire green movement by making its baddies eco-warriors. Brilliant. Why not just have a 300ft Greta Funbag stomping skyscrapers and destroying the planet with her radioactive farts?
And don’t get me started on X-Men: Pat Phoenix, with its hateful lie that women are too flighty to handle superpowers without causing car crashes and killing their parents. Or Spiderman: Homeward Bound, which undermined its commitment to diversity by having progressive heroine Mary Joan spend the whole film swooning at a creepy white cis-boy in tights.
But the most disturbing part is that all of these films were box office hits despite uptight singletons complaining about them on social media, opening up the terrifying prospect that people who spend their lives moaning on the internet don’t have quite as much influence as we thought. And with Chris Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In LA about to open and offend decent liberals everywhere with its sordid orgy of bare feet, ‘bitches’ and bigotry, it seems the Ovaltine Window has significantly shifted: they’re not even pretending to be woke anymore. Shameful.
All we can do is pray that the few out-and-proud liberals who haven’t been banished from Hollywood will continue making their voices heard. So three cheers for the brave producers who put principle before profit and internet outrage before common sense by firing edgy comic Sarah Silverwoman after footage emerged of her dressed as Diane Abbott.
Much like Brie Lawson, Sarah had spent years fooling the world into thinking she was one of The Good People, though in this age of antisemitism smears and shady Zionist lobbies, one look at her surname should have been enough to tip us off. No doubt whoever binned Sarah will end up like Brian Epstein once the FBI find out but Christ, at least they did something.
Anyway, exposing all of this bigotry has made me quite nauseous. Time to take a break from the racism and sexism and occupy my mind with something altogether more progressive. Thank god I have a column to write on Carolyn Lucas’s all-white, women-only anti-Brexit cabinet. I hear her brother George is already planning a film about it. Now that’ll be worth hiding under a chair for.
The modern left love a good fantasist. And fortunately 2019 has been ram-packed with them, melting progressive hearts with their principled activism and severe mental illness. We swooned at Apache brave Nathan Philippe and his belief that banging a drum in a teenager’s face makes the teenager racist. We prayed for Jessie Smollet after his assault at the hands of two Trump supporters disguised as invisible Nigerians. And we wept as James Robson and Wade Safechuck detailed how they were abused by the Paedo of Pop in a train station that hadn’t been built yet.
There’s been plenty of make-believe this side of the pond too, from Boris Johnston’s courageous neighbours deciding it’s in the public interest to know a blonde buffoon rows with his missus, to die-hard Remainer Otto European’s fervent belief that turning your back in protest means you’re a Nazi. And let’s not forget David Lamby whose flights of fancy are so potent he can look at a photo of a Tory hustings and conclude that no women were allowed in, even when there are about ten of them in the picture.
Coupled with the enduring mythology of hate crime spikes, gender pay gaps, and Sean King’s pigmentation, it’s safe to say that if you have an engrossing, fictional, career-destroying story to tell, the left has your back. Or so I thought.
Sadly, it seems prominent left-wing voices have been actively shunning the delusional narcissists they previously pledged support to. Which is why feisty trans activist Jessica Yavin’s story is so shocking, the silence from high-profile champions of gender self-ID so deafening. Because it was their mantra that ‘transwomen are women’ and their insistence that any man can become female simply by saying he is that led to Yaniv demanding women wax her knackers in the first place.
That’s right, Jessica Yavin has testicles but thinks she’s got a fanny. GET OVER IT. Jessica has, her family has, and the schoolgirls she allegedly stalked, bullied, and offered to share ‘kid porn’ with certainly have. The only people struggling with it are the transphobes who refused to touch Jessica’s cock and the army of TERFs smearing this gorgeous lady as an entitled, misogynist sex-pest.
Because Jessica is merely one in a long line of beautiful women cruelly assigned ‘m**e’ at birth by bigoted doctors too consumed with hatred to look beyond the boyish genitalia and see the pretty foo-foo within. No doubt the quacks responsible would claim they made their choice via science, reason, and the human eye, as if a tiddler and two sacks of meat are a better indicator of someone’s gender than an imaginary clout. And who’s to say these negligent bullies were correct anyway? Errors can be made, and as anyone who’s watched enough non-binary porn knows, it’s very easy to mistake a transwoman’s clit for a stubby baby-cock.
Naturally, Jessica has experienced brutal transphobia. So brutal that when she decided to learn how to insert tampons into the minge she doesn’t have, she was left with no option but to impersonate a girl-band manager and hang out in Facebook groups asking children for advice on the best way to shove a sanitary towel up her shitty arsehole.
Jessica was also recently left heartbroken when a topless swimming event for 12-24 year old non-binaries in Toronto was cancelled. Thirtysomething Jessica even applied for permission to attend the event, which had a safe, sensible, and not-at-all sinister ‘no parents or guardians allowed’ rule. Happily, rumours suggest Jessica is currently organising an alternative, to be held in a remote warehouse not unlike the one in Hostel 3, where the lack of nubile flesh will be compensated for by a twenty-strong gang of middle-aged social workers dressed as babies.
But let’s focus on the real reason for Jessica’s new-found fame: her principled campaign to put waxing salons out of business, a plan hatched after she was ostracised by sixteen transphobic waxologists who refused to accept her custom on the grounds that because it looks like she has a cock and balls, she must therefore have a cock and balls. Even worse, having told the ladies upfront that she was a woman with a vagina, they then turned on her after learning she is actually a man with a penis.
“Never mind” you’re probaby thinking. “At least Jessica had plenty of backing, especially from all those gender self-ID proponents in The Guardian and that”. ERR-ERRRR! Shamefully, the pundits and politicians who’ve spent years arguing that a man who says he’s a woman is as much a woman as an actual woman were strangely silent on the thorny subject of Jessica’s bollocks, leaving her to fend off the torrent of abuse alone.
So Jessica received zero solidarity from Lorry Penny, OJ Jones, or Ash Starkers, three people at the forefront of promoting the idea that transwomen are women and anyone who disagrees is a disgusting Nazi who can shove their bigoted hate speech up their loose furburger.
Similarly, new SDP leader Jo Swinton failed to stick up for Jessica, despite being a firm believer in gender self-ID and allowing men to piss, shower, and masturbate wherever they like. Ditto Labour’s Steven Doughty, who has attacked all manner of far-right feminists for objecting to creepy men exploiting trans ideology yet has so far failed to defend Jessica with the same pride, passion, and naked opportunism with which he attacked evil hatemongers like The Daily Fail’s Janice Taylor.
Dr. Christian Jensen and Not-A-Dr. Adrian Harrods have also been noticeably silent on Waxgate, somewhat curious given their history of celebrating gender self-ID and grassing women up to their bosses for disagreeing with them on Twitter. Fingers crossed they were simply pre-occupied with other important work, such as doxxing women, defending sex with 12 year old girls, or examining swollen bellends in Magaluf. (Thank Allah we aren’t all irrationally averse to handling the naughty bits of half-naked horndogs.)
All of which begs several questions: Could it be that fighting fascism and saying ‘bollocks’ to Brexit has consumed the left so much they’ve taken their eyes off the unwaxed ball and temporarily neglected the trans-creep community?
Or could it be, as Tory trolls speculate, that they know fine well Jessica’s behaviour is unjustifiable, but to say so would both make a mockery of the ideology they’ve thrown their lot in with and increase their chances of getting twatted by a plumber in fishnets on Speakers’ Corner?
Or perhaps there’s an even darker explanation. Because I can’t be the only principled leftists to note similarities with the recent treatment of Carl ‘Nasty Nick’ Beecham, the freedom fighting fantasist who wowed the left with his tales of VIP sex rings and drug-addled snuff parties. And needless to say, now that it’s finally been conclusively proven that Carl’s claims were utter horse-shit his celebrity cheerleaders are nowhere to be seen.
Of course, to anyone who spent five minutes researching his disturbing and highly implausible allegations it’s been pretty obvious for years that Carl had as much credibility as that bloke who hangs around Haymarket Bus Station telling old ladies he works for the CIA, chasing crisp packets, and arguing with pigeons. Indeed, the crooked BBC even aired an episode of Dramarama in 2015 which exposed Carl’s story – promoted by pioneering conspiracy blog Exaro Media – as unfounded nonsense. Luckily, Carl’s famous champions either didn’t see it or pretended they hadn’t, allowing the myth to flourish in it’s natural habitat: the internet.
Indeed, left-wing dupes on Twitter still talk in hushed tones about Satanic sex-cults involving murderous MPs, blissfully unaware that neither exist. Even Carl’s conviction and 18-year sentence hasn’t deterred them, with conspiracy loons worldwide insisting the hapless nurse was ‘set up’ by sinister establishment forces who destroyed vital evidence and forced him to flee to Scandinavialand after child porn and toilet-spying technology were planted on his laptop.
All of which successfully destroyed Carl’s veneer of credibility, previously maintained by the high-profile cheerleaders bowled over by his tales of devil worshipping Tory nonces. So bowled over that they continued to believe him long after it became clear to anyone who’d looked into it that Carl was a deranged lunatic who couldn’t lie straight in bed.
These included Tom Watkins, who publicly repeated Carl’s claims about dead Tory Len Brittan, stating repeatedly that he fully believed the entirely convincing story told to him in person by the wild-haired, socially awkward weirdo . The fact that there was zero actual evidence was irrelevant, and Tom should be applauded for being an early champion of #BelieveVictims, the international craze that would erupt in glorious technicolour two years later to ruin careers, destroy families, and tarnish the reputations of innocent men worldwide. Go Tom!
Other politicians included former Labour MP Simon Dhansak, whose work exposing the sexual exploitation of young women by politicians was unfairly cut short after he was suspended from his party for sending saucy texts to a 17-year-old girl. And let’s not forget Gorgeous ‘George’ Galloway, who interviewed Exaro Media‘s no-nonsense editor Mark Watson on Russia Tonight, concluding that the sheer volume of imaginary Tories who’d spent decades abusing delusional loners was as good an argument as any for overthrowing the government and declaring war on Israel. (Patience, sweet terracotta warrior. It’s coming.)
Carl was also backed by James ‘How To Be Right’ O’Brian, who regularly hosted Mark Watson on his NBC show. Indeed, Watson’s thoroughly disturbing, entirely unsubstantiated reports of establishment kiddy-fiddling were like catnip to O’Brian, who has spent the last three years calling 17 million people he’s never met gullible idiots. And James carried on having Mark on the show long after most people had realised the VIP story was utter rubbish, such was his dedication to holding imaginary paedophiles accountable for crimes that never happened.
Sadly, by 2016 James had abruptly abandoned the story, presumably in response to the BBC documentary which confirmed what anyone free of political, ideological, or tinfoil hat bias already knew: it was all made up. Fortunately James refused to take the coward’s option of apologising and admitting he’d been duped, preferring to say nothing and ignore or block anyone who suggested he has a nerve accusing others of naivety considering he was taken in by a transparently mental paedophile.
Needless to say, neither James nor Tom have admitted any culpability in destroying Harley Proctor’s life and sending Brittan to an early grave. Instead they issued terse, uniform statements which failed to mention their own complicity. James even pledged to carry on Believing Victims, delighting his fans by effectively admitting he’s learnt absolutely nothing. Good. If Brittan thinks being a rich white man accused of noncery is bad he should try living in Boris’s Britain. These dead Tories who carked it before Brexit don’t know how lucky they are.
Still, as commendable as it was to see Carl’s former champions cover their own backs and refuse to say ‘sorry’ for indulging a dangerous nutter, what was sorely lacking was full-blooded support, the kind also denied to Jessica Yavin. Indeed, you’d expect James to come up with the goods on both issues, having last year blasted a transphobic menstruator – is there any other kind? – who suggested that young girls shouldn’t have to share changing rooms with hairy-arsed adult men, blissfully unware that these men’s arses are only hairy because a handful of toxic TERFs are too up themselves to wrangle the odd willy.
Sadly, those days are long gone and James’ support for Jessica was as non-existent as his anger at Carl Beecham’s imprisonment. And we all know why. Because the right have bullied decent liberals into silence, to the point where we know fine well if we say the wrong thing our careers are over.
Meanwhile they continue to steal the left’s best moves. As I’ve previously discussed, there is a terrifying new breed of right-wing social media fantasists, spreading smears and fabrications as if they were New Statesmxn columnists. Perhaps the most enduring is the fantasy that Tommy Yaxley Robinson is a crusading truth teller fighting for abused children, as opposed to a dim-witted hooly whose only talents appear to be lying, scrapping, and coming up with increasingly silly ways to get himself thrown in jail.
So this is 2019. A transwoman persecuted for standing up to bigotry, an NHS angel locked up for telling his story his way, and two marginalised victims with a shared interest in what children get up to in bathrooms thrown under the bus by the very people who elevated them to stardom. And all because the far-right are determined to punish people for expressing opinions they don’t like.
Perhaps the world ending in six months isn’t such a bad thing after all.
There are so many things the left do better than the right. From losing referendums and coming second in elections to misrepresenting statistics and pretending men can get pregnant, it’s safe to say we best them in every category. Sure, they’ve recently given us a run for our money in the fields of ‘faking hate crimes’ and ‘reporting comedians to the police’ but they can’t hold a candle to us when it comes to stuff that matters, such as attending Pride parades dressed as leather-clad sex-dogs. (Tories prefer to do that in private, the dirty, repressed bastards.)
But they will never come close to us when it comes to insurrection. You only have to look at those alt-right bellends in yellow tabards stinking up Westminster Boulevard to see how rubbish they are at protests. Okay, they may have pulled off the remarkable feat of convincing the left-wing media that they’re both pathetic losers whose fans would struggle to fill a phone box and the greatest threat to civilised society since Oswald Mosley’s Blacksocks, but at the end of the day their sad antics are about as incendiary as a baby mouse wet-farting Deutschmark Uber Alles.
In this exciting era of milkshakes and tear-gas it must be pretty embarrassing when your most memorable examples of direct action are pestering Anna Sourface and calling OJ Jones a puff. They don’t even wear masks or carry bike locks. This startling lack of originality runs right through the alt-right’s bland approach to protest, though this doesn’t mean they’re not the most terrifying presence on British streets and must be eliminated before they cleanse the UK of everyone who isn’t white or cisgender.
Which brings me to last week’s cringeworthy yet horrific display of arrogance by the Brexshit Party, who somehow managed to sink even lower when they turned their backs on the EU’s official jingle, Ode To Juncker. Yep, not content with disrespecting the greatest institution on earth – one so awesome it singlehandedly stops World War 3 every day – they also offended a brass band. Clearly the note perfect rendition of this life affirming anthem didn’t do it for them, probably because it doesn’t contain enough oompah stylings or jackboot drumming for their far-right tastes.
But there was an even darker side to their performance. Because as anyone who’s spent more than five minutes navigating Political Twitter knows, you can’t simply criticise the Brexshit MEPs for being rude, childish, or egotistical. You can’t just mock them for bigging up their silly protest as if it were an act of defiance on par with Wayne Gandhi’s Salt March. And you can’t merely point out the ridiculousness of taking a seat in the European Parliament despite spending your days telling people how terrible the European Parliament is.
No, what you have to do is state with absolute certainty that all 29 BP MEPs – three of whom I’ve actually heard of! – decided to turn their backs on the European Parliament not because they’re vain egotists or publicity hungry clickbait whores. They did it because they’re Nazis.
Which is what thousands of educated people with important-looking letters after their names did last week when it became blatantly obvious that BP’s trite spectacle was a far-right dog-whistle, clearly designed to invoke memories of a similar protest done by a bunch of genuine Nazis in 1936 or something. The fact that none of the die-hard Remainzealots accusing the foul MEPs of deliberately referencing Nazis had heard of the incident until that day was irrelevant, as was the fact that people have been turning their backs as a form of protest for decades and it has bugger all to do with death camps, swastikas, or genocidal dictators with missing knackers.
Understandably, decent people were repulsed by this brazen tribute to the Fourth Reich, so brazen it was only picked up on by people with blue flags and pointless acronyms in their Twitter handles. Leading the charge was EU-lovin’ social media personality Otto European, who melted FBPEMFTM hearts by re-tweeting a picture of Farage and co’s ancestors pulling their dirty trick in the ’20s, before accusing their modern day proteges of “using the Nazi playbook”.
This naturally made Guardian readers swoon hard, almost as hard as that time Otto posted creepy pictures of a lady eating some food on a train. That woman, of course, was leading Brexshitter Clare Fox, which handed European and his deeply progressive followers a free pass to disseminate photos of a 60-year-old woman taken without her permission, cleverly avoiding the cries of ‘toxic masculinity’ that would erupt from his fans if someone did that to a proper left-wing politician. (Fox likes to pretend she’s one of us by bragging about her Communist past and supporting noble causes like killing British soldiers but she’s fooling no-one.)
Otto was ably assisted by his faithful Twitter followers, leaping to his defence with the sort of rabid commitment and unabashed sycophancy unique to the modern left – two more things we do waaay better than the rotten right. Predictably, they had to fend off Tory trolls pathetically arguing that people have been making political statements by turning their backs for years, from anti-Trump protesters to Canadian women upset at Justin Trudeaux for banning periods. These lame deflections were met with short shrift by Otto’s army, who responded like trained seals and repeatedly pointed out that the difference between these examples and the racist MEPS was that the latter are elected representatives, you idiot. What this had to do with Otto’s claim that to turn one’s back on someone was to “whistle the same motifs” as the Nazis was unclear, but I’m certain there was an important reason behind it. Otherwise it would mean they’d completely missed the point and educated leftists never do that, do they?
The only sticking point was Otto. Now, far be it from me to cast doubts on such an obvious ally but even Mr. European himself would agree that in these divisive times it’s hard to know who to trust. So forgive me for not passing on your wise words Otto, but I’m afraid your first name sounds a little too ‘Nazi playbook’ for my liking.
All of which emphasises how utterly useless the right are at protesting, their cack-handed attempts insulting true rebels everywhere and making a mockery of the revolutionary tradition. To see how it’s supposed to be done, you only have to look at the assortment of left-wing protests that have happened over the last fortnight, each one as daring and rebellious as the Brexshit Party’s was safe and irrelevant.
Take the counter protest which took place on the same day, as a gang of brave Lib Dems in wacky yellow t-shirts left the BP absolutely rattled by marching into the European Parliament with ‘BREXIT IS BOLLOCKS!’ emblazoned across their tits. Ha! Needless to say, this madcap act of subversion left the alt-right fuming. And if for some strange reason their stunt doesn’t stop Brexit, at least these freedom fighters will know that while few people could tell you their names, at least their clothing trended on Twitter for an hour. Take that, Nazi sods!
Elsewhere, we saw yet more bravery from Antifa, the modern day equivalents of everyone who died in WW2, particularly those nice Stalinists who helped the Allied Forces crush Hitler before spending the next few decades quadrupling his death toll. For further evidence compare the Brexshit Party with the black-clad warriors who clashed with Nazis in Portland Bill two weeks ago, finding themselves under such a sustained attack from alt-right shit stirrer and self-hating homo Andy Ngogo that they were left with no choice but to defend themselves by beating up the unreconstructed Solero.
This is how you get stuff done. And the great thing about Antifa violence is that, unlike violence committed by your common-or-garden mace-wielding fascist, Antifa’s brand of peaceful bullying always earns the support of British liberals. One of the most passionate is left-wing blogger Bob From Throckley who, despite regularly decrying class divisions, hate speech, and incitement, expressed little condemnation for the privileged activists who put Nguyen in hospital. On the contrary, he blamed the Asian white supremacist for provoking them, reminding everyone that evil Andy is ‘far-right’ thus legitimising the principled decision to beat him up.
Unsurprisingly, Bob then indulged in the kind of apologism and victim-blaming now commonplace on the modern left, from casting doubt on whether Umbongo’s injuries were real and denying that Antifa activists have ever behaved like fascists to defending their right to hit people they disagree with and using ‘they started it!’ as a grown-up justification for violence. Good lad. All in all, for someone who dislikes Corbynites Bob doesn’t half sound like one. Fingers crossed he keeps up the good work – once Jezza sweeps to power and Broccoli finishes his five year stretch stitching berets in solitary we could use a brain like his.
But the most impressive left-wing protest happened last week when Jess Philips dumped her son on Theresa May’s doorstep. This genius move was designed to blame the doomed PM for Master Philips’ school closing on a Friday afternoon, as well as highlighting the fact that Jess’s life is so hectic and her salary so meagre she has neither the time nor money to arrange for someone to change her 10-year-old’s nappy.
The tremors from this bold attempt to change the world were felt all the way from Number Ten to Number Eleven, with Jess’s bravery fawned over by the type of people who think swearing and interrupting people more than make up for a complete lack of personality. As you’d expect, these superfans happily bought into the left-wing fantasy that her son’s school closure was entirely the fault of the government and nothing whatsoever to do with mismanaging its budget.
Sadly, the ballsy act of dissent had zero effect on policy but the ripples it generated on Jess’s Twitter feed more than made up for that, which was kind of the point. And while Jess’s son’s school remains closed on Fridays, rumour has it Terrible Theresa was so flustered she offered to pay a visit to Brumingham to wipe his arse while Jess gets her nails done. We’ll see.
As for Fearless Philips, she may have repeatedly betrayed the Dear Leader but we Corbynites are a forgiving bunch. She keeps up these shamelessly opportunistic publicity stunts and there may yet be a role for her when Jezza seizes power. I can’t promise anything but if she maintains her insurrectional streak we may be able to convince Brother Seamus to only hang her once.
Until then we’ll keep showing the fascists how it’s done, starting with our all-out war against the Bastard Broadcasting Charlatans, whose jawdroppingly offensive World In Action documentary on the myth of left-wing antisemitism rightly sent proud Corbynites into the biggest, loudest rage since that infamous Newsnight interview when Laura Cuntsberg pumped and blamed it on Jezza.
Luckily we’re old hands at this protest lark, and the reaction to the smear-filled hatchet job has been as sleek as you’d expect, with some of the outrage even coming from people who’ve seen the programme. I myself refuse to watch it but that hasn’t stopped me sending an angry email to Ofsted and posting envelopes filled with cat-shit to the producer. Meanwhile, all over social media decent Jezzabels have been demonstrating how ridiculous the BBC claims of Jew hatred are by spending the last few days abusing Jews.
See how it’s done, righties? Now if you’ll excuse me this ‘BOLLOCKS TO BORIS!’ banner won’t write itself.
Like most die-hard Corbynites, I don’t even notice the smears anymore. Sure, I read them, spit on them, and send death threats to anyone who retweets them, but other than that they barely register: a faint, inconsequential drone of lies, propaganda, and demonstrable facts. Indeed, they bother me so little it’s been three whole days since I last cried myself to sleep thinking about them, and almost a week since my daily commute to Cowgate food bank was marred by some Zionist bitch eating a bagel on the Metro.
Needless to say, the latest round of scurrilous allegations were as empty, predictable, and easy to ignore as ever, with hit-piece after hit-piece pathetically arguing that Chris Williams’ re-admission to Labour was evidence of the party’s ‘racism’. Please. Any idiot can see it’s actually evidence of their dedication to promoting diversity by creating a safe space for everyone from skull-faced militant antisemites to antisemitic militants with faces like skulls.
But amazingly last week saw an even more tiresome smear, one so tedious I barely spent more than four afternoons, three bus journeys, and an entire sleepless night curled up in an empty bath bubbling about it. Because the centrist swines and their Tory bedfellows excelled themselves this time, sinking even lower than usual by accusing several Jewish Labour accounts of being fakes. Their justification? Well apparently they commited the cardinal sin of regurgitating the exact same story. A story they were accused of stealing from someone else. Yep, it seems shared experiences are a bad thing in Brexit Britain. But that’s not even the worst part. Because these accounts didn’t belong to just any old Jews. These Jews were the relatives of Holocaust survivors.
That’s right, the very same alt-right hawks who’ve spent the last four years accusing St. Jezza’s Labour of antisemitism have now decided to throw people whose parents lived through the horror of the concentration camps under the bus. And all because their recollections of the ordeals they faced in the ’40s sounded slightly similar. Sickening.
Still their relentless slander affects me so little I haven’t even smashed a plate thinking about them since midday. Obsessing over antisemitism smears is just soooo 2015. Far better to let Jezza’s Jews speak for themselves. Yes, they exist. This may shock those gullible wretches who’d believe Corbyn scratched his bum and sniffed his fingers in Strangers’ Bar if The Daily Fail said so, but facts are facts.
Because unbeknown to most of the British public, social media is awash with high-ranking Hebrews who worship Our Next PM every bit as passionately as normal people do. Unlike the celebrity Zionists spreading poison all the way from Twitter to Facebook, these honourable non-gentiles acknowledge their role in the persecution of Palestinians that started before they were born, and are acutely aware of their complicity in the actions of a government six-thousand miles away that has fuck all to do with them.
Twitter in particular is brimming with these folk. Take @KosherKopite#JC4PM a retired jeweller from Merseyside whose parents fled Germany for Amsterdam in the ’30s. After the Netherlands fell to the Nazis she and her family went into hiding, spending the rest of the war in a secret room behind a bookcase in her father’s office. Sadly, after being discovered by the SS in 1944 the whole family were sent to Auschwitz. Apart from @KosherKopite#JC4PM that is, who managed to escape the clutches of the Nazis and hitch-hiked her way across Europe before stowing away on a ferry bound for Merseyside. Upon arrival she was found shivering in a doorway and taken in by a kind Trotskyist family from Bootle, whereupon she devoted the rest of her life to campaigning for the many not the few by writing meaningless slogans on bedsheets.
As she put it herself last week after debating the finer points of the Be-Ro Flour Declaration, a discourse which culminated in her calling Rachel O’Riley a blonde slag: “I’ve learnt one thing. You only get to know a person after a fight. Then you judge their true character!”
I couldn’t have put it better myself, @Kosher.
But she isn’t the only Survivor saying ‘enough’s enough!’ to the anti-Corbyn onslaught. @MerseysideMensch#JC4PM#GTTO is another account which utterly destroys the idea that Jews hate Jezza. Like @Kosher, he was born in Germany but spent most of his childhood in the Netherlands after his parents fled Frankfurt to escape persecution. When the SS uncovered a secret room hidden behind a bookcase in his father’s office and sent his family to Dachau in 1944, @MerseysideMensch#JC4PM#GTTO escaped, trekking through war-torn Europe and somehow making it across the Channel to Liverpool where he was instantly adopted by a couple of scouse social workers. Since retiring from his successful career as a bank manager he spends his days campaigning for universal human rights and admonishing himself for causing the Six Day War despite never having set foot in Israel.
As he recently said to Tracey-Ann Doberman during a lively Twitter chat about Hamas in which he argued his point respectfully before accusing the former Corrie’ killer of eating babies’ faces: “I don’t want to live in vain like most people. I want to be useful or bring enjoyment to all people, even those I’ve never met. I want to go on living even after my death!”
You tell her, @Merseyside.
And let’s not forget @TalmudistOfToxteth#JC4PM#GTTO#ACAB, the 90-year-old former Chief Rabbi of Aigburth and full-time non-binary transbeard who arrived in the north-west as an orphan having fled Amsterdam during the war. Born in Germany, @TalmudistOfToxteth#JC4PM#GTTO#ACAB’s family moved to the Netherlands after Hitler swept to power but were captured and sent to Belsen in 1944 when their secret bedroom hidden behind a bookcase in their dad’s office was discovered by the SS. @TalmudistOfToxteth#JC4PM#GTTO#ACAB somehow made it out alive, risking life and limb travelling across Europe before breaking into the home of a family of bohemian intellectuals from Canning, who were instantly smitten with the knife-wielding genderqueer intruder, bringing them up as one of their own. After a difficult childhood they excelled academically: devouring the Toyah, studying post-modernism, and developing a penchant for fishnet tights, before hitting the streets and learning how to successfully evade arrest when leaving Woolco with a pound of pick’n’mix hidden under your Kipper.
They are one of the most learned Jewish scholars out there, as you can see from this pearl of wisdom they delivered to workshy capitalist Alan Shuggyboat during a heated exchange about BDSM, just before they blocked him and threatened to slit his wife’s throat: “We have many reasons to hope for great happiness but we have to earn it. And that’s something you can’t achieve by talking the easy way out. Earning happiness means doing good and working, not speculating and being lazy. Laziness may look inviting, but only work gives you true satisfaction!”
Wise words, @Talmudist. Wise words.
And they aren’t alone, as Twitter is ram-packed with similar testimonies by other ageing Christ Killers with remarkably similar backgrounds; their identical stories liked, loved, and retweeted by people whose idea of fighting fascism is calling soap actresses whores.That they get zero press coverage is hardly surprising, as the likes of Skynet News and the Brexit Broadcasting Corporation long ago abandoned any pretence of neutrality in favour of shilling for the alt-right.
But we know they’re out there, which is all that matters. As I’ve repeatedly stated, their smears bother me so little they might as well not exist. In fact, since I started writing this blog a few hours ago I’ve only broke down in tears over Wreathgate twice, and still haven’t even got around to sending my weekly DM to one-eyed Torygraph hack Dan Hedges. I just couldn’t care less.
And why should I? The press can go swivel. If I was hit by a bus tomorrow at least I’d die knowing the voices of Good Jews are being heard. So three cheers for @Kosher, @Merseyside and @Talmudist for risking the wrath of Mossad by spreading the truth, speaking their minds, and accepting that as awful as the Holocaust was, as a pre-emptive punishment for what Israel would spend the next 70-odd years doing to the brave people of Palestine, few could argue it wasn’t richly deserved.
Now, if you’ll excuse me I’ve an article to write about how 29 egotists turning their backs on a jingle means they’re Nazis. | {
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Your insurance coverage policy need to have some type of assets hurt protection to compensate you from the celebration of a collision. This protection pays for almost any damages you bring about to another person’s automobile, which include repairs. In addition, it pays for the removal of debris immediately after an accident. Home protection is usually published with three figures, which includes bodily injury protection per incident and assets hurt protection for each incident. Greater limits, even so, give a lot more coverage. Make sure you read your plan and talk to your insurance policies agent if you can find any exclusions or restrictions.
In The big apple, you’ll be able to claim uninsured motorist protection if another driver doesn’t have adequate insurance plan to protect the cost of your collision. This coverage applies when the other driver is not really recognized in any respect and also the accident is successful-and-operate. The Insurance Regulation SS 5217 specifies which the uninsured motorist protection have to be bought in any Bodily collision, but courts have interpreted this provision to only implement in the physical collision.
Underinsured and uninsured motorist protection are optional in certain states, but in other states, you should have them the two. Shopping for equally coverages will offer you extra protection in case you ought to pay out health care charges or other expenses. If the uninsured driver leaves you using a ruined automobile, the uninsured motorist coverage can pay for the repairs. Although this protection just isn’t expected, it could be a smart thought to carry no less than the bare minimum level of legal responsibility protection.
In case you’ve in no way regarded as it, car insurance reductions are a terrific way to get monetary savings and keep green. Numerous new vehicles have safety capabilities like airbags and anti-lock brakes that will cut down your rates. It’s also possible to get supplemental discounts for owning security capabilities inside your vehicle, including daytime running lights or anti-theft alarms. Spending your premium in whole annually may even take out payment concerns for 12 months. In truth, about 50 percent of insurers offer you a reduction for this type of payment.
You might also be qualified for reductions when you’ve experienced your coverage for a number of a long time. These special discounts range depending upon the length of time you have experienced your coverage, but lots of businesses present discounts for remaining loyal for their shoppers. You may be suitable for a discount of about 15% if you buy your policy not less than seven times ahead of your renewal day. Other than these reductions, some providers even supply special discounts to All those in sure occupations. By way of example, teachers acquire 10% off their rates from Liberty Mutual. Military services personnel get a 15% price cut from Geico.
Are you currently a younger driver seeking car insurance low-cost rates? Here are a few strategies you could follow to save cash on car coverage coverage: Increasing your deductibles, acquiring a no claims price reduction, and getting a plan having a regional insurer. These tips could help you save numerous pounds annually on the automobile insurance coverage policy. Additionally they allow you to get the bottom costs attainable. Keep reading to learn more. You can be happy you probably did!
Younger motorists can lower your expenses on auto insurance by driving additional safely and securely, lowering the volume of miles they generate, and permitting the insurance provider monitor their driving routines. You may as well lessen your rates by purchasing all around for automobile insurance coverage. Numerous insurers cost a greater level for younger motorists, so it is vital to buy about. Fortunately, you will find free of charge on-line quotation comparison instruments that make this simple. Also, you can request a reduction if you have various vehicles and have them insured by a similar business.
When trying to find a policy, Ensure that you Evaluate a number of quotes and pick the greatest benefit and high quality. You may as well try to look for an insurance plan agent who’ll develop along with you, permitting you to make adjustments as your driving history variations. Ensure that you Look at insurance policies which provide identical forms of protection, as deductibles and limitations may make a big variation. For anyone who is a young driver, It’s also wise to get sufficient coverage to avoid financial catastrophe.
Acquiring a no claims price cut on automobile protect is a great way to save cash with your premiums, and it could be worthy of asking your insurance provider how to apply it. Based on the insurer, the lower price is often value between thirty% following a 12 months to as much as 65% right after five years. Bear in mind When you’ve got a mishap, you can expect to drop two several years of no claims bonus. Additionally, several promises will likely wipe out your whole no promises reward. It can be necessary to notify your insurer quickly of any mishaps you have, as failing to do so could suggest that future promises will probably be rejected.
Most insurers offer no statements discount defense for a payment of close to PS25. It enables you to make a particular amount of statements annually without the need of worrying regarding your rates likely up. Additionally it is possible to include it to a whole new coverage if you have a no claims reward. Moreover, you could transfer your no promises price cut to another insurance company if you want. To maintain your no statements price cut, you must take into consideration switching companies each and every year or two.
When looking for a low-cost auto insurance plan quote, elevating your deductibles is a great way to get reduced rates. Some estimates say you can save in between 15 and 30 % on the top quality by increasing your deductibles. These personal savings can vary greatly depending on your driving record, the type of car or truck you drive, and your state’s laws. Elevating your deductibles also can decreased your annually premium by as much as forty%.
Though boosting your deductible isn’t the right decision for everyone, it can help you help you save 1000s of pounds over the long run. When the quantity you select to boost your deductible will depend on your fiscal condition, experts recommend preserving a minimum of two months’ well worth of dwelling fees. In addition, it is going to lower your insurance fees monthly. You will also preserve a major sum of money if you at any time make a claim.
Getting a coverage using a regional insurance provider could be beneficial for motorists with a very poor credit background. It could help you save dollars every month in your regular insurance policies Invoice, and you may benefit from reductions and excellent customer service. Obtaining a policy by using a regional insurance company is obtainable in all fifty states, and you may Examine costs by state to locate the lowest prices. However, it is necessary to notice that it may well have a couple months to boost your credit rating, and a few drivers by using a very poor credit score background can end up having to pay around $400 a 12 months.
Erie Insurance policies is another regional insurance provider that offers low cost vehicle coverage. This enterprise is based in Pennsylvania, and has actually been in business enterprise due to the fact 1925. Erie delivers car insurance plan, lifetime, and house insurance policy. Whilst Erie only presents protection in selected states, it’s got greater than 13,000 impartial insurance policies brokers during The usa. You are able to pick an agent or perhaps a regional insurer In line with your needs. Nonetheless, it is suggested you examine all high-quality print before you make a decision.
If you’re a higher-chance driver, you’ll want to Evaluate vehicle coverage quotations and find the cheapest coverage for your preferences. You should also have a look at exactly how much protection is out there in your neighborhood to help you ascertain if a decreased price can be done. It’d be more economical to invest in additional coverage When you’ve got reduce possibility or if you settle for the next deductible. Everything is determined by your needs. Luckily, there are various selections available to you.
If you are searhing for The most affordable vehicle insurance policies quotation for prime-chance motorists, you will be in luck. You can easily locate a single that has a several clicks on-line. The net can give you a number of offers for coverage in a fraction of the cost of conventional automobile insurance coverage. Don’t just that, nevertheless it may also make signing up for insurance policy quite a bit less difficult. All It’s important to do is fill out an easy online variety, spend your high quality, so you’re finished! The insurance provider will then print you a card as proof of your insurance protection and you will have a coverage on the highway.
Should you have a bad credit history, you are thought of a higher-possibility driver by many insurance policy providers. This is due to you usually tend to file an insurance policies assert than the usual driver with superior credit history. Your credit rating rating is actually a factor in how insurance policy organizations watch you, and a prior DUI/DWI will raise your top quality by approximately sixty five%. This can be similar to an extra $477 with a six-thirty day period plan. Yet another issue that insurers take into account is your driving background. A DUI/DWI can raise your high quality by approximately $174, and also a speeding ticket can increase as much as about 45%.
Should you have a DUI with your file, it is possible to opt for The most affordable automobile insurance plan supplier. Organizations for instance Point out Farm, American Household, and Progressive have some superior possibilities that supply decreased premiums for high-risk drivers. Additionally they contemplate your credit score rating when identifying your premium. Insurers take into consideration these elements when choosing simply how much you shell out for your coverage. A poor credit rating rating might cause coverage costs to skyrocket, so It can be essential to be aware of your credit rating rating before making a choice.
There are a variety of things to look at when choosing The most affordable automobile insurance plan for younger motorists. Your age and marital status Participate in a giant part with your automobile insurance policy premiums. The kind of auto you push may additionally have an effect on your own premium. For example, high-efficiency cars are typically dearer to insure than minimal-functionality motor vehicles. For that reason, the first step to find the cheapest auto insurance policy for young drivers is to locate a car or truck with several basic safety capabilities.
A great way to reduced the expense of car or truck insurance plan for younger motorists is to lessen the coverage you may need. A lot of insurers offer special discounts when you are an excellent scholar, or if you are in driver training. Having said that, reducing your protection could bring about enormous out-of-pocket charges When you’ve got a collision. Therefore, make sure to weigh the hazards of this option carefully, and constantly err to the side of obtaining greater value.
Adolescents Have got a difficult time securing inexpensive automobile insurance policies. Although the cost of a policy for just a sixteen-yr-previous driver is way increased than that of the Grownup, it may be minimized by including a teen to an current plan. This feature boosts premiums by an average of $one,461 a year, but is often much less expensive than obtaining a individual plan. Additionally, if you are a youthful driver, hunt for bargains along with other methods to save lots of.
The cost of automobile coverage differs extensively depending on your profile, which can signify that you ought to shop all around for the cheapest insurance for minimal-danger motorists. Insurers look at quite a few elements when selecting on an insurance coverage plan, which include your driving record, demographics, and Total chance level. Stated beneath are classified as the five most vital things to think about when evaluating insurance plan quotes. Remember that reduced insurance costs You should not signify that you’ve got to sacrifice excellent.
For starters, look at your zip code. People in superior-crime places will deal with greater charges. Moreover, insurance policies corporations acquire targeted visitors quantity into account. Also, ensure that you don’t have any mishaps or statements on the document, as these will boost your rates. Lastly, keep in mind that it is best to Evaluate rates each and every 6 months to stay away from paying out a lot more than You must. It’s also wise to take into account obtaining a multi-policy discount if you’ve multiple coverage with a specific insurance provider.
Even though credit score scores usually are not lawfully utilized by insurers in some states, They are nevertheless vital things to consider when comparing car insurance policies rates. In Hawaii, drivers with bad credit will pay 168% much more than equivalent clean up drivers. In Massachusetts, high-danger motorists shell out thirty% over cleanse drivers. For brand spanking new motorists, a DUI, dashing ticket, and terrible credit score will boost premiums in excess of Other people. Make sure you receive a couple of rates before you make a decision.
The zip code you reside in is An important factor in the price of coverage. If you reside in a region with significant crime and incident premiums, you may count on to pay for extra for insurance quotes. On top of that, aspects like website traffic quantity and accident historical past can raise the cost of insurance policies. Most insurance coverage companies also check into a driver’s driving record to find out what rate they should charge for their policy. Usually, motorists by using a weak driving heritage pay a lot more for coverage than These that has a clean driving report.
Motor vehicle insurance policies has risen by $fifty – $a hundred in the final five years, as well being treatment charges have already been raising. Drivers will also be necessary to have uninsured and PIP coverage, that are above-regular state necessities. Several states only involve legal responsibility insurance policies, but The big apple demands drivers to hold equally. These optional coverages enhance the expense of coverage, and can frequently increase the complete top quality. And finally, motorists really should Look at their coverage restrictions, as some guidelines Have a very decreased minimal degree of protection than Other people.
In New York, the average human being spends 2.eight per cent of their cash flow on motor vehicle insurance plan, that’s a little better as opposed to nationwide regular of two.40 %. People today of their 30s, 40s, and 50s pays somewhat less than the standard. The 70+ age team can pay higher premiums than motorists with less driving practical experience. Those people who are married will pay slightly higher rates, but nevertheless reduced than one persons.
In combination with reduce premiums, drivers may also consider defensive driving courses. These lessons are 320 minutes in size, and include things like discussions of driver Perspective and visitors guidelines. In addition they train defensive driving approaches which will dramatically lower the expense of insurance coverage. They may also assistance to further improve their driving document, so finishing a class can lower the price of a vehicle insurance estimate. On the other hand, if you are Not sure about the exact protection you would like, you may Check out Using the Insurance policy Information and facts Institute.
Whilst gas price ranges range by state, the price of a car or truck insurance policies estimate in other states may be increased or reduced than your own. Some things may possibly account for this, such as The share of uninsured drivers, state insurance plan rules, and the rate of theft. Also, the incidence of negative weather conditions can change the cost of insurance in several states. The next desk displays typical motor vehicle insurance policies rates in different states. These estimates are based on a comparison of condition insurance coverage prerequisites.
Missouri is The most affordable point out for complete-protection vehicle insurance policy, spending just $944 less than Louisiana. On top of that, this point out has one of the bottom costs for every capita, and is particularly ranked fifth in terms of cost of living. In distinction, Texas drivers spend one of the most for his or her motor vehicle insurance policy, spending approximately 33% of their annual revenue in total. This disparity may be as a consequence of The point that the state features a superior number of uninsured drivers and plenty of lawsuits.
The national average for entire protection car coverage is $1,771 a calendar year. The state with the most costly coverage top quality is Louisiana, that has a premium of $two,839, a 19% enhance from 2020. Conversely, Maine’s regular coverage top quality is just $858. This is because no-fault states have bigger insurance rates. The cost of an auto insurance plan in other states can differ drastically. There are many variables to take into account, including your point out’s legal guidelines on insurance policy.
When you are searching for higher-threat driver vehicle insurance policies close to me, you might be questioning how to get a very low-Value policy. Large-danger motorists shell out increased coverage rates than average drivers. This is because they have an inclination to get more incidents or violations on their record. Based on the condition, the limit could possibly be 3 decades or 5 years. In some instances, you can find reductions if you take a driver security class.
Whilst the nationwide averages for prime-danger driver auto insurance policy in close proximity to me are really dependable, you’ll discover that rates range wildly from condition to point out. Some firms alter their charges to various states, Therefore if you live in a specific condition, you could learn that one particular insurance provider provides you the most effective protection for a low price tag. The cheapest substantial-chance driver motor vehicle insurance policies in close proximity to me comes from Point out Farm, which has a lengthy-standing standing for furnishing exceptional company.
The ultimate way to look for a significant-chance driver automobile insurance policy near me is to enter your ZIP code and Assess prices. The cost of high-danger car insurance policies in the vicinity of me can differ from point out to point out, but most big insurers offer you this kind of coverage. Many of these businesses specialise in high-chance protection, like Countrywide Normal. Chances are you’ll even be able to find a cheaper policy if you have superior grades and a reduced-danger car.
There are various benefits of evaluating automobile insurance coverage providers. In this article, We’ll discuss a number of The most crucial functions, like scores, bargains, and customer support. Choosing the most effective plan is important for your protection and defense, so make time to compare different insurance policies from distinctive businesses. By the time you complete studying this text, you’ll have an idea of which insurer provides the best coverage at the bottom Value. Here are several suggestions to pick the appropriate a person for you:
To get the ideal price, it is best to Evaluate car insurance estimates from distinctive businesses. Insurers use a lot of variables to determine the price of insurance policies. You must determine your unique requires and Examine prices from various providers. For example, sports vehicles can Expense a lot more to insure than regular cars and trucks. On top of that, your locality and driving background might also impact the costs that you will be quoted. By utilizing a comparison Device, you will discover the lowest rate on the same protection Together with the identical deductibles.
Insurance coverage premiums will vary substantially, so it truly is essential to know how Every single policy will work. Among the many elements that have an impact on premiums are driving background, age, and credit score heritage. You may as well Assess the benefits that each enterprise gives, like roadside help or incident forgiveness. Whilst this could appear to be a daunting process, it will help to compare prices from distinct companies and select the proper one particular. Mentioned below are a few suggestions to get you commenced.
With regards to evaluating vehicle insurance policy businesses, you might want to get started with the J.D. Electrical power auto insurance company ratings. These are generally determined by buyer gratification surveys that survey A huge number of auto coverage customers nationwide. The effects are compiled into numerical scores that characterize the businesses’ normal purchaser fulfillment rating. These rankings are published each year, and the top motor vehicle insurance coverage organizations in Every single classification are awarded gold medals. But how Are you aware if the companies you are thinking about are any great?
There are numerous means to evaluate the financial power of auto insurance policies firms. First of all, you could Test the AM Finest insurance company score, which gives economical balance scores for automobile insurance coverage organizations. Whether the vehicle insurance company has an A, B, C, or File ranking, it is important to know how steady it really is just before selecting a plan. This is a vital element of customer care, so be sure to examine the reviews and read the wonderful print prior to making a choice.
Car insurance coverage companies provide various special discounts. Numerous of such special discounts is probably not available for Anyone, so it is important to examine the business Web site to make sure you qualify for the reductions that implement for you. Some companies offer multiple special discounts, and It’s also possible to question your insurance policies agent If they’re eligible for just about any individual discount. Nonetheless, the process is straightforward and sometimes requires a lot less than one hour. Under are a few examples of feasible car insurance policies discounts.
Legacy Savings: An auto insurance provider may well present a discount to new motorists who obtain their coverage via their parents’ company. This lower price is mostly all-around 10 %. This really is one way to thank your parents for your organization over the years, and it could help you save dollars on your vehicle insurance protection. Many corporations provide legacy special discounts to young drivers, and It really is truly worth examining to determine In the event your insurance company delivers one particular. You can even consider insurance policies offered by American Family, Farmers, or USAA.
During the insurance coverage industry, there are a few providers that consistently excel at customer service. Esurance, for example, scored four out of 5 from the J.D. Electrical power rankings for customer care, a large mark for an organization whose mother or father organization won’t. The organization scored increased than its competition in all other spots, which include policy choices and prices, along with the excellent of service provided by its Speak to Centre Associates and Internet site.(individualized support)
The most important element of auto insurance for most individuals is its protection, but it’s the customer service that matters most. Consumers desire to Get in touch with their insurers and get prompt, courteous assistance. Therefore they want to get a reaction for their emails and cellphone phone calls rapidly, and they wish to talk to an agent who’ll pay attention to their problems and provide options. Although all vehicle insurance coverage businesses may present fantastic customer support, some do complete better than Other people.(rideshare coverage)(just a few clicks)(insurance policies options)
A number of factors impact the rates of car or truck insurance providers. Driving background and age are two significant components. A driver which has a poor driving historical past or even a lousy credit score score may have bigger rates. Also, the cost of living in your area will have an effect on the premiums. For this reason, it is vital to compare the rates of numerous insurance companies to find the just one that may match your spending budget and also your driving behavior. Usually there are some strategies to decrease your premiums, for instance slicing coverage or having a defensive driving course. It’s also possible to choose to buy a complete year of coverage up entrance.(Monthly bill on the internet)(staff bargains)(at fault accident)(lined accident)
Together with the above-mentioned factors, all kinds of other items can increase your top quality. For example, should you’ve recently made a assert or logged a site visitors violation, your insurance coverage provider will reassess your premiums. On top of that, if you’re taking a safe driving course, you could be qualified for a discount. Insurance policy providers are continuously tweaking their styles to ascertain the fees, and you could discover a variation in the rates even if you’ve under no circumstances adjusted your driving record.(usage dependent insurance plan)(rental cars)(car or truck repairs)(Harmless driver low cost)
A car or truck insurance plan Examine is a great way to stay away from disreputable insurance policy companies. Such as, reduced rates from a specific insurance provider could be deceptive When the estimate excludes specific coverage or helps make inaccurate assumptions regarding your driving profile. By wanting up insurance policies organizations’ scores and the A.M. Greatest rating, you will find The most affordable insurance coverage corporations in your town. Read through this informative article to Learn the way car insurance compares could help you save income. Then, get your estimates within the top businesses and see which one is the best for you.(accident free)
Your credit history-based mostly insurance plan score can be a practical indicator of just how much threat you might be prone to pose, but you should not Permit it dictate your premiums. The federal federal government will not make it possible for insurers to use your credit score background as the sole reason behind an increase in your fees. On the other hand, states for example California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont have legal guidelines set up that restrict insurers from using credit rating heritage to determine coverage costs.(could conserve)(new motor vehicle)(vehicle assert)
However, this kind of insurance policies will not implement to every point out, so customers have no way to ascertain if a company is using your rating to make your mind up the amount to charge them. Some states, which include California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan, do ban credit-based mostly insurance policies. A number of other states even have limitations on the use of credit history-based mostly insurance coverage scores. In the long run, you need to come to a decision for yourself whether or not your credit rating-based mostly insurance policies score is appropriate for you.(motorcycle coverage)(roadside guidance coverage)(bundling auto)(get a auto insurance policy)(pet insurance coverage)(true hard cash price)(outstanding promises provider)(yacht coverage)
Several components affect the expense of car coverage savings, including age. Age has an effect on your rate by over thirty %, and in certain states, a young driver will pay Virtually four moments just as much as a 30-yr-outdated. Inexperience is another key issue, as young young people are more likely to get into incidents. By being familiar with what factors impact your rates, you’ll be able to negotiate decreased charges for yourself. Mentioned under are several of the ways that age affects your car coverage.
Generally speaking, the young you’re, the reduced your rates is going to be. But if you are a man, age does affect the cost of auto insurance policy. Though young male motorists pay out under their more mature counterparts, rates for motorists inside their sixties and seventies skyrocket. Statistically, males are two as well as a half situations as more likely to be involved in a car crash than Ladies, so the gender gap decreases with age.(coverage selections)(homeowners insurance plan)
The truth that a man pays a higher high quality for motor vehicle insurance than a woman will not be fully shocking. Quite a few Males make poor possibilities whilst driving, causing more mishaps and promises. Nonetheless, there are a few components which make Gentlemen dearer to insure. Below are a few of the top main reasons why. Please read on to discover more about the preferred elements that affect vehicle insurance coverage rates by gender. And if you’re still confused, think about the following pointers for lowering your rates.(car coverage insurance policies)(vehicle insurance policies quote)(car insurance policies rate)
The Oregon Division of economic Regulation has instructed automobile insurers to accommodate consumers who don’t specify their gender. Discrimination against non-binary people could be grounds for unfair discrimination charges, and insurers will have to file charges for people motorists starting off in January 2019. These charges can be larger than Those people for male and female drivers. So long as they’re not too much, women can cut costs. Also, don’t worry in regards to the “non-binary” rate for young motorists.(motor vehicle insurance policy claim)(gap insurance plan)(vehicle coverage) | {
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With regards to car insurance plan, there are plenty of different factors which will influence your premium. You are able to lessen your premium by driving securely and responsibly. Other aspects to take into account when comparing rates include things like your car make and model, the value of your car, And exactly how you utilize it. If you regularly push extensive distances, you are more likely to be associated with incidents. Finally, The simplest way to lessen your insurance plan premium is to find a coverage that matches your requirements.
In relation to insurance policies, the standard motor vehicle proprietor is responsible for paying out between $1,100 to in excess of $five,000 a yr. It is vital to understand that fees can differ greatly from state to state. In some states, complete coverage expenditures 2 times about bare minimum coverage. Outlined below are a few strategies to assist you get the most effective cost. A bare minimum legal responsibility Restrict is only needed in certain states, when complete coverage generally includes a $five hundred deductible.
Selecting the suitable motor vehicle is very important since some autos are more expensive than others, resulting in higher insurance policies rates. Additionally, some autos are more expensive to maintenance and change, so their insurance policies rates are generally higher. Drivers using a clean up driving history are likely to get a lot more reasonably priced fees. Age and gender also play a component in pinpointing insurance policies fees. More youthful drivers are typically a lot more risky than more mature drivers. Additionally, some insurers use credit scores to find out insurance policies rates. Even so, some states have handed guidelines prohibiting these use.
You will discover 6 fundamental types of automobile insurance policies coverages. This coverage allows you to customize your plan to include a range of different conditions. You may also want to make sure that you’ve got liability coverage. Legal responsibility insurance policies is necessary by law in most states, but you can pick out a unique variety of coverage for those who’d prefer. Legal responsibility insurance policies covers you in case you’re at fault in a mishap, but In addition it covers other drivers in your car. It will pay for other people’s damages or injuries, and it can also include health-related payments.
A standard plan will include numerous types of coverage, which include liability, collision, extensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and health-related payments. They’re all important, and you need to get more than enough of these. A few of these coverages could possibly be required in a few states, while others may well not. To locate the most effective automobile insurance policies coverage for your requirements, pay a visit to a internet site for instance Freeway Insurance policies. You will find numerous types of coverage solutions and save money and time.
Every state sets its own bare minimum auto insurance policy necessities, and these rules are broken down into 3 separate quantities. In California, for instance, you are required to have at least 15/thirty/5 in bodily harm liability protection, and thirty/fifty/5 in home problems liability. These quantities can vary greatly, so it’s best to check your state’s necessities ahead of driving. While alternative insurance policy could be an alternative, it isn’t constantly a good idea.
The bare minimum protection demanded by your state is normally liability protection, but quite a few lenders demand whole protection. Entire protection refers to the two collision and thorough insurance policy, and it could be demanded by your lender for anyone who is funding your vehicle. Legal responsibility protection handles damages to Other individuals’s home in the celebration of a collision but not your personal motor vehicle or self. Bodily harm liability and home problems liability insurance policy is often put together to offer you the very best protection at an extremely sensible cost.
Whether or not you’ve got collision protection on your automobile insurance policy plan depends on your conditions. When you might not be required by regulation to own this protection, lenders will likely have to have it if you plan on financing your automobile. Lenders may also have to have you to hold collision insurance policy For those who have a personal loan, which means that you just have to invest in full protection automobile insurance policy. This protection is often a necessity for many people who finance an auto, regardless of whether new or applied.
Collision protection pays the entire price of your automobile within the event of an accident. When the insurance company pays the complete expense of repairs, it is probably not more than enough to switch the vehicle if It can be stolen or totaled. You might also ought to fork out some private dollars to switch the vehicle. In case you have this type of protection, ensure you fully grasp the terms and conditions in advance of getting automobile insurance policy. It’s also wise to fully grasp the deductible, that’s separate in the collision deductible.
There are numerous components to think about when purchasing for a vehicle coverage Monthly bill. Some states demand minimum limitations on Residence and Uninsured motorist coverage, which pays for that distinction between your costs and also the plan limit with the at-fault driver. Other states usually do not demand underinsured motorist coverage. Here are some ideas to assist you shop for the proper coverage plan for your requirements. Hopefully, the following tips could make the method somewhat much easier and conserve you revenue.
Legal responsibility protection for car insurance plan is necessary so that you can shield on your own along with your house versus claims of injury or house injury. This protection can protect the cost of defense or settlement do you have to be located at fault for a mishap. There are plenty of kinds of protection, so it’s important to know the difference between them to avoid highly-priced surprises. Condition Farm gives normal prices for several amounts of protection. It’s possible you’ll obtain it far more valuable to choose a medium protection stage.
In many states, you are needed to have liability protection in your coverage, which covers damages to Others’s home and accidents to Others. This sort of protection also guards you in the event you cause a mishap with A different driver. This protection may be the default coverage for most states, and is suggested for motorists in lots of international locations. Nevertheless, it is necessary to understand that liability insurance plan boundaries are certainly various in Each and every condition. Your liability Restrict will decide just how much you’ll have to pay for to address damages.
In virtually each condition, it is illegitimate to travel with no liability protection, which includes home destruction liability. When you cause damage to another person’s home, liability protection pays for repairs. Nevertheless, your automobile insurance plan coverage would not address your own private car or truck’s damages. Your condition could have various minimum needs for liability protection, so it’s important to check your coverage before buying it. Home protection is usually important to your financial protection. It can help you stay away from currently being remaining with substantial insurance plan charges in case you cause a mishap.
Your insurance plan coverage have to have some type of home destruction protection to compensate you during the party of a collision. This protection pays for almost any damages you cause to a different person’s car or truck, which includes repairs. Additionally, it pays for that removal of particles just after a mishap. Home protection is commonly prepared with three numbers, which includes bodily injuries protection for each accident and home destruction protection for each accident. Increased boundaries, having said that, give extra protection. You should definitely go through your coverage and question your insurance plan agent if you will find any exclusions or limits.
In Ny, you’ll be able to declare uninsured motorist protection if one other driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance plan to address the cost of your collision. This protection applies when one other driver is just not identified in the slightest degree as well as the accident is a success-and-operate. The Insurance policy Law SS 5217 specifies that the uninsured motorist protection has to be obtained in almost any Actual physical collision, but courts have interpreted this provision to only apply in a very Actual physical collision.
Underinsured and uninsured motorist protection are optional in a few states, but in other states, you have to have them the two. Purchasing the two coverages will supply you with extra protection in the event you ought to spend clinical charges or other expenditures. In case the uninsured driver leaves you which has a harmed car or truck, the uninsured motorist protection can buy the repairs. While this protection is just not necessary, it might be a intelligent strategy to hold at the very least the minimum degree of liability protection.
When you’ve by no means regarded it, automobile insurance plan special discounts are a great way to save money and stay eco-friendly. Lots of new vehicles have basic safety functions for instance airbags and anti-lock brakes that may decrease your premiums. It’s also possible to get additional special discounts for having basic safety functions in your vehicle, for instance daytime functioning lights or anti-theft alarms. Paying your quality in comprehensive each and every year can even clear away payment anxieties for twelve months. In actual fact, about 50 percent of insurers give a reduction for this sort of payment.
You may also be qualified for special discounts in case you’ve experienced your coverage for various decades. These special discounts vary dependant upon the period of time you’ve experienced your coverage, but a lot of firms give special discounts for currently being faithful to their customers. You may well be qualified for a reduction of around 15% if you purchase your coverage at the very least 7 days in advance of your renewal date. Besides these special discounts, some firms even give special discounts to All those in selected occupations. For example, academics obtain ten% off their premiums from Liberty Mutual. Navy staff get a 15% price reduction from Geico.
Do you think you’re a younger driver in search of automobile insurance plan low cost prices? Here are some strategies you’ll be able to adhere to to save cash on automobile insurance plan protection: Elevating your deductibles, obtaining a no statements price reduction, and obtaining a coverage which has a regional insurer. These tips could help you save many hundreds of pounds on a yearly basis in your automobile insurance plan coverage. They also assist you get the bottom rates probable. Keep reading to understand extra. You’re going to be happy you probably did!
Young motorists can save money on automobile insurance plan by driving extra securely, reducing the amount of miles they travel, and allowing the insurance provider observe their driving practices. It’s also possible to decrease your premiums by browsing all over for automobile insurance plan. Lots of insurers cost a greater price for younger motorists, so it’s important to shop all over. Luckily, you will find absolutely free on-line quotation comparison applications which make this easy. In addition, you’ll be able to ask for a reduction if you have numerous vehicles and have them insured by precisely the same business.
When trying to find a coverage, make sure to Evaluate numerous prices and pick the best worth and high-quality. It’s also possible to try to find an insurance plan agent who will grow with you, enabling you to produce adjustments as your driving record modifications. Be sure you Evaluate procedures which provide related kinds of protection, as deductibles and boundaries may make a large big difference. In case you are a younger driver, It’s also advisable to get sufficient protection to stop financial disaster.
Getting a no statements price reduction on car or truck address is a great way to save money in your premiums, and it might be truly worth asking your insurer how to apply it. With regards to the insurer, the price reduction is often truly worth anywhere from 30% following a calendar year to up to 65% just after five years. Keep in mind that if you have a mishap, you can expect to get rid of two decades of no statements bonus. In addition, numerous statements can even wipe out your whole no statements bonus. It is really essential to notify your insurer promptly of any incidents that you’ve got, as failing to do so could mean that foreseeable future statements will be rejected.
Most insurers give no statements price reduction security for any fee of all over PS25. It means that you can make a specific variety of statements every year with no worrying regarding your premiums going up. Additionally it is probable to include it to a new coverage if you have a no statements bonus. In addition, you’ll be able to transfer your no statements price reduction to a different insurer if you want. To maintain your no statements price reduction, you should consider switching suppliers on a yearly basis or two.
When trying to find a low cost car or truck insurance plan quotation, raising your deductibles is a great way to get lessen premiums. Some estimates say you can save concerning 15 and 30 p.c in your quality by raising your deductibles. These financial savings can differ commonly based upon your driving record, the kind of car or truck you travel, as well as your condition’s laws. Elevating your deductibles could also lessen your yearly quality by up to forty%.
Though raising your deductible is not the ideal decision for everyone, it will help you conserve Countless pounds about the long run. Though the amount you end up picking to boost your deductible will rely upon your financial condition, authorities advocate preserving at the very least two months’ truly worth of dwelling expenditures. Furthermore, it is going to lessen your insurance plan charges on a monthly basis. You will also conserve a big amount of cash in case you ever produce a declare.
Getting a coverage which has a regional insurance provider is often useful for motorists which has a weak credit record. It could help you save income each month in your monthly insurance plan bill, and you will take advantage of special discounts and excellent customer service. Getting a coverage which has a regional insurer is out there in all 50 states, and you will Evaluate rates by condition to discover the bottom rates. Nevertheless, it is necessary to note that it might take a several months to boost your credit rating, and several motorists which has a weak credit record can turn out spending about $400 a calendar year.
Erie Insurance policy is another regional insurer that gives low cost automobile insurance plan. This business is located in Pennsylvania, and has been in business enterprise given that 1925. Erie offers automobile insurance plan, lifetime, and home insurance plan. Despite the fact that Erie only presents protection in selected states, it’s got more than thirteen,000 independent insurance plan agents all over The usa. You may decide on an agent or possibly a regional insurer In line with your requirements. Nevertheless, it is suggested that you simply go through all great print before you make a choice.
In case you are a large-possibility driver, you’ll want to Evaluate car or truck insurance plan prices and discover the cheapest coverage for your requirements. You should also look into just how much protection is out there close to you so you’re able to decide if a lessen price is achievable. It might be extra very affordable to get extra protection if you have lessen possibility or if you agree for a greater deductible. It all is dependent upon your requirements. The good thing is, there are numerous possibilities accessible to you.
When you are seeking the cheapest car or truck insurance plan quotation for prime-possibility motorists, that you are in luck. You can certainly discover one which has a several clicks on the web. The internet can give you various prices for protection at a portion of the cost of conventional car or truck insurance plan. Not merely that, however it can even make signing up for insurance plan a good deal much easier. All It’s important to do is complete a straightforward on-line sort, spend your quality, and you’re finished! The insurance provider will then print you a card as evidence of one’s insurance plan protection and you’ll have a coverage around the street.
When you have a weak credit record, that you are regarded a large-possibility driver by a lot of insurance plan firms. It is because you usually tend to file an insurance plan declare than a driver with great credit. Your credit rating is often a Think about how insurance plan firms check out you, plus a past DUI/DWI will raise your quality by around 65%. This is certainly comparable to an additional $477 on the 6-thirty day period coverage. One more issue that insurers consider is your driving record. A DUI/DWI can boost your quality by around $174, plus a dashing ticket can increase up to about 45%.
When you have a DUI in your report, you’ll be able to decide on the cheapest automobile insurance plan company. Businesses for instance Point out Farm, American Household, and Progressive have some great possibilities which provide lessen premiums for prime-possibility motorists. They also consider your credit rating when analyzing your quality. Insurers consider these variables when determining just how much you spend to your coverage. A weak credit rating can cause insurance plan rates to skyrocket, so It can be vital to grasp your credit rating before you make a choice.
There are a variety of variables to take into consideration When selecting the cheapest automobile insurance plan for younger motorists. Your age and marital position Engage in a large part in your automobile insurance plan rates. The kind of vehicle you travel might also have an effect in your quality. By way of example, large-overall performance vehicles are typically costlier to insure than very low-overall performance vehicles. Consequently, the first step to find the cheapest vehicle insurance plan for younger motorists is to find a vehicle with various basic safety functions.
A terrific way to lessen the cost of vehicle insurance plan for younger motorists would be to lessen the protection you will need. Lots of insurers give special discounts in case you are a great scholar, or For anyone who is in driver schooling. Nevertheless, minimizing your protection could result in substantial out-of-pocket expenditures if you have a mishap. Consequently, be sure you weigh the challenges of this option carefully, and always err around the facet of acquiring superior worth.
Young people Possess a challenging time securing low cost automobile insurance plan. Though the cost of a coverage for any sixteen-calendar year-outdated driver is way greater than that of an adult, it may be decreased by adding a teenager to an present coverage. This feature raises rates by an average of $one,461 a calendar year, but is often cheaper than obtaining a independent coverage. Also, in case you are a younger driver, try to find special discounts and various methods to save lots of.
The price of automobile insurance plan may differ commonly based upon your profile, which can mean that you ought to store all over for the cheapest insurance plan for very low-possibility motorists. Insurers consider many variables when determining on an insurance plan coverage, which includes your driving report, demographics, and overall possibility amount. Outlined underneath are definitely the 5 most important variables to take into consideration when evaluating insurance plan prices. Keep in mind that lessen insurance plan rates Will not mean that you’ve got to sacrifice high-quality.
First of all, consider your zip code. These in large-crime areas will experience greater rates. Furthermore, insurance plan firms acquire targeted traffic volume into consideration. Also, ensure you don’t have any incidents or statements in your report, as these will boost your premiums. And lastly, Remember that you should Evaluate premiums each six months to stop spending more than It’s important to. You should also consider obtaining a multi-coverage price reduction if you have multiple coverage with a specific insurer.
Though credit scores usually are not lawfully employed by insurers in a few states, they’re nevertheless important factors when evaluating automobile insurance plan rates. In Hawaii, motorists with weak credit pays 168% more than similar thoroughly clean motorists. In Massachusetts, large-possibility motorists spend 30% more than thoroughly clean motorists. For brand spanking new motorists, a DUI, dashing ticket, and lousy credit will raise rates more than Some others. You should definitely get some prices before you make a choice.
The zip code you reside in is A significant Think about the cost of insurance plan. If you reside in a region with large crime and accident rates, you’ll be able to be expecting to pay for extra for insurance plan prices. Furthermore, variables like targeted traffic volume and accident record can enhance the price of insurance plan. Most insurance plan firms also check into a driver’s driving record to find out what price they should cost for their coverage. Commonly, motorists which has a weak driving record spend extra for protection than All those which has a thoroughly clean driving report.
Motor vehicle insurance plan has risen by $50 – $a hundred in the last five years, as overall health treatment charges are growing. Drivers are needed to have uninsured and PIP insurance plan, that are higher than-average condition needs. Lots of states only demand liability insurance plan, but Ny calls for motorists to hold the two. These optional coverages enhance the price of insurance plan, and can normally enhance the full quality. And lastly, motorists need to check their protection boundaries, as some procedures Possess a lessen minimum degree of protection than Some others.
In Ny, the typical person spends two.8 p.c in their profits on vehicle insurance plan, which can be a little bit greater when compared to the nationwide average of two.forty p.c. People today within their 30s, 40s, and 50s pays a little bit below the typical. The 70+ age team pays greater premiums than motorists with significantly less driving working experience. Those people who are married pays a little bit greater premiums, but still lessen than solitary folks.
In combination with lessen rates, motorists could also acquire defensive driving classes. These classes are 320 minutes in size, and contain conversations of driver Mind-set and targeted traffic laws. They also educate defensive driving strategies which will substantially decrease the cost of insurance plan. They could also aid to boost their driving report, so completing a study course can lessen the cost of a vehicle insurance plan quotation. Nevertheless, in case you are Doubtful about the exact protection you will need, you’ll be able to check Together with the Insurance policy Information Institute.
Though gas price ranges vary by condition, the cost of a vehicle insurance plan quotation in other states could possibly be greater or lessen than your own private. Some variables may perhaps account for this, which includes The share of uninsured motorists, condition insurance plan laws, and the rate of theft. Also, the incidence of lousy weather conditions can change the cost of insurance plan in various states. The following table exhibits average car or truck insurance plan premiums in various states. These estimates are depending on a comparison of condition insurance plan needs.
Missouri is the cheapest condition for comprehensive-protection automobile insurance plan, spending just $944 below Louisiana. In addition, this condition has one among the bottom charges for each capita, and is also rated fifth regarding price of dwelling. In contrast, Texas motorists spend the most for their car or truck insurance plan, spending around 33% in their annual profits in full. This disparity could possibly be as a result of The point that the condition has a large variety of uninsured motorists and many lawsuits.
The nationwide average for comprehensive protection automobile insurance plan is $one,771 a calendar year. The condition with the most expensive insurance plan quality is Louisiana, which has a quality of $two,839, a 19% raise from 2020. Conversely, Maine’s average insurance plan quality is barely $858. It is because no-fault states have greater insurance plan premiums. The price of a vehicle insurance plan coverage in other states can differ noticeably. There are several variables to take into consideration, which includes your condition’s laws on insurance plan.
When you are seeking large-possibility driver car or truck insurance plan close to me, you may be pondering ways to get a very low-Expense coverage. Large-possibility motorists spend greater insurance plan premiums than average motorists. It is because they have a tendency to have extra incidents or violations on their report. With regards to the condition, the Restrict could possibly be three decades or five years. In some cases, you may get special discounts if you’re taking a driver basic safety study course.
Though the nationwide averages for prime-possibility driver car or truck insurance plan close to me are quite steady, you’ll find that premiums vary wildly from condition to condition. Some firms change their rates to various states, so if you reside in a specific condition, you could notice that one insurer offers you the best protection for any very low value. The most cost effective large-possibility driver car or truck insurance plan close to me originates from Point out Farm, that has a lengthy-standing reputation for offering excellent company.
The easiest method to look for a large-possibility driver car or truck insurance plan close to me would be to enter your ZIP code and Evaluate prices. The price of large-possibility car or truck insurance plan close to me can differ from condition to condition, but most large insurers give this sort of protection. Some firms specialise in large-possibility protection, for instance Nationwide Normal. It’s possible you’ll even be able to find a less expensive coverage if you have great grades plus a very low-possibility vehicle.
There are several benefits of evaluating car or truck insurance plan firms. On this page, we will discuss a number of the most important functions, for instance scores, special discounts, and customer service. Choosing the best coverage is essential for your basic safety and security, so take some time to match the various procedures from various firms. By the point you complete reading this article, you’ll have an idea of which insurer offers the best protection at the bottom Expense. Here are a few suggestions to pick the ideal one for yourself:
To obtain the best price, you should Evaluate car or truck insurance plan prices from various firms. Insurers use a lot of variables to find out the cost of insurance plan. You have to establish your personal needs and Evaluate price ranges from various suppliers. By way of example, athletics vehicles can Expense extra to insure than standard vehicles. In addition, your locality and driving record could also have an impact on the rates that you’re quoted. By using a comparison Instrument, you’ll find the bottom price on precisely the same protection Together with the exact deductibles.
Insurance policy premiums can differ noticeably, so it truly is critical to know how Each and every coverage operates. Among the many variables that have an impact on premiums are driving record, age, and credit record. It’s also possible to Evaluate the benefits that each business offers, for instance roadside support or accident forgiveness. Despite the fact that this might seem to be a frightening endeavor, it may help to match prices from various suppliers and pick the ideal one. Outlined underneath are some suggestions to get you commenced.
When it comes to evaluating automobile insurance plan firms, you might like to start with the J.D. Energy car or truck insurance provider scores. They’re depending on customer satisfaction surveys that study Countless automobile insurance plan customers nationwide. The effects are compiled into numerical scores that characterize the businesses’ average customer satisfaction rating. These rankings are published each year, and the best car or truck insurance plan firms in Each and every class are awarded gold medals. But how Are you aware if the businesses you are looking at are any great?
There are several methods to evaluate the financial toughness of car or truck insurance plan firms. First off, you’ll be able to check the AM Very best insurance provider rating, which presents financial steadiness scores for car or truck insurance plan firms. Whether the car or truck insurance provider has an A, B, C, or File rating, it’s important to understand how secure it truly is in advance of deciding on a coverage. This is a crucial facet of customer service, so be sure you go through the critiques and browse the great print before you make a choice.
Motor vehicle insurance plan firms give various special discounts. Lots of of such special discounts is probably not obtainable for All people, so it’s important to check the organization Site to be sure to qualify for that special discounts that apply for you. Some firms give numerous special discounts, and You may as well question your insurance plan agent Should they be qualified for almost any particular price reduction. Nevertheless, the process is easy and often normally takes below an hour or so. Underneath are some samples of probable car or truck insurance plan special discounts.
Legacy Savings: An auto insurance provider may perhaps give a reduction to new motorists who buy their coverage through their dad and mom’ business. This price reduction is generally all over ten p.c. This is certainly one method to thank your dad and mom for your online business over the years, and it could help you save income on your vehicle insurance plan protection. Lots of firms give legacy special discounts to younger motorists, and It can be truly worth checking to see Should your insurance provider offers one. It’s also possible to check into procedures offered by American Household, Farmers, or USAA.
Within the insurance plan field, there are a few firms that continuously excel at customer service. Esurance, such as, scored 4 out of 5 during the J.D. Energy rankings for customer service, a large mark for a company whose mum or dad business would not. The corporate scored greater than its competitors in all other areas, which includes coverage offerings and costs, together with the high-quality of company supplied by its Get hold of Heart Reps and Site.(personalised company)
The key component of automobile insurance plan for the majority of consumers is its protection, but it’s the customer service that issues most. Buyers need to Get hold of their insurers and obtain prompt, courteous company. Which means they want to get a response to their emails and cellphone phone calls speedily, and they want to talk to an agent who will listen to their issues and give solutions. Though all automobile insurance plan firms may perhaps give excellent customer service, some do carry out much better than Some others.(rideshare insurance plan)(just some clicks)(insurance plan possibilities)
A number of variables have an impact on the premiums of car or truck insurance plan firms. Driving record and age are two important variables. A driver which has a weak driving record or possibly a weak credit rating will have greater premiums. Also, the cost of dwelling close to you will have an impact on the premiums. For that reason, it’s important to match the premiums of various insurance plan firms to find the one that may suit your funds as well as your driving practices. There are a few ways to lessen your premiums, for instance cutting protection or getting a defensive driving study course. It’s also possible to choose to buy an entire calendar year of protection up front.(bill on-line)(employee special discounts)(at fault accident)(included accident)
In combination with the above mentioned-talked about variables, all kinds of other factors can boost your quality. By way of example, in case you’ve not too long ago created a declare or logged a targeted traffic violation, your insurance plan company will reassess your premiums. In addition, if you’re taking a safe driving study course, you may be qualified for a reduction. Insurance policy firms are continually tweaking their versions to find out the rates, and you might see a big difference in your premiums even if you’ve by no means altered your driving record.(utilization centered insurance plan)(rental vehicles)(car or truck repairs)(safe driver price reduction)
An auto insurance plan Evaluate is a great way to stay away from disreputable insurance plan suppliers. For example, very low prices from a specific insurance provider is often misleading if the quotation excludes selected protection or would make inaccurate assumptions regarding your driving profile. By wanting up insurance plan firms’ scores as well as the A.M. Very best rating, you’ll find the cheapest insurance plan firms close to you. Study this article to Learn how car or truck insurance plan compares could help you save income. Then, Get the prices with the top firms and see which one is the best for yourself.(accident absolutely free)
Your credit-centered insurance plan rating is often a handy indicator of just how much possibility you are more likely to pose, but you mustn’t Allow it dictate your rates. The federal government would not enable insurers to make use of your credit record as the sole reason for a rise in your rates. Nevertheless, states for instance California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont have laws in position that limit insurers from making use of credit record to find out insurance plan rates.(could conserve)(new car or truck)(automobile declare)
Nevertheless, this kind of insurance plan would not apply to each condition, so consumers haven’t any way to find out if a corporation is using your rating to come to a decision just how much to cost them. Some states, for instance California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan, do ban credit-centered insurance plan. All kinds of other states also have constraints on the use of credit-centered insurance plan scores. Ultimately, you will have to choose yourself if your credit-centered insurance plan rating is appropriate for you.(motorcycle insurance plan)(roadside support protection)(bundling automobile)(get a car or truck insurance plan)(pet insurance plan)(real cash worth)(excellent statements company)(yacht insurance plan)
Lots of variables influence the cost of car or truck insurance plan special discounts, which includes age. Age has an effect on your price by more than 30 p.c, and in a few states, a younger driver pays Just about 4 situations around a 30-calendar year-outdated. Inexperience is another important issue, as younger young people usually tend to enter into incidents. By knowledge what variables have an impact on your premiums, you’ll be able to negotiate lessen charges yourself. Outlined underneath are many of the ways in which age has an effect on your vehicle insurance plan.
Generally, the more youthful that you are, the lessen your premiums will be. But For anyone who is a man, age does have an impact on the cost of car or truck insurance plan. Though younger male motorists spend below their older counterparts, premiums for motorists within their sixties and seventies skyrocket. Statistically, males are two plus a 50 percent situations as more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash than Gals, Therefore the gender hole decreases with age.(protection possibilities)(homeowners insurance plan)
The truth that a man pays a greater quality for car or truck insurance plan than a lady is just not completely astonishing. Lots of men make weak selections although driving, causing extra incidents and statements. Nevertheless, there are a few variables which make men costlier to insure. Here are a few of the very best reasons why. Please read on to find more about the preferred variables that have an impact on automobile insurance plan rates by gender. And if you’re still puzzled, consider these guidelines for reducing your premiums.(automobile insurance plan procedures)(automobile insurance plan quotation)(car or truck insurance plan price)
The Oregon Division of monetary Regulation has instructed automobile insurers to accommodate consumers who Will not specify their gender. Discrimination versus non-binary folks is often grounds for unfair discrimination expenses, and insurers must file rates for the people motorists beginning in January 2019. These rates could possibly be greater than All those for male and woman motorists. Assuming that they don’t seem to be extreme, Gals should be able to save money. Also, Don’t be concerned concerning the “non-binary” price for younger motorists.(car or truck insurance plan declare)(hole insurance plan)(automobile coverage) | {
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It's time we made Black History Month a year-long affair.
Courtesy NEW INC.
In honor of Black History Month, we’ve compiled a list of Black art + tech organizations that are making strides at both the local and national levels. From archive-driven art collectives to neighborhood-specific cryptology initiatives, our roundup below features nine projects you can invest your time and support to all year round.
BUFU's Tumblr. Courtesy BUFU.
1. BUFU: By Us For Us
BUFU: By Us For Us is a decentralized and collaborative archive dedicated to Black and Asian cultural and political relationships. Founded and run by queer, femme, non-binary artists and organizers, the group works to “facilitate a global conversation on the relationship between Black and Asian diasporas, with an emphasis on building solidarity, de-centering whiteness, and resurfacing our deeply interconnected and complicated histories.” Last November, BUFU hosted a youth summit at the New Museum called "Scamming the Patriarchy." Keep up with them on their website.
Afripedia, one of NEW INC's part-time members, is a visual platform that hosts art, film, photography, fashion, design, and contemporary culture made by creative professionals of African descent from across the world. Founded by Teddy Goitom and Senay Berhe, the group's first project took form in a five-part series of documentary films from the likes of 3D animator Andrew Kaggia and music sensation Wiyaala. The films aired on Swedish television and will be available online soon. In the meantime, you can watch the trailers for their films and stay up to date with what they’re doing on Instagram.
Seher Sikandar, Do I Fit the Description? (2016). Courtesy Facebook.
3. Fit the Description
In a bid to envision "what a healthy and reimagined context for policing could look like," Fit the Description is a documentary series of seven-to-ten minute interviews between Black male officers and Black male civilians. See the resulting conversations for yourself.
"Our mission is threefold," the group explains on their website: "[We want to] shift the national narrative around police officers and civilians by creating space for empathy and vulnerability...to provide a platform for alternative stories and voices to be expressed, and to use this methodology for empathic and honest conversations which disrupt polarized viewpoints around social issues." Folks in the greater New York area can catch a screening at the Brooklyn Museum on Saturday, February 4.
Arts.black is a journal of art criticism from Black perspectives aiming to promote Black voices writing about contemporary art. Founded in the belief that art criticism should be an open, accessible dialogue, co-founders Jessica Lynne and Taylor Renee recently told The Creators Project that they “want ARTS.BLACK to be another imprint in the continuum of black textual production.” Read their latest essays here.
5. Black Girls Code
Black Girls Code wants to increase the number of women of color working in STEM—one million by 2040, to be exact. The nonprofit teaches girls ages 7 to 17 tech and computer skills needed to become leaders in the workplace and in their communities.
The nonprofit's programming includes summer camps, career panels, and presentations like “How to Build a Mobile App in a Day.” Their hackathons invite teenage girls from all experience levels to create solutions for social issues in their communities. Make a donation here, or sign up to volunteer.
Marisol Diaz, NOT OUR STATUE: Speak Out in Solidarity For the Reproductive Rights of Women of Color (2016). Courtesy the artist.
6. The Laundromat Project
Founded in 2006, the Laundromat Project supports community-based artmaking in New York City's Bedford-Stuyvesant, Harlem, and Hunts Point/Longwood neighborhoods. Their flagship program, Create Change, connects artists and communities through residencies that ask artists to create public art projects for local laundromats.
Resulting projects range from Havanna Fisher’s Harlem Motion, a series of stop animation workshops culminating in a community barbeque and talk back, to Salome Asega & Ayodamola Okunseinde’s The Iyapo Repository, a pop-up laundromat museum that exhibited artifacts created by Bed-Stuy residents in a series of public design workshops. You can donate to support their work here, or apply to volunteer.
7. The Free Black Women's Library
The Free Black Women’s Library is a mobile pop-up that serves as an installation for over 500 Black female and female-identifying authors and their texts, often in conjunction with other art and community events. When asked to describe the library for Fusion, founder Olaronke Akinmowo said she often refers to it as a “biblio-installation.” Akinmowo sets monthly themes for her pop-ups, ranging from Afrofuturism to street harassment.
Activating the community-oriented space is a major part of the library’s goal, to which she reminds Fusion: “Black folks are just gonna gather, and fearlessly be like, ‘We’re here. And we’re here to talk about the things that are relevant to us, and we’re here to come up with strategies, and we’re here to connect with each other, and we’re here to solve problems, and we’re here to honor our humanity and our creativity and our intelligence, and either get right, or get left.” You can donate books (by Black women authors) to the library here.
8. Crypto Harlem
Matthew Mitchell, a former data journalist at the New York Times and CNN developer, spends most of his time these days running the Harlem cryptoparty called Crypto Harlem, where he invites attendees to bring their computers and personal devices to learn how to use encryption and protection services like Tor and WhatsApp.
He told The Village Voice last year that the project is much like a public health initiative —"a digital security clinic in Harlem, just like the city mobile dental clinic." In a neighborhood where NYPD surveillance runs high, the cryptoparties are popular and hold local importance. You can join Mitchell via his Meetup group.
The Hidden Genius Project. Courtesy YouTube.
9. The Hidden Genius Project
Founded by five Black male entrepreneurs and technologists, The Hidden Genius Project aims to immerse male high school students of color in coding, web design, and app development programs. Based in Oakland, the project accepts participants for their fifteen-month immersion program, designed to teach teens coding, development, and other leadership and social justice-based skills. You can donate to the project, or volunteer.
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On this episode of the Change Makers Podcast we are celebrating International Non-Binary People’s Day with a discussion between two gender diverse legal professionals and Amila Perera, a Legal Editor at Thomson Reuters.
This conversation will give you the opportunity to understand non-binary identities, particularly within the workplace and the legal profession.
International Non-Binary People’s Day is celebrated on 14 July each year. The date was chosen because 14 July is the midpoint between International Women’s Day and International Men’s Day.
Podcast show notes
Frankie prefers to be referred to using singular ‘they’ pronouns, while Joseph prefers either ‘she’, ‘he’ or ‘they’ pronouns.
In conversation, Frankie and Joseph discussed the impact of the case Norrie v Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, which was a case that allowed for Norrie mAy Welby to have their sex registration marked as ‘non-specific’.
As Frankie noted, ‘it’s a pretty big deal to have the highest court in this country endorsing [the idea that] gender is something that’s beyond the binary’. However, although this case represented a significant step in legal recognition of non-binary identities, there is still a long way to go in really recognising sex and gender as two distinct parts of a person’s identity. As Frankie explained:
“To have that non-specific marker on your identity documents, you still need to have some sort of affirmation surgery, which is, again, quite restrictive and quite limiting for various reasons. So even though it’s recognised, I think it’s hard to actually get that lawful status.
“You need to…check a whole bunch of boxes, at least in New South Wales in order to be entitled to that nonspecific gender marker.”– Frankie Sullivan, NSW Legal Aid lawyer
The conversation highlighted how important it is for law and policy recognition of gender diversity to be reflected in day to day experiences. In discussing the kinds of things that help them to feel comfortable with their gender identity in professional spaces, both Frankie and Joseph emphasised the value of others being receptive and respectful of their gender expression.
Joseph has become more comfortable with expressing their identity in the ways they would like, in part, because they have been able to situate themself within a supportive community that clearly signals inclusivity.
“Incorporating these symbols that indicate this is a safe space can help indicate to me that this is a safe environment that’s inclusive and work and feel comfortable. I think things like this event celebrating international Non-Binary [People’s] Day could be helpful and appreciated.”– Joseph Black, Juris Doctor Student at the University of Sydney
For Frankie, navigating court appearances as a young lawyer has meant that they announce themself in court using the title ‘Mx’, rather than ‘Mr’ or ‘Ms’. Frankie spoke about being pleasantly surprised by how easily their preferred title was adopted by fellow lawyers and judges.
“[It’s] obviously a little bit tricky, and it’s been a bit awkward at times. But there’s just been a real willingness from the people I work with and within the courts to try and…that’s been a really positive thing.”
Enjoyed the insights from today’s podcast? Add Episode 7: Active Allyship to your playlist, which explores bringing your whole self to work and supporting your colleagues and peers in the legal profession. | {
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Being a parent in today’s busy world is a difficult endeavor. As a previous full-time nanny, I can say with confidence that taking children out in public is an entire production, from loading the car, to remembering the snacks, to changing younger ones’ diapers in public.
That’s why three Wisconsin legislators just proposed a bill to require baby changing stations in all public restrooms that are newly constructed. Here’s something you probably weren’t expecting, though — all three legislators are male.
Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee, and Reps. Jonathan Brostoff, D-Milwaukee, and David Crowley, D-Milwaukee, are proposing that baby changing stations be required in all new restrooms that are constructed, whether that be for men, women, or all genders.
Up until this point, “it’s basically been up to commercial buildings, it’s been up to private owners and for those in public to decide if they want to put these things in or not,” Larson said in an interview with Wisconsin Public Radio. “There’s not any regulation of these in Wisconsin.”
UW works on building more gender inclusive restrooms under newly-approved policyUnder a newly-approved policy in August, the University of Wisconsin will add more single-stall, gender inclusive restrooms on campus over Read…
The bill is a giant leap forward, not only in recognizing the struggles of busy parents, but specifically in being more inclusive of the different types of parents that change diapers. As Larson pointed out, baby changing stations are traditionally found in only women’s restrooms, which shows the pervasiveness of gender norms in our society, as women are often expected to be the one changing diapers.
This assumption does not account for single dads, families with two male parents, or non-binary parents. Therefore, the bill proposal shows a recognition and acceptance for parents of different identities, while also providing more concrete support for parents in general.
Unfortunately, disparities for parents, especially low-income, working parents, still exist. Under current federal law, new parents are not entitled to any kind of paid leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act guarantees eligible workers 12 weeks off from work to spend time with their new child, yet this time off need not be paid.
The U.S. is the only country in the developed world that does not currently offer paid maternity leave, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. This is especially problematic when you consider the fact that raising children is extremely labor-intensive, meaning many parents are forced to take off work to provide childcare. The cost of raising a child to age 17 is estimated to be $233,610 by the USDA, not accounting for the cost of attending college.
SSFC hears budget proposals from Child Care Tuition Assistance, ASM Bus PassIn their first meeting of the semester, the Student Services Finance Committee met Monday to hear budget presentations for the Child Read…
Ultimately, raising children is expensive and time-consuming, yet our current laws do not allow for ample time or ample resources to raise a child while also working. Perhaps this is why many young, lower-income parents are forced to turn to childcare, as workplaces have no legal obligation to be flexible with new parents past 3 months. It may seem silly, but something as small as not having anywhere to change a child’s dirty diaper can actually largely affect a number of people.
Perhaps the person most obviously affected in this situation is the parent who must find another surface on which to change their child. But it also affects the child, who may get fussy from being changed in a car or on the floor, rather than at a changing table. Finally, there are consequences for those who access these public spaces where children are often changed, as changing diapers can leave behind fecal matter, germs or at the very least, a foul odor.
Having access to a changing station in all bathrooms may seem insignificant, yet the implications of the bill highlight the necessity for more government support of all parents. While the proposed bill is a great first step, there is still much work to be done in providing parents with the resources they need to raise healthy and safe children in this country.
Courtney Degen ([email protected]) is a junior studying political science and journalism. | {
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Welcome to my weekly Author Spotlight. I’ve asked a bunch of my author friends to answer a set of interview questions, and to share their latest work.
Today, A.G. Carothers – A. G. Carothers is actually a dragon very cleverly disguised as a human. They are a non-binary author of LGBTQIA Romance and Urban Fantasy, who enjoys writing original and entertaining stories. They are very excited to share the worlds they’ve created with you.
A.G. currently lives in Tennessee with their platonic life partner, who is not a dragon. They yearn to live back in Europe and will someday. In their spare time they are addicted to losing themselves in the lovely worlds created by other authors
A.G. is committed to writing the stories they see in their head without restrictions. Love is blind and doesn’t see gender, race, or sexuality.
Thanks so much, A.G., for joining me!
JSC: How would you describe your writing style/genre?
AGC: I’m not sure how to describe my style. Sometimes, it’s like Yahtzee, where you put all the dice into the cup and shake it about and then throw all the dice and see what comes up. I never usually go into a story with a trope in mind or even a strict genre. I oftentimes figure all that out once the story is done and try to put labels onto my creation. As a creature who hates labels to begin with this is often difficult. Sometimes I feel like just going “It’s a story. There’s stuff in it and stuff happens, just read it and enjoy.” hehehe
JSC: What was your first published work? Tell me a little about it.
AGC: SYN Consulting: Dragon War Chronicles Book One is my first published work. I wrote books 1-3 back to back in three months. Then I spent two years editing them. Lol Then I found an editor who agreed to work with me and take a chance. Only after editing again was it ready to be unleashed upon the world.
I’d drafted some stories before, just little scenes really. But nothing had really consumed me until I started writing this new world I had created. I spent so much time researching and figuring out dynamics of the world and how all the elements worked together.
The paradigm that DWC is set in is in the near future. Dragons fled their own world through magical portals to several worlds across the universe. A refugee group fled to earth to start a new before their world crumbled and died. Determined to not repeat their mistakes with their world they’ve spent the several millennia they’ve been on earth staying in the background and protecting the world from environmental destruction.
The dragons hid from the native population and created new creatures to act as their emissaries. Book one starts at a time where dragons are slowly dying out and they’re on the verge of a clandestine war with the humans. A war they sadly haven’t seen coming due to a combination of their arrogance and bad habit of sticking their head in the sand.
It’s at this juncture in their history that we meet our initial main characters and where the journey begins.
JSC: Do your books spring to life from a character first or an idea?
AGC: All my books have started with a character. Sometimes that character has been born of an idea but the world that evolves is from the character. Where that character comes from on the other hand can be from many places. Some have derived just from a simple image while others have been born of a concept or just the desire to see a certain kind of character. It’s then that I start to think about what the character would be like as far as their personality or habits. I think about what their ambitions are, what their goals are, and I think about who would be around this person. That’s where a lot of side characters come from is just from thinking about where this initial character interacted with the world and who they might have met, who their friends are and all that jazz. It’s from thinking about that where the world fills out around them and then I start thinking about what else is in the world and how those things interact with the character. World building is probably one of my most favorite things to do.
JSC: What was the hardest part of writing T.A.G. Family Christmas?
AGC: I’m not much of a holiday person in general especially as I’ve gotten older and I live away from family and therefore don’t have the same obligations that I normally would have forced upon me by my family the more I’m not a holiday person. That being said I have a soft spot for the month of December in France. In all the time that I lived there and visited there I spent several Christmas is in New Year’s there. My fondest memories and the ones that I cling to the most are of Christmas time in France. No matter where you are and the country whether it’s Paris or Toulouse or you know some small country village you can find the same things. The town squares are going to be decorated with lights and trees and there is going to be A Christmas market. The Christmas markets well always have local artisans and vendors selling food, drinks and gifts that are usually all you know handmade or stuff along those lines.
There was always something magical about walking around during the day or in the evening in the cold even though I hate the cold it was still magical. It’s something that I always miss during this time of year and it’s a feeling that I’ve never had anywhere else. So, the hardest part of writing a book about this time of year was not getting lost in the longing for that feeling. I knew that I was going write a holiday book it would have to take place in France because other than Santa Fe it’s the only place where I have enough feelings that I can try to convey through my characters.
The first book of the series T.A.G. You’re Seen takes place in Santa Fe, New Mexico during Christmas and it starts specifically on Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve in Santa Fe has a special event downtown that literally tens of thousands of people attend. It was fun to explore that event through Yoshi’s eyes as a stranger to this weird tradition that Santa Fe has with the farolito walk.
Coming back to this now third Christmas time for the assassins Guild I tried to see again the things that I love about France and Paris during this time through my characters’ eyes. Writing certain parts was definitely more time consuming as I just sat in my chair and remembered the feel of the cold, the smells in the air, the taste of the ambiance around me and I lamented that I’m not a very poetic writer. But I believe I did it justice.
JSC: What question do you wish that someone would ask about your book, but nobody has? Write it out here, then answer it.
AGC: Does TAG and DWC take place in the same paradigm?
The simple answer is yes. Now does that mean that you have to read both series? No, you don’t necessarily have to read both series. I say that because there’s only a few things that will seem out of place in tag without having read DWC. This is also why I don’t tag it as being paranormal or urban fantasy because all the characters except now for a few are human and as far as the humans are concerned, they don’t know that anything else exists but as a reader there’s a few things that happened that are a little odd that then don’t seem as odd once you take into consideration that they are the same world. And I know many of my readers haven’t made that connection but if they haven’t before they will now because I put in a very big neon sign connecting the two of them in this book.
Readers shouldn’t feel bad about not making the connections if they’ve read both series because I’m very sneaky and it was a connection that I didn’t necessarily want to be seen until it was time for it to be seen. Also, the two series happen on two different timelines entirely. The events in TAG take place almost ten years before the start of DWC.
JSC: Who has been your favorite character to write and why?
AGC: For this book, it has to be Bob. Bob is just very not unphased but calm and accepting of Connors craziness. It was also good to see him being accepted by this group of men that he insinuated himself into and start to see him be more at peace. Later when we get to his story will learn more about his background and a lot of the ugliness of the world he lived through.
JSC: As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
AGC: A marine biologist. I wasn’t like some kids where they waffle back and forth about things for like ever or you know one day they want to be a fireman and the next day they want to be an astronaut now from really early on I wanted to be a marine biologist. I obviously did not become marine biologist but that’s OK. I don’t regret my life.
JSC: Tell me one thing hardly anyone knows about you.
AGC: This is a really hard question because I’m a very open book so if anyone spends any amount of time talking to me they will eventually learn everything about me. It doesn’t help that I have very little filter and I will go into detail about things until you tell me to stop because of TMI.
But something that almost no body knows that now everyone will know is that I used to think I might be a sex addict. I have done a lot of things in my life for sex. Some I wasn’t too proud of and some I’ve been very proud of, but I’ve always had a very high sex drive since I was little.
At one point, when I was in my late twenties, I was seeing a therapist on the regular basis so I asked her about it. She said with all things there’s often times a thin line between healthy and unhealthy habits that can push one into an addicted state. She assured me that I was not addicted to sex. Physiologically I may need the hormone dump from sex more than other people, but I wasn’t causing harm to myself or others in the pursuit of that. If at any point that changes then I should think about having reevaluations of that. Thankfully, I’m too much of a control person to let my desire overrule my sense. lol
JSC: Which of your own characters would you Kill? Fuck? Marry? And why?
AGC: I’ve killed a few characters, but I couldn’t bring myself to kill ones that are closer to my heart. I even saved one that I had been planning to kill because by the time we got to that part of the timeline he’d become a larger character and I just couldn’t do it.
I would fuck any of my characters. I’d have a big fat orgy with all my characters if I could. It’d be one of those parties where you wake up days later not knowing where you were, naked, and sore all over. Then the memories flood you and you’re like damn…let’s do it again. Lol
Now, marrying a character is a tough question. I have some absolute sweethearts and I have some assholes. Lol I think I’d have to marry one of each to keep balance. Lol I’d steal Xander and Majid.
JSC: Star Trek or Star Wars? Why?
AGC: Star Trek. My mom is a trekkie and so I was raised a trekkie. But really Stargate>Star Trek or Star Wars. lol
And now for A.G.’s new book: T.A.G. Family Christmas:
Happy Holidays from everyone at T.A.G. Your one-stop shopping source for all your killing needs.
It isn’t all stabbings, poisonings, and shootings here at The Assassins’ Guild. We decided to pause that and take a little time to celebrate being alive, and for some, being in love.
This is your friendly communications agent, Mr. No, here to tell you about the holiday fun Mr. H and his boys got up to this one Christmas.
Once upon a time, there was a Bob. This Bob got tasked with three missions. Not just any old ordinary missions, but missions of love…
Between guarding Connor, being stalked by Enrique, and being his usual sneaky self, Bob must put into motion three big surprises for his chosen family.
But it’s not all snowman contests and catching Mr. Ti in potentially embarrassing situations while they vacation in a chateau outside of Paris. Oh no, something is afoot. Mr. H won’t let the new problem code-named The Poacher interfere with family time.
So, take a little time out of your busy schedule and join us for a T.A.G. Family Christmas the likes of you’ll never forget.
Attention: This story contains adorableness taken to a whole new level. There are adult situations, language, kinky snowmen, and all the churros you can eat.
Twelve Days till Christmas
I watched the gentle rise and fall of Connor’s back as he slept. Now that we were on vacation and I was exiled from the kitchen here, I had several hours to just watch Connor. I still had no idea what to get him for Christmas. It was our first one together, so it had to be something special. In years past, I’d gotten him little things. A stuffed animal here and there or a rare action figure, but now things were different.
What did you get someone who literally had the world at his fingertips? I had briefly entertained the idea of proposing, but that seemed a little cliché and maybe a little too soon for that. How long should I wait? Marriage was but a piece of paper that declared to the rest of the world what I knew in my soul and heart.
I had thought maybe a new sex toy, but again that seemed unromantic. Cooking something special was out of the question because I could do that anytime, and I did do it. Jewelry seemed cliché, as well. We’re already on a romantic trip. Granted, we weren’t alone, but I couldn’t help feeling even more in love with Connor in this setting. The French countryside, fireplaces in every room practically. There could be more snow, but I didn’t have any control over that.
Connor rolled over and snuggled into my chest, flinging a leg over my hip. I traced the freckles on his back with my fingers as I thought. I sighed and rolled onto my back, bringing Connor with me. He shivered as the blanket slipped down, but I straightened it over us before it woke him.
What did Connor enjoy most? What did he value?
Then it hit me like a ton of bricks. I could have hit myself on the forehead at missing the obvious. I couldn’t do it on my own, though. While Connor was in the shower, I’d steal a few minutes with Bob. | {
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A hungry artist
photography, analog graphic illustrations and painting.
My name is Sanna Lövgren.
I'm a media and art teacher that studied at Konstfack, University of Arts, Crafts and Design.
I've had solo exhibitions and planning on having more in the future. So stay tuned!
ANALOG GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS & JEWELLERY
A series of faces, exclusively men that I met in my life. What reasons made they end up in a exhibition. Do they know about it? Are they still the person depicted? Is there a power change in taking a photo from social media and illustrate another person without them knowing.
High heels an object dislocation
PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIAL EXPERIMENT
An invitation to women and a non-binary person to explore the koncept of high heels as a fashion accessorise. They came to the studio with one picture of a pair of heels they got assigned to. On a table their was strings, tape, chains and more to attach these shoes to their bodies. Their feet was naked, standing in a pile of dirt. A very whimsy way of exploring.
Art & media teacher degree
Sep 14- june 20
Learned art history, photography, film, animation, graphic design, analog graphic design, painting, sketching, performance, installation art and teaching
and Adobe programs.
Read standard-, critical-, and queer- pedagogy, research methodology.
Color, designs and crafts
NYCKELVIKSSKOLAN FOLK HIGH SCHOOL
Aug 13 - May 14
Metal-, textile- and wood crafts, ceramics, graphics, drawing and painting.
Arts and designs
VÄRMDÖ HIGH SCHOOL
Aug 06 - June 08
Focus on Art History, painting, sculpture, textile prints and photography.
KARSBY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Aug– June 21
Taught art classes in a primary school. Students 12-15 years. Painted Dot paintings, made cast masks, draw/painted optical art, built 3D miniature chairs, fantasy world in the digital program pixlr. Created stop motion films and music videos.
Art project - India
Taught English at a preschool and had a tuition class with students from 7-17 years old in Himachal Pradesh, India. Had an art project were I painted big canvases with different tuitions groups, my preschool and in a mountain village.
ORGANIZATION MOYO KWA MOYO
(HEART TO HEART)
June– Sep 16 | May 08–March 09
Volunteering at an orphanage and preschool, Matanana, Tanzania.
Together with other enterprising volunteers, we built furniture and decorated a house so it became habitable and moved our orphaned children from a damp house to a new home. Taught at a preschool where we built a sandbox. | {
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Actor and singer best known for portraying Rue in The Hunger Games. They have also appeared in the TV series Sleepy Hollow in the role of Macy. In 2017, they released their debut single "Let My Baby Stay" for the film Everything, Everything, in which they also starred in. They'd go on to star in The Hate U Give in 2018.
Amandla appeared in several commercials and catalog advertisements for Disney, McDonald's, and Kmart as early as four years old.
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All my life false and real, right and wrong tangled Playing with the moon, ridiculing wind, listening to birds Many years wasted seeing the mountain covered with snow This winter I suddenly realize snow makes a mountain. - Eihel Dogen For those who do not know, this is an example of a Koan. A Koan… Continue reading A Zen Koan: The winter of my life.
We both felt like we were from another world. You on one side of the country, and me on the other. And we would not know it until half our lives were over. You would be born a decade before me. Sharing with pride to all your friends your genitals from another world. All… Continue reading Poem: When two lonely aliens become brothers
The beauty of having an ally like Philip Batterham, the President of the International Genetics Federation: My TEDx: “Born Intersex: We are Human!” My Source Page for TEDx Jacksonville, 2018: “BORN INTERSEX, We are HUMAN!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpPTf-00ab0 I am Proudly the First in Colorado to get an Intersex Birth Certificate Poem: Your Open Mind Poem: This… Continue reading To the Right Wing: I exist even if your mind is closed.
I I am not alone. There are many of us. As common as redheads and green eyes. N Non-binary is the future. End this binary myth, please. T Thank you for including us! LGBTQIA+ E An Evolution is happening & our world is accepting all body types. R Reality is we exist even if your… Continue reading Poem: June Pride when Born Intersex.
By James Costich April 8, 2019 It would seem that General Casimir Polaski, Revolutionary war hero serving directly under Washington himself was an intersex man instead of a male man. This is of great interest to intersex people who have been made to feel like lesser human beings. Otherwise, it is of very little… Continue reading Thoughts of an Intersex Man on the Discovery that General Pulaski Was Likely Intersex | By Jim Costich
When I recently learned about General Casimir Pulaski, like when I have discovered other intersex people in history, I become elated and I celebrated.....but it was short lived. Then my heart sank. Here we were once again, in our binary world misgendering the past; a past that gave people like me more human rights… Continue reading Please do not misgender Revolutionary War Hero, General Casimir Pulaski: Pronouns He/Him
I exist and yet you deny it. I exist and yet you are so intersex phobic, you can't even call it what it is: I N T E R S E X I exist and yet you tell the parents of babies born like me that I am a liar! I legally exist, and you… Continue reading Don’t say you Care, you don’t!
To read scanned article above: Jim Costich 2005 Esquire Article By Jim Costich This article was written at a very heady time in my life. I had joined the gay men's naturist club and running around naked in the woods with other naked men who could all see at a glance that I don't… Continue reading Jim Costich: An Intersex Man Before His Time in Esquire Magazine 2005
The surgeries for Hypospadias are sold like kool-aid or a Pepsi commercial by some clinics and hospitals. The new latest and greatest technique being competed for by surgeons. The life of the child in the balance. Is it a girl? Is it a boy? Never to ask if the child should get to decide… Continue reading A survivor of Intersex Genital Mutilation: Is Hypospadias Intersex? | {
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A cornucopia of giggles, gaffs, titillation, temptations, and exceptional expertise in all things historically sexual from Dr Kate Lister aka @Whores of Yore.
A gripping Viking tale of one woman’s courage, facing old and new gods in the savage beauty of Ice Island.
Imagine the past in colour? Now you don’t have to…
A novel by Adam Roberts adapted from an original script by Anthony Burgess.
A plot to assassinate the last Habsburg Emperor reveals the competing visions for Austria at the end of WW1
A beautiful illustrated edition of the prize-winning novel
Is it possible to replace a life?
160 years after the disappearance of a promising young explorer, the discovery of his missing journals finally reveals the truth behind an extraordinary adventure
A comprehensive account of the landmark events which shaped the transgender community over the last five decades, told through a series of essays by real experts who were there and can describe the knock-on effects today
A novel about time and ageing, love and opera, set in a Venice that's constantly changing and forever stays the same
A fictional glimpse into the ninth century mind of Guthrum the Dane.
A memoir of the artist and camouflage pioneer spanning two world wars
A snoozy travelogue around British history
A collection of 21 essays written by transgender and non-binary people in the UK.
A new and handsomely illustrated translation of the Arthurian mediaeval masterpiece.
The true story of Britain’s early women engineers
A man forced to join the Spanish Armada must flee fatal capture in 16th Century Ireland
A riotous history of people and things that broke the mould
The Troy of myth was a real city and it was called Wilusa. This is its story…
The Story of the 1919 Tour de France
Heat magazine – 18th century style
The story of a dissipated genius in a borrowed hat and coat
A Celebration of the Comedy underdog
A post-apocalyptic novel set in 1066
The story of the saving of the home of modern computing
Archaeology can be a dirty business
A one-volume insider history of the whole damn music business
The astonishing private and public lives of a maverick Edwardian Egyptologist
A history of the British Empire told through drink | {
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July 14th is International Nonbinary Day, so here’s a post to help you celebrate in traditional bookish fashion!
Books to Read Now
The Brilliant Death by Amy Rose Capetta
For Teodora DiSangro, a mafia don’s daughter, family is fate.
All her life, Teodora has hidden the fact that she secretly turns her family’s enemies into music boxes, mirrors, and other decorative objects. After all, everyone in Vinalia knows that stregas—wielders of magic—are figures out of fairytales. Nobody believes they’re real.
Then the Capo, the land’s new ruler, sends poisoned letters to the heads of the Five Families that have long controlled Vinalia. Four lie dead and Teo’s beloved father is gravely ill. To save him, Teo must travel to the capital as a DiSangro son—not merely disguised as a boy, but transformed into one.
Enter Cielo, a strega who can switch back and forth between male and female as effortlessly as turning a page in a book. Teo and Cielo journey together to the capital, and Teo struggles to master her powers and to keep her growing feelings for Cielo locked in her heart. As she falls in love with witty, irascible Cielo, Teo realizes how much of life she’s missed by hiding her true nature. But she can’t forget her mission, and the closer they get to the palace, the more sinister secrets they uncover about what’s really going on in their beloved country—and the more determined Teo becomes to save her family at any cost.
The Black Tides of Heaven by J.Y. Yang
Mokoya and Akeha, the twin children of the Protector, were sold to the Grand Monastery as children. While Mokoya developed her strange prophetic gift, Akeha was always the one who could see the strings that moved adults to action. While his sister received visions of what would be, Akeha realized what could be. What’s more, he saw the sickness at the heart of his mother’s Protectorate.
A rebellion is growing. The Machinists discover new levers to move the world every day, while the Tensors fight to put them down and preserve the power of the state. Unwilling to continue to play a pawn in his mother’s twisted schemes, Akeha leaves the Tensorate behind and falls in with the rebels. But every step Akeha takes towards the Machinists is a step away from his sister Mokoya. Can Akeha find peace without shattering the bond he shares with his twin sister?
No Man of Woman Born by Ana Mardoll
Destiny sees what others don’t.
A quiet fisher mourning the loss of xer sister to a cruel dragon. A clever hedge-witch gathering knowledge in a hostile land. A son seeking vengeance for his father’s death. A daughter claiming the legacy denied her. A princess laboring under an unbreakable curse. A young resistance fighter questioning everything he’s ever known. A little girl willing to battle a dragon for the sake of a wish. These heroes and heroines emerge from adversity into triumph, recognizing they can be more than they ever imagined: chosen ones of destiny.
From the author of the Earthside series and the Rewoven Tales novels, No Man of Woman Born is a collection of seven fantasy stories in which transgender and nonbinary characters subvert and fulfill gendered prophecies. These prophecies recognize and acknowledge each character’s gender, even when others do not. Note: No trans or nonbinary characters were killed in the making of this book. Trigger warnings and neopronoun pronunciation guides are provided for each story.
Lizard Radio by Pat Schmatz
Fifteen-year-old Kivali has never fit in. As a girl in boys’ clothes, she is accepted by neither tribe, bullied by both. What are you? they ask. Abandoned as a baby wrapped in a T-shirt with an image of a lizard on the front, Kivali found a home with nonconformist artist Sheila. Is it true what Sheila says, that Kivali was left by a mysterious race of saurians and that she’ll one day save the world? Kivali doesn’t think so. But if it is true, why has Sheila sent her off to CropCamp, with its schedules and regs and what feels like indoctrination into a gov-controlled society Kivali isn’t sure has good intentions?
But life at CropCamp isn’t all bad. Kivali loves being outdoors and working in the fields. And for the first time, she has real friends: sweet, innocent Rasta; loyal Emmett; fierce, quiet Nona. And then there’s Sully. The feelings that explode inside Kivali whenever Sully is near—whenever they touch—are unlike anything she’s experienced, exhilarating and terrifying. But does Sully feel the same way?
Between mysterious disappearances, tough questions from camp director Ms. Mischetti, and weekly doses of kickshaw—the strange, druglike morsel that Kivali fears but has come to crave—things get more and more complicated. But Kivali has an escape: her unique ability to channel and explore the power of her animal self. She has Lizard Radio.
Will it be enough to save her?
Documenting Light by E.E. Ottoman
If you look for yourself in the past and see nothing, how do you know who you are? How do you know that you’re supposed to be here?
When Wyatt brings an unidentified photograph to the local historical society, he hopes staff historian Grayson will tell him more about the people in the picture. The subjects in the mysterious photograph sit side by side, their hands close but not touching. One is dark, the other fair. Both wear men’s suits.
Were they friends? Lovers? Business partners? Curiosity drives Grayson and Wyatt to dig deep for information, and the more they learn, the more they begin to wonder — about the photograph, and about themselves.
Grayson has lost his way. He misses the family and friends who anchored him before his transition and the confidence that drove him as a high-achieving graduate student. Wyatt lives in a similar limbo, caring for an ill mother, worrying about money, unsure how and when he might be able to express his nonbinary gender publicly. The growing attraction between Wyatt and Grayson is terrifying — and incredibly exciting.
As Grayson and Wyatt discover the power of love to provide them with safety and comfort in the present, they find new ways to write the unwritten history of their own lives and the lives of people like them. With sympathy and cutting insight, Ottoman offers a tour de force exploration of contemporary trans identity.
The Brightsiders by Jen Wilde
A teen rockstar has to navigate family, love, coming out, and life in the spotlight after being labeled the latest celebrity trainwreck in Jen Wilde’s quirky and utterly relatable novel.
As a rock star drummer in the hit band The Brightsiders, Emmy King’s life should be perfect. But there’s nothing the paparazzi love more than watching a celebrity crash and burn. When a night of partying lands Emmy in hospital and her girlfriend in jail, she’s branded the latest tabloid train wreck.
Luckily, Emmy has her friends and bandmates, including the super-swoonworthy Alfie, to help her pick up the pieces of her life. She knows hooking up with a band member is exactly the kind of trouble she should be avoiding, and yet Emmy and Alfie Just. Keep. Kissing.
Will the inevitable fallout turn her into a clickbait scandal (again)? Or will she find the strength to stand on her own?
Behrouz Gets Lucky by Avery Cassell
Behrouz Gets Lucky is a romantic, literary, kinky, and political novel about two older San Francisco queers – a butch dyke gardener named Lucky and a genderqueer librarian named Behrouz. A coffee date at Café Flore in the Castro, sparks a fiery trans masculine relationship that ends with the couple eating falafel in bed at 3 am half way around the world in a hotel room in Tehran. Forced gentrification in modern San Francisco goads Behrouz and Lucky to find their own uniquely sexual way of reclaiming the city’s lost queer spaces. Behrouz Gets Lucky is also tenderly sensual – an immersive novel, full of fragrances, delicious food, delirious sexual touch, dandy fashion, and beauty.
Masquerade by Cyrus Parker
Non-binary poet Cyrus Parker returns with an all-new collection of poetry and prose dedicated to those struggling to find their own identity in a world that often forces one into the confines of what’s considered “socially acceptable.”
Divided into three parts and illustrated by Parker, masquerade grapples with topics such as the never-ending search for acceptance, gender identity, relationships, and the struggle to recognize your own face after hiding behind another for so long.
Book to Preorder
Dithered Hearts by Chace Verity (July 24th)
A gender-confused farmer desperate to reclaim her farm and escape her stepparents’ abuse. A closeted prince more interested in helping his people than finding a bride. A fairy godfather with a ton of secrets and no powers. In this diverse fairy tale, everyone is searching for a happy ending.
The masquerade ball to find Prince Longhollow’s future bride might be Cynthia Lynah’s best chance at getting her family farm back. If she can marry him, she’ll have all the money and power she needs. Her newly discovered fairy godfather is ready to help her, but his magic can’t do anything to stop her heart from falling for two women she shouldn’t be attracted to–her stepsisters. In the midst of her flirtations, she causes her fairy godfather to lose his magic and stirs trouble for the prince desperate to save his nation from a famine.
Everyone gets a chance to be the hero of their story, but happy endings seem impossible when they need more than magic to make them happen.
Buy it: Amazon
Previously Featured Works with Nonbinary MCs
- An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon
- I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver
- Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller
- Baker Thief by Claudie Arseneault
- Peach Bottom by Jackie Snax
- Long Macchiatos and Monsters by Alison Evans
Upcoming Books to add on Goodreads:
- The Ghosts We Keep by Mason Deaver (contemporary YA)
- A Boy Like Her by Carrie Mac (contemporary YA)
- Ana on the Edge by A.J. Sass (contemporary MG)
- Somebody Told Me by Mia Siegert (contemporary YA)
- Webcomics with Major Non-Binary Characters (guest recs by Erin Ptah)
- Fave Five: M/M and M/NB Romance with Trans MCs
- Fave Five: YA with F/NB Pairings | {
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The Trans Wellness Center (TWC) provides comprehensive resources and services for transgender and non-binary people under one roof. The 3,000-square-foot center is the first-of-its-kind in the United States, with six local organizations joining forces to create this new home for wellness. The TWC was conceived and created by community leaders and allies, honoring their lifelong dedication to raise awareness about the needs and the contributions of the transgender community
Funded through a $1 million annual grant for three to five years from the L.A. County Department of Public Health, the development and opening of the TWC was 10 years in the making. As a result, the TWC was formed by the following six local community organizations: APAIT (Asian Pacific AIDS Intervention Team); Bienestar; Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles; Friends Community Center; [email protected] Coalition; and the Los Angeles LGBT Center, which is leading the management and operations support for the TWC.
Address: 3055 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 360, Los Angeles, Ca 90010
Getting here; The TWC is located one block east of the Vermont/Wilshire Metro stop, accessible via both Purple and Red lines.
Parking; Free validated parking for our clients is available in the guest garage, entrance off Westmoreland Ave.
Housing Resources: Referrals for homeless services, emergency shelters, and referrals to youth housing. Call for more info 323-993-2900.
Workforce development: Resume and cover letter building, mock interview workshops, job skills training and placement. Call for more info 323-993-2900.
Personal Financial Literacy: (See also Freedom Fridays) Increase your financial literacy with coaching from the team from TEEP (Transgender Economic Empowerment Project). Call for more info 323-993-2900.
- Free safer sex materials, internal and external condoms, dental dams, lube
- PrEP/PEP Education and linkage
- FREE HIV/STI testing | {
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1 Year Warranty
Hello, boys. When it comes to sex toys, we know that penises can sometimes feel a little left out. Well not here at Hot Octopuss!
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Throw pleasure into the ring with the ATOM cock ring. Combining innovative design with incredibly powerful vibrations, this cock ring delivers deep and rumbly stimulation.
The world’s first vibrating cock ring with dual integrated motors. The ATOM PLUS cock ring’s two motors deliver intense perineum stimulation in addition to powerful vibrations on top of the shaft.
While the principle behind all our Guybrators™ is the same – basically it’s a vibrator for your penis – all our Guybrators™ are very different. Some are designed to be used as part of a couple, while others are tailored towards solo play. Some use PulsePlate Technology™ while others use Treble & Bass Technology… it can get confusing.
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Bluetooth / Interactive
Stroker / Static
* Subject to penis size and fit
** Penis toys with remotes have not been included as couples toys
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Join our mailing list and receive 10% off your first purchase.
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The Four-Session Series Teaches How to Engage in Policy Reform and Fight for Civil Rights
Program Registration Closes April 1, 2019
March 25, WEST HOLLYWOOD: Today, Christopher Street West (CSW), the 501(c)3 non-profit that produces the annual LA Pride Festival and Parade in partnership with the Trans Wellness Center announced the creation of PLATform: Policy, Leadership, and Advocacy Training program to support and educate the transgender and non-binary communities on how to engage in activism and policy reform. This first-of-its-kind program was conceptualized by CSW Board Member Alexandra Magallon with Trans Wellness Center Program Manager Mariana Marroquin.
Currently, legislation is threatening to erase the transgender and non-binary community from the federal definition of gender. Now more than ever, there is a critical need to train the next generation of leaders on best practices for advocacy and policy-making. LA Pride is committed to amplifying the voices of the transgender and non-binary communities and is providing a “PLATform” for these voices to ring in the halls of justice.
“LA Pride has built a rich history as an active voice for the LGBTQ+ community and is dedicated to empowering the next generation,” said Alexandra Magallon, CSW Board Member. “I’m continuously inspired by activists like Silvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, and we must prepare a new wave of advocates to use the government as a tool to fight for equality.”
PLATform will train community members to become Advocates with courses and leadership seminars that will develop critical thinking skills, while pinpointing various factors that foster marginalization, including class, race, religion, oppression, privilege and more. Advocates will then learn how to develop the political tools that aid in the creation of policy and legal protections, as well as how to advocate in media and arm themselves with helpful hints when lobbying or attending meetings with elected officials. Individuals in the program must attend a minimum of four meetings of up to eight hours.
The program culminates in Advocates presenting the top values and rights they will champion for their community as part of a graduation ceremony at the LA Pride Trans Brunch, scheduled for Saturday, June 1. Advocates will be further recognized at events throughout Pride month, including the LA Pride Parade and Festival.
Graduating Advocates will be offered an opportunity to join the Resistance Squad at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. As part of the Resistance Squad, Advocates can further develop proposed policies to impact change and given the tools and opportunities to lobby state, local and federal officials to implement those policies.
PLATform is the most recent program LA Pride and CSW have added in recent years to support the transgender community and increase transgender visibility. Last year, CSW hosted its first Trans Brunch, honoring trans advocates and celebrating all members of the trans community. The Trans Brunch was led by Alexandra Magallon in collaboration with then-volunteer and now CSW board member, Johanna Padilla. Magallon and Padilla previously collaborated on the Trans Galleria at the LA Pride Festival, which will return in 2019.
The 2019 LA Pride Parade and Festival will take place on June 8-9 at West Hollywood Park, featuring performances by Years & Years, Meghan Trainor, Ashanti, Amara La Negra, Dej Loaf, Greyson Chance, MNEK, Pabllo Vittar, and Ah-Mer-Ah-Su — with more to be announced soon. Regardless of genre, this year’s performers will come together on the Festival’s two main stages to embrace this year’s theme, #JUSTUNITE.
Festival-goers are encouraged to buy tickets in advance online at lapride.org. Ticket sales and proceeds from the LA Pride Festival support and fund the LA Pride Parade, LGBTQ+ community grant programs and scholarships, and CSW’s philanthropy, Casa del Sol. CSW provides free festival tickets to LGBTQ+ non-profits and service organizations to distribute to their members.
To apply to join PLATform, interested Advocates should email Alexandra Magallon at [email protected] by Monday, April 1, 2019.
About Christopher Street West (CSW) & LA Pride
Christopher Street West (CSW), a 501(c)3 non-profit, organized the world’s first permitted parade advocating for gay rights on June 28, 1970, as a response to and in commemoration of the Stonewall Rebellion on Christopher Street in New York City the year prior. Since then, we have built a rich history as an active voice for the LGBTQ+ community across the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Today, we continue to produce the globally-recognized LA Pride Parade and Festival every June in the City of West Hollywood. We also organize a number of events throughout the year with our non-profit, philanthropic, community, and corporate partners. Visit lapride.org for more information. | {
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Tue 1 Nov, 7pm
SPACE Mare Street
The Feminist Duration Reading Group focuses on under-known and under-appreciated texts, movements, groups and struggles. It meets on the first Tuesday of every month, at 7pm, at SPACE in London Fields, and is open to all.
This meeting of the Feminist Duration Reading Group, on Tuesday 1 November, focuses on the Icelandic women’s strike of 24th October 1975. Through readings from Marie Elizabeth Johnson’s chapter on this mass withdrawal of female labour – in which 90% of women participated, bringing the country to a standstill as schools, shops, nurseries and fish factories shut down or ran a half capacity, while men performed caring and domestic labour – we explore the contemporary potential for a gender strike. We also consider how a radical gesture of resistance can be reframed by the more cautious language of celebration.
The session is inspired by the current project ‘Speculations for a radical, feminist strike: workshop and experiment,’ which reflects on the Icelandic women’s action, forty years later. Informed by anti-work politics and practice, project researchers Valeria Graziano, Lynne Friedli, and Holly Pester ask, is a gendered strike is still necessary (and/or possible) for trans and cis-gendered women and non-binary people today?
Together we will read sections from ‘Kvennafridagurinn,’ chapter six of Marie Elizabeth Johnson’s 1984 PhD thesis Women in Iceland.
The Feminist Duration Reading Group focuses on under-known and under-appreciated feminist texts, movements, groups and struggles. Started at Goldsmiths, University of London, in March 2015, since July 2015 the group has been hosted by SPACE. The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month, at 7pm, and is open to all.
We will read out loud, together, on the evening. Please bring copies of the reading with you.
For a copy of this month's reading or if you would like to join the Feminist Duration Reading Group, please email [email protected]
Now You Can Go
The Feminist Duration Reading Group on 1st December was the first in the Now You Can Go events series exploring feminist art, theory and activism that took place across The ICA, The Showroom, SPACE and Raven Row in December 2015. | {
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UTMWGEC is a volunteer-run organization, a resource centre that strives to make our campus safer and more accessible for women, trans folks, and non-binary folks. Every volunteer at UTMWGEC is expected to respect the policies outlined below while volunteering at UTMWGEC:
- UTMWGEC is committed to an anti-oppression policy, affirming it in all its practices, services, programs, literature, and in all its staff, volunteer and client interactions; at all levels and in every facet of its operation, this policy applies.
- UTMWGEC is committed to a policy of anti-oppression, whether the oppression is on the basis of ethnicity, language, race, age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, income, political or religious affiliation.
- UTMWGEC recognizes that many marginalized groups encounter barriers to full access and participation in the community’s life. Therefore, within its mandate, the organization assumes an active role of advocacy for women’s, children’s, and newcomers’ rights. As residents of Canada, all have a right to full and successful participation and integration into society.
- UTMWGEC is committed to empowering members of UTM community, enabling them to actively and responsibly contribute to the cultural, social and economic fabric of our city and country.
- UTMWGEC is committed to supporting its members’ voices and views to help ensure their human rights as they become established in their new environment and continue to learn about Canadian laws, procedures and the policies.
- UTMWGEC is committed to providing services and programs that are sensitive to the community’s needs and will strive to eliminate all barriers to access and participation in these services.
- UTMWGEC is committed to traveling a positive path in bridging the gap between members of UTM community and other ethnic and cultural groups in order strengthen the Canadian mosaic and enrich the enjoyment of civic and social life.
- UTMWGEC will not tolerate discriminatory attitudes, behaviors or practices. The organization’s staff, volunteers and associates will adhere to UTMWGEC’s anti-oppression policies and practices in all of their affiliated endeavors within the organization.
Client’s Bill of Rights
UTMWGEC is committed to building a safe and healthy community, in general, and in particular, through supporting and strengthening the quality of life for members of the UTM community.
All UTMWGEC services, programs, literature, staff, and volunteers adhere to this principle.
Every client and community member who uses UTMWGEC’s services and programs have the right to:
- Be treated with dignity, courtesy and respect.
- Expect that UTMWGEC will offer services and programs that are within its capacity and be responsive to the client’s and community’s needs.
- Receive UTMWGEC’s services, delivered in a manner that is free from discrimination, be it racial, ethnic, religious, or because of gender, sexual orientation, financial ability, age, or disability.
- Understand that all services and accommodations provided to the client are confidential, and in accordance with law.
- Expect direct service from UTMWGEC‘s resources or referral to other reputable service providers.
- Receive information that is current and accurate.
- Participate in enhancing and commenting on the quality of UTMWGEC‘s programs and services.
UTMWGEC is a non-political organization and does not advocate for any particular political opinion in Canada. UTMWGEC is not affiliated with any political parties in Canada.
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Visitor comments may be checked through an automated spam detection service. | {
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After yet another very long hiatus, I am back again with another conversation on gender and language, this one taking place in March 2019.
Kyng, previously known as Lucas Charlie Rose and previously praised on this very website, is a jack-of-all-trades who takes no days off, between songwriting, rapping, mixing, producing, activism, and creating visual art. Kyng is the founder and head of the Montreal chapter of the all-trans music label Trans Trenderz. It was certainly an honor and a privilege to talk to Kyng in their home studio (with their four-legged companion by their side) and I’m excited to share their words with all of you.
*Interview has been edited for clarity*
Kyng: My pronouns are he for cis people and they for cool people. (*Both laugh*) And we’re here with Whiskey, who doesn’t have pronouns ‘cause she’s a dog.
Max: What this project is that I’m working on is kind of looking at (non-binary) people in Montreal, specifically those who speak English and French, what their experiences are in Montreal, how they navigate the French language which has historically been very gendered and things like that. If you have any thoughts about that or you want to talk about languages you know…
Kyng: That’s one of the reasons why I feel comfortable with the pronoun he is because in French there’s no (singular) they. And I don’t care what people say about creating new pronouns. That’s gonna take generations to be adapted into the language because people are really anti-it you know? Personally, I find that the gender-neutral pronouns that they are trying to come up with in French, it doesn’t roll off the tongue naturally.
Kyng: So, for me, it’s really hard…so they—it’s in the English language, so you say it as a gender-neutral pronoun all the time when you don’t know who you’re talking about. So basically, I don’t like French and that’s why, for example, I make music and I just released an album in French after making music in English for the longest time, but I didn’t speak English til I was 17-years-old.
Max: Oh, wow.
Kyng: But I don’t feel comfortable speaking French because it’s too gendered. Like I don’t like when (francophone) people correct people who don’t know how to gender a table, but my pronouns are not as important, you know?
Max: Oh wow. Yeah, it’s ridiculous.
Kyng: Yeah, so that’s why, for me, I feel like I don’t like how gendered French is, so for me it’s just easier. ‘Cause I remember, I was 15-years-old when I started going online and having an online presence. I had this blog, it was on SkyBlog, it was back in the day. I would write about myself and didn’t want people to know what gender I was and it would be so hard to write about myself without putting any gendered language in it. But, in English, I could do it for an hour and nobody would know. So, for me it was really a work of language. I really had to think my sentences through to make sure there was not an extra e added anywhere and shit like that, you know? So it was really hard. So when I started speaking English it was like: Oh my God! Freedom!
Max: Yeah. Wow, that’s awesome. You said that you did you record an album in French recently. So, I guess (I want to ask) what brought that about?
Kyng: I feel like, even for example, recently I was listening to my old songs that I wrote in French and the flow is really choppy. It’s really hard. It comes off as cheesy really often. The lyrics just off as cheesy, ‘cause French is really complicated as a language and so if you write (French songs) the same way that you write English songs, it’s just not–like you can’t say “I love you! I miss you!” in a French song or else it’ll be like: Really homie? That’s all you can do? They (francophone rappers) would need to go another level to be considered lyricists. Like, it’s really hard. And so, for me, I just found that English is also melodic, so when you’re talking it already sounds like there’s a flow, and in French it’s a lot harder. I feel like, because I was able to learn how to write songs in English, to get that fluent, I was able to transfer the flow part to the French, but not the lyrics if that makes sense. I did it ‘cause people were asking me to do it and then I tried and ended up I couldn’t do it. I don’t talk about my gender in French. I don’t talk about racism as much in French. It’s hard. French is really…I don’t know…I don’t like it.
Max: (laughs) Yeah, but I know that those are things that you talk about a lot in your English raps.
Kyng: Yeah, like, I talk about my gender, sometimes. Yeah, I don’t know ‘cause—the album in French has the same things as my English songs, but deeper.
Max: It’s deeper in French or in English?
Kyng: In French. Like there’s a song I made for example,…in English it’s more direct for me but in French it’s more like you’re painting a picture you know. And there’s a song that I’m putting in my next album and it’s called “Tiny Body, Big Heart” and the last verse is in French. The first two verses are like “this is my life. This is me. Hi, what’s good?” and the last verse is a whole metaphor. And it (the last verse) goes deep ‘cause. I feel that maybe ‘cause French is my first language but I don’t know. But I feel like it’s a lot more poetic ‘cause, you can say a lot more in different ways. I feel like in English it’s more direct, I don’t know. But it sounds more fluid.
Max: I recall that you said (when we first met that) you lived in the U.S. for a while, as well.
Kyng: Yeah, I lived there for three years in *lowers voice* Bethesda.
Max: Yeah, that is, like rich-kid suburbs right there.
Kyng: Yeah I was at the French International School. It was horrible.
Max: Oh my God.
Kyng: ‘Cause not only is it like a bunch of rich kids, but on top of being rich kids they’re (the children of) diplomats.
Kyng: So that comes with a certain level of entitlement. I was friends with, you know, the black queer kids. But my brother was friends with, like (rich kids). Those people are weird. It’s weird, They’re weird. I don’t like them. Rich people are weird.
Max: Yeah, they are. I’ve never understood, like, how, like…what? It’s a foreign country. It’s a whole different planet.
Something else that I’ve been asking people, and you’ve kind of touched on this, are there ways that French can be made more inclusive? Is it so past hope that sticking with English (is better)?
Kyng: I mean there are ways…I’m sure there’s ways because language evolves. I don’t have the energy, I’m personally doing so much other stuff that I don’t have the energy. But I personally feel that the gender-neutral pronouns that they have right now ,again, it just doesn’t come out right. ‘Cause it’s not “yel” it’s “iel.”Like, if I’m trying to think of a word that those syllables (sounds) exist (in that order)….yeah, like, I don’t even know. Every time I hear people say “iel” it feels weird. It doesn’t come out right. For me, it’s the phonetics or something. Maybe that’s a thing; having something that rolls off the tongue more naturally and feels more natural to the language and can be incorporated in the sentences in a more natural way would help people. And I don’t know how we can do that, ‘cause I know that in English we have they and that’s already natural, so, yeah, I don’t know. It’s tough, ‘cause, I don’t know. French is just fucked up. Just speak Creole.
Max: (*laughs*) Did you grow up speaking that (Creole) as well?
Kyng: No, but some people in my family spoke it so I understood a little bit.
Max: From what part of the world? What type of Creole?
Kyng: Martinique. So French Caribbean. Yeah, there are several types of French Creole, but, yeah, different from the Haiti one.
Even in Spanish you know how they put the x (i.e. Latinx) like, how would they do that in French? It’s hard, and that’s why I have a real love-hate relationship with that language (French). It’s really pretty if you use it right, but oh my God is it a fucked-up language! For example, I don’t think you can incorporate gender-neutral pronouns and have people also use them naturally if this (points to table in room) is fucking gendered. Like, for me, when I started learning English the fact that things didn’t have a gender was such an alien concept to me that I was like: “How the fuck am I going to wrap my head around that?” You know, for example I would be like: “Oh she (when referring to) the table.”
Max: (*Laughs*) And, of course for someone like me who learned French (later) that (assigning objects a gender) was a foreign concept to me. For me, I think that will always be a really weird concept—gendering inanimate objects. But I can definitely see what you’re talking about.
Kyng: Yeah, cause now it feels weird. I’m like: “Why?” ‘Cause I was fifteen-years-old when I moved to the states, so learning English, still my English was like high school English so it was shit. But I came to the states and was like “How the fuck am I supposed to…? So, like dogs have a gender but (the word) table does not?” It really took me a really long time to get used to the idea that things (don’t have grammatical) gender, you know?
You know there’s several steps to be like…you can’t just introduce a new gender-neutral pronoun (in French). If you want to do that you have to stop gendering the table too. ‘Cause you can’t come in and be like “la table!”and try to introduce a gender-neutral pronoun and have people understand that concept. Because (then grammatical) gender is not gender anymore—it’s just a way of speaking. So, I don’t know.
I’m thinking of the, like, old white French people who don’t wanna learn new things. And I’m thinking reasonably these people are never going to understand what it is to have a gender-neutral pronoun. Progressive people will but I’m not interested in preaching to the choir. Like if I say: “Trans people deserve rights!” and the only people listening to me are the people who already believe it, you know? For me, I’m trying to break that and put all of these ideas in front of people who never thought about them before, ‘cause that’s when you can actually, you know (make a difference). And I’m thinking, like which ways, like, by experience, giving more workshops to people who don’t understand gender, who don’t understand all these things, you have to do it in progressive ways. You have to really put it in a simplistic way, paint pictures really easily. The thing is if that picture of gendered objects…not just gendered objects, gendered everything… like everything. (Even) the weather is fucking gendered, like, (the French word for) rain is feminine. So if you first try to break that picture and try to bring a gender-neutral thing to objects, then do humans. That’s what I would do.
Max: I think you’re the first person (I’ve spoken to) that suggested that. So that’s really interesting. I’ll keep that in mind.
Kyng: One of the things that I stopped doing was…that I refuse to do… that if you’re an English speaker and you misgender the table (when speaking French) I’m not going to tell you how to say it. And for me that’s the first step towards (more gender-neutral French). Because…why?…why? You know what I mean? Like, I don’t get it.
For example, (one time) my mom, and my grandparents came to Canada, my grandparents didn’t know (I was trans) only my mom knew and I was dating a girl at the time who spoke English, like she barely spoke any French and they kept correcting her (when she misgendered objects but) my mom wouldn’t use the right pronouns for me. So whenever they would correct her for, for example: “This is not the gender for (the French word for) the fork. (I was) like: “Are you fucking serious?”
It took years for my mom to be able to gender me properly, but they expect people to know the gender of all these different objects. And there’s a famous joke that in French, that’s like: “Oh, Dad look! There’s une helicoptere.” Then the Dad’s like: “No, it’s un helicoptere.”And the child’s like: “How can you see from down here?”
Max: Oh my gosh. Wow!
Kyng: That’s good because it’s like, children. Children know the truth. Like, why the fuck–Why is that masculine? It’s also funny because for (the French words) body parts like a boob, a vagina, clitoris—that’s all masculine, but a lot of kitchen-related items are feminine.
Max: Does it maybe have to do with this stereotypical, patriarchal, like, ownership?
Kyng: Yeah. Even, for example, the way that if there’s one guy surrounded by (all girls)…
Max: Yeah. It becomes ils plural. It’s so stupid.
Kyng: Unless you start saying il for everybody and have the ils with an s become the gender-neutral base, for example, or (start using) elles as gender-neutral. ‘Cause in English, when there’re two people, it’s gender-neutral. We don’t say “shes. Oh! The sheses are here!” So why not try to use only one of those (pronouns) and banish the other one and be like: “Fuck gender altogether! We’re just gonna use one!” I don’t know.
Something that’s simpler, something that would probably take a lot less time actually is to come up with a time-travel (machine), travel back in time and kill all the French colonizers. Stop them from colonizing. ‘Cause it’s like America—it’s founded on fucked-up principles, so burn the whole thing down.
Bonjour! Hi! Ca fait longtemps, hein? It’s been a while! After a semester-long hiatus, I’m back and ready to present a conversation from January 2019 with a young English-and-French-speaking non-binary life-long Montrealer who has become a dear friend of mine these past few months.
As Alex* explains, they “go by they them in English and in French I tend to use the masculine so…il lui.” They have a lot to say about language, gender, social media, toxic masculinity, queer spaces in the city, drag (!!), and the strange habits of straight people.
The following interview has been edited for clarity.
Max: So, the first question is: how do you or others that you know, especially non-binary people here in the city and throughout Quebec navigate the French language?
Alex: It’s especially hard as a non-binary person because there (are) not very (many) gender neutral options in French as opposed to English and probably other languages that I’m not aware of and things tend to be very, very binary, it’s always either one or the other, there’s no neutral. So, I clumsily navigate around it try to avoid as much as possible but since you need to conjugate the word, (in every sentence) you will get stuck, you will have to decide on a gender at one point or another, unlike English.
Max: Yeah, that is something that I’ve definitely had to deal with myself and it’s, like, ‘why?’ Is it really that hard for the powers that be to just get on board, with inclusive language that’s neutral that makes things easier instead of more complicated?
Alex: Yes, true, but I think it’s not just about the social aspect of it and inclusiveness it’s like very rooted in language, but, like I said, the adjectives…if you don’t want to conjugate them, let’s say if you don’t want to conjugate them, let’s say feminine, the omission of the feminine defaults it (the adjective) to be masculine, it’s not neutral. So, it’s really hard and I’ve met francophone non-binary people recently when asking them about their pronoun they said that in English they go by they them and in French they use il and elle en alternance.
Max: Oh wow.
Alex: Yeah. I’m not sure how that works and I didn’t get much explanation but 3 to 4 people I know have told me to use “il et elle en alternance”, so alternating between the masculine, feminine, I’m not sure how they do (it).
Alex: That’s how (non-binary, francophone) people deal with it (French being very gendered).
Max: So, how can queer spaces whether that’s in terms of, like, language or just in general, um, how can queer spaces be more inclusive?
Alex: That’s a very good question. I guess self-awareness, checking with yourself, whether it’s as an individual or as an organization is key. Always reach to educate yourself always reach to consult the minority or minorities…The concept of inclusiveness way too often is just tolerating, but you need to be, well, in my opinion, I think, I believe, you need to be proactive about including people and actually offering representation and showcasing and, like, consulting the minorities within your environment to make sure that they all feel comfortable.
Max: Yeah, definitely. The next question I had was how accessible the language is, (English versus French). I remember when we first met you had mentioned that when you’re talking about queer issues, even though, even though your first language or Mother Tongue is French, that when it comes to talking about queer issues it’s easier to talk about them in English and I was wondering if you could expand on that.
Alex: True, true, um, it does link up with what you just said earlier in this conversation about French not trying very hard to be inclusive, so, yes, there is the issues rooted in the language, like grammar and syntax and semantics, and other linguistic structures, but there is also all these neologisms that are, like, you know, words that just describe realities that wouldn’t be acknowledged a couple decades ago and now they are. I usually learn them (queer terms) in English first because of (*in exaggerated voice*) the Internet. And then the queer scene in Montreal, the one I tend to gravitate towards is mostly Anglophone. So, that’s where I learn most of this vocabulary, so that’s why it’s hard for me to target them in French. But I do, I have seen recently more and more translation like new words in French for, let’s say to misgender like in English, (I learned recently in French) I would just say misgendered”in a French sentence, but now I try actively to say the correct word which would be mégenré
Max: Well, that’s good to know that there are those steps being taken that aren’t, you know, uprooting the entire language and turning it upside-down, cause obviously that would be very, very difficult for, like, anyone and everyone, but it is nice to know that there are little phrases and little words, like, little changes here and there happening.
Alex: Yes, and I think, also to be fair it’s also English nowadays is a much more global language. And also, like, when talking about these queer issues it makes it accessible to queers all over the world no matter what their Mother Tongue is. So it is unifying and stuff. But then, the local communities need to find their own translation for these words.
Max: What would your advice be to a queer person in Montreal who’s trying to find their way around, looking for those, good, inclusive spaces, and all that?
Alex: Get on social media. And, I think we’ve discussed this the first time we met, you and I. Montreal is very geo-centric in my experience, and by that I mean most of the events and communities are really centered around specific neighborhoods. So, sadly, if you do not attend art school or are not located in these trendy neighborhoods or, yeah, or don’t have the connections it’s really hard to find the scene cause, yes, of course there’s The Gay Village but it’s not what I would call inclusive.
Alex: Yeah, we can talk about that later, but that say, as someone born and raised in Montreal but a much more remote neighborhood, um, it took me until I was twenty-two, actually this (past) summer until I discovered an actual queer scene that I felt good in. I felt like just a small town American kid moving to the big college city just by moving to the Mile End.
Max: Oh wow.
Alex: But, if you can’t afford these “trendy neighborhoods” and don’t happen to go study arts and stuff or whatever queers study on Facebook there is a lot of community organizations (such as) Montreal Queer Fam** and Chez Queer Montreal which is also a great, it’s trying to be a safe space for, like, safe housing for queer people. I would say as advice Facebook will be your best friend because that is how you make awesome connections. That’s actually how I met you, so.
Max: And that is something that, um, I was definitely thinking about and, um something that I actually just wrote about yesterday, is like even in like the very early stone-age of the Internet, it’s always been like…
Alex: *In dramatic fake-menacing voice* There are gays!
Max: *In dramatic excited voice* There are the gays! They are here! I can find them…at least on the Internet. That’s always what I’ve thought is, like, really cool. Cause even though sometimes I might think to myself Oh no! I spend too much time on social media! At the same time, I feel like if I didn’t use social media I would just miss out so much on all these spaces.
Alex: And there you go. And that’s actually an argument I give when people are like: “Ugh! Social media’s the devil!” And I’m like , well to be honest it had a very positive impact on my life. In the past few months, I’ve made really healthy connection due to social media so, eh, sure Facebook’s the devil, Mark Zuckerberg is Satan but, you know, gotta make the best out of it.
Max: Yeah exactly, yeah that’s all good stuff. Could you go ahead and go back to what you were saying about the Gay Village and how, maybe it’s not as inclusive of a space as one might hope?
Alex: So, I would describe it as very old-school. Its Golden Age would’ve been in the 80s I would say. And I’ve heard in the 90s it was still going, but again, like that was when it was the Golden Age of “The Gay” and by “Gay” it means a white cis man. So it was very diverse as you had the Leather and the Daddy and all kinds of bars, but targeted towards cis gay men. And it hasn’t really evolved much ever since. Even the drag scene over there—it’s getting better but, so…not only is it not inclusive, it also doesn’t feel safe to walk around. I’ve personally experienced, depending on how I present, I feel like the more femme you look, the more harassed you’ll get. You see older men, shamelessly cruising, but on the street which can be very uncomfortable. Yeah, and it’s just not something that I’m used to in going to queer spaces, like in my own community I don’t expect to have to be in defense mode, but it does happen in the Village, the Gay Village, so I consider it neither safe nor an inclusive space.
Max: Yeah. It’s one of those things where I was very conscious of that when I was walking down (the street). And you also have a lot of, like, cis straight women.
Alex: The bachelorette(s)!
Max: Yeah, bachelorette parties. Oh my God.
Alex: Oh no, it’s the downfall of The Village. So that was just queer-wise, but yeah the bachelorette(s) fucking ruined it. And, nowadays, it’s also the tourists they come and check it out like a zoo. It’s like: “Oh! See the gays!” Yeah, it’s just a big ol’ mess, to be honest. Also very fueled with alcohol, drugs, lots of parties. I just don’t feel like it’s a very healthy environment.
Max: Yeah, because there’re so many other ways to socialize. Like, I’ll always think that gay bars and stuff are very important, because they are those safe spaces to express yourself. But, if…not queer just “Gay” socializing is just alcohol or drugs, and sex, there’re just so many other things…
Alex: That’s a big problem in our community. It’s a worldwide thing, I believe. But, it’s getting better. There’re more and more queer cafes opening. Shout out to Café Velours! So, yeah, fully agreed, but, it’s getting better. There are more and more queer hangouts that are organized and stuff. That are centered around more healthy activities than just binge drinking.
Max: Yeah, exactly. And it’s really sweet. I’m just thinking about, like, when I think of the more progressive, inclusive queer spaces it’s like, there’s always like…tea…and…knitting…and people reading each other’s natal charts and it’s like so different from the, like, cis white Gay Village.
Alex: That’s exactly what I had in mind. I was thinking about the “Stitch n’Bitch” thing that I saw. And drinking tea. And talking about your chart. And talking about making a zine.
Max: Yeah exactly. Yeah, I was just thinking about Chez Queer Montréal which you had mentioned, which is how I found the place I’m living now. I was just thinking about how every single place that I visited that was listed on Chez Queer Montréal I was offered…one place offered coffee and I had coffee, but everywhere else was tea. The place where I ended up living I did not have tea there, but I was offered tea and the only reason why I did not drink tea there is because I visited another place (*Alex laughs*) that day and I had tea there.
Alex: This is hilarious because I also had tea (at) every single interview with Chez Queer and the place I moved in this summer at the Mile End, well, we had the most delicious chai. I also met my current roommate on Chez Queer. It’s just great.
Max: Yeah, I mean I have heard there are occasionally those, like, nightmare situations but, that happens with any…
Alex: That’s life.
Max: Yeah, that’s life.
Alex: And our community is not exempt of bad patterns and toxicity.
Alex: We’re just humans.
Max: Yeah. And I think there’s a lot of conversations in the queer community about how to handle things like that. If you do see someone do or experience another queer person who’s just being very toxic or just, not being very mindful or abusing drugs or alcohol in front of you…I think people are a little more conscious especially when they step back and are like “ok this person needs help. No, I should not be in the vicinity of this person, but I do recognize that they need help…I think people are also starting to move a little bit more towards restorative justicewhich I think is good.
Alex: Absolutely, yeah. I’d say that we are definitely more equipped and I think that we’re better at dealing with these situations than “The Straights”. However, I will say, because it is something I’ve had to deal with recently too and it’s just part of the community. Queers love art, it’s no secret. The thing is, when you get to the art world it’s very much of a contact, a matter of contacts and relations and connections and there’s kind of hierarchies sometimes, who you are in the business and the industry, getting your name out there. So when there does happen to be a problem involving, like, someone, sometimes, even within a queer community, it can be very hard to call out this person if you know they’re very influential or there will be people trying to silence you and stuff regarding that and that’s that.
Max: But, yeah, I think you’re right. I feel like these are all issues that happen so often, especially, related to mental health and the arts and toxicity and abuse of power and things like that I think we’re so…
Max: Yeah, trauma, a big word, yeah. And it’s like, those are things that affect, essentially every queer person that I know…
Alex: Is there a single queer that doesn’t have trauma?
Max: It’s really sad. It’s to the point where when I hear the word “trauma” I think “queer.” Like it’s almost part of queer experience.
Alex: Well it is traumatizing to be born not-straight in a straight patriarchy…I would say it (trauma) is not inherently part of our identity, but it’s a matter of context and since we are in a heterosexual patriarchy how not to be traumatized when you’re queer?
Max: That’s true too. I think we’re definitely a lot more equipped on how to deal with it and sensitive towards it, whereas I think a lot of cisgender, heterosexual people are like : “I don’t know what’s happening. What’s wrong with this person? “ No, it’s like, I’m always aware that sometimes people might be triggered…the possibility of someone getting triggered by something or, just not having the spoonsto do something, just you know things like that. Giving people space versus checking in on them.
Alex: Exactly. It’s not even words in their (cishet people’s) vocabulary.
Alex: And also they get away with or are trying to get away with so much shit by invoking traumas. It’s like “Oh, but I was hurt before.” Well guess what Susan, I was hurt too! So I think at least I think that, like we said, all queers are traumatized, I guess. Well, it’s not something you bring to the table while dealing with it in argument. We all know that we are sensitive and we all know that we have our own shit and emotional baggage. And it is not an excuse to have an (un)acceptable behavior. Compared to let’s say, a more hetero community, at least, there’s this like this thing you don’t have to deal with of trying to justify your shitty behavior with your trauma. Yeah. I mean it still happens, but…
Max: Yeah, definitely. I will say that a couple of days ago I saw this really good video from…so there’s a few different queer websites out there. There’s like them.AndOut Magazine and this was from INTO (IntoMore)which I think is a newer one and they had this video on YouTube that was “Are Straight People OK?” and it was looking at all these tweets and videos…
Alex: *Clapping excitedly* Yes I’ve seen it! Like: (straight women say) “boys who text before 10pm are very important!” Like (queer people respond): “Are straight women ok?”
Max: I just feel so bad, because these things that are so normalized in straight communities. And, I’m like this idea that in a straight, cisgender couple that women are like a “ball-and-chain” and then men are like these babies that need to be taken care of. I’m like…
Alex: Yeah “man child”.
Max: Yeah, I’m just like: “Y’all need to, like, examine all this. And it’s all very much tied into toxic masculinity– which is also an issue in the queer community as well—
Max: But in a very different way a lot of the time and it’s…oh my God.
Alex: Yeah, and the conversation is getting bigger and bigger about it. Like it’s being addressed much more, more than ever before, I think.
Max: Yeah. Oh, yeah and speaking of masculinity, umm and gender and all of that, can you, uh, tell the audience a little bit about your, uh, experiences with drag…dragging and starting all that?
Alex: Well, I’m a non-binary person. Hi. (*giggles*) But I’ve also stumbled upon a word this summer in the (*in exaggerated voice*) Queer Mile End neighborhood that I think fit very well with to describe my gender and identity and that is transmasculine.
Transmasculine people are not exempt from perpetuating toxic masculinity and it’s something that I had to learn to be self-aware of. It can be very tempting when first transitioning and still not passing to try and overcompensate by resorting to those tired gendered stereotypical attitudes. I for one rejected any trait I deemed too feminine in me, be it clothing or behavior wise, trying to fit within this traditional and patriarchal view of masculinity.
Doing drag has been very liberating to me in terms of gender expression and dealing with the pressure of passing. It’s been an interesting journey in reconnecting with “femininity,” which had become so taboo to me. Funnily enough, allowing myself to drag it all up–putting on a wig, painting my face, wearing some nine-inch heels – has helped me to find balance and comfort in the way I present in my daily life and overall disassociate it from my core identity. Moving past the gender binary instead of relying on it.
*name has been changed
**Since the interview took place, this page has been renamed Montreal Queer Social Group, partially over concerns that the term “Fam,” a term originating in AAVE, is culturally appropriative for non-Black people to use.
The following are sources I recommend for anyone interested in learning even more about queer language, communicative repertoire (Rymes, 2014) and identity:
Gender Museum: This Instagram account is the brainchild of Jamie Grace Alexander. Trans individuals submit an image along with an accompanying caption, in which they describe their gender identity. Gender Museum showcases the unique identities of transgender people and the language people choose to identify themselves. Of particular interest is one submission which features a person who has written the phrase “I am Marissa” (soy Marissa) in Arabic, although the individual’s L1 is Spanish; I find this to be a powerful means of communicative repertoire and using different language for different reasons (Rymes, 2014). The contributor explains that this was a means to hide their identity from their parents.
Kyng Rose (Blxck Cxsper): Originally from France, but partially educated in the U.S., and living in Montreal since coming to the city to complete a Bachelor’s degree, Kyng is a Black, trans jack-of-all trades who has made quite a career as a rapper, producer, activist, singer, songwriter, videographer, and visual artist. They write, rap, and sing in English and French and is the founder of Trans Trenderz ,a nonprofit record label for transgender artists. Their communicative repertoire ranges from the two languages they speak, to the language of hip-hop, to reclaiming slurs, as seen in the name of his record label. Rose proves that language is one of the most powerful tools in expressing a queer identity.
Rymes, B. (2014). Communicative repertoire. In C. Leung & B. Street (Eds.), Handbook ofEnglish Language Studies (pp. 287-301). New York, NY: Routledge.
The following piece is modeled after the Communicative Repertoire assignment for Dr. Mela Sarkar’s course EDSL-623- Second Language Learning.
December 14, 2018, Montreal, QC, Canada: Outside, it is a relatively warm, but wet and slushy afternoon. Thankfully, we have found ourselves in the warm, cozy confides of Coop le Cagibi at its new home in the Petite Italie neighborhood. Although I had initially planned to hold one-on-one interviews about queer language, linguistics, and identity, enough people from different walks of life were available at the same date and time; therefore, it made sense to make space for a group conversation. The conversation consists of the following participants:
Myself, Max: He, they pronouns. L1-English, L2-French. Born-and-raised in Maryland, US. Moved to Montreal for studies and activism. Biracial (mixed- Black and white).
Meg: She, her pronouns. L1- English, L2- French. Originally from Texas, US. Has been in Montreal for 4 years as a student. White.
Ro: She, her pronouns. L1-English, L2- French. Grew up in the American Deep South, but has spent the past several years in Oakland, CA, US. Has lived in Montreal for less than a year, but is already very involved in activism and other activities. White.
Brian: He, his pronouns. L1-English, L2-French. Originally from Vancouver, BC. Moved to Montreal a few years ago, but has only recently started a degree program. White.
Eden: They, them pronouns. L1 French, L2-English. Quebec native. Student who is very involved with LGBTQ activism. White. They were meeting with a client and was, therefore, not able to join our conversation until a tad later.
The smell of espresso and vegan baked goods wafts through the air. 2018’s Best Album, Janelle Monae’s Dirty Computer, plays in the background, setting the mood for a discussion on queer pride, solidarity and looking towards the future. The cups, plates, chairs, tables, and knickknacks are as cohesively mismatched as our group.
*The following conversation has been edited for clarity and length, while staying true to the communicative repertoires of each individual*
Max: All of you have come to Montreal for different reasons and do different things here in the city. What has your experience been as a queer person thus far?
Brian: I’ve lived in Vancouver and I’ve spent a lot of time in Toronto as well so, I mean, compared to those places I would say that, uh, there’s a couple of factors. One is that there’s not, you know, as many…I wouldn’t say there’s not as many, say, people of color or communities with people of color, but it’s also more divided along linguistic lines which kind of makes each group a bit smaller, which means that…
Ro: What do you mean by linguistic lines?
Brian: Well, if they’re English or French-only. So, like, you have a group of…
Ro: In Montreal?
Brian: In Montreal, yes,
Brian: So, you have a group of like, English speakers which might but might not necessarily create a space, you know, they would be more likely to be tied to that side of the community, then they are by that than say…I should, I yeah, I mean I’m generalizing a bit, but, cause I have been to say, queer POC spaces that are bilingual as well, but, uh, you know that doesn’t always happen, that, yeah. They tend to be kind of segmented into either the English or the French side, which means that, like I have friends who were coming here from Toronto and they were like “oh when is the POC Night for Pride?” ‘cause they were coming for Pride. I’m like: “Oh good question. I don’t think there is one.” And, ‘cause you know in Vancouver, Toronto there’d just be a given that there would be something like that. Um so, yeah so, I think that… I wouldn’t say there’s a case that there’s more integration…I wouldn’t say it’s integration, per se, exactly. Um, but, yeah, I’d say that it’s just, yeah, it just tends to be kind of dominated by, especially I would say on the French side, I would say that it tends to be dominated (by white people).
Max: Alright, ummm…
Brian: Unless people… you might have had some other experiences with that, so I’m curious to know if people have had any other experiences.
Max: With, like, POC spaces?
Meg: Yeah, one thing my roommate, they were an intern at _____which is a queer and trans youth organization, over the summer and one thing that they had mentioned is that youth of color who are French speaking would come looking for French resources ‘cause _____is mainly anglophone and then ,like, my roommate is a person of color and they would feel uncomfortable recommending them to some of the French-speaking organizations cause they felt they were pretty white. And so, it seems like, my roommate was saying that, there are like a lack of resources for like, French-speaking youth of colour.
Meg: which is just kind of, I don’t know, I find it’s just like, I don’t know understand why. But because it’s like immigrants, you have to go to French-speaking schools so, it’s like, if your parents don’t speak English as their first language they’re learning French so…it just seems, like, there should be a lot more resources than there are.
Max: Yeah, I actually just volunteered at _____last night, um, and, um, so, I can say that, yes there are some people of color, like, probably, maybe, more than there used to be, I don’t know cause I just started volunteering there. But yeah, it’s definitely one of those things where there’s such a… divide I guess, a lot of the time. And even between, like, between the francophone or predominately francophone kids and then anglophone kids and it’s just um, yeah, and it almost seemed to be divided based on language and also, like interest, there’s like, there’s this one way to be queer and then there’s this other way to be queer.? And it’s like, you know, like, yes, some queer people like playing video games and stuff like that and some queer people don’t and it’s like, yeah, it’s really interesting.? But yeah, that’s something that I definitely, like want to look more into, is like, yeah, like francophone kids of colour, especially like can be isolating, and I’m just thinking of like, my own experience and it’s like “yeah, yeah, it can feel a little weird, a little… not like intentionally tokenized most times, and sometimes you’re just like….mmmm…ehhh…” Um but yeah, and…. there’s something else that I was thinking about… oh yes, something else that I wanna that I have heard about and I think I want to research more on this is, so I’m giving, like, correct information is, um…refugees who come from other countries and then if they’re LGBT refugees like coming to Canada because they’re seeking asylum for their sexual orientation and/or gender identity it’s um, like they have to very much follow this script of like “Oh, you have to like to like take a picture of yourself at a Pride parade or doing some like…queer things… and it’s like…very like…it almost seems like LGBT…like the people who made these regulations…like LGBT is like a culture and it’s all like a monolith and in order to be ‘really gay’ or ‘really trans’ you have to be like this and, that’s you know..
Brian: And how can you do that when it’s not safe to do that?
Max: Yeah, yeah.
Meg: Exactly. There’s a good book that I just saw at the library that talks about, like, queer refugees in Canada…which I forget the name of.
Max: I think that even like that single story idea… I mean it’s a huge issue even with like, white transgender people who are looking to medically and legally transition and this sort of idea that they have to, like, conform to this single story, but then when you’re a queer refugee there’s this extra layer of like “oh, and all of a sudden, you’re just going to like be this completely new identity and this identity of LGBT means this, that, that and that and it’s like not fair and especially if they’re like going to queer spaces and they don’t really, like, relate to the people there and stuff like that so…or don’t know the same languages… I mean there’s just a lot that’s like (*flexes neck and bares teeth, indicating discomfort and disagreement*) ” ennhhh” My next question will be more queer linguistics-specific. Does everyone (not including me) here identify as or is cisgender?
*Meg and Brian nod but after a pause Ro shakes her head*
Max: (*Gesturing towards Ro*) So tell us about it.
Ro: Um, I, I like to identify as rheostaticmeaning an entire spectrum or uh…gender atheist um, I think that the performative functions of gender are not terribly important in huge urban environments like this and we have kind of a privilege in being this sort of space to be more likely to break out of those molds. I think that those changes culturally are born and bred in larger environments and I’ve been lucky to have large communities around me um for most of my adult life um. Yeah, I’ve vacillated over the years from male-passing to lipstick-lesbian identified to… whatever. (*laughs*) that’s kind of where I’m at now.
Brian: I’ve never heard the term rheostatic before. How would you differentiate that from, say, genderqueer or non-binary?
Ro: So non-binary, for me, means that I’m maybe somewhere shifting in the center and over my lifetime I’ve gone on the extreme of either end and I think genderqueer definitely is in the same realm as rheostatic, but I find that the term “queer” is often sort of co-opted to mean certain things and that does not sit well with me. (*laughs*) I can’t sleep right *laughs*. So I just prefer to kind of take my own route.
Max: Yeah, and, likewise, that was actually the first time I’ve heard that term. It’s really interesting. Does anyone else want to share their experience about language they might use to identify themselves or any sort of good things about language like great experiences with this queer linguistic thing you’ve experienced or not great things that you’ve experienced (such as) having to censor yourself? Any thoughts on that, feel free to share.
Meg: Yeah, one thing I’ve noticed (since coming here) and it’s difficult, cause, like I moved here from high school and so I wasn’t really out in high school and so, like, my experience with queer community has been in Montreal, but it seems like here, people who call themselves queer are also more involved like, politically and it’s more of- like an overall identity rather than just like, referring to your sexuality. Just what I’ve noticed. And you, know there’s like queer movies, queer events and so…yeah, it seems like it’s becoming a new thing.
Brian: Yeah, I don’t know how I would, like, use language to describe myself um…I guess sometimes I feel like there’s…the language is…yeah, like I’ve been out for a long time and language is always changing and sometimes it’s a matter of…(*laughs*) even just a few minutes ago…I’m learning new terms…so, uh you know, and even, like when I first, like came out, like no one was using say they pronouns…like that’s really been the last (pauses) 10 years or so? Um, so you know, there are just things like that… I guess it’s just a matter of adjusting.
Max: And for those of you who have studied the French language: What says you about the French language? I mean you know it’s very, very gendered. What’re your feelings about that? How have you navigated it? How have people you’ve known maybe navigated that? How does that compare to English? Or what are things you find to be really cool about the French language or how the French language is evolving? Any thoughts about that?
Brian: Well sometimes people can get confused, like, if you say mon petit ami, they’ll just assume I’m referring to something different, so, uh, yeah that’s a mistake I make. So, yeah, so that’s the only real issue that I’ve had. I mean in Montreal in most contexts—I tend to be in queer environments where I’ve used French so I don’t really have to explain all that much. Um, and I’ve found that they’ve adopted a lot of English turns, like, you know, queer and gay, are like, basically Anglicisms so…
Max: Yeah, I’m gonna pause right there
*We are joined by Eden, a non-binary trans person from Quebec. Unlike the rest of folks present, their L1 is French. I noticed that Eden sometimes used the word France when they meant French and vice versa*
Max: Alors, on etait en train de parler sur la langue comme, francais, et aussi nos identités et tout ca et comment, bon, comment ca
Eden : Well let’s take a second. French is a messed-up language.
Max: Ok *laughs*
Eden: So fucking, like, messed up. It’s really gendered. I mean, like, just the fact that everything–ok, a linguist would fight me on this because they would say that grammatical gender is not the same as…physical gender but they are linked. We gender everything in French our gender is male, female where other languages, they are, this is unlimited and French is really, like, gender everything like… That’s why I like to speak in English more because I can be, like, I don’t have to gender myself, I can be neutral I can be…when you say your pronoun in (French) the gig is up…it’s done. You don’t have, like, you will never, like I can use your name, I can say Max the whole sentence: Max, Max, Max, Max, Max, Max without gender you. I can say: “Max is a student Max is happy. Max is tall.” But in French I have to gender you, in everything. Usually when we do grammar in French we have to not say our pronoun but our…what kind of gender that we like to mark that we use and for non-binary people it’s a mess. When I started my transition, I asked people to do both, to include, but…after two years, I’ve sort of given up on that on people, like I’ve just want people to not gender me to the masculine. Like, cause I just gave up, because, they say “oh this is too complicated.” Like I had a teacher who asked “well, yeah, but, this is so difficult.“ And so there’s no consensus on how to have it be natural, even though we used to have natural gender in French, by the way, because ,like, Latin is…in Latin they have three gender; male, female and indeterminate.
Brian: Can you explain with the indeterminate gender, like, how do they conjugate adjectives?
Eden: Well, first, in Latin, everything, you conjugate everything, every fucking thing
Brian: Do you know how it works in Latin, like what do they say?
Eden:Do you know what epicenemean? Epicene is something that means not genderfied ever, like, let’s say…like instead of “Max is a student,” I can say: “Max etudie…fais des etudes” which is general. t…a friend of mine tried to give like a gender-neutral trans workshop in light there’s some rule, like with the words that end with “eux” and there were some words there is…some people try to say “euxes” but there’s no consensus now, like, just say…on the pronoun let’s say they are just getting to the fact that iel (i-e-l) is becoming more and more and more and more like, there was like, maybe, like one year ago or so a huge plethora of pronoun that was…that’s why there’s a lot of French queer are going to speak English or going to English space. Not only that queer is more advanced in the anglophone world—I think there’s no, like second (thought) about that—but also because English offers us a more…neutral— and ever it will make, like a scare the more? kid nationalist? Here. (*putting on exaggerated Canadian anglophone accent*) “oh you speak English?”
Brian: I have a question for you. Are you from France or Quebec?
Eden: Because…and I don’t think I would speak this much good English if I came from French (France). Yes, in French, in France (*pronounced as someone speaking French would say France*) this is a mess, speaking, and also everything, in general, but France is a queer nightmare. Really. You can’t be too gay in the street and hold your hand to your lover and “do not speak about those people”. Half of the—I know a lot of French queer who exonerate themselves or seek refuge here. Like, a lot of them.
Max: (*clarifying question*) Who seek refuge here if they’re queer?
Eden: Yeah. A friend of mine came here because they couldn’t…she was living in the south of France with uber-homophobic, transphobic and she’s a trans woman, so it was not alright. And she was, she was told, like, she was not feminine enough like, it was a metaphor like, she came here, like…if you compare (Quebec) to France—it’s going to be an easy pick. Like even in the French area here… Like we are starting to speak about non-binary people, but, and these are huge, like, struggle to have a neutral gender mark and, like, I think because in Quebec especially in Montreal, because we are in contact with the anglophone area we are more advanced like and we’ll like know a lot about these kind of issues but the queer francophone space are not really that small. I mean, the gay space are there. I make a distinction between gay and queer. I mean the (Gay) Village, buuuuuut…it’s full of white, cis, gay men. So, and even like, homonationalist people, but the queer is not much and francophone go to the more anglophone area to like escape all the…the nightmare and like, just to say that…like let’s say that the first name change into the university. (Last year) McGill and Concordia did it. UQAM, it took years, they just recently make an arrangement. UdM: shit. Like, so that’s what it is…and I think, personally, that there is more use ever in feminist circles, and to white feminists, I feel like there is less resistance to queerness, like because of some masochistic idea…for me there is more TERFs (*Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists) in the francophone area
Max: Wow. Thank you for sharing that. That was very, very insightful…I definitely learned something new as well. Um, so, does anyone have any final remarks or thoughts about gender, queer linguistics, life in Montreal? Any other things you want to touch on?
Meg: (*clarifying question*) (I is) like another pronoun to use?
Eden: No, like another, like is someone else.
Max: (*clarifying question*) “I is another?” I’m not sure I understand.
Brian: (*clarifying question*) Like another pronoun?
Meg: (*clarifying question*) like you’re, like a whole other thing, like…to talk…like you have a lot more to say than just like what you were just talking about like with the French language? Like, it’s a whole other topic to talk about?
Eden: Most like that the, like, the person is speaking with pronoun like, the” I” itself like, someone overcomes certain thing…I think and “I” is another gender or, like, because it mean that when you speak I it’s someone else who is speaking of…
Brian: (*clarifying statement*) You mean you speak from your own perspective.
Brian: Yeah, instead of cause…I mean I’ve heard some of that stuff about Quebec before but when I say it as an anglophone, you know, that can be, you know, it can be called Quebec-bashing or something, which does happen as well, but, um, I… I guess and that, what you were saying is really interesting and, uh, I mean I think in, you know, French in Quebec it’s a very sensitive topic and I guess I’m wondering, like, do you think that people are, like say the, OQLF would be like, open to that sort of linguistic change, and that people in Quebec are open to embracing linguistic change?
Eden: I think that OQLF would change before French (France).
Eden: Without a…uh…a ghost of a doubt.
Brian: Oh interesting
Eden: Because, like, you know…here in Quebec we are more…flexible to add new term… but in (*in sarcastic, accusatory tone*) France, it’s really, like…and the national Academie Francaise, it’s really (more) chauvinistic, really dude.
Eden: So it’s…and they are like…and also they…they are against inclusive writing. Like when you wrote a text, they want to keep, like the masculine, like, standard. Like, I think that Quebec will change before French (France) like…
Ro: I’m kind of curious …um…it’s not something that I’ve come across here, but I haven’t been here very long. And I’m wondering if people are talking about moving away from the LGBT alphabet and utilizing, let’s say GSM, like Gender and Sexuality Minorities, or diverse gender…or you know, DSG. Is that conversation that’s happening here and (*clapping hands together signaling urgency*) How. Can. We. Make. That. Happen. More?
Brian: That’s such a great topic and I’ve thought, like, about that for so long about, like how I find that, none of the queer terminology really suits me I mean, the only term that I ever wanted to use, I can’t. It’s ,like, I love the term Two-Spirit which is the Indigenous term, cause I think that’s the only term that does any sort of justice to the sort of queer experience, um, but it’s appropriative to use it, unfortunately so…
Max: Yeah, it’s very, like, yeah I would not use that.
Brian: Can we make a deal (with Indigenous people)?
Max: No we cannot make a deal to appropriate Native identities. We cannot do that. Ummm, yeah, (*in sing-song-y voice*) let’s not. But I’m sure that there will be more inclusive terminology.
Eden: But ?you can explain this? But I heard there’s a lot in the French non-binarial queer world a term which is MOGAI which is Minorités, d’Orientation et de Genre…Something, Something…MOGAI, I do not remember what it stand for but it’s like “minorities …gender” and “gender, like, marginalized, minorities, like”. And more and more and more I see the term MOGAI in the queer Facebook French space, which is like…not all, but yeah it’s like…yeah…because the LGBTQ we can have, like, every word like that.
Max: So MOGAI is that (*spells in French*)M-O-G-A-I? C’est ca?
Eden: I think it’s the traditional for like, we say like, GM…Mmm?
Ro: (*clarifying statement*) like Gender and Sexual Minorities or diverse gender and sexuality those two terms.
Brian: (*clarifying question*) this is “MO-JAI”? “MOGAI?”
Eden: Yeah, MOGAI
Brian: (*clarifying question*) So this means…this is like an umbrella term that’s related to queer or…?
Eden: Yeah. It’s referring to any oppressed gender or sexuality, like…
Brian: Ok. And what is it like… Were you saying the definition or…? How would you define this term exactly? Or is it just that or is there more to it than that?
Eden: I think it’s any, uh, sexual orientation or gender identity…or
Brian: But I mean it’s literally, then, defined by oppression
Brian: So, I mean, if there’s one thing I guess that I was saying about, you know, the Two-Spirit concept, in a way, is that, it’s a term that is not…it’s queer, but not defined by oppression. And I feel like, terms like queer and gay they’re all defined by oppression in some way.
Brian: I mean even if it’s, say, “re-claimed language.”
Eden: I feel like this is that, but I feel like with terms like GSM and MOGAI we are saying that why we find those groups, why we are a community is because of oppression. We are bound not by blood but by oppressions the link, like because there’s nothing in common because with an asexual person and a gay trans woman, either because of the fact that they are oppressed, because they are queer like…and another, even for me, there’s….someone who wrote in her journal (newspaper- *a false cognate*) in the Nova Scotia that they should put the S in LGBTQ for “Straight.”
Eden: Someone actually wrote that.
*Laughs and groans from the table*
Max: Yeah it’s, like…”No! No! No!” Yeah, I remember growing up it was LGBTQA, cause they’re like (*in cartoony voice) “LGBTQA like Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning and Allies!” and it’s like (*puts head in hands*) “Oh God, help me.” So thankfully (now) A is for Asexual, just so you all know. Or Aromantic. It is not short for Allies. You do not get a sticker for being an ally. You get, like a, y’know…
Max: You get nothing except for…Look you’re…
Meg: You’re a decent human being!
Max: Yeah, you’re a decent human being! You’re doing, like, what you should be doing, so. Yeah. Cool.
Ro: I have a terminology question. Something that…grates on me, I’d say, with ?resistance publicly? Seeing persons who identify as allies also taking up terminology that is in that alphabet. So, somebody who has lived their entire life as the sex that they were born with and the gender that they were presented with and are living and have always lived as heterosexual and benefit from all the privileges that come with all of those things and then identify as pansexual or queer-gendered. I don’t have an answer for that. It’s just a question of terminology and I understand that people want to feel they’re included as allies. But, at what point, do we…that do identify in those areas say (*slams hand on table*) “You’re an ally!”
Ro: So, yes, you feel the need to procreate these terms as your own and bring them forth to others but—where’s the line?!
Brian: I think what you’re talking about is that…it’s kind of like James Franco in a way. Like, you feel appropriated, and (straight, cisgender) people…they put themselves in communities and they end up just taking up so much more space. And, you know, I lot of straight celebrities do that on the covers of these magazines and, you know, they get so much more attention than…
Ro: It’s taking up space…
Brian: …than a lot of queer artists. You see that especially in media, I find.
Max: Yeah, that’s really interesting, and then, I’m thinking of someone I know who I think does identify as polysexual, like attracted to multiple but not all genders, but it’s like sometimes I wonder…are you really queer or just like alternative, like fem people, or like…You know what I mean? It’s not necessarily being queer, it’s just like, you’re attracted to people who might seem queer. You know what I mean? Which is not necessarily the same.
Eden: I know there’s this like…I saw a meme recently which is like “Hey there, I am…” it is a girl with a septum (piercing) and a guy with a manbun “Hey there! We are a couple and we are queering heterosexuality by having a joint profile on Tindr!” I feel like there’s a lot of hipsters who want to be, like, cool be queer. I saw a dance show and the guys who said like “This thing is gonna be like really queer, but it was a guy dancing with a girl and it was still, like… male.”
Eden: And in Teen Vogue, like if you’re questioning yourself really but if you’re not what…you know like “I am a straight guy, but I am queer. I just want to say that I am alternative and I want…and I want to hook up with queer women.”
Max: Yeah, it’s really hard
Eden: Or, like—I remember a girl saying to me, like, when I spent time with their friends, she said “Yes, I am fluid. I can wear whatever I want!”
Meg: I feel like I’ve seen it (queering straightness/heterosexuality) a lot where, as like, being queer is becoming more accepted, people who are straight feel like they’re not special anymore and they want to be and so they take on this queer language and I think it’s also seen as, like seeing white people who were doing, like their ancestry DNA test and saying, like “See! I had an ancestor who, you know, came from Europe, so, like, this kind of absolves me of, like, needing to work on being anti-racist.”
Max: Oh my god
Meg: (*laughs*) And I see that happening with queer people doing the same thing like “Oh I identify as this!”
Ro: “Therefore, I get my ally check mark!”
Meg: (*laughs*) Yeah, without doing anything!
Max: “I’m one sixteenth Cherokee on my Mom’s side.” That’s what all people from the U.S. say. It’s, like, “Is that true? No!” And even if you are, “Yeah, yeah, you’re still white.” Let’s be real. But yeah, ally cards (*tsk tsk*) ayiyiyi. Thankfully, I feel like, for the most part we’re getting…baby steps towards working past that, but still….Sometimes, I feel like “Yeah we’re past that!” And then I’ll go to certain spaces and it’s like: “Nooooooo!”
Eden: I don’t think that we’re in the space when the “Yay! We’re gay! Homophobia and trans dah dah dah…” No no no. We are still in Middle Ages.
Max: Yeah. Agreed.
Eden: Or Rock Ages of queerness. We have the Rock Ages, I think.
Max: (*checking for understanding and offering corrective feedback*) The Rock Ages? Like the Stone Age, with cavemen?
Max: Yeah the Stone Age. Well, thank you all for sharing. This has been a great conversation. I will definitely incorporate a little bit of everything I’ve heard. I’m really excited to see where this project goes and thank you for being a part of it!
This conversation highlights the wide diversity of queer experiences, identities, and languages. We see how much language can be both a dynamic system, and a limiting one. Although all of the participants agree that Quebec is more progressive in terms of queer-positive language than other societies, i.e. France, there is still a long way to go before language, and other systems are truly inclusive. Some particularly prevalent systems that may hinder a richer communicative repertoire, and overall quality of life, include racism and immigration laws. In order for positive change to occur for all LGBTQIA individuals, there needs to be change across the many systems that can impact an individual.
Throughout the conversation, we gain a glimpse of each individual’s communicative repertoire. Eden’s contribution is of particular interest as she thoroughly deconstructs both her L1, French, and L2, English. Additionally, we see many instances of translanguaging (Garcia, 2009, cited in Rymes, 2014). For instance, there are several times when they say the word French rather than the noun France.
Ro’s communicative repertoire is also of particular interest, most notably with her use of the word rheostatic to refer to her identity. Even after some research, she is the only individual I can find who uses the term to refer to a queer identity. This makes me think of Larsen-Freeman (cited in Douglas Fir Group, 2016)’s use of the term Complexity Theory in SLA. Ro, like Larsen-Freeman, refers to a term previously only in use in the hard sciences, to apply to something outside of the sciences. Also worth mentioning is Deleuze and Guattari’s (1987) use of the term rhizomatic, a term which could very easily be confused with rheostatic. Ro and others prove that a just how dynamic language can be; perhaps other queer people will be inspired begin to use the term for themselves.
It is clear that queer language is generally easier in English, even for French-as-L1 individuals, due to the fact that, as Eden explains, English has much less gender-specific terminology. That being said, there is much to be said about the strides that Quebec is making towards more inclusive language; Quebecois French is a much more dynamic language system than its counterpart in France. l’Academie Francaise’s (2017) strict definition of what standard language does not seem to encapsulate all the different identities and realities in the francophone world.
However, although this is an engaging conversation, there is a gaping hole that cannot be ignored: the lack of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) voices. This is a particularly glaring discrepancy as a person of colour, myself, not seeing any faces darker than my own. Additionally, all speakers are from North America and, even though we all are conscious of different points of view, we still engage with a very Western perspective.
I hope that this conversation is one of many and that each conversation is a chance to add to understanding and perhaps to broaden my own, or for others to broaden their own communicative repertoires. These conversations are a chance to check for understanding and to learn from one another.
Max Jack-Monroe (he, they pronouns) is a queer, trans, Black, biracial scholar born-and-raised in Maryland, USA and currently residing in Montreal, QC, CA where he is studying Second Language Education and Gender and Women’s Studies. He created Queer Language Evolution as a means to make information about queer language and sociolinguistics more accessible to anyone who is interested. In addition to teaching, reading, writing, languages (English, French, + a few phrases of Spanish), and all things queer, Max enjoys traveling, film, good food, good friends, and good conversation.
Max can be reached at [email protected].
As someone who has studied French, a heavily-gendered language, but who is also a part of the anglophone queer, transgender community where inclusive language and understanding of diverse gender identities a huge priority, I have at times felt that my interests are contradictory. Historically, institutions such as l’Academie Francaise have maintained that the French language must continue to follow an established set of grammatical rules rather than make space for change. When comparing French to English, this discrepancy is particularly obvious when we look at pronouns. Singular they has long been prevalent in the English language (Baron, 2017). This pronoun can apply when hypothetically talking to a person of an unknown gender and it is the pronoun that many, but not all gender non-binary individuals use to identify themselves. In standard French, on the other hand, there is no such equivalent. Instead, French contains what Ayoun (2007) refers to as the “masculine as default” (Ayoun, 2007, p. 141), when referring to someone of an unknown gender or when referring to a mixed-gender group of people. Furthermore, a descriptive nouns such as those identifying a person’s nationality or occupation. For example, while in English the word Canadian describes any person or people from Canada, in French a person, or group could be canadien, canadienne, canadiens, or canadiennes.
Standard French can be a tough language to navigate for gender nonbinary individuals. English-as-L1 nonbinary individuals may be forced to “pick a side” when learning and/or speaking French (Hord, 2016) which can lead to gender dysphoria and general anxiety. According to Doenyei (2005), anxiety about the language means less success in the SLA classroom.
Although traditional, mainstream French remains very heavily gendered, more niche groups, especially LGBTQIA groups, have taken strides to adapt the language. In recent years, pronouns such as iel, ol, li, and ul (The 519) have gained popularity. This is especially true of queer, non-binary transgender groups in francophone Quebec.
One of my big questions concerning the intersection between Second Language Education and Gender and Sexuality Studies is what can be done in the French language classroom to encourage more gender-inclusive language. This may be difficult as textbooks and other means of learning a language follow a standard model of French. But what if we incorporate newer, emerging pronouns in the classroom as well? This would go against traditional French textbooks and curricula, but would allow all students to use language that is more inclusive, even if there are no non-binary students in the classroom. We can talk about theoretically about a person with the pronoun iel or refer to a group of people as iels.
I have a general idea of what teaching gender-neutral French in the classroom might look like, but I want to first collaborate with others who have pursued teaching and/or using gender neutral pronouns in French or another historically-gendered language, such as Spanish. Teachers out there who have incorporated gender-neutral pronouns in the L2 classroom– how did you do it? What resources did you use? What worked? What didn’t work?
Feel free to comment below or contact me with suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you!
Baron, D. (2017). Pronoun showdown 2017: Are nonbinary pronouns and singular they ruining the language or making English great again? Retrieved from http://www.english.illinois.edu/- people/faculty/debaron/essays/Whats_your_pronoun_2017.pdf
Dornyei, Z. (2005). Other Learner Characteristics. The Psychology of the Language Learner: Individual Differences in Second Language Education. (197-217). Abingdon, U.K.: Routledge. Retrieved from https://ebookcentral.proquest.com
Hord, L. C. R. (2016). Bucking the Linguistic Binary: Gender Neutral Language in English,Swedish, French, and German. Western Papers in Linguistics/cahiers linguistiques de Western, 3(1). Retrieved from :https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/wpl_clw/vol3/iss1/
As someone born, raised, and living in North America, it is important that I recognize that I live on stolen land and take the time to try to understand the implications of settler colonialism. This led me to look into how the language used to describe queer Native American and First Nations people has changed over time due to cultural belief systems and other systems that impact language use and evolution (Douglas Fir Group, 2016).
In many pre-colonial societies in North America, gender identities and sexual orientations who fell outside of Western concepts of heteronormativity and genderconformity were not only respected, but revered. People from these communities who exhibited both male and female qualities were often healers and warriors. Different Nations used different terminology to describe these identities. Botes, or bades, played a big role in Crow society (Morgensen 2011) and asegi were revered in Cherokee Nation (Driskill, 2011). It was not until much later, in the postcolonial third space that an umbrella term was created to encapsulate non-heterosexual and gender variant identities.
It is important to note how intrinsically linked queer and transphobia is with settler colonialism, When colonizers from Europe came to North America and witnessed gender expression and expressions of sexuality that did not fit into white, Western, Christian, cisgender, heteropatriarchal “norms,” it was used as validation for their conquest (Morgensen, 2011). Colonizers and settlers saw gender variant people and same-gender relations as things that needed to be eradicated in order create a more civilized society (Morgensen, 2011).
One of the many ways that colonizers established dominance over queer Indigenous people was through language. They began to refer to sexual and gender-variant people as berdaches, meaning “kept boys” or “boy slaves” (Morgensen, 2011, p. 36) a French slur that had previously been used as a means to validate violence by Christians against Muslim and Middle Eastern men (Morgensen, 2011, p. 36). Berdache was a term with great power in that it became the term to refer to all queer Indigenous people in North America well into the twentieth-century. As non-Native people in North America, such as Christian missionaries, used berdache in written accounts, it was the term that was most accessible to non-Native historians and anthropologists (Morgensen, 2011).
In the 1970s, the height of the Gay and Lesbian Liberation Movement, white LGBTQ historians and anthropologists were particularly interested in what they continued to refer to as berdache because they saw it as a means to validate the fact that queer people had always existed in North America (Morgensen, 2011). In addition, the predominately white, gay, male back-to-the land movement used images of berdache and Shamanism as symbols of their movement and validation for both gay liberation and living off the land (Morgensen, 2011). Appropriation of non-white language, culture, and identity continues to be prevalent among white, cisgender, gay men.
Whereas settlers from before the 20th century saw gender and sexually variant Indigenous people as validation for colonization, 20th century white LGBTQ activists, historians, and anthropologists saw it as validation for, essentially, themselves. Once could argue that this approach placed the wants of above the lived realities and needs of queer Indigenous people.
During this time, Indigenous LGBTQ people worked towards their own liberation, acknowledging that their needs were not the same as white LGBTQ people. Many LGBTQ Indigenous people moved to big cities with the hope of more liberation and acceptance, but still found themselves isolated and discriminated against in many queer spaces. Indigenous LGBTQ people knew of the impact that race, class, and other impacts of colonialism had on their experiences. This lead to the formation of activist groups such as the Gay American Indians (GAI) (Gilley, 2006). Such groups provided services such as creating social spaces and sexual health resources. They worked to create a sense of solidarity and belonging among LGBTQ Indigenous people.
One underlying discrepancy, however, was the language that queer Indigenous people had to identify themselves. Some Nation-specific identities, such as bote, were lost as a result of white, Settler, colonialism (Morgensen, 2011). This led to the creation of a sort of postcolonial third space (Rutherford, 1990; Bhabha, 1994, Bhabha, 1996, cited in Meredith, 1998) which incorporated elements of pre-colonial terminology and acceptance while acknowledged the impact of colonialism and . At the 1990 International Gathering of American Indian and First Nations Gays and Lesbians in Winnipeg, the term Two-Spirit was first introduced as an umbrella term for queer Indigenous North American people. Two-Spirit came from the Northern Algonquin term for people who encapsulated both masculine and feminine qualities, niizh manitoag which translates to “Two-Spirits” (Morgensen, 2011, p. 81). This term encapsulated an identity in which is as much queer as it is Indigenous.
Many, but not all, queer Native American and First Nations people continue to use the term Two-Spirit to identify themselves. Some might use the term depending on the people they are with (Driskill, 2011) or use additional terms, such as “gay” or “queer” interchangeably (Davis. 2014). Others may describe themselves using a “‘both/and’ approach” (Davis, 2014, p. 4), where they identify themselves as Two-Spirit in addition to a sexual and/or gender variant identity that is specific to their nation. For instance, a Dine queer person may refer to themselves as both nadhle and as Two-Spirit (Davis, 2011, p. 4). Still others may avoid the term Two-Spirit all together (Driskill, 2011). Regardless of the specific terminology LGBTQ Indigenous people use to identify themselves, language remains a tool to self-affirm, to empower, and to connect with others.
Davis, J. (2014). “More than Just ‘Gay Indians’”: Intersecting Articulations of Two-Spirit Gender, Sexuality, and Indigenousness. In L.Zimman, J.Davis, & J. Raclaw (Eds.) Queer Excursions: Retheorizing Binaries in Language, Gender, and Sexuality. Oxford, U.K.: Oxford Scholarship Online. DOI: 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199937295.001.0001
Douglas Fir Group. (2016). A transdisciplinary framework for SLA in a multilingual world. Modern Language Journal ,100. (Supplement), 19-47.
Driskill, Q-L. (2011). D4y DBC (Asegi Ayetl): Cherokee Two-Spirit People Reimagining Nation. In Q-L Driskill, C. Finley, B.J. & S.L. Morgensen (Eds.) Queer Indigenous Studies: Critical Interventions in Theory, Politics, and Literature. (pp. 97-111). Tucson, AZ: The University of Arizona Press.
These symbols are the closest on a standard keyboard to the term asegi ayetl as written in the Cherokee alphabet
Gilley, B.J. (2006). From Gay to Indian. Becoming Two-Spirit: Gay Identity and Social Acceptance in Indian Country. (pp. 25-49). Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press. Retrieved from: https://muse.jhu.edu/.
Meredith, P. (1998, Jul. 7-9). Hybridity in the Third Space: Rethinking Bi-cultural Politics in Aotearia/New Zealand. Paper presented at: Te Oru Rangahau Maori Research and Development Conference, Massey University. Retrieved from: http://lianz.waikato.ac.nz/PAPERS/paul/hybridity.pdf
Morgensen, S. (2011). (Ed.), Spaces Between Us: Queer Settler Colonialism and Indigenous Decolonization. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press. DOI:10.5749/Minnesota/9780816656325.00&1.0001 | {
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It might not be her husband, but it might be the economy, her boss, How do we define oppression because it seems to me be a highly Orwellian term…?
Regardless of the times, people still struggle with their everyday life.
You’d think with all the advances in science, technology people would find their lives more simple- not more complex.
Even those who look like they have an easy life find things to complain about.
Money doesn’t solve the problems, it just makes them different.
If your human, you will find something to complain about.
Deal with it.
Yes… oppressive to men, women… and non-binary people.
My brother’s wife earns more than him and he’s doing ok wage wise. I don’t think modern society is oppressive to women at all.
One anecdote does not make an entire concept outdated. The wage gap is real, sexism still exists, and men are still opressing women daily.
Here in the province of Québec, women have quite a lot of power. They now can have a great career as much as men. And we even had a woman prime minister for a moment. Maybe there is still improvement to get but I don’t think that women here in our society really have a reason to complain so much.
I could just think about our education system which is now entirely made up for young girls. It is now the boys who are forgotten here because the education system is denying them, how they are, because they have to stay sitting all the day like girls and they can’t almost not play anymore outdoor like normal young boys would. It caused a lot of mental illnesses and because of that, a lot of boys here take medications.
Alain Sorel says women now experience a double alienation in the Marxist sense because not only are they oppressed by their husband and children but now by their boss, their colleagues, the entire hierarchy of the workplace. So women are twice subjugated. It is like Orwell said; Freedom is slavery, slavery is freedom…
Wtf? Girls like to play outside, too. Perfect example of current sexism, though. Cheers for proving me right.
I’m not sexist and I know that girls also like to play outside.
But girls and boys are differents. Girls usually like more than boys to study, while boys prefer to play and to do sports.
Can you deny this??!!
Yes. You’re being sexist.
If you are thinking that saying that boys and girls are different is being sexist, than your argument has no value.
Prove to me that they’re inherently interested in different things. Where’s your proof? Why do you think they’re different? It’s only because people like you treat them differently.
My proofs are my goddaughter and my nephews. Also me, my brothers and my sister. These are my proofs. I could also talk about all the friends I had during my youth.
Girls and boys are different because we treat them differently,
Because evolution has given us different traits.
How many times are we going to do this?
If you don’t want to work,
So, people growing up in a society segregated by gender and with rampant gender inequality show differences? I’m shocked.
Different but equal. Maybe not in this life, but the next.
The word “oppression” is an amorphous word. A lot depends on how you define it. Everyone is oppressed by society in one way or another. They say that the key to solving a lot of the world’s problems is the empowerment of women, especially solving the problem of overpopulation. Most women don’t want to be used as baby machines, and if they have the power to resist it the world’s population growth would slow down. They say that an older population in the developed world couldn’t sustain itself because there wouldn’t be a sufficient number of young people working to pay their social security. However, I think modern technology has given us such gains in productivity that a small, younger population could support a more numerous, older population with ease. We will have the ability to produce all the goods and services we will need. The problem will be finding jobs for people so that we can finance consumption. Maybe in the future everyone will be personal trainers and life coaches.
What I said about our society, I am not the only one who say it. It is a well known problem here and it is very often subject of discussion in the medias. I will certainly not pretend to describe the society in Québec as to be perfect. Maybe it is better in other countries. But we are trying to improve our society and we are doing our best.
Not saying people aren’t working to improve the situation. I never said that. I said that you perpetuating the myth that girls and boys are inherently different is sexist. And I’m not saying you’re the only one. A fuckton of people do it. That’s the problem.
Also this. Seriously. It’s nothing to do with sex or gender. If you don’t want to work, find another way to live. | {
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Coffee and vintage book club
Malaprop's Book Club | Malaprop's Bookstore/CafeBut between finding the time to research what books to add to your list and actually buying them, these good intentions often go out of the window. This is where a book subscription comes in handy. An added bonus is that many of them also host online forums, so you can chat with a community of people reading the same thing - like a book club for the internet age. A relatively new one, the Books That Matter box is run by a team of women whose mission is to educate and enrich readers through exciting female fiction. Each month has a different theme, such as gender, race or religion and comes with a gift created by an independent female, trans or non-binary artist. After filling in a questionnaire about preferences, subscribers will receive a new book each month handpicked for them by the in-house bibliotherapists.
Longitude Book Club
Article bookmarked Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile Don't show me this message again. Your box will come with two hardcover books in the genre of your choice. A great purchase if you enjoy plenty of added extras and like to have several books on the go at once. Bought as a Christmas present for my mum.I am also amazed by the service; I ordered end of last year but sadly clyb receive my copy I guess got lost in the mail because I live in the USA, but Bookishly was so kind enough to send A NEW one, but the execution isn't great. It's a nice idea. ES Best! Book of the Month is a really great book subscription service if you want to find out about the hottest new releases every month and also want complete control over what book is being sent to you.
Vintxge you Bookishly and I look forward to receiving more goodies from you!!. No way to chose type of book. Tom Peck. Some of the lifestyle items included in the past have been things like tie clips, s.
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Once Upon a Book Club Review August 2019: Book Subscription Box
From the legendary tales and writings of authors like Jane Austen to Oscar Wilde, The Classic of the Month Club from Bookishly is the subscription box that lets you revisit the best from classic literature. Bookworms will love receiving a mystery read every month - wrapped in a beautifully designed dust jacket - a creative new twist to an old-time classic. Every read is about to get a whole lot more exciting with The Classic of the Month Club subscription box. Plus, what is the best accompaniment to every cosy read? A hot, cuppa tea of course! Every box comes pleasantly stocked with a delicious selection of luxury tea bags from Jenier World of Teas, so you can always read in comfort!
Site Search Search. Looovveee ittt. Rahayu J. Plus, receive a surprise range of paper goods - anything from notebooks to vingage greeting cards or gift wrap to stickers! On the first of every month.
Or choose tea if you prefer! Discover something new to you with our beautiful vintage paperbacks. No way to chose type of book. Books sent are poor condition. Was sent wrong subscription as well, leading to confusion at wrong product being sent.. Extra items like bookmark are a nice toucj, and it's all wrapped like presents so they care about what they are sending. It's a nice idea, but the execution isn't great.
They're all guaranteed vintage, and I used it several times as a gift. Help me. Sign in. The stationery was cute, and every one I've received has been great.
Subscribed to the Tea and Book Club? Their most vintagr one is Magic and Mayhem: the V. Fae Crate is a monthly book subscription box that focuses on Young Adult fantasy and science fiction literature. I am in love with the book and coffee. | {
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Born as Natalia Williams, Nats Getty is an American transgender model and LGBTQA+ Activist who currently is an advisor of Ariadne Getty LGBT Foundation. He is also the owner of a fashion brand named Strike Oil.
Well, how well do you know about Nats Getty? If not much, we have compiled all you need to know about Nats Getty’s net worth in 2021, his age, height, weight, wife, kids, biography and complete details about his life. Well, if you’re all set, here is what we know about Nats Getty to date.
Table of Contents
Biography and Early Life
The birthplace of Nats is Los Angeles, California. His father, Justin Williams, and his mother, Ariadne Getty, own a multi-million dollar Oil And Petroleum Company named Getty Oil. He belongs to a pretty much famous family. His great-grandmother named Ann Rork Light, was an actress by profession. Nats grew up along with his brother named August Getty, who is a fashion designer by profession. His family relocated to England from Santa Monica in California. At the age of eight, he relocated to Oxford and grew up there. He belongs to a Catholic family. Politician Gavin Newsom is his Godfather.
Age, Height, Weight & Body Measurement
So, how old is Nats Getty in 2021 and what is his height and weight? Well, Nats Getty’s age is 28 years old as of today’s date 2nd August 2021 having been born on 30 November 1992. Though, he is 5′ 10″ in feet and inches and 177 cm in Centimetres tall, he weighs about 130lbs in Pound and 59kg in Kilograms.
Nats started his schooling by attending Willows Community School in Santa Monica, California. However, after studying there for a few years, he relocated to England in 2000 and enrolled in Oxford Boarding School, where he later got his high school graduation degree. To pursue his higher studies, Nats got admitted to Mount Saint Mary’s University.
Personal Life: Dating, Girlfriends, Wife, Kids
In 2016, Nats started dating Gigi Gorgeous, who is a Canadian Youtuber and Model by profession. They met at Nats’ brother August’s fashion show at Paris Week and worked together. In the same year, they broke up for unknown reasons. However, they got together only after a few weeks. Two years later, in 2018, the couple got engaged in France, Maincy, after Nats proposed to her. They got married next year in a closed-door private ceremony with limited guests in Montecito, California.
Is Nats Getty Gay?
Nats keep his personal life very much private. He never disclosed much information. However, he was born as a woman and started dating another Transwoman, Gigi. They were very popular as a lesbian couple. In 2021, Nats has come out as a non-binary Transgender person. He started using pronouns as He and They. He has also started his top surgery and procedures of sex change.
He is a very famous, well-known LGBTQA+ Activist who supports homosexual rights. After coming out through a long sentimental Instagram post, he stated that he never felt comfortable in a woman’s body and has always felt something missing. Coming out as nonbinary was important to her. These facts and his statement prove him to be Pansexual, and it is safe to assume that his sexual orientation is non-binary and not straight.
Getty started working as a designer along with his mother and brother. He designed a new stylish infrastructure for the Los Angeles LGBT Center. He has also collaborated with American Non-Governmental Media Monitoring Organization named GLAAD. He has recently started his Lifestyle and Clothing brand named Strike Oil which is widely famous, especially among LGBT people.
In 2014, he directed a short documentary named Smoking Solitary, where he also acted. Three years later, in 2017, Famous podcast series named Shane And Friends interviewed him. In 2017, he created a painted mural and dedicated 49 victims to the 2017 Orlando Gay Club Mass Shooting Incident.
It is currently placed in Pulse Nightclub, a gay bar in Orlando. Getty has worked as a model in Paris Fashion Week along with his brother August Getty’s fashion line. Currently, he is managed by Next Management, where he is getting trained as a model. He is also on the advisory board of Ariadne Getty Foundation, an LGBTQA+ Foundation established by his mother, Ariadne Getty.
Though Getty is very famous and well established in his profession, he still hasn’t managed to get any award as a model, designer, or activist. Without any such title, he is already one of the well-known LGBTQA+ Activists of the world. It’s a matter of time for her to earn awards and titles for his amazing contribution to the fields of modeling and designing.
Net Worth, Salary & Earnings of Nats Getty in 2021
As of 2021, it has been revealed that Nats has an estimated net worth of around $35 million which he has earned through his successful modeling and designing career. Nats is also the advisor of his mother’s foundation. He earns a huge sum of money through his successful clothing and lifestyle brand named Strike Oil.
He has worked in Paris Fashion Week from where he has managed to earn a healthy amount of money. Nats have a large portion of property and wealth from his family side as his family owns a very successful multi-million dollar petroleum and oil business.
Some Interesting Facts You Need To Know
- Nats was always a good student and used to become a school captain.
- Getty loves pets and has cats.
Nats Getty is an ultimate inspiration for any LGBTQA+ member. His coming out has successfully inspired a lot of closet people. He was widely praised after coming out and sharing his transformation details. He is very famous on social media and frequently shares his lifestyle details there.
Facts of Natalia Williams
- Gender Male
- full nameNatalia Williams
- birthplaceLos Angeles, California, United States
- Date of Birth November 30, 1992
- Age 29 years 8 months
- Horoscope Sagittarius
- Lucky Number 8
- Lucky Stone Turquoise
- Lucky Color Orange
- Best Match for Marriage Leo, Aquarius
- net worth$35 million
- professionModel, LGBTQA+ Activist, Designer
- weightIn Kilograms – 59 Kg, In Pounds – 130 lbs
- heightIn Centimetres – 177 cm, In Feet and Inches – 5′ 10″
- hair colorBlonde
- eye colorBrown
- high schoolWillows Community School Oxford Boarding School | {
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U.S.—A new study from JAMA Pediatrics found that most millennials choose not to have kids because their parents just can’t afford it right now.
The study followed 900 millennials nationwide, just under half of which had full-time jobs. 90 percent were completely reliant on their parents for financial support, and three-quarters of these financially dependent adults want to have children someday.
There’s only one problem: parents of millennials can’t afford to support both their children, and their grandchildren anymore. This troubling reality has been stressing out millennials from coast to coast. Unfortunately, many boomer parents had children without preparing themselves financially to raise multiple generations and spend more and more money the older they got. Now their millenial children are paying the price for their lack of foresight.
“I just can’t take it anymore,” said Gretchen Hillerman, a millennial from southern California. “It’s like, I know I’m fit to raise a child, I just can’t afford it," she complained during an interview at a local Starbucks. "Apparently my parents can’t afford it either. College was, like, super expensive, and they're still paying off my student loan. I wish my mom would just get a second job or something.” Gretchen says she had big plans to not reveal the child's gender and to name them something nonbinary like Threshgar.
Gretchen studied Gender Non-Binary Statistics at Northridge, but dropped out after six years in the program. Her parents said they helped her every night with homework, but it didn’t seem to improve her performance.
While many of today's Gen X and Boomer parents strongly desire grandchildren, they say they just can't imagine supporting more children on top of all the concert tickets, Starbucks, European vacations, seafaring voyages around the world, the latest iPhone, dolphin rides, avocado toast, battery-powered sports cars, and VR headsets.
"You also have to take retirement into account," said Gretchen's father Ron Hillerman. "I mean my daughter's retirement. I already cashed mine out to pay for her forty-day vegan yoga hot spring hike in India." | {
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Tate Collective, Mayor of London #BehindEveryGreatCity and Future City
LDN WMN the exhibition
Celebrating women through 20 public artworks across London by 20 women and non-binary artists. This exhibition looks back on the site specific works mad in fall 2018.
March 7th- April 7th
107 Charing Cross Rd, Soho, London WC2H 0EB
Thanks to Kickstarter Supporters
the book is now available!
BUY IT HERE
@ London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine | {
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'I listened to my intuition': Kim Kardashian remains cryptic when pressed on WHY she dumped Kris in first TV interview since split
Kim Kardashian has her filter turned on - and still isn't letting much slip about her ill-fated marriage to Kris Humphries.
During her first television interview since announcing her split on Monday after only 72 days of marriage, Kim would only give 'intuition' as the reason why she broke things off with her 26-year-old husband, Kris Humphries.
Asked by Sunrise breakfast hosts David Koch and Melissa Doyle on Thursday morning whether she fought to save the marriage, Kim responded: 'I think when you know so deep in your heart that you just to listen to your intuition and follow your heart, there's no right or wrong thing to do.'
Scroll down to see video...
Business as usual: Kim Kardashian appeared her her first television interview in Australia on Thursday morning alongside sister Khloe to promote her new handbag range and briefly mention her failed marriage
Protective: The sisters spoke to hosts David Koch and Melissa Doyle, but Kim refused to go into detail about why she dumped Kris Humphries after just 72 days of marriage, only saying she 'listened to her intuition'
When pressed on whether she had considered counselling, Kim clammed up: 'I'm not ready to get into it.'
Kim had more to say on the business front, and happily plugged her new handbag launch as she was interviewed alongside protective sister Khloe.
Asked how she was coping, Kim said: 'I really wanted to stick with my commitment to come out to Australia. I love the fan base here.
'I did want some time to myself but I don't want to bale on everyone and skip out on this commitment here.
Promotional blitz: Kim went on to plug her new range at various Australian department stores today with her sister Khloe
Killer curves: She slipped into a figure-hugging crocheted white dress for the occasion
Check out my bags: Kim was ready to sign her autograph for the crowds
'I've got Khloe and Lamar here and we're just getting through it.'
Khloe added: 'I'm really proud of Kim for not baling. She's being really strong. Lamar and I are here to be her support.'
Kim's comments in her televised interview echoed her non-committal responses when she was interviewed on Australian radio about the breakdown of her short-lived marriage.
Fan following: Kim leans in for a kiss with an excitable young fan
Raising a smile: The reality star smiles as she sits next to Khloe and two teenage fans take a photo
Acting up: Earlier Khloe fooled around on the balcony of their Sydney hotel with husband Lamar Odom
Earlier, the 31-year-old told Australian radio host Kyle Sandilands: 'I don't think I'm ready to go into details of what went on in my marriage.'
Critics will argue that by hinting that there is more to reveal, Kim is simply trailing future episodes of her reality show.
It's already been reported that the new series of Kim and Kourtney Take New York will feature the doomed relationship heavily.
Ugly truth: Kim was seen arguing with Kris just days before the split was announced and she says she's 'not yet ready' to say what was going on
Support: Kim, far left, had support from friend Mel B, in blue, at her clothing launch on Wednesday night in Australia. She was joined by sister Khloe, in the red skirt, and Australian X Factor judge Natalie Bassingthwaite
So with interest in its breakdown at a premium, it would serve Kim well not to be ready to discuss details before the November 27 premiere on E! picks up the tale.
During the interview, Kim also added weight to the argument that her announcement was carefully calculated by admitting she used her trip Down Under as an 'escape' from her troubles in Los Angeles.
It is, of course, also a business endeavour to promote the Kardashian Kollection for Sears.
Sullen: Kim, centre, took care to maintain her grimace throughout what seemed to be a convivial evening with friends and family, from left, brother-in-law Lamar, Stephen Belafonte and his wife Mel B and sister Khloe
But despite the mercantile nature of her visit, the sombre star repeated the mantra of denial when it came to discussing claims that her wedding to NBA player Humphries was a money-bagging sham.
The wedding generated $18 million in profit, though Kim's mother, Kris Jenner, 55, has claimed that it left her daughter out of pocket.
Kim chanted to 2Day host Sandilands and co-presenter, Jackie O, yesterday, in her squeaky monotone drawl that she would 'never marry for a TV show, for money, for anything like that.'
But in a moment of realisation, she acknowledged: 'It's ridiculous that I have to defend that, but I guess that's what comes along with when you film your wedding for a reality show.'
Lost in thought: But then Kim says she has much more to reveal
Back in the US, her mother was busy spinning the same line on the Today show.
With all the genuine warmth and conviction of a party politician, Jenner told Today host Ann Curry that the wedding 'wasn't a sham'.
She then oddly asserted that she knew about her daughter's decision to divorce 'a few days earlier' because 'Kim and I are really close'.
'It’s just our job now to wrap our arms around her through thick and thin,' she said.
Jenner, who was on the show to promote her book, Kris Jenner and All Things Kardashian, continued: 'It certainly wasn’t for TV. We have enough going on on our show that we don’t have to make things up. She felt that she was in love with him. It was an amazing time … I had no idea there was a problem at the time. It saddens all of us.'
Defence: Kris Jenner pushed the party line back in the US while Kim spoke out in Australia
Kim's 'momager,' who released her cash-in tome yesterday just hours after Kim's statement, made no reference of course, to the huge viewing numbers drawn in specifically for Kim's wedding episode, or the $15 million in TV rights alone that was garnered by the family for the special.
Kris did add: 'Kim feels that she’s let a lot of people down. She’s sick about it.'
Her daughter was certainly pulling the kind of sad faces associated with a spot of post-break up nausea as she posed at her launch in Sydney.
Obviously well-instructed by her mother, Kim mugged a series of pained grimaces in a relatively sober patterned dress and black cape at Hugo's department store last night.
Promotion: The name of Kris's book is visible as she gives her interview about Kim
It was another tactic that misfired as the reality behemoth aimed for sad but ultimately looked merely sullen.
She was joined by her sister Khloe, her husband Lamar Odom and Australian X Factor judges Natalie Bassingthwaite, Mel B and her husband Stephen Belafonte.
The 36-year-old former Spice Girl was a guest at Kim's fairytale wedding in Montecitio, California on August 21, but if she was miffed about shelling out for a wedding present, it didn't show.
The mother-of-two, who gave birth to baby Madison last month, smiled warmly as she supported her friend.
AND THE MONEY MACHINE ROLLS ON ...
Speculation about Kim's motives for marrying Kris Humphries hasn't been allowed to derail the family's relentless product placement.
Kim's first tweet came on the same morning she filed for divorce.
It focussed on a promotion for their new Vegas store, Kardashian Khaos.
The shop opened it's doors yesterday, as Kris Jenner's cash-in book - All Things Kardashian - hit stores and became available to buy.
But even this wasn't enough for the self-promoting clan.
Unbowed by suggestions of cynical exploitation, Kim's first act following her decision to file for divorce was to fly to Sydney to promote the Kardashian Kollection for Sears, both at a launch party and on Australian radio.
Promotion: Kim and Khloe were in Australia to promote their global brand while their shop opened in Las Vegas
The sisters are also scheduled to greet fans Thursday morning at a David Jones department store in the city.
Khloé is then scheduled to head home as Kim flies to Melbourne to take in the final day of the
Melbourne Cup Carnival at Emirates Stakes Day as a guest of Swisse Vitamins in their marquee.
She's expected to honour many other commitments to interviews and appearances in the next couple of days.
Once she returns to the U.S, Kim will start promoting the new series of Kim and Kourtney Take New York in earnest.
By dropping tantalising hints about what the show may reveal about her doomed romance, many would argue that she has already started.
She is certainly someone who could offer advice on how to weather a scandal.
Her former husband was arrested this month on a charge of battery against their 12-year-old daughter and she was embroiled in an embarrassing scandal when ex-boyfriend Eddie Murphy questioned the paternity of their four-year-old daughter, Angel, while she was heavily pregnant.
Her wedding to 12-year-old Phoenix's father Jimmy Gulzar lasted for just over a year.
Newlyweds: The picture perfect couple on August 31st seemed happy ten days into their marriage as they attended an engagement in New York
Kim's po-faced public appearance came just hours after she posted a statement on her official website in an attempt to stem the flow of hoax accusations.
She told fans: 'I married for love. I can’t believe I even have to defend this. I would not have spent so much time on something just for a TV show!'
'Everyone that knows me knows that I’m a hopeless romantic! I love with all of my heart and soul. I want a family and babies and a real life so badly that maybe I rushed in to something too soon.
'I believed in love and the dream of what I wanted so badly. I felt like I was on a fast rollercoaster and couldn’t get off when now I know I probably should have.
'I got caught up with the hoopla and the filming of the TV show that when I probably should have ended my relationship, I didn’t know how to and didn’t want to disappoint a lot of people.'
She added: 'There are also reports that I made millions of dollars off of the wedding. These reports are simply not true and it makes me so sad to have to even clarify this.
'I’m so grateful to everyone who took the time to come to my wedding and I’ll be donating the money for all the gifts to the Dream Foundation.'
Kim is thought to be donating $200,000 to the charity.
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Who Should Play Dumbledore In Fantastic Beasts?
If you thought Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them was Newt Scamander’s story, think again. Here’s what we know about J.K. Rowling’s newest wizarding world saga: In total, the five feature films will span 19 years, ending in 1945—and most importantly, Albus Dumbledore and Gellert Grindelwald will play significant roles in the story.
So who will play the young future Hogwarts headmaster opposite Johnny Depp’s radicalized Dark Wizard in the forthcoming Fantastic Beasts sequels? We have a few suggestions. Keep in mind, producer-director David Yates isn’t looking for a dapper twenty-something here. Canonically, Dumbledore would be about 45 when the Fantastic Beasts saga kicks off in 1926—and in his sixties by the time the franchise concludes in 1945. Silicone prosthetics and makeup can go a long way in Hollywood, but ideally, they’re looking for a British actor in his forties or early fifties—one that can stand toe-to-toe with a movie star like Depp. Let’s take a look at some contenders.
I’m not being hyperbolic when I say Bridge of Spies’ Rylance is one of our greatest living actors. (There’s a reason he’s become Steven Spielberg’s right-hand man.) Whoever lands the role of Dumbledore needs to carry a certain emotional gravitas, and Rylance is that guy. “You will see Dumbledore as a younger man and quite a troubled man,” Rowling said at a Fantastic Beasts press conference. “He wasn’t always the sage.” Rylance can find the nuance and depth in any character, and one as complex as Dumbledore would benefit greatly from having someone like him at the helm.
McGregor is the obvious choice. After all, he’s done this before. He played Obi-Wan Kenobi in the much-maligned Star Wars prequels, skillfully embodying a young Alec Guinness and turning out a memorable supporting performance. You can knock a lot of things in those prequels, but you can’t knock McGregor. He also tends to play the role of the optimist, a trait that would certainly describe Dumbledore. He’d be the light to Depp’s darkness. Plus, Fantastic Beasts needs an actor with star power—and McGregor has loads of it.
At the end of the day, is there anyone more astutely British than Colin Firth? He’s portrayed not one but two Mr. Darcys, and his electrifying performance in Kingsman: The Secret Service proved that the 56-year-old is still a bit of a badass—an underrated quality of Dumbledore’s character. The physicality and charm are there.
OK, Law may not be the first choice you’d think of for Dumbledore, but one flash of that wry grin and it all starts to make sense. He’s endlessly charming, sure, but he’d also add a bit of cunning to the beloved character. Remember, this is the same wizard who pretty much primed Harry Potter to be killed by Voldemort for years—he’s more Machiavellian than we give him credit for.
Do I want to see Hugh Laurie as Dumbledore? Of course I do. Would this ever in a million years happen? Nope, no chance. But a girl can dream. Laurie would give a young Dumbledore some edge without losing the character’s complexities and whimsical demeanour.
There’s only one actor who can out-camp Johnny Depp—and that’s Eddie Izzard. The British actor-comedian has proven that he can handle comedy, drama, tragedy, and even the fantastical: all prerequisites for playing Albus Dumbledore. He’s also openly non-binary and knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, which could be key to Dumbledore’s confusing younger years. In the years since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’ release, Rowling has since confirmed that Dumbledore was gay—and that his first crush was none other than his former best friend, Grindelwald.
Who better to portray Dumbledore than the son of the late Richard Harris, a.k.a. the original Dumbledore? (I’m tearing up just thinking about it.) But it’s not just his name that should get Harris the role; he’s a superbly talented actor. His most recent performance as King George VI in Netflix’s The Crown is a heartbreaker, proving that, like his late father, he’d be able to enchant audiences as Dumbledore. Harris is already a favourite among Harry Potter fans to play the younger version of Hogwarts’s greatest headmaster.
Call me crazy, but Hiddleston could actually be our Dumbledore. He’s younger than the other candidates, but with a bit of movie magic, he’d look the part. And as the star of Warner Bros.’s upcoming Kong: Skull Island, Hiddleston also has a relationship with the studio. Does that make him a more appealing choice? Perhaps. There’s also the fact that all of Hiddleston’s performances strike the perfect balance between whimsy and pathos. Plus, Hiddleston and Eddie Redmayne in one franchise?! Be still my heart. | {
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Tina Healy is an advocate, peer support worker and an elder in the transgender community. She is a dad to her children, grandma to her grandchildren, and just ‘Tina’ to her community. Tina was co-coordinator of Gender Diversity Australia, and is currently co-coordinator of Alphabet Soup – a peer support group in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Now semi-retired, she is following her passion as a writer.
Tina speaks with Bent Street Publisher Gordon Thompson
GT: Tina, how is 2018 going for you?
TH: It’s been a year of openings, Gordon. The grant for the Alphabet Peer Support Program came through in July. So there’s some exciting things in the pipeline for the trans community. We’re running a trans camp in Stawell this September – that’s a first for Victoria!! The Stawell Neighbourhood House has partnered with Alphabet Soup locally, and we’re getting great response from local support services and the trans, gender diverse and non-binary communities. On a personal note, my new granddaughter arrived earlier this year. That makes four grandchildren, and this is one proud grandma. The Crooked Cottage, my ruggedly non-conformist home in Stawell has been restumped, and a new lounge and kitchen floor is being built. We might have to rename the cottage ‘the slightly bent cottage’.
GT: Sounds the perfect place to put your feet up for a well-earned rest and read a book – speaking of which, what are you currently reading?
TH: I’m currently reading Wimmera by Mike Brandi. I’m reading it because it is set in and around the Grampians and Wimmera district, and I wanted to explore the images he paints of the world in which the children live. I started reading it as a crime novel – and it is – but I found it took me to places to do with childhood trauma that was very difficult to read. I guess I respect authors and artists that carry people with them to uncomfortable spaces, then bring them back with a sense of resolution.
GT: Apart from books and writing, is there anything else (another art form, say, music, or film …) that has impressed you this year?
TH: Hannah Gadsby’s Nanette. As a writer, I paint with metaphor, with words. As a comedian, Hannah has elevated the combination of words, humour, tension, trauma, and comedy to a new level. Comedy has a way of giving us permission to look at things we normally can’t. She takes us to those painful places, and lets us stay in there with her. She relieves the tension occasionally, but then takes you back to traumatic stories. Like waves. It’s a strange experience to be laughing and crying at the same time.
GT: Writing trauma can be difficult because of I guess the dangers of re-traumatising; but words are also a powerful way of reframing, and managing events.
TH: There is so much pressure now to produce positive narratives for our community, particularly our young trans people and their families. I’ve been a proponent of that. It’s important. But the danger is that we don’t give voice to the trauma of a generation that went before.
GT: Bent Street 1 published an excerpt from your novel ‘Becoming Mick Sheehan’ – how is that piece of writing going?
TH: I’m enjoying continuing the exploration of how a young trans girl was allowed to dress as a girl at home in a conservative country region early last century. What were the domestic circumstances that enabled that? What did the local community think about it? I am currently creating a family story around this character that takes the reader back three generations of Mick’s family. A line of strong women, each in their own way are outsiders in community, but each has a sense of pride, a resilience that carries them through. The trans girl in the story was a relative of my family, and I feel I owe it to her to construct a story around her life. So that she is not forgotten. So that the causes of her suicide as a teenager become a message for the way our society can sometimes treat trans kids.
I’m also working on a collection of reflections and short pieces called Tales from the Crooked Cottage. It’s a selection of pieces I have been writing over the last six years covering the shift from country to city, life in a new community, how being trans and out has affected, enriched my life and family. It’ll be the kind of book you can pick up and read one page or twenty. The kind of book you could give someone as a gift for their transition journey.
GT: What is inspiring you / impressing you / challenging you right now?
TH: I am inspired by the new generation of younger trans, gender diverse Australians that are finding their voice. Giving us new perspectives, new directions. I continue to be amazed at a new generation of parents that are listening to their children, and supporting them as they explore their sexuality and gender identity. I am grateful for the work of the Royal Children’s Hospital Gender Clinic, who’s workload has quadrupled in as many years, and they just keep rising to the occasion, keeping out in front, on the treatment and support of trans children and their families. I am also inspired by the community of allies that is a feature of support for LGBTIQ people in rural and regional communities. I think the country has a lesson to teach the city in what it means to be a caring community. The Neighbourhood and community house sectors offer an enormous opportunity for the creations of safe spaces for trans people. Important I think to acknowledge the role of Ro Allen, the Victorian Human Rights Commissioner and her team for their breakthrough LGBTI Roadshow through country Victoria, that created a momentum for change that is still rippling through regional Victoria.
Read Tina Healy’s We were the ones that went before. | {
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Your insurance coverage plan will need to have some sort of home hurt coverage to compensate you within the function of a collision. This protection pays for almost any damages you lead to to another individual’s vehicle, which include repairs. In addition, it pays for that removing of debris after an accident. House coverage is commonly penned with three numbers, together with bodily injury coverage for each accident and assets harm protection for each accident. Larger limitations, nonetheless, deliver extra coverage. Be sure you study your coverage and request your insurance policy agent if you will discover any exclusions or restrictions.
In Big apple, you’ll be able to claim uninsured motorist coverage if the opposite driver does not have ample insurance plan to go over the price of your collision. This coverage applies when the other driver isn’t identified in the slightest degree and also the accident is successful-and-operate. The Insurance plan Regulation SS 5217 specifies which the uninsured motorist protection must be obtained in any Bodily collision, but courts have interpreted this provision to only utilize inside a Actual physical collision.
Underinsured and uninsured motorist protection are optional in a few states, but in other states, you needs to have them both equally. Purchasing both of those coverages will provide you with added coverage in the event you ought to fork out health-related charges or other charges. Should the uninsured driver leaves you which has a ruined auto, the uninsured motorist protection can purchase the repairs. Although this protection isn’t expected, it may be a smart strategy to hold at least the minimum degree of legal responsibility coverage.
When you’ve by no means thought of it, car insurance coverage discounts are a terrific way to cut costs and remain green. A lot of new cars and trucks have safety features for instance airbags and anti-lock brakes that could lessen your rates. You may as well get added bargains for obtaining safety characteristics inside your auto, which include daytime working lights or anti-theft alarms. Having to pay your high quality in entire on a yearly basis will also eliminate payment worries for 12 months. In truth, about 50 percent of insurers offer a reduction for this kind of payment.
You might also be qualified for reductions when you’ve had your plan for many decades. These discounts change based on the length of time you’ve had your policy, but lots of firms present savings for remaining loyal for their customers. You might be qualified for a discount of up to 15% if you purchase your policy a minimum of 7 times right before your renewal date. Apart from these special discounts, some businesses even supply discounts to those in specified occupations. By way of example, instructors get ten% off their rates from Liberty Mutual. Navy personnel receive a fifteen% price cut from Geico.
Are you a younger driver seeking auto insurance plan low-priced estimates? Here are a few strategies you could adhere to to save money on automobile coverage coverage: Raising your deductibles, obtaining a no statements price cut, and obtaining a plan which has a regional insurance provider. The following tips can save you many hundreds of bucks each and every year in your car insurance policy policy. Additionally they help you get the lowest charges feasible. Keep reading to see far more. You’ll be happy you probably did!
Younger motorists can cut costs on auto insurance by driving additional safely, lowering the number of miles they generate, and letting the insurance company monitor their driving behaviors. You can also decrease your premiums by buying about for vehicle insurance policies. A lot of insurers charge the next level for young drivers, so it is important to buy all-around. Thankfully, there are actually free of charge on the net quotation comparison resources which make this quick. Moreover, you can ask for a discount When you have various vehicles and also have them insured by a similar organization.
When seeking a policy, Ensure that you Look at numerous quotes and select the very best worth and excellent. You can also look for an insurance plan agent who’ll expand with you, permitting you to generate changes as your driving heritage modifications. You should definitely Assess insurance policies that supply comparable forms of protection, as deductibles and limits can make a huge big difference. If you are a young driver, you should also get enough coverage in order to avoid economical disaster.
Acquiring a no statements price reduction on car include is a great way to save money in your premiums, and it may be well worth asking your insurance company how to apply it. Dependant upon the insurance provider, the low cost is often worth anywhere from 30% following a yr to up to 65% after 5 years. Remember that In case you have a collision, you may get rid of two yrs of no statements bonus. Moreover, numerous promises will even wipe out your entire no claims reward. It truly is vital to notify your insurance company right away of any mishaps that you have, as failing to take action could suggest that future statements will likely be turned down.
Most insurers offer you no statements discounted defense for a rate of all over PS25. It allows you to make a specific quantity of statements each year with no worrying regarding your premiums going up. It is also doable so as to add it to a whole new policy For those who have a no claims bonus. In addition, you may transfer your no claims price reduction to another insurance provider if you want. To keep the no promises discounted, you must take into account switching companies each and every year or two.
When searching for a affordable vehicle coverage estimate, increasing your deductibles is a great way to get lower premiums. Some estimates say you can save between fifteen and thirty per cent with your top quality by raising your deductibles. These discounts can vary widely according to your driving background, the type of car or truck you generate, plus your point out’s guidelines. Elevating your deductibles can also lower your yearly quality by around 40%.
Whilst boosting your deductible isn’t the appropriate choice for everybody, it can help you preserve A large number of bucks about the long run. When the amount you select to boost your deductible will depend upon your economic situation, experts suggest saving not less than two months’ worth of dwelling fees. On top of that, it can reduced your insurance coverage charges every month. You will also preserve a big amount of cash if you ever produce a declare.
Obtaining a policy having a regional insurance provider is usually useful for drivers that has a lousy credit history history. It can help you save money each month on the regular monthly insurance Monthly bill, and you can reap the benefits of savings and superb customer support. Acquiring a coverage with a regional insurance provider is obtainable in all fifty states, and you can Assess costs by condition to uncover the lowest charges. On the other hand, it can be crucial to notice that it might take a couple of months to boost your credit score rating, and several motorists which has a inadequate credit history background can wind up paying out more than $four hundred a yr.
Erie Coverage is another regional insurer which offers low-priced vehicle insurance. This company is located in Pennsylvania, and has actually been in company due to the fact 1925. Erie provides car coverage, life, and home insurance plan. Though Erie only presents protection in sure states, it’s greater than 13,000 impartial insurance plan agents through The usa. You are able to select an agent or simply a regional insurer In accordance with your requirements. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you read through all wonderful print before making a decision.
When you are a superior-chance driver, you should Look at car or truck insurance coverage offers and come across The most affordable coverage for your requirements. It’s also advisable to take a look at just how much coverage is obtainable close to you so you can figure out if a decreased price is feasible. It would be much more inexpensive to purchase more protection When you have reduce hazard or if you agree for a greater deductible. Everything is dependent upon your requirements. Thankfully, there are lots of possibilities available to you.
If you are trying to find The most cost effective vehicle insurance plan quote for prime-possibility drivers, you will be in luck. You can certainly obtain one particular which has a couple of clicks over the internet. The online world can present you with various estimates for protection in a fraction of the cost of regular vehicle insurance coverage. Not only that, but it surely will also make signing up for insurance coverage a good deal a lot easier. All You will need to do is fill out a simple on the web kind, pay out your top quality, and also you’re performed! The insurance company will then print you a card as evidence of your respective coverage protection and you’ll have a plan about the street.
When you’ve got a very poor credit rating heritage, you will be regarded as a substantial-hazard driver by quite a few insurance plan corporations. It is because you are more likely to file an insurance policies declare than the usual driver with excellent credit score. Your credit rating is usually a Think about how coverage firms see you, along with a preceding DUI/DWI will elevate your high quality by up to 65%. This can be comparable to an additional $477 with a six-month plan. An additional issue that insurers contemplate is your driving history. A DUI/DWI can raise your quality by as much as $174, as well as a dashing ticket can incorporate up to about forty five%.
When you’ve got a DUI on your document, you are able to select the cheapest car coverage service provider. Organizations like Point out Farm, American Loved ones, and Progressive have some good selections offering lessen premiums for prime-risk drivers. Additionally they take into consideration your credit score when pinpointing your premium. Insurers take into account these components when selecting exactly how much you spend for your personal coverage. A inadequate credit rating score may cause insurance policies rates to skyrocket, so It truly is critical to know your credit rating prior to making a choice.
There are a variety of aspects to consider When selecting The most cost effective automobile insurance policy for young motorists. Your age and marital status play a huge job as part of your vehicle insurance charges. The sort of auto you travel can also have an effect on the top quality. As an illustration, high-effectiveness vehicles are generally dearer to insure than small-effectiveness vehicles. For that reason, the first step in finding the cheapest vehicle coverage for younger drivers is to find a car with numerous protection characteristics.
A terrific way to reduced the expense of automobile insurance plan for younger drivers would be to decreased the protection you require. Lots of insurers give savings should you be a superb university student, or if you are in driver teaching. Having said that, lessening your coverage could cause large out-of-pocket expenditures When you’ve got a collision. Thus, you’ll want to weigh the dangers of this selection meticulously, and always err within the facet of obtaining much better price.
Youngsters have a hard time securing inexpensive vehicle insurance plan. Even though the price of a plan for just a sixteen-calendar year-aged driver is much higher than that of the Grownup, it may be minimized by introducing a teenager to an present plan. This feature boosts charges by a mean of $1,461 a year, but is often much less expensive than obtaining a individual plan. What’s more, if you’re a young driver, try to find bargains and various methods to save.
The cost of vehicle insurance differs greatly determined by your profile, which may indicate that you should shop all around for the cheapest coverage for minimal-threat drivers. Insurers take into consideration several components when selecting on an insurance plan policy, like your driving document, demographics, and overall chance level. Stated underneath would be the 5 primary factors to think about when comparing insurance plan rates. Take into account that reduced coverage fees Do not indicate that you’ve got to sacrifice top quality.
To begin with, take into consideration your zip code. Individuals in large-criminal offense parts will confront higher costs. Furthermore, coverage providers choose targeted traffic quantity into account. Also, be certain you don’t have any incidents or statements in your record, as these will boost your rates. And finally, keep in mind that you ought to Examine rates every six months to stop spending more than You will need to. You should also think about obtaining a multi-coverage discount if you have multiple plan with a particular insurance provider.
Even though credit history scores are not legally employed by insurers in certain states, They are however crucial criteria when evaluating vehicle insurance plan costs. In Hawaii, motorists with poor credit score can pay 168% over equivalent thoroughly clean drivers. In Massachusetts, higher-hazard motorists spend thirty% greater than clear motorists. For brand new drivers, a DUI, dashing ticket, and terrible credit history will maximize premiums a lot more than Many others. Be sure to obtain several prices before you make a call.
The zip code you reside in is A serious Consider the cost of insurance policies. If you live in a region with superior criminal offense and accident fees, you are able to anticipate to pay much more for insurance coverage rates. Also, factors like traffic quantity and incident record can boost the price of insurance. Most insurance providers also take a look at a driver’s driving background to ascertain what price they need to cost for his or her plan. Generally, drivers having a poor driving history pay back much more for protection than People that has a clean driving report.
Car or truck insurance has risen by $50 – $one hundred in the last five years, as wellbeing care charges have been escalating. Drivers will also be needed to carry uninsured and PIP insurance coverage, that are over-ordinary state demands. Several states only demand legal responsibility insurance coverage, but The big apple necessitates drivers to carry the two. These optional coverages enhance the price of insurance policy, and may often increase the whole high quality. And lastly, motorists really should check their protection limits, as some guidelines Use a reduced minimal amount of protection than Other people.
In New York, the standard man or woman spends two.eight % in their profits on motor vehicle insurance plan, which can be marginally higher when compared to the national average of 2.40 percent. People of their 30s, 40s, and 50s pays a bit less than the common. The 70+ age team can pay better premiums than drivers with fewer driving experience. Those who are married can pay a little bit greater rates, but still lessen than solitary persons.
Along with lower costs, motorists may also get defensive driving programs. These lessons are 320 minutes in length, and incorporate discussions of driver Mindset and site visitors legal guidelines. Additionally they train defensive driving approaches that can considerably reduce the price of insurance plan. They may also support to enhance their driving record, so finishing a course can decreased the price of a vehicle insurance coverage estimate. However, if you are Not sure about the exact protection you require, you are able to Test with the Insurance plan Facts Institute.
Although gas selling prices range by condition, the cost of a vehicle insurance estimate in other states might be greater or decreased than your own. Some elements may account for this, such as the percentage of uninsured drivers, state insurance plan regulations, and the rate of theft. Also, the incidence of lousy temperature can adjust the expense of insurance in several states. The subsequent table shows common car insurance policy rates in different states. These estimates are dependant on a comparison of state insurance coverage requirements.
Missouri is the cheapest point out for complete-coverage automobile insurance plan, having to pay just $944 less than Louisiana. On top of that, this state has considered one of the lowest prices for every capita, and is particularly ranked fifth in terms of expense of dwelling. In contrast, Texas drivers fork out the most for their automobile coverage, spending just as much as 33% in their yearly earnings in full. This disparity may very well be as a result of the fact that the state has a large number of uninsured drivers and many lawsuits.
The national average for comprehensive protection auto insurance coverage is $1,771 a year. The state with the most expensive insurance coverage top quality is Louisiana, with a quality of $two,839, a 19% boost from 2020. Conversely, Maine’s common insurance plan top quality is only $858. This is due to no-fault states have bigger insurance policy premiums. The price of an auto insurance coverage plan in other states can vary considerably. There are numerous things to take into consideration, like your point out’s rules on insurance.
In case you are seeking high-possibility driver auto insurance policy near me, you could be wanting to know how to get a low-Expense policy. Large-threat motorists shell out larger insurance premiums than normal motorists. It is because they have an inclination to possess more mishaps or violations on their history. Depending upon the condition, the Restrict can be three several years or five years. In some instances, you can obtain savings if you take a driver safety study course.
While the countrywide averages for top-possibility driver vehicle coverage close to me are rather regular, you’ll discover that rates fluctuate wildly from state to point out. Some corporations alter their prices to various states, so if you live in a specific state, it’s possible you’ll find that 1 insurance company presents you the most effective protection for any very low cost. The most cost effective higher-possibility driver auto insurance coverage in close proximity to me comes from Condition Farm, that has a protracted-standing reputation for providing fantastic service.
The easiest method to locate a higher-chance driver auto insurance policy in the vicinity of me will be to enter your ZIP code and Examine quotes. The cost of significant-hazard automobile insurance coverage close to me can differ from condition to point out, but most massive insurers give this kind of coverage. Some of these corporations focus on large-danger coverage, for example National General. You could possibly even be able to find a less expensive plan For those who have great grades as well as a lower-threat auto.
There are various great things about comparing car coverage businesses. In this article, We’re going to talk about a few of The most crucial functions, including scores, special discounts, and customer service. Deciding on the most effective policy is essential for your basic safety and security, so go to the trouble to compare the various insurance policies from different corporations. By the time you end examining this text, you’ll have an concept of which insurer presents the ideal coverage at the lowest cost. Here are several ideas to choose the proper 1 for you personally:
To find the most effective price, you ought to Evaluate car insurance plan prices from unique corporations. Insurers use numerous factors to find out the price of insurance. You will need to discover your unique requires and Review price ranges from numerous vendors. By way of example, athletics autos can Price much more to insure than regular cars and trucks. Also, your locality and driving record may have an effect on the costs you are quoted. By making use of a comparison Software, you could find the bottom price on exactly the same coverage With all the same deductibles.
Insurance premiums can differ appreciably, so it really is crucial to know how each policy operates. Among the aspects that impact rates are driving history, age, and credit record. You may as well Assess the perks that each company presents, including roadside guidance or accident forgiveness. Although this could seem to be a daunting undertaking, it can help to match offers from different providers and choose the right a single. Detailed under are a few ideas to get you started off.
In relation to evaluating car coverage companies, you might like to begin with the J.D. Power motor vehicle insurance provider scores. These are definitely determined by customer gratification surveys that survey Many automobile insurance shoppers nationwide. The results are compiled into numerical scores that symbolize the businesses’ average purchaser satisfaction score. These rankings are revealed every year, and the top automobile insurance companies in Each individual category are awarded gold medals. But how Did you know if the companies you are looking at are any great?
There are plenty of means To judge the money power of car insurance policy organizations. To begin with, you are able to Examine the AM Most effective insurance provider score, which offers financial security scores for automobile insurance coverage firms. If the automobile insurance company has an A, B, C, or F score, it is important to understand how steady it is actually before picking a plan. This is a crucial aspect of customer service, so you should definitely browse the testimonials and read the fantastic print before you make a decision.
Car insurance policy companies present various bargains. A lot of of those discounts might not be readily available for All people, so it is important to check the corporation Web page to make sure you qualify for that discounts that use to you. Some companies present a number of savings, and You may as well ask your insurance coverage agent if they are suitable for almost any particular discount. Having said that, the procedure is not hard and infrequently normally takes under one hour. Beneath are a few examples of probable car insurance plan savings.
Legacy Reductions: A car or truck insurance company may present a discount to new drivers who acquire their policy via their dad and mom’ company. This discounted is normally about 10 %. This really is one way to thank your moms and dads for your business over the years, and it could help you save income on your vehicle insurance plan coverage. Many organizations offer legacy bargains to younger drivers, and It really is truly worth examining to view When your insurance provider provides just one. You can even investigate policies provided by American Loved ones, Farmers, or USAA.
While in the insurance policy market, There are several corporations that continuously excel at customer service. Esurance, for example, scored 4 out of 5 while in the J.D. Electrical power rankings for customer care, a higher mark for a corporation whose father or mother firm won’t. The corporation scored larger than its competitors in all other locations, together with policy offerings and prices, along with the top quality of support supplied by its Make contact with center Associates and Web site.(individualized provider)
The most crucial factor of auto insurance for many buyers is its protection, but it is the customer support that matters most. Shoppers need to Make contact with their insurers and obtain prompt, courteous company. Consequently they wish to receive a response for their email messages and phone phone calls immediately, and they wish to speak with an agent who’ll listen to their issues and present methods. When all auto insurance businesses may well offer exceptional customer service, some do accomplish a lot better than Other people.(rideshare insurance coverage)(just a couple clicks)(insurance solutions)
A variety of elements have an effect on the rates of vehicle coverage providers. Driving historical past and age are two big elements. A driver having a inadequate driving record or a very poor credit history rating may have better rates. Also, the expense of dwelling close to you will have an effect on the premiums. Due to this, it’s important to check the rates of various coverage providers to find the a person that should go well with your price range plus your driving patterns. There are a few solutions to lessen your premiums, like cutting protection or using a defensive driving program. You can also prefer to buy a full calendar year of coverage up front.(Monthly bill online)(staff special discounts)(at fault accident)(protected incident)
In addition to the above-pointed out things, a number of other matters can increase your high quality. For instance, if you’ve not long ago built a assert or logged a targeted traffic violation, your insurance policy service provider will reassess your rates. Furthermore, if you are taking a safe driving training course, you may be suitable for a discount. Insurance policy organizations are constantly tweaking their models to ascertain the rates, and you could possibly discover a change within your rates Even though you’ve never transformed your driving historical past.(utilization primarily based coverage)(rental automobiles)(car repairs)(Protected driver price reduction)
A vehicle insurance Examine is a great way to steer clear of disreputable insurance suppliers. One example is, lower offers from a particular insurance company could be deceptive When the quotation excludes specific coverage or would make inaccurate assumptions about your driving profile. By hunting up insurance coverage businesses’ rankings and the A.M. Most effective score, you’ll find the cheapest insurance policy organizations in your town. Examine this article to Learn how vehicle insurance policies compares can help you save cash. Then, Obtain your quotations within the prime organizations and find out which one is the greatest for you personally.(incident cost-free)
Your credit-based mostly coverage rating is usually a beneficial indicator of how much danger you might be more likely to pose, but you should not let it dictate your premiums. The federal governing administration won’t make it possible for insurers to make use of your credit history heritage as the only basis for a rise in your premiums. On the other hand, states such as California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont have regulations set up that limit insurers from making use of credit rating history to ascertain insurance policies prices.(could conserve)(new automobile)(automobile assert)
Nevertheless, this sort of insurance would not apply to each point out, so people haven’t any way to find out if a business is utilizing your rating to choose exactly how much to cost them. Some states, including California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan, do ban credit score-dependent insurance plan. All kinds of other states even have limitations on the use of credit history-based mostly insurance coverage scores. In the long run, you have got to make your mind up yourself whether your credit-centered insurance plan rating is suitable for you.(motorcycle insurance)(roadside support protection)(bundling automobile)(receive a car insurance coverage)(pet coverage)(genuine money price)(excellent claims company)(yacht insurance policies)
Many variables influence the cost of motor vehicle insurance policy discount rates, which includes age. Age has an effect on your charge by in excess of thirty %, and in some states, a younger driver can pay Pretty much 4 times about a thirty-calendar year-previous. Inexperience is an additional significant element, as younger adolescents are more likely to enter into accidents. By comprehending what aspects have an affect on your rates, it is possible to negotiate reduced expenses for yourself. Stated underneath are a few of the ways that age has an effect on your automobile insurance plan.
Generally, the more youthful you will be, the reduce your rates is going to be. But if you are a man, age does influence the price of car or truck insurance plan. Though young male drivers pay back fewer than their more mature counterparts, rates for drivers of their sixties and seventies skyrocket. Statistically, males are two along with a 50 percent situations as likely to be involved with a vehicle crash than women, And so the gender gap decreases with age.(protection selections)(homeowners coverage)
The fact that a person will pay a better top quality for car or truck insurance coverage than a lady is not really solely shocking. Many Gentlemen make poor choices when driving, leading to extra mishaps and statements. On the other hand, There are many elements that make Guys more expensive to insure. Below are a few of the best explanations why. Please read on to discover more details on the most popular factors that affect automobile insurance charges by gender. And when you’re still bewildered, consider these guidelines for reducing your premiums.(automobile coverage policies)(auto insurance quote)(car or truck insurance policies price)
The Oregon Division of monetary Regulation has instructed automobile insurers to accommodate customers who You should not specify their gender. Discrimination towards non-binary folks could be grounds for unfair discrimination charges, and insurers will have to file charges for those motorists commencing in January 2019. These premiums can be higher than those for male and woman drivers. Given that they’re not abnormal, Ladies should be able to cut costs. Also, Don’t be concerned regarding the “non-binary” charge for younger motorists.(vehicle insurance coverage declare)(gap insurance)(auto policy) | {
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Music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards
Book by Peter Stone
Directed by Jeffrey L. Page, Diane Paulus
American Repertory Theater
Loeb Drama Center, Harvard Square
May 17 – July 24, 2022
Choreography by Jeffrey L. Page; Music Supervisor: David Chase; Music Director: Ryan Cantwell
With Crystal Lucas-Perry (John Adams, MA), Elizabeth A. Davis (Thomas Jefferson, VA), Joanna Glushak (John Dickinson, PA), Tiffani Barbour (Benjamin Franklin, PA), Gisela Adisa (Robert Livingston, NY), Nancy Anderson (George Read, DE), Becca Ayers (Col. Thomas McKean, DE), Imani Pearl Williams (Andrew McNair), Allison Briner Dardenne (Stephen Hopkins, RI), Allyson Kaye Daniel (Abigail Adams / Rev. Jonathan Witherspoon, NJ), Sabrina K. Victor (Caesar Rodney, DE), Rose Van Dyne (Charles Thomson), Liz Mikel (John Hancock), Lulu Picart (Samuel Chase, MD), Brooke Simpson (CT), Sav Souza (Dr. Josiah Bartlett, NH), Shawna Hamic (Richard Henry Lee, VA), Eryn LeCroy (Martha Jefferson / Dr. Lyman Hall, GA), Oneika Phillips (Joseph Hewes, NC), Sara Porkalob (Edward Rutledge, SC), Sushma Saha (Judge James Wilson, PA), Salome Smith (Courier)
When Hamilton burst upon the New York theater scene in 2016 it made possible a whole new way of envisioning how to cast Broadway musicals. With a Revolutionary era subject, Lin-Manuel Miranda managed to create a musical that was based on rap and featured a cast that was almost entirely non-white. It was brilliant and stage worthy, articulate and memorable. It will live on in Broadway musical history.
1776 is a lesser work, though still interesting. It appeared in 1969 and actually won a Tony award for Best Musical in 1972. As a musical, it is minimally eloquent; with Miranda’s brilliance looking down from 2016, 1776 appears miniscule. Its music is, at best, standard Broadway boilerplate, and its lyrics are routine. Nonetheless, it captures, with its well-developed bit of drama, a piece of significant American history, and though one already knows how it all turns out it manages to convey some sense of suspense about that outcome.
The story is not opaque: in 1776, the Colonies have already rebelled against King George III but they have not yet signed on with one another. They all feel rather differently about the king and about other things, namely slavery. What comes across, in historical review, as a kind of done deal, was not at all that. It took a lot of work on the part of a few significant patriots – notably, in the context of the story delineated here, John Adams (Crystal Lucas-Perry), Benjamin Franklin (Tiffani Barbour), and Thomas Jefferson (Elizabeth A. Davis) – to get the various colonies to agree to signing the Declaration of Independence. It was not a foregone conclusion nor a done deal from the outset. A lot of compromise had to be made – particularly in removing articles about slavery in order to humor the Southern colonies – in order to get the whole thing ratified. So, there was considerable drama involved, and this show does a good job of showing what some of that entailed. In particular, the resistance of the Pennsylvania leader, John Dickinson (Joanna Glushak), to signing on, forms one of the big plot points. But there are other, more detailed intricacies involved, and those add to the complications. Of course, we know how it all turns out, but that doesn’t seem to get in the way.
Diane Paulus, artistic director of the American Repertory Theater, has a genius for developing certain kinds of popularizations with the hopes that they will reach wider audiences and will also make a significant and interesting artistic commentary on the repertory. That is exactly the case here. With a cast that fills the roles of all of the Revolutionary-era men – and there are a lot of them – with women, trans, and non-binary actors – she has enabled a certain kind of twist on the original which makes it perhaps more interesting than it was originally and certainly more interesting in the contemporary world.
I am writing this review on the day that the Supreme Court decided against Roe v. Wade and the poignancy of watching a cast of women, trans and non-binary actors present the Founding Fathers is stirring. Of course, gender equality hovers on the edge of judicial vulnerability in the current climate and this kind of performance makes it particularly evident how important the evolution, in recent years, of acceptance of alternate forms of sexual identification has been. As all of that seems threatened at this particular time, such a clearly articulated form of support for women’s equality, and the recognition of alternate sexual identity, seems most relevant and important.
Paulus clearly often brews shows in Cambridge with Broadway in mind and this is no exception. This production will travel to the Roundabout Theater in New York City, and no doubt will be on deck for a longer run on Broadway. The quality of the singing is exceptional. Though the show offers relatively little in terms of memorable musicality, there are enough opportunities for multiple members of the cast to sing in one place or another that it enables one to see that they are all top notch musical vocalists. To boot, Elizabeth A. Davis (Thomas Jefferson) is a very good violinist and fiddles away very adeptly in character from the stage.
The main characters of John Adams (Crystal Lucas-Perry), Benjamin Franklin (Tiffani Barbour), Jefferson (Elizabeth A. Davis), and John Dickinson (Joanna Glushak) are all played very persuasively. (I could not tell whether the short blond haircut worn by Glushak for the Declaration-resistant Dickinson was meant to be a dead-ringer for Hillary Clinton but it sure seemed that way – not quite sure what the implications of that association might have been.) Tiffani Barbour, as Franklin, was a stand-in and did a wonderful job. As the heart and soul of it all, as John Adams, Crystal Lucas-Perry carried the day. As the secretary, Rose Van Dyne had a continuing presence, and when it came time to belt it out, she too did a great job.
There is not much memorable music in this show, though the opener – Sit Down, John! in reference to John Adams unpopular loquaciousness – is well-known and funny; otherwise, the numbers are somewhat sparse and less penetrating, though perfectly acceptable. Nonetheless, they are all well-sung and fill out the well-written script which does deliver a reasonable sense of how the Declaration of Independence was ratified. Though informative and engaging, this is not, as written, a top-tier musical; but this current production is a very good and interesting account of it and well worth one’s time.
– BADMan (aka Charles Munitz) | {
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LGBT Foundation's Women's Programme has done lots of work over the years to support and empower lesbian and bisexual women to improve their health, including specific campaigns around cervical screening, breast cancer and alcohol use. Research shows that these are particular areas where lesbian and bisexual women are more likely to suffer from health issues and yet they are generally less informed and experience more barriers to accessing help.
We continually try to raise awareness of health issues which affect lesbian and bisexual women and to improve healthcare services. Through our Pride In Practice scheme, we work with GPs and health centres to help them improve the services they offer to LGBT people.
Are You Ready For Your Screen Test?
In the past, women who were in relationships with women were often told they didn't need cervical screening (smear tests). This information was inaccurate and potentially put lives at risk. Our Are You Ready For Your Screen Test? campaign aims to dispel myths about cervical screening and encourages everyone with a cervix to take up their invitations to cervical screening. Click here to learn more about cervical screening and why lesbian and bisexual women should have regular screening.
All women between the ages of 25 and 64 who have a cervix – including lesbian and bisexual women - need to go for regular cervical screening.
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer, can be passed on during sex. This includes sexual activity between two women. To find out more go to lgbt.foundation/screening.
Thanks for the Mammaries
Stonewall's 2008 report on lesbian and bisexual women's health - Prescription for Change - found that 1/12 lesbian and bisexual women aged between 50 and 79 have been diagnosed with breast cancer, compared to 1/20 women in general.
Therefore it is important that we provide information to lesbian and bisexual women on breast health.
Getting to know your breasts is important, but it can also be fun! Knowing how your breasts look and feel can help in the early detection of breast cancer.
Girls on Pop
In partnership with NHS Manchester, we've published this informative resource for lesbian and bisexual women to help pass on information about drinking safely and responsibly and looking after our health.
In this resource we take a look at why women like to drink, the effects of alcohol on our health and behaviour, where to get support, alternative ways to be social without getting worse for wear, and much more.
And if you're concerned about your drug or alcohol use, you can have a chat with us.
Advice and personal experiences
Click on the links below to read real life experiences and advice on specific health issues:
- Click here to read Jean's story of battling breast cancer.
- Click here to read advice on requesting a doctor of a specific gender for physical examinations
- Click here to read Laura's experience of womb cancer
- Click here to read info on HPV for lesbian and bisexual women
- Click here to read Rosie's story of campaigning to improve healthcare services
*LGBT Foundation’s services for women are inclusive of trans women, non-binary people and gender fluid people who identify as lesbian, bisexual or questioning their sexual orientation. We try to make our services welcoming and accessible to all; if you have any specific access requirements please let us know and we'll try to help. | {
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Warwick Politics, Philosophy and Law (PPL) Society published a Facebook poll on whether gender is binary last week, which has led to opposition from the University of Warwick’s Students’ Union (SU) and societies such as Warwick Pride.
The poll asked, “Is gender binary, or is it a spectrum?” Accompanying the question was contextual information, which stated: “Gender identity has been defined by the United Nations as a person’s internal, deeply felt sense of being male or female or something other, or in between.”
“A person’s gender identity may or may not correspond with their biological sex (HRC, 2008). While more and more people are embracing their identity, many organisations are integrating this spectrum,” they said, citing Facebook as an example.
They continued: “Our aim is to create and provide a platform for academic and political discussions, no offence is intended. Derogatory comments will be deleted.”
The post also included links to an article by The Telegraph about Facebook’s gender options, and a TED talk by Alice Dreger on whether anatomy is destiny. The poll has since been taken down, with Warwick SU and societies such as Warwick Pride responding to it on Facebook.
In a statement, the SU said: “We were recently made aware of a poll hosted on a student-run Facebook page at Warwick which questioned the validity of identities outside of a set gender binary.
“We wish to make it clear that we consider this action both offensive and highly inappropriate. What may seem like a mere question to some in fact perpetuates the systemic oppression of Trans people. Some issues are simply not up for debate, including the identity, existence and lives of our Trans students.
Before you post such questions on social media consider how it may affect others, consider how it may hurt others, consider how it may put people in fear of coming out at university
– Warwick Pride President Jess Hughes
“As an SU, we stand in solidarity with our Trans siblings and will continue to call out cis privilege, and to fight and campaign for Trans rights.”
“In addition, we wish to remind all students of their responsibilities towards others when posting on social media, particularly when done for the sake of ‘controversy’, publicity or their own notoriety on campus,” they concluded. Warwick Pride shared this statement on Facebook, adding that the poll was “deeply hurtful”.
The LGBTUA+ society said: “Before you post such questions on social media consider how it may affect others, consider how it may hurt others, consider how it may put people in fear of coming out at university.”
“Your fellow students are not all like you, and regardless of our differences we expect to be treated with respect,” they emphasised. Warwick Pride President Jess Hughes also told The Boar: “The voices of trans and non-binary students should be centred when discussing such issues.
“We were very distressed when we saw the poll, as were members of the community. We agree with the SU statement, and were very grateful that they made the statement.
“I do think polls like this show a lack of understanding about gender, and it particularly concerns me that trans and non-binary students may well be on that course and feel very uncomfortable about the opinions that their peers are voicing.”
Warwick Eye, an anonymous student-run publication at Warwick, claimed that the University of Warwick Labour Society reported the post to the SU. When asked if this was the case, Warwick Labour told The Boar: “We did not report the poll, in fact any complaints to the Students’ Union have to be made by individuals.
“Having said that we fully support the statement by the students’ union on the issue and think it is bigoted to question the existence and so humanity of non-binary people – this legitimises the oppression of non-binary people.”
Some issues are simply not up for debate, including the identity, existence and lives of our Trans students
– Warwick SU
After removing the poll, Warwick PPL Society followed with a statement which said: “The PPL society would like to apologise for posting the previous poll. Our intent was to allow people to engage politically within a respectful platform aimed at fostering debate.
“However, we do recognise that the previous poll was written in a way which could be deemed inappropriate and offensive. We will think more carefully about the way we write our polls in the future.
“The Warwick PPL society is made up of people from different cultures, beliefs, sexual orientations and identities. As such we would like to further the apology if we have offended anyone.”
Adding to their statement, the society said to The Boar: “Given that this particular poll failed in its ability to facilitate rigorous, open, honest, and respectful discussion in the comment section, PPL society saw fit to remove the poll.”
Warwick PPL Society regularly publishes Facebook polls, asking people to vote on dichotomies such as Liberalism versus Marxism. The poll on whether gender is binary was sixth in their “To be or not to be?” series.
Regarding to the SU’s statement, the society responded: “In the view of the PPL Society, we are surprised at the Warwick SU for their recent post on their Facebook page.
“Universities should be places for learning and discussion of all topics. Free speech is a key part of the learning environment at any university and our SU’s stance would indicate an objection to that free speech.
“Free speech is something the PPL Society strongly believes in, and so the SU’s post has left us, among many others, disappointed.”
Also addressing whether the poll’s removal was suppressing “free speech” as commentators claimed, Pride President Jess said: “I do not believe this is an issue about free speech, because I do not believe that the existence of trans and non binary people should be up for debate. It is not up to anyone else to decide how people identify.
“Years ago people were arguing that gay people should be subjected to draconian medical practices to ‘cure’ them. And now whether some people exist is now up for debate. Polls such as this are just the latest example of how our society still has a problem with LGBTUA+ phobia.”
Free speech is something the PPL Society strongly believes in, and so the SU’s post has left us, among many others, disappointed
– Warwick PPL Society
SU President Liam Jackson also told The Boar: “Since the existence of people outside of a socially-prescribed gender binary is a physical, material, historical and scientific fact, I honestly struggle to see how there is anything to ‘debate’ in this instance.
“It is clear, however, that we need a more meaningful way for people to learn about these issues without questioning the existence of others. As a result, the SU will be working on a future project featuring a range of resources and opportunities to create a more respectful dialogue around trans and non-binary identities.”
Speaking to The Boar, SU Trans Students’ Officer Alex Lythall said: “My reaction to the poll was one of dismay and then anger over
my community and friends’ existence being put up for debate.
“We’ve had some excellent engagement with the trans awareness campaigns we’ve been running the last year, so this really feels like a step backwards.
“In addition, the various comments posted shows just how much ridicule trans, including non-binary, issues sadly continue to inspire, and how far we still have left to go towards creating a more accepting and equal society.
“The SU’s statement, written in conjunction with the Part-Time Liberation Officers, does not impinge upon ‘free speech’. Instead it highlights the fact that ‘debating’ whether someone exists is extremely harmful, and that there are often real-life consequences for those who are the subject of these ‘debates’.
“It also remains ironic that some student groups who criticised the statement on these grounds frequently remove critical comments on their own posts and events.”
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In June, transgender recording artist Blxck Cxsper made a simple offer to their Instagram followers: free beats and monetization tips to any black trans artist who needed help. “Let’s uplift black trans artists because there is no revolution without music,” they wrote in their post.
As the founder of the trans-focused indie record label Trans Trenderz, Cxsper knew the importance of getting some much needed help when starting out in the industry. “Sometimes giving a beat to somebody is the difference between them releasing the song for nothing, and them being able to make money with it,” they tell Billboard.
Following a massive influx of requests from artists, and a key partnership with Studio G in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Cxsper decided to make their offer a catalyst for change with The Ghostly Beats Project. Housed under the Trans Trenderz label, the new initiative calls on allies to provide their services to up-and-coming black trans artists to help boost them into a mainstream spotlight.
For artists looking to learn more about The Ghostly Beats Project and how to monetize their content, Trans Trenderz is hosting The Ghostly Beats Conference on Friday and Saturday (Aug. 14 & 15). The online conference will feature performances from the label’s signees, presentations on turning your music into a lucrative career, and a virtual dance party, with all proceeds from the event going towards The Ghostly Beats Project.
Blxck Cxsper spoke to Billboard about creating a representative music label, what they hope to accomplish with The Ghostly Beats Project, and the importance of amplifying black trans voices.
Let’s start with Trans Trenderz; the label was started in 2016 when you put out a compilation mixtape of the same name. After working on that project, what inspired you to continue that work in the form of a label?
Working with all of those artists just made me so happy, and the next day I was like, “Okay, so what now? How do I keep this project going for as long as possible?” When I did that mixtape, a lot of artists reached out to me being like, “I used to make and put out music, but after I came out, it was like, ‘What’s the point? No one’s going to want to work with me, I don’t have the resources, nobody wants to book me, so why would I invest time and money that I don’t have into trying to make it happen?'”
For me, it was about giving people the opportunity to have their music mixed and mastered, to have their music out there on Spotify — so they could have a song that they can use to promote themselves and get gigs. It was ridiculous the amount of artists that had that narrative.
You mention that you didn’t know how to start your own label at the time — what did you end up learning in your career as an artist that helped you create Trans Trenderz?
The thing is, even not being physically in New York, I learned that there are so many more opportunities in that city, compared to any other place I’ve been. In Montreal [where Cxsper currently lives], a lot of people are still sleeping on transgender artists and not collaborating with us. But in New York, we have all of those resources, we have all of those people that want to work with us. The local scene is truly amazing, and the community is very supportive of local acts in NYC — whereas in Montreal, they tend to ignore you until you’ve made it in the mainstream, and then they claim you.
I was born in France, and the rap game even in France… they just don’t make it quite like American artists make it. Being in New York for me, it’s like being in the right place at the right time. So it becomes about figuring out how to connect with the people in that space. And for that, all I did is I collaborated with white people! [Laughs.]
The Ghostly Beats Project started with your Instagram post offering to make free beats for black trans artists, while also making a call for allies to help fund black trans artists. What kind of response did you see to that, and how did that lead to this larger project?
I knew people were frustrated, and I knew that black people — when we’re in pain, we make music. That’s a cultural thing, and so it was very important for me, because sometimes giving a beat to somebody is the difference between them releasing the song for nothing, and them being able to make money with it. So I was really like, “How do I help artists that I can’t sign?”
Because ultimately, I’m a black trans migrant — I can’t apply for grants and stuff like that, so funding is very limited. I can’t sign every amazing black trans artist. But what I can do is come up with a platform, and something that’s going to help people get those free services. So that’s how The Ghostly Beats Project turned into a forum where black trans artists can ask for services, allies can offer their services, and people can connect those dots.
It’s a fascinating process, because when I made the first Trans Trenderz mixtape, I realized one of my passions is producing — like, I really love doing A&R, finding artists, coaching them in the studio, producing the actual music, helping them make sure that their sound is working. In the industry, I think there’s always a focus on the artist themselves, and on celebrity culture and all of that, so I barely even knew what being a producer meant; I thought producers were just beat-makers! Now, I realize that it’s so much more than that, and it’s fascinating that all of these artists are so different. So every song I’m working on is a different process, a new sound, a different challenge.
For example, we work with every artist on a branding strategy — we have them work on a branding presentation that they send through to everybody that works with them, so everyone can be on the same page. It’s basically just been taking an artist who’s been doing everything on their own and then providing them with everything that they need to turn their independent business into a startup that can hopefully go mainstream.
What lessons are you hoping more mainstream labels take away from this project?
That we have a lot of marginalized voices that are being stopped by the gatekeepers, because people look at them as a financial risk that they don’t want to invest in. That’s not how we should see trans artists, but that’s what the industry does — they see artists as business decisions. That’s the same reason those bigger artists screaming “Black Trans Lives Matter” on their social media still haven’t featured a black trans person on one of their songs; they see it as a financial risk. I think it’s time for people to look past that aspect of us — these voices need to get heard, and we are a financial risk worth taking.
Part of this project is focused on rallying allies to action and asking them to donate money, time and/or resources to these trans artists. What kind of response have you seen from allies?
So we have Studio G in Brooklyn basically giving us free studio time, we have engineers helping out with recording, mixing and mastering, we have people to help shoot videos and photos… it’s so many different kinds of help. It’s great because we wouldn’t be able to offer the kind of record deals we’re making with our artists without that help. Unlike most record labels, we’re not taking royalty cuts from the artists — the artists all keep the rights to their songs — so for us to be able to accomplish our goal, we need those services.
I just feel like you can’t be an ally if you’re not giving up something that you have, whether that’s time, money or resources. It’s kind of like this: If you have a whole cake that you’re eating, but you also want marginalized people to have at least slice, then you don’t get to keep the whole cake. You have to give up a slice. That’s how allyship works; you can’t give somebody something if you’re not giving it up yourself, and all of these people are really doing that for us.
What are you hoping for the future of Trans Trenderz and The Ghostly Beats Project?
We have one of our newest artists recording their first single with us — they’re a non-binary femme artist named Jæ [one of the label’s newest signees, along with Lady Londyn and Jupiter Gray], and their music is amazing. We’re currently working on expanding to a few other cities right now — the goal is to get studios in Los Angeles and hopefully Boston. The dream is to make it so that we have a chapter in every big city in the U.S., and then I would of course love to have chapters in Canada and even Europe one day. I want this to be everywhere. I want a trans takeover! | {
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Kathryn de la Rosa
What do you identify as? Why? Or why don’t you identify as anything?
Bisexual, genderqueer Pilipina. I use they/them or she/her. I write and work in theater and study astrology. I like what initially looks like a disagreement: a feminine -a ending on “Pilipina” looks very gendered. But what little I know about Tagalog is there is one gender-neutral pronoun, siya, so my mom misgenders things and people in English all the time. The letter “F,” the sound ph, the impulse to gender things -o or -a like Latino or Latina is entirely Spanish, entirely colonial.
I identify with femme and Pilipina in the work I try to do, strength and fight borne of empathy and healing. I claim a legacy in indigenous Pilipino healers, priestesses, often trans women you can imagine 16th-century Spanish explorers had thoughts about. The Philippines is one of the most Catholic countries on Earth but it was once a queerer, more colorful place. I gravitate toward “genderqueer” rather than “non-binary.” I think of binary gender as two poles to anchor myself to.
I define where I am on the spectrum on any given day relative to femininity (the Moon, Venus) or masculinity (the Sun, Mars). I have a gender that I queer, and I’ll never be totally beyond binary. I relate strongly to Mitski’s Be the Cowboy, to Tanya Tucker singing “When I die, I may not go to heaven / I don’t know if they let cowboys in.”
What does the word Queer mean to you?
It means too big, too multitudinous for heterosexuality or normative gender to contain.
Where are you from and explain what it was like growing up/living in Kentucky?
I mostly grew up in Paducah, Kentucky, which I’m happy and jealous to see at the center of the Western Kentucky Pride Festival — something I could have really used growing up. I was raised deeply Catholic and really only went to school or church, so I wouldn’t have been able to go, but I would’ve known I had a community and allies in McCracken County. I was born in Prestonsburg. I spent the first year of my life there.
My dad mentions it to me as if I’d remember, which I don’t. I’m sensitive to people co-opting West Virginia, eastern Kentucky ancestors for some kind of Appalachian or working class valor, so I don’t identify closely with my birth place. But I think living there for the start of their marriage, three of their earliest years in America in Floyd County, is something my parents carry with them, which lingers in my relationship to privilege and this region. Growing up I had trouble teasing out why I felt so wrong and alone and alien. Race was the obvious answer. I was one of the only people of color in my graduating class.
When I was 17 I learned a boy I’d known since elementary school thought I was Black the whole time. I didn’t want to come out as gay or bi for safety reasons, but I also remember thinking being brown AND gay is too much. I guess I’d only seen queer white people, or I thought I was too tedious to examine any further. I don’t like to think too hard about how anyone I grew up with would feel about me now.
I’ve been fighting authority figures and white supremacy my whole life, and the small, Catholic, Republican community I’d call home resented, tolerated, and eventually accepted that about me — they didn’t agree, it was clearly in the most bless your heart, you stupid liberal sense. Am I naive to cling to that tenderness? I’ve been to Fancy Farm, where those boys in Mitch shirts who look like the ones I loved like brothers did that bullshit with that AOC cutout.
It hurts more than fearing perfect strangers. I live in Louisville now — I’ve stayed in Kentuckiana, around the Ohio River. I’m coming from the extreme west and east of the state, I went to college in southern Indiana. I’ve stayed in much bigger cities long-term but Louisville somehow hits me as culture shock. It’s home-ish.
What would you say to anyone struggling to come into their own identity?
Take your time. You meet yourself again every day.
How does your own identity run how you carry yourself? Or does it?
It’s seasonal. I’m a summer femme, a nearly agender winter blob. I cut my hair short as a freshman in college and every few days I imagine growing it out again, but I love barber shops. I think I’m brusque, and a little coarse. I was very quiet as a child but I talk so much now. I should speak a fifth higher. One of my major queer outlets growing up was singing — I took lessons with a mezzo-soprano who assigned me pants role arias, sung by women who wore binders to play men. I’m no good at all but my singing voice is high a bright while I speak low enough to be mistaken for a pubescent boy. I could train myself to speak higher, more naturally, but it is my voice now.
When I put on a dress or bold lipstick or glitter eyeshadow, I know exactly why I’m doing it. I wear heels and makeup with men’s clothes and practical shoes and a bare face with skirts and dresses. I think my voice is the same. I have a Moon-Mars conjunction in my birth chart, which I think of as quite androgynous: Martian aggression blended with lunar sensitivity.
I get angry a lot, and it starts with deep, overwhelming feeling.
What issues do you see in the queer community?
Racism, classism, biphobia, transphobia, an urban/metropolitan bias, ableism, misogyny — which everyone, queer or not, must work on.
What do you think would solve those issues?
Things like Queer Kentucky, Queer Appalachia, Kentuckiana Pride, Western Kentucky Pride. White queerios recognizing their privilege and making space for us. Mobilizing to help queer people outside cities, especially in the South and Midwest.
Do you feel excluded from the “mainstream” queer community? Why or why not?
Have you met another non-binary Filipino from Floyd County?
Where do you feel “at your best” (safe, happy, fabulous, comfortable, etc)
At home with a candle burning, a mug of coffee and tarot cards, in a good outfit I have no intention of wearing out. 19 Who influenced the life you live now? 20 My parents, in the best but mostly the worst ways. bell hooks. Bobbie Gentry. St. Teresa of Avila, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, Hildegard of Bingen — I’m into saints and nuns who were writers and philosophers and might have been queer. David Bowie was a giant to me for years. I’m influenced by Dudley Cocke and Hallie Flanagan, who created or toured theater in rural communities. When I was in high school I met and learned from some Affrilachian Poets, and that’s when I started loving home and my fantasies of New York or San Francisco or London shifted. | {
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The National Theatre presents the touring production of Tony-winning director Diane Paulus’ take on the 2004 Oscar-winning film telling the story behind Peter Pan. Written by composer Scott Frankel and lyricist Michael Korie, Finding Neverland is billed as a “classic tale [that] springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event.” Now to March 3. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets are $54 to $114. Call 202-628-6161 or visit www.thenationaldc.org.
Arena Stage’s Deputy Artistic Director Seema Sueko directs a new production, staged in the round, of this classic thriller suggested by the Henry James novel Washington Square and focused on a 19th-century young woman’s journey to find her voice. Laura C. Harris portrays Catherine Sloper while Jonathan David Martin is her possible suitor in a production also featuring Lise Bruneau, Lorene Chesley, Janet Hayatshahi, Nancy Robinette, Kimberly Schraf, James Whalen, and Nathan Whitmer. To March 10. In the round in the Fichandler Stage, Mead Center for American Theater, 1101 6th St. SW. Tickets are $40 to $95. Call 202-488-3300 or visit www.arenastage.org.
Soul-pop singer-songwriter Alice Smith is understated, sophisticated, and every bit as vocally talented as fellow four-octave ranger Christina Aguilera — except her music is better. Any moment now we should finally hear new music from Smith, with Mystery, a full-length set of original compositions. No doubt she’ll preview tracks from the album on tour, as well as perform from many of the phenomenal songs on her last album, the astonishing She, which charts the ups and downs and ins and outs of love, even just friendship, with musical twists and lyrical turns as sharp and surprising as they come. Saturday, March 8. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW. Tickets are $35. Call 202-888-0050 or visit www.thelincolndc.com.
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK
Formed nearly 50 years ago by four women associated with the former professional theater group the D.C. Black Repertory Company, this Grammy-winning a cappella ensemble carries on the tradition of offering socially conscious songs, such as the plaintive ballad “Are We A Nation?” Originally written in response to a restrictive immigration law passed in Arizona in 2010, the song, steeped in the music of the civil rights era, has taken on added resonance of late with Trump’s push for immigration restrictions at the national level. Sunday, March 3, at 7:30 p.m. Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Tickets are $45. Call 703-549-7500 or visit www.birchmere.com.
DISSONANCE DANCE THEATRE: FLUID
A perennial draw at the Atlas Intersections festival, the top-notch professional company founded and led by gay African-American choreographer Shawn Short returns with a new evening-length contemporary ballet. Set to the music of Ezio Bosso, Fluid draws inspiration from physical theater and Afro-modern dance and features a cast exploring the emotional issues of trust, lost, betrayal, and love. Sunday, March 3, at 2:30 p.m. The Paul Sprenger Theatre in the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $30. Call 202-399-7993 or visit www.atlasarts.org.
Brought up as a boy and shamed as a “sissy,” Tobia has become a leading voice on behalf of the nonbinary and genderqueer communities as creator and co-host of the NBC News series “Queer 2.0” and as a member of the Biden Foundation’s Advisory Council for Advancing LGBTQ Equality. In Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story, Tobia writes with wit, humor, and sass about the challenges of living between genders, with a goal of overturning assumptions about gender and celebrating gender diversity. The Washington Post‘s Jonathan Capehart joins Tobia to lead a discussion about the book. Wednesday, March 6, at 7 p.m. Politics and Prose at the Wharf, 70 District Square SW. Call 202-488-3867 or visit www.politics-prose.com.
DC INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL
Billed as the oldest of its kind in the nation’s capital, this year’s DC Independent Film Festival offers several screenings of note for the LGBTQ community, including Transformistas, Chad Hahne’s documentary portrait of Cuban drag queens that will be have its world premiere, with a post-screening reception with the director, on Wednesday, March 6, at the Human Rights Campaign. Others include WBCN and the American Revolution, Bill Lichtenstein’s documentary about Boston’s underground radical radio station that in 1973 launched “The Lavender Hour,” the first LGBTQ program on commercial radio, on Thursday, March 7, at the Carnegie Institution for Science; and Dakota, a locally made feature by director Roberto Carmona about a talented young singer who aspires to stardom and features singer-songwriter Phoebe Ryan in her debut acting role alongside Jake Etheridge from Nashville and Holly Twyford, on Saturday, March 9, at the Carnegie Institution. The festival opens Friday, March 1, at its primary venue, the Miracle Theatre in Barracks Row, with Ordinary Gods, highlighting the resilience and relationships it takes to thrive in the world’s most beloved sport of soccer, the debut feature from director Pascui Rivas. And in its first two nights it presents three screenings in a retrospective of director Phillip Noyce, including Dead Calm with Nicole Kidman, Sam Neill, and Billy Zane, Newsfront with Bill Hunter, Gerard Kennedy, and Wendy Hughes, and The Quiet American with Michael Caine and Brendan Fraser. Most directors will be in attendance at the festival, which runs to Sunday, March 10. Individual tickets are $8 to $11 plus fees. Passes range from a one-day weekend pass at $48, to an all-access festival pass at $210. For a full schedule and details, visit www.dciff-indie.org.
EVERY HOLE, A PORTAL: FILMS BY MADSEN MINAX
On two different evenings next week, the Washington Project for the Arts presents screenings of films by Madsen Minax. The queer experimental filmmaker and installation artist’s work in documentary and hybrid formats presents nonlinear narratives exploring hidden networks of interconnectedness, drawing on the filmmaker’s participation in justice-oriented communities. First up is Kairos Dirt & The Errant Vacuum, a surrealist feature-length film about a queer lunch lady and a non-binary student who discover a fantastic alternate dimension occupied by a genderless apparition, screening Thursday March 7, at 8 p.m. at Suns Cinema, 3107 Mt. Pleasant St. NW. Two nights later comes a screening of three of Minax’s short films: Because of Us, in which a mystical voice guides viewers through a near-death experience using found footage and animated skyscapes; The Source is a Hole, presenting another mystical voice and a series of holes through which viewers can travel, perceive, accept, and speak; and The Eddies, about a death-obsessed transsexual searching for human connection in the worlds of online hookups and storm tunnels. After the screening comes a discussion with Minax, documentary filmmaker Dawne Langford, and photographer and Homosuperior musician Farrah Skeiky, moderated by curator Eames Armstrong, all taking place at WPA’s North Shaw locale, 2124 8th St. NW. Call 202-234-7103 or visit www.wpadc.org.
SIGNATURE THEATRE’S SONDHEIM AWARD GALA FOR AUDRA MCDONALD
It’s a pricey ticket, but for a great cause — Signature Theatre itself — and the star power is through the roof for musical theater fans. Tony winner Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple), Heidi Blickenstaff and Norm Lewis will perform in tribute to record-breaking six-time Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award winner Audra McDonald, along with Helen Hayes Award winners and Signature favorites Tracy Lynn Olivera (A Little Night Music) and Nova Y. Payton (Hairspray). McDonald, an early and fierce advocate for marriage equality and equal rights, will be feted with Signature’s 10th Stephen Sondheim Award, joining other towering musical theater giants from Angela Lansbury to Bernadette Peters, Harold “Hal” Prince to Jonathan Tunick. Meanwhile, U.S. Representative Don Beyer, of Virginia’s 8th Congressional District, will be honored with the inaugural J. Watkins Distinguished Service Award, a new recognition for community leaders who’ve made an extraordinary impact in the greater D.C. community through advocacy and passion for the arts and arts education. Monday, March 4. Embassy of Italy, 3000 Whitehaven St. NW. Individual tickets to the Black Tie event, including dinner and cocktails, are $1,000. Call 571-527-1828 or visit www.signature-theatre.org.
LAURA & LINDA BENANTI: THE STORY GOES ON
A year after Renée Fleming put together this mother-daughter cabaret as part of her Voices program at the Kennedy Center, the Barns at Wolf Trap offers a reprise. The star of the show is Laura Benanti, the Tony-winning Broadway triple-threat (Gypsy) taking a night off as Eliza Doolittle in the current hit Broadway revival of My Fair Lady. No question Benanti inherited the performative gene: Both of her parents were recognized theater actors, and Linda Benanti would go on to become her young daughter’s first voice teacher — helping to shape her musical outlook and career. The two will share stories and songs of their lives and careers, as well as reflect on and celebrate their relationship. Saturday, March 9, at 3 and 8 p.m. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. Tickets are $40 TO $45. Call 877-WOLFTRAP or visit www.wolftrap.org.
LIONEL BRINGUIER WITH THE NSO
A dozen years after becoming the youngest-ever assistant conductor of the L.A. Philharmonic at the age of 20, Lionel Bringuier, that esteemed orchestra’s resident conductor since 2011, is more than ready for his Kennedy Center debut. Bringuier premieres with Mozart’s formidable Violin Concerto No. 5 featuring Gil Shaham, “one of today’s preeminent violinists” per the New York Times. This NSO program also includes symphonic fragments from The Spider’s Feast by Bringuier’s French compatriot Albert Roussel as well as Petrushka by Igor Stravinsky, two ballets that premiered a century ago. The opening concert, on Thursday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m., features a mini-recital “Organ Postlude” from Russell Weismann of Georgetown University on the Concert Hall’s Rubenstein Family Organ, while the Friday, March 1, performance at 11:30 a.m. is styled as a Coffee Concert, with à la carte breakfast items available in the KC Café starting at 9:30 a.m. Meanwhile, the concert on Saturday, March 2, at 8 p.m., is preceded by a scholar-led “behind the music” ForeWords session beginning at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $15 to $89. Call 202-467-4600 or visit www.kennedy-center.org. | {
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Backgrounder - Government of Canada More Than Doubles Support to Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
Gender-Based Violence Program
Following the June 2017 announcement of It’s Time: Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence, Status of Women Canada (SWC) launched the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Program in January 2018.
The GBV Program complements SWC’s Women’s Program, and helps organizations working in the GBV sector to develop and implement promising practices to address gaps in supports for survivors and their families.
While violence affects people of all genders, ages, cultures, ethnicities, geographic locations, and socio-economic backgrounds, some populations are more at risk and face additional barriers to access services. The GBV Program responds to this need by providing funding to eligible organizations at the local, regional and national levels for projects that address gaps in supports for specific groups of survivors, including Indigenous women and their communities, and other underserved populations, such as children and youth, LGBTQ2 communities and gender non-binary people, non-status/refugee/immigrant women, seniors, women living in official language minority communities, women living in northern, rural and remote communities, and women living with disabilities.
Call for concepts: Promising Practices to Support Survivors and their Families
In January 2018, Minister Monsef announced $20 million in funding for a call for concepts as part of the new Gender-Based Violence Program. Following Budget 2018, the funding for the Gender-Based Violence Program more than doubled so that more organizations, such as sexual assault crisis centers, are better able to help population groups at the highest risk of experiencing violence.
The GBV Program piloted an innovative approach to supporting community organizations, which includes:
- a longer funding period of up to five years;
- a two-stage application process, which reduced the administrative burden for applicant organizations. Less information was required in the initial concept phase, which meant a leaner application process for organizations;
- eligible recipients were expanded to include labour groups and unions; provinces, territories, municipalities and their agencies; research organizations and institutes, centers of expertise, educational institutions (i.e. universities, colleges, CÉGEPs, secondary schools, school boards/school districts) as well as public health institutions, hospitals, and health care service providers; and
- testing and evaluation of promising practices is emphasized which will lead to clear impact and results for Canadians.
Nova Scotia Projects
Today’s announcement profiled three projects in Nova Scotia that are receiving funding up to $1 million each. They include:
Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre and Sexual Assault Services Association
Project title: Circles of Support and Change: Transferring Successful Rural Indigenous Practices to Other Rural Contexts
This project will provide rural and remote Nova Scotians, particularly youth and African-Nova Scotians, access to tailored and culturally relevant services based on existing successful models in Indigenous communities.
Avalon Sexual Assault Centre
Project title: Halifax Community Support Network
This project will test formal collaborations between organizations and service providers that provide safe, accessible spaces for programs and services to ensure that gaps in services—including lack of information, interpretation, or cultural appropriateness—are identified and addressed.
Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women
Project title: Creating Communities of Care with Survivors through a Customary Law Approach
This project will establish communities of care to provide culturally appropriate services, safe spaces for trauma and safety needs, and improve the health and well-being of currently under-supported survivors.
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- This event has passed.
PRICK! is a private and confidential on-the-spot STI testing event for gay, bi and trans men, Two-Spirit and queer people. A HIM staff member will introduce you to an Interior Health Nurse who is able to provide tests for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, hepatitis (A,B &C), HIV and syphilis. Nurses can also provide education, resources and referrals for other related health concerns (ie. other STIs and vaccinations, PrEP and mental health.) You can use your given name, fake name or initials – the main focus is to create more testing options for people in our community.
This is a public clinic, there will be other people sharing the waiting room with you.
This group is open to self-identified men (trans, cis, and other men), two-spirit and non-binary folks who also identify as gay, bi, queer, asexual, and/or as guys who are into/or have sex with guys (for any reason – including for work). | {
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LOS ANGELES (AP) — Growing up as an avid reader, Kwana Jackson knew where to look for romance novels with black characters: separated into the “African American Interest” section where only determined buyers would find them.
When Jackson became a published author, she saw other ways to obscure writers of color, potentially affecting both book sales and the chances of their work gaining attention from the entertainment industry.
“That’s why, after 10 novels, I was surprised and thrilled when my agent came to me and said, ‘We got interested in ‘Real Men Knit,'” Jackson said of his 2020 novel about four brothers in Harlem, New York, optioned by a production company for a possible television series.
What she calls a dream come true is a pragmatic reflection of the unprecedented number of TV stations needing shows and the growing push for inclusive pricing – a punch creating opportunities for overlooked writers and prospects. ignored.
“There’s a huge appetite for diverse voices and for voices that are almost forgotten,” said Steve Fisher, head of intellectual property and partner at talent agency APA.
While the entertainment industry was born hungry for adaptations – a 1908 version of “The Count of Monte Cristo” is the first proof – today’s beneficiaries include writers of color, those in the LGBTQ community and women.
When Jason Bateman’s film and television production company requested the rights to APA client Tess Sharpe’s novel ‘The Girls I’ve Been’, Fisher met executive Tracey Nyberg, who explained the strong interest of society: Sharpe represents both a female and LGBTQ point of view. “and we want to be part of the vanguard of new voices,” Fisher recalled, telling Nyberg.
The debut science fiction novel by young adult author MK England was quickly snapped up. England identifies as non-binary and queer, and their characters reflect varying ethnic and religious backgrounds as well as LGBTQ diversity.
English space adventure “The Disasters” was optioned ahead of its hardcover release in late 2018 and is in development for The CW Network. Although England know the adaptations differ from the source material, they will be victorious if the series comes to fruition – which, they realistically note, is not guaranteed.
“I love the work so much, I love the characters so much,” England said. “Just the chance of these getting out to more people means a lot, even though I know they won’t be the same versions I wrote.”
Paying for screen rights is a welcome addition to a writer’s income, but “no one gets rich here,” England said. “All I want is a lasting career. I’m not looking for Scrooge McDuck to do that.
Jackson, who has said she strives to write stories that fully portray black and other ethnic characters, both in conflict and in love, believes such portrayals on television have the power to eliminate stereotypes and build empathy.
“We have to change that perception of how we’ve been shown. We are like everyone else, with real stories, real love, real joy, real problems,” she said.
Sean Berard, literary director of the management agency Grandview, thanks the editors for making the effort to find stories “from authentic places” and for bringing their authors the deserved attention.
“We hear from time to time of a (rights) rush for a certain project, a certain book, that isn’t even published,” Bérard said.
Such fierce competition was inevitable. Within a year, Netflix, Amazon and Hulu have been joined by new streaming services, including Disney+, Apple TV+, HBO Max and Peacock, all racing for viewers and justifying their viewing fees. subscription alongside premium cable channels such as HBO and Showtime.
The entertainment industry’s overall demand for content has “increased exponentially” over the past few years, said Michael Cader, founder of Newsletter Publishers Marketplace. Streaming services are among the most needy outlets, and book-related content “often brings built-in audiences and respect,” he said.
Their industry has also become keenly aware of demands for change, facing organized criticism in the form of #OscarsSoWhite and the #MeToo movement, among others, and against the backdrop of rising social and political tensions in the country.
Established writers are among the beneficiaries of the content rush, including those whose literary novels make it harder to transfer to the screen. Colson Whitehead, for example, was “a fabulous writer for decades and now he’s finally getting his adaptation,” Cader said.
Whitehead’s 2016 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Underground Railroad” is the African-American writer’s inaugural work on screen, the basis of an Amazon series that will debut May 14.
Sci-fi and fantasy author NK Jemisin became the first black writer to win the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Novel, for 2015’s “The Fifth Season,” then went on to win three in a row. Jemisin’s work has yet to be adapted, but his “Legacy Trilogy” was reportedly optioned earlier this year.
Although black-themed projects have been at the forefront, producers are beginning to cast a wider net. Native American author Angeline Boulley’s 2021 debut novel, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” a thriller set on an Ojibwe reservation, is in development for Netflix by Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company. Charles Yu’s 2020 National Book Award-winning novel “Interior Chinatown” is in development for Hulu, which has commissioned a pilot based on the forthcoming first novel “Olga Dies Dreaming” by Xochitl Gonzalez.
Despite the signs of change, MK England, for their part, are not ready to sit back and cheer.
“People say, ‘It’s fine now, we’ve achieved equality here, the industry isn’t racist or homophobic anymore because, you see, we have those things,'” England said. “That’s just not the case. There’s still a lot of work to be done, especially in terms of racial representation and having people of color in the industry, deciding. | {
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Opening Keynote & Closing Interview
Opening Keynote & Closing Interview - Dr. Carol Queen
Carol Queen has a PhD in sexology; she calls herself a “cultural sexologist” because her earlier academic degree is in sociology: while she addresses individual issues and couple’s sexual concerns, her overarching interest is in cultural issues (gender, shame, access to education, etc.). Queen has worked at Good Vibrations, the woman-founded sexuality company based in San Francisco. Her current position is Staff Sexologist and Chief Cultural Officer; her roles include representing the company to the press and the public; overseeing educational programming for staff and others; and curating GV’s Antique Vibrator Museum.
She is also the co-founder and director of The Center for Sex & Culture, a small non-profit sex ed and arts center, and is a frequent lecturer at colleges and community-based organizations. Her dozen books include a Lambda Literary Award winner, PoMoSexuals, and Real Live Nude Girl: Chronicles of Sex-Positive Culture, which are used as texts in some college classes.
She will be presenting the Opening Keynote Asking and Answering on the Sex-Positive Spectrum: Enthusiastic Yes, Comfortable No, Clear & Coherent Maybe.
In addition to the Opening Keynote and Closing Interview, Dr. Queen is presenting Using Humour in Sex Ed: When and How to Use Humour to Make Information More Accessible
with Cathy Vartuli, Reid Mihalko and Jet Noir.
Dr. Robert Lawrence
Dr. Robert Morgan Lawrence has 38 years of experience in the field of sex education. He has a Doctorate of Education degree in Human Sexuality and holds a second doctorate degree in health care. He has served as a sex industry consultant, educator and academic author and lectures both nationally and internationally about human sexuality and health.
My name is Alex Wilson and I am a queer DC based sex educator who has been crafting workshops, lectures, and panels for the past 5 years. Professionally I work as a trauma educator, speaker, and harm reductionist. My experience with harm reduction and public health also allows me to facilitate training and do direct community outreach. This year I am facilitating several awesome sessions at Converge and it’s my first time!
These projects are near and dear to me for many reasons- but namely for the dialogues they inspire. I have always felt there was power in speech- as they say there is life and death in a tongues. Apart from the religious connotation this sentiment still holds true- being able to name things holds incredible power. We can use this power to heal ourselves intra and inter-personally. Both personal and communal healing are central to my work.
Alex is presenting:
Angela Thurston is a Holistic Sexuality & Relationship Coach. She has been passionate about holistic health, sexuality and embodiment for the past 30 years.
She has studied and trained with 3 of the world’s top leader’s in the field of sexuality and embodiment. Including none other than the mother of masturbation herself - Betty Dodson. Somatic pioneer and visionary Emilie Conrad, and Somatic Sexologist Jaiya, the creator of the Erotic Blueprints.
Angela helps women and couples in sexless, or near sexless relationships, reclaim their turn on so that they can create greater sexual fulfillment and deeper connection.
As a coach, speaker and facilitator Angela uses her insight, her calm presence and somatic based sexuality practices, to arouse new paths of inquiry. Breaking up the congestion of longstanding belief systems around love, sex and relationships.
Angela will be presenting Pleasure Mastery: How to Create Deeper Intimate Connection and Greater Sexual Satisfaction.
Brianna is a chronically ill trans lesbian and avid content creator. She focuses on queer, trans, and disabled narratives in her activism and her writing, and is proud to be part of a powerful disability community. Talk to her about desirability culture, collaboration, science fiction, poetry, or puns, and if you really want to hear more of her voice, you can check out her trans woman-centered comedy podcast Salt Cravings.
Camron Bute is on a life-long journey of personal healing, and along the way he has gathered tools that he now offers to others. His journey has taken him to self-help programs, therapists' couches, tantra classes, consent workshops, play parties, festivals, and many other places in search of understanding. Camron also draws on a decade of experience as professional services consulting, where he hones skills like public speaking, teaching a topic to those who are entirely unfamiliar with it, and creating diverse work environments where people of all viewpoints can pursue their passions.
Camron applied to present at ConvergeCon because he is someone that has both harmed and been harmed. His hope is that by participating in the conversations around harm, he can continue his journey of accountability for the negative impacts he has caused by improving support for others, as well as increasing safety in his communities that he and others will be able to access in their journey to living their lives in their own way.
Camron is presenting Restorative Justice? Transformative Justice? Compassionate Justice? Opening to Love... with Meagan Lee Filteau.
Carrie holds a Masters degree from the University of Victoria and is the founder of Empowering Sexuality, a resource dedicated to community growth, releasing shame, and living authentically. As a professional dominatrix, sex worker rights activist, sexuality educator, and active BDSM lifestyler for over a decade, their focus is on the wealth of knowledge that sex workers can bring to consent and to sexual health and happiness. Originally from Vancouver Island, they are now based in Vancouver where they facilitate a variety of sexuality and BDSM-oriented workshops. They are currently in application status to join the Fall 2020 PhD program at the University of Guelph, with a focus on sex work, sex workers’ rights, and decriminalization.
Carrie will be presenting:
Cathy is a sex-positive Emotional Freedom Coach who helps people transform their traumas into their greatest strengths using love, laughter and inner guidance. She uses a practical yet intuitive approach to help people connect with their own power and guidance. Prior to establishing her coaching business, Cathy got her Masters in Physics at SUNY Binghamton and her PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Florida. She has 19 patents and works in major semiconductor companies doing R&D.
On topics around body image, shame reprogramming, and powerful self-expression, Cathy helps clients of all shapes, sizes, ages, and gender expressions break out of old patterns and find their voice, with a focus on helping those who feel shy or awkward gaining their confidence.
As an all around geek who compulsively studies marketing and consensual influence… She also loves helping heart-centered sex-positive businesses find their unique voice and expand their audience and increase abundance.
Cathy will be presenting:
Cherish Dorrington, RTC, MTC
Cherish Dorrington is passionate in assisting others in finding freedom to live, without guilt, shame or fear. A psychological therapist for almost 20 years, she's directed her focus, in recent years, to intimacy coaching, in order to put her energies where her passion lies: creating a shame-free environment of courageous vulnerability and personal ownership, for those longing to break free of the internal and external pressures we are conditioned by.
Cherish has offered workshops on self-awareness, relationships, releasing shame, poly and kink, over the past 15-20 years, is an instructor with Polyamory Starter Kit, creating primers for those opening up their relating style to consensual non-monogamy, as well as for educating health professionals, and has been a director for two alternative sexuality organizations.
Cherish believes that the way we see life determines our experience of it. If this be so, then shifting perspectives makes change possible. She is deeply committed to being that safe place for equipping, empowering and cheering others on to healing, awakening and freedom.
Cherish will be presenting Womanhood Without Competition: Building a world where we welcome collaboration and inclusion with Cora Bilsker, RSW.
Cora Bilsker, RSW
Cora Bilsker believes that exploration, acceptance and being asked excellent questions can change your life. She has been building knowledge of unconventional relationships and sexuality since 2000 and began her practice, Nested Heart Counselling, to provide recognition and emotional support to people in Victoria and Vancouver, BC. As a Registered Social Worker, Cora strives to nurture holistic perspectives, integrating concepts such as systemic oppression, intersectionality and generational trauma into her practice. Sessions with Cora offer clients a compassionate space to release the heaviness they have been carrying and discover new ways of living free of shame and fear. Cora is also an instructor with Polyamory Starter Kit, which began with the intention to reach out to people exploring opening up a relationship for the first time and has since expanded to providing a plethora of workshops for professionals, couples and groups. Self-expression without fear is what Cora is passionate about, and whether you’re struggling with an unconventional relationship structure or something else entirely, she knows that her welcoming and knowledgeable approach can make a significant contribution to the freedom you feel you have to heal.
Cora will be presenting Womanhood Without Competition: Building a world where we welcome collaboration and inclusion with Cherish Dorrington, RTC, MTC.
Hailey is a professional dominatrix, transformative justice advocate, feminist and sex worker rights activist from Vancouver, BC. As a fetish service provider, her work often explores themes of gender identity, gender expression and the ways they intersect with sexuality. Her activism, consulting, facilitating and public speaking often focus on themes of community justice and conflict resolution, the de-stigmatization of sex work, and the de-mystification of trans women's bodies. Hailey's facilitating and advocacy uses a trauma informed approach that tries to meet people where they're at and bring them along, creating braver spaces where perfection isn't expected and mistakes and awkwardness are embraced as a healthy part of growth.
Irene Leonis is a student completing her degree at Simon Fraser University, and a blogger at The Desi Vibes, where she talks about sex, kink, and adventures in queerness - among other things. She is also passionate about intersectional feminism, and PoC representation in all areas of her life. She is honored to be a part of the "Beauty and Perspective" panel this year at ConvergeCon, with Cathy Vartuli, Shadeen Francis LMFT, and Jet Noir.
Jesseca is a queer, biracial, and disabled writer and activist. Their focus has been on queer and disability activism primarily through volunteer work. Consent, desexualization, and accessibility are at the forefront of their work. When not otherwise engaged, you can find them reading a book or hanging out with their pup.
Jet Noir has been a part of sex positive communities since 2002 in Atlanta where he frequented a few underground establishments. Educated in the study of human movement and psychology, Jet has spent over a dozen years as a coach helping people to improve their perception of their bodies. Jet has taught workshops on what he calls Body Faming (improving our relationships with our five senses in order to better listen to and celebrate our bodies) all around the Bay Area and will begin touring the workshop in the coming year. Not only a host and organizer of play parties for people of color, he also frequently volunteers as an emotional support “angel” at parties around the Bay Area.
Jet Noir will be presenting:
Lauren Shay MSW, RSW, RCC
Lauren is a counsellor who works with individuals and couples in Vancouver, BC.
Through Lauren’s work with the Stopping The Violence program at agencies throughout British Columbia, she has worked with many individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse. She has focused on the long-term impacts of sexual and gender-based trauma on relationships, sense of self, and sexuality.
Lauren strives to create safe and secure relationships with with her clients, which is the foundation for trauma recovery. Her work is informed by her studies in Somatic Experiencing, a powerful method of overcoming trauma using the body’s survival instincts and the mind-body connection.
Lauren is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). She got her Masters in Social Work at the University of British Columbia. She completed Sex Therapy training at the University of Guelph and the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health.
Lauren will be presenting Reclaiming Sexuality After Sexual Violence and Abuse: Tips From A Sex-Positive Counsellor.
Little Woo helps seekers and creatives to express their Soul Magic - a unique magic that is within each person. Since 2005, she has guided thousands of unconventional thinkers and social innovators to heal self-doubt, despair or disconnection in order to know their self-worth, talents and joy. Currently, she offers the Sacred Dream coaching program (how to honor your higher purpose) and the “Inner Compass” program (how to honor yourself in 4 core areas of life). Join the School of Enchantment at littlewoo.org to receive updates and episodes of the Magic of Compassion (how to apply compassion in different situations). Little Woo is also a performance artist (burlesque, cabaret, puppetry, ventriloquism & stage hypnosis) and creator of interactive experiences like the Sacred Kiss, Burlesque Yoga and Zombie Yoga! Join the Magical Humans Facebook Group for inspiring examples of humans creating Meaningful Beauty!
Little Woo will be presenting The Desire Gauge: When Sexual Desirability Is Tied To Self-Worth.
Marcia Baczynski is a renowned speaker, writer and coach on sexual communication, relationships and women’s empowerment. Her primary mission is to help women and the people who love them to overcome shame and get in touch with what they truly want – romantically, sexually and relationally – even if it’s off the beaten path. Marcia is the co-creator of Cuddle Party and founder of the Good Girl Recovery Program. Since 2003, she has worked with tens of thousands of people through her private coaching, workshops and group programs and made appearances in hundreds of magazines, news stories, radio interviews and podcasts. Marcia lives in San Francisco, CA where she spends a lot of time with her weirdo friends, being an aunt, hiking and sailing.
Marcia will be presenting “Fuck Yes!”: Clear Communication in the Bedroom.
Mason Jenkins is an educator from Calgary, Alberta. This is his second year attending Converge Con, and he is expanding his talk, “Fumbling, Failing and Fucking up.” Mason’s experience as an educator ranges from working as a teacher in Calgary’s Public Charter Schools to Calgary Public Schools as a Sexual Health Educator. Jenkins also provides professional development regarding gender and sexual minorities to public service workers. “Fumbling, Failing and Fucking Up” summarizes his misguided journey into masculinity within three major themes: Fumbling (I was a sexist lesbian), Failing (I was a toxic masculine trans man), and Fucking Up (I was an abusive partner.) The focus of his presentation is to identify the manifestation of these harmful behaviours and how rehabilitation, restorative justice and radical self-love helped himself and others of similar histories to liberate their understanding of masculinities.
Mason will be presenting Fumbling, Failing and Fucking Up.
Meagan Lee Filteau
Meagan Lee Filteau is a Sexuality and Consent Educator based in Calgary, Alberta. Meagan is deeply passionate about creating platforms for people to explore sexuality through discussions, workshops, and play parties. Offering harm reduction services and working in the role of Fetish Fantasy Fulfillment Professional are additional ways Meagan chooses to inspire cultural acceptance to diversity.
Her educational background includes psychology, sex and intimacy counselling, and massage therapy. Over the past few years, Meagan has dedicated significant time and energy towards Tantra and Shamanism practices, with the intention of fostering a deeper understanding of self.
Meagan is the co-founder and owner of Eudaimonia Sexuality Seminars, an organisation offering pleasure-based sex education for adults. She is also the founder of a regional Freezerburn sex education theme camp, the Birds and the Beehive. Through her various community roles, Meagan's drive for deeper accountability and compassion has been ignited.
Meagan is presenting Restorative Justice? Transformative Justice? Compassionate Justice? Opening to Love... with Camron Bute.
Hailing from Vancouver, Canada, Melody Anne is an adult sexuality educator, workshop facilitator, sex researcher, feminist, kinkster, and all-around sensual adventurer. A shameless sex geek with a degree in psychology and sexuality studies, she completed sexual health education training from Options for Sexual Health, and juggles her time between coordinating studies at a sex research lab and teaching workshops on kink, sexual health, and pleasure. She has presented at venues across North America including CatalystCon, The Citadel SF, Guelph Sexuality Conference, and the University of British Columbia.
With over eleven years of experience in the BDSM community under her belt, Melody Anne identifies as a queer, pansexual, poly-flexible kinkster, hedonist, and badass bottom. As an educator and advocate for healthy sexuality, Melody Anne believes that accurate information, clear communication, and continuous exploration are key to a life full of sexual celebration! Follow Melody Anne on Twitter @EroticEducator, or on Facebook.
Melody Anne will be presenting
Olivia Cutie is a transgender adult-model based in Vancouver B.C. With years of experience within the kink community, she brings a fun twist to presentations with a focus on consent and mutual enjoyment.
Q is a non-binary queercrip sex worker and performing poet with strong anti-oppression and decriminalization politics. They have been writing, leading, and facilitating discussion-based workshops on disability, access, and ableism formally for three years; informally since they have found communities engaging with those topics. When not performing, facilitating, writing, or imminently dying, Q plays cribbage and crochets black doilies with their roommate.
Reid Mihalko of ReidAboutSex.com helps adults and college students create more self-esteem, self-confidence, and greater health and accountability in their relationships and sex lives using an inspiring mixture of humor, personal stories, keen insight, and comprehensive sexual health information.
In early 2018, some very brave people came forward sharing harms that Reid had caused them. Reid stepped down from teaching and initiated a restorative justice-based accountability process to address his misconduct and make amends if and where possible. The formal, year-long process along with Reid’s apology and resources were shared publicly and can be found at TinyURL.com/reidaccountability. Going forward, Reid’s projects and appearances will include pointing people towards resources and experts on restorative and transformative justice-based accountability processes.
Reid teaches internationally, running workshops and speaking on communication skills and alternative relationship styles. Whether online, onstage, or at a college or university, Reid shares skills and concepts designed to help everyone be the change they want to see in the bedroom.
Reid’s workshops and college lectures have been attended by over 50,000 people from all over the globe. He has appeared in media such as Netflix’ Chelsea Does... with Chelsea Handler, Oprah's Our America With Lisa Ling on OWN, the Emmy award-winning talk show Montel, Dr. Phil's The Doctors on CBS, Bravo's Miss Advised, Fox News, in Newsweek, Seventeen, GQ, The Washington Post, and in thirteen countries and at least seven languages.
Reid is also founder of Sex Geek Summer Camp and Sex Geek Conservatory, which help sex educators learn valuable business skills that allow them to reach more people with greater ease so that they can transform more lives while making a better living as sexperts.
Reid will be presenting:
Sara Blaze is the President of Metro Vancouver Kink, BC's largest not for profit organization focusing on promoting outreach and education on BDSM and Kink. She is also the Chair of Westcoast Bound, MVK's premier annual weekend long event focused on BDSM education. Sara has been interviewed on several occasions, notably with Jill Krop of Global's Unfiltered and has sat on a number of panel discussions geared at demystifying kink and BDSM.
Sara will be presenting Female Domination.
Shadeen Francis, LMFT
Shadeen Francis, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist, professor, and author specializing in sex therapy and social justice. She has been a featured expert on platforms like CBC, Refinery29, the Huffington Post, and the New York Times to share her expertise, and speaks internationally on topics such as sexual self-esteem, intimacy, and relationship negotiation. Shadeen’s belief is that the world is built on the strengths of communities. This worldview has propelled her to focus on underserved populations: ethnic and cultural minorities, the kinky/poly/queer communities, and victims of economic hardship. Her work allows people of all backgrounds to improve their relationships and live in peace and pleasure.
Shadeen will be presenting four sessions:
Dr. Shauna Correia
Dr. Shauna Correia, B. Eng, MDCM, FRCPC, completed her medical training at McGill University and then her residency in psychiatry at Dalhousie University. She now serves as clinical faculty at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and works as a sexual medicine specialist at the BC Centre for Sexual Medicine (BCCSM) where she assesses and treats men, women, gender-diverse folk, and couples/partnerships referred for a wide variety of sexual difficulties and concerns (including sexual dysfunctions, sexual pain syndromes, and paraphilias). She is involved in several research projects involving the optimization of sexual functioning and has a strong interest in sexual medical education. To sum it up: Shauna is super passionate about all things sex, especially about how to help enrich and improve peoples’ sexual experiences.
Outside of work Shauna enjoys travelling, hiking, skiing, and spending time with her amazing dog Seiki, a certified therapy dog.
Dr. Shauna Correia will be presenting Keeping It Wet and Wonderful - A Guide to Sexual Lubricants From A Sex Doctor.
Tasha is a mixed Filipinx who’s proud to be disabled, neurodivergent, queer, polyamorous and dying faster than you. They’re a poet, writer, singer, performance artist and science lover who can often be found curled up in their living room with their cat playing Runescape.
Intersectional mixed-race feminist. Queer relationship anarchist. Educator. Consultant. Volunteer. Mediator. MVK director at large and Accountability Subcommittee member. Restorative justice and accountability blogger. Vancouver Consent Crew Facilitator. Podcast host for Intimate Interactions.
Victor will be presenting Pleasure Bound - What You Need to Know About Rope Bondage with Melody Anne.
Dr. Yoni Alkan
Dr. Yoni Alkan is a sexual educator and a sexual consultant with a Doctorate in Human Sexuality and a Masters in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, he is also a professional cuddler with Cuddlist.com and a Certified Cuddle Party Facilitator in San Francisco.
He is the author of www.thebookofcuddles.com which is an instructional on cuddling that teaches how to better your touch and up your cuddling game. He is also the creator of www.elementsofsexuality.com; a playful, geeky, and educational site about the elements that contribute to our sexuality.
Dr. Yoni Alkan is a global speaker on various Human Sexuality issues since 2011. His expertise are alternative relationships, improving our dating landscape, and touch and consent advocacy.
Dr. Yoni is presenting A Touch of Masculinity. | {
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Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
Question #3: Somebody, one of the first, who taught me an enormous amount about being a decent human asked, “Does talking about rape as a gendered issue which primarily affects self-identified women … reflect the reality of rape in America today, or does this just reinforce the dangerous gender binary and make certain victims invisible?”
Oof. Hardball. And this question is one I have been struggling with a lot lately, so it was eerie to have it lobbed back at me.
If we are talking generally about survivors, like I was on Monday, I always use multiple pronouns. Anyone can be a survivor. All kinds of people are survivors. I see no reason (as a different page on Pandora’s Project lazily does) to use she/her pronouns “for the sake of simplicity.” I could go into a lot of depth about how str8 men aren’t “able” to be assaulted by womyn (the double edge of patriarchy, of course, is that in oppressing womyn violently, men suffer indirect violence too). If a man is assaulted by a man, society immediately imposes homophobic fantasies about “predatory queers” or, even grosser imho, “prison rape.” People whose gender/s doesn’t/don’t fall into those two camps, uh, don’t exist in these narratives.
Sexual assault, in that way, is never solely “a womyn’s issue.” It is certainly a womyn’s issue, but it is also a men’s issue and a non-binary people’s issue, if we’re going to keep divvying it up by gender/s.
And here comes the BUT.
At Swarthmore, in my experience, there is a discrepancy between who perpetrates sexual assault.
Misogyny, plain and simple, fuels a lot of the rape culture here. Womyn’s bodies are too frequently bullied and policed in male-dominated spaces. The old “BUT SOMETIMES WOMYN LIE ABOUT RAPE” card comes up in any discussion about sexual assault almost immediately — and it is almost always a man who plays it. Hell, the “WOMYN LIE” narrative comes up in response to some men simply being challenged publicly on any opinion it is or isn’t relevant to. Open discussions about sexual assault issues are most frequently only attended by womyn. If I sit behind a table consisting mostly or all of men at Sharples, the words “bitch” and “slut” buzz around my ears. Some men act as if they have run and won a marathon if they have participated in one or two or three conversations about rape. Also, most perps I know of are men.
(I am definitely not excluding queer men from my count here because some repeat offenders have been queer dudes. In those cases, misogyny is less of a factor; instead, identity-policing and in-crowd pressure dominate: “All gay men have anal sex, so … ” There are obviously more intersections and influences at work, such as age/class year, but this subject could have its own column.)
I think there are ways to have these conversations without obscuring the facts that womyn also can and do commit sexual assault. Womyn can rape and have raped, here and in the wider world. Non-binary people can and do commit sexual assault. Non-binary people can rape and have raped, here and in the wider world (and masculine non-binary people need to be accountable for and active in not replicating or enabling misogynistic words and behaviors). I believe that Swatties can hold both the knowledge that it is EVERYONE’S responsibility to not rape and that men may more frequently be perps, due to that heady combo of male privilege and misogyny.
So I really don’t think we can afford to lose sight of male privilege and misogyny in these conversations – and those nasty complexes target womyn, specifically (obviously, other people suffer from misogyny and male privilege, but womyn are their direct and intended victims). I also don’t think we can afford to let go the fact that white privilege, heterosexual privilege, cis privilege, able-bodied privileged and class privilege also create discrepancies in who commits sexual assault and rape AND in whom is assaulted and raped.
Acknowledging all of those problems and systems that are at play does not require erasing victims/survivors who are men and/or str8 and/or cis and/or able-bodied and/or class-privileged. It means developing a deeper, more nuanced conversation than mainstream media allows. | {
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by Eric Anthony Grollman and Laurel Westbrook, Sociologists for Trans Justice Co-Chairs
Recently, the United States has witnessed incredible progress toward equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people, as well as the inevitable backlash following such a challenge to the status quo. It is important to note that the most vulnerable segment of the LGBTQ population—trans and non-binary people— has been particularly targeted. The intensification of transphobic (i.e., anti-transgender) discrimination and violence is reflected in record numbers of murders of trans people (especially Black trans women), lack of legal protections against discrimination, and proposed laws to bar trans people from using restrooms and other public facilities that correspond to their gender identity.
Last summer, in the midst of news of historic levels of violence against trans people, we noted that perspectives from psychologists, medical professionals, and lawyers were featured in the media, yet few, if any, sociologists were part of the national conversation about trans and non-binary issues. This omission is troubling considering sociologists have been instrumental in understanding gender as social, rather than biological, and numerous sociologists have published research that could contribute to public understandings of transphobic violence and discrimination.
To propel sociologists into the national conversation about trans issues, we created Sociologists for Trans Justice (S4TJ). Inspired by the work of Judy Lubin on Sociologists for Justice—an initiative that aims to use sociology to promote racial justice—S4TJ organizes for justice for trans and non-binary communities through and within sociology. We launched a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sociologistsfortransjustice) and spread the word of our new group through various ASA section listservs. Fortunately, S4TJ was able to secure a meeting time and location at the 2016 ASA meeting at the last minute, where we were overjoyed to see the room so packed that some attendees had to stand. Clearly, sociologists are committed to working to advance trans justice!
Read the article from July/August 2017 ASA Footnotes | {
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In-Person Q&As with WRITING WITH FIRE Filmmakers Rintu Thomas & Sushmit Ghosh, Co-presented by Brown Girl Doc Mafia
Sunday, November 28, 4:40 show
Moderated by writer/filmmaker Farihah Zaman
Brown Girls Doc Mafia is an initiative advocating for over 4,500 women and non-binary people of color working in the documentary film industry around the world. We fight inequality by building community and sharing resources, nourishing our creative brilliance, demanding access and visibility in creative and professional environments, enriching our community with the knowledge to sustain ourselves financially, and by cutting through oppressive industry structures to advocate for our members.
Rintu Thomas is an award-winning director-producer from India whose work is supported by the Sundance Institute,Chicken & Egg Pictures, IDFA, SFF Film Fund, Doc Society, Tribeca Institute, Finnish Film Foundation and Bertha Foundation, among others. Over the last 10 years, Rintu’s films have been used as advocacy tools for social impact, included in the curriculum of universities and exhibited globally in spaces such as the United Nations Climate Change Conference and The Lincoln Center for Performing Arts – becoming catalysts for new conversations. She is a Sundance and Japan Foundation fellow. Sushmit Ghosh is an award-winning director and cinematographer from India whose work has been supported by the Sundance Institute, Tribeca Institute, Doc Society, SFFFilm Fund, IDFA, The Bertha Foundation, Sorfond and the Finnish Film Foundation, among others. In 2009 Sushmit co-founded Black Ticket Films, a production company invested in the power of storytelling. With a strong eye on social justice stories, Black Ticket Films’award-winning slate of films are being used as advocacy, impact and education tools by institutions across the world. Five years in the making, WRITING WITH FIRE is Rintu Thomas & Sushmit Ghosh’s debut feature documentary. The film has played at over 90 festivals and won 17 international awards. Married for six years Thomas & Ghosh live between New Delhi and the mountains and, in their spare time, enjoy discovering quaint bookshops.
Farihah Zaman is a queer Bangladeshi-American filmmaker, critic, educator, and curator whose award-winning work has screened at Sundance, Toronto, New York Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival, South By Southwest, and more. Her first feature was REMOTE AREA MEDICAL, followed by THIS TIME NEXT YEAR, and the doc-fiction hybrid FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY, as well as several shorts (KOMBIT, NOBODY LOVES ME, AMERICAN CARNAGE, and TO BE QUEEN, which is part of the Emmy-nominated New York Times Op-Doc series From Here to Home). She produced the Sundance-award winning Netflix Original, GHOSTS OF SUGAR LAND, which was shortlisted for 2020 Academy Award nomination. Zaman has written for Reverse Shot, Film Comment, Elle, Huffington Post, Filmmaker Magazine, and AV Club, among others, and her diverse background in the film industry includes roles at independent distributor Magnolia Pictures, IFP, The Flaherty Seminar, and serving as the Production Manager for Laura Poitras-founded Field of Vision, where she worked with artists like Garrett Bradley, Lyric Cabral, Steve Maing, and Ramell Ross on films eventually published at The Atlantic, The New Yorker, Buzzfeed, Vice, Wired and more. Zaman supports other filmmakers and the documentary community through equity driven collectives like Beyond Inclusion and Brown Girls Doc Mafia, where she is the Director of Grants and Programs, and various teaching and mentoring roles over the years at SVA, NYU, Uniondocs, NYFF Critics Academy, University of Iowa, and others. She was the Documentarian in Residence at Bard College 2018-2019, has been named a Top 40 under 40 filmmaker by Doc NYC, and is a member of the documentary branch of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. | {
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Exhibit: May 6 – June 24, 2022
70 Works of Art by 47 Artists
FEATURING THE ART OF — 4sh • Simone Austin • Jennifer Boland • Katee Boyle • Dana Phillips Busatto • Kasmira Cade • Meghan Oonah Clifford • Laura Colussi • Jie Deng • Rayna DeReus • Kristina Ellura • Traci Evadney • Kelly Ewing • Kiara Florez • Eva Fox • Danielle Galietti • Julia Jay Hardman • W.A.S. Hatch • Nanci Hersh • Caryn L. Hetherston • Alida Merina Hodgson • Emie Hughes • Navanjali Kelsey • Christina Kemp • Katherine J. LeCocq • Rosa Leff • Jenna Lucente • Cony Madariaga • Marrin Lee Martinez • Claudine Metrick • Sa-Kreea Mo’nay • Kaitlin Monroe • Cindy Morris • Delona Seserman • Shireen Shaikh • Maia Palmer • Lauren E. Peters • Emily Pellini • Jen Polillo • Lisette Ramos-Taylor • Jocelyn Russell • E. Schwinn • Vanesa Simon • Jennifer Small • Mary Tooley Parker • Megan Walborn • Leah Wells
Friday, May 6, 5-8pm (part of Wilmington Art Loop) featuring musical performance by Rebel Natty, 7-8pm
Serviam Girls Academy Pop-Up Exhibit
Saturday, May 7, 1-4pm
An afternoon exhibit within the exhibit.
This one-day, exhibit-within-an-exhibit will take place this coming Saturday afternoon. Works by 7th and 8th Grade students will be on display on easels throughout the gallery. Complimentary food and beverages! Sponsored by Delaware Nature Society and the DuPont Environmental Education Center.
Friday, June 3, 5-8pm (part of Wilmington Art Loop) featuring musical performance by Sug Daniels, 7-8pm
This open-call exhibition, curated by Jen Hintz Eggers and Rebecca Howell, features emerging female-identifying and non-binary artists participating in group storytelling. Space will be held for the voices and stories of those often relegated to secondary roles in patriarchal society and traditional gallery structures. The story an artist wishes to share and the manner in which they tell it is their choice. These stories will be shown, heard, honored, and revered in this space.
Taking. Up. Space. Initiative
This exhibition is presented in partnership with the Taking. Up. Space. Initiative. Women across the globe are exhibiting artwork in the month of May with the support of the Artist/Mother Network and the Thrive Artist Network. There are over 80 exhibitions taking place this year and “Let Me Tell You” is one of them. See more from this initiative by viewing the #takingupspace2022 hashtag on Instagram.
Location: Chris White Gallery, 701 N. Shipley Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 | {
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Cultural Competence Content Topic Results
The results displayed below have been grouped first by VAWnet Special Collections - containing our most highly valued resources - then by individual related materials. Refine your search by category, types, author and/or publisher using the options provided. Sort by date published, date added, or alphabetically. For assistance in locating a resource, use our online contact form.
Results displayed are grouped first by VAWnet Special Collections then by individual related materials. For assistance in locating a resource, use our online contact form.
This special collection explores the complex experiences of immigrant survivors of domestic violence and includes resources to support their path to safety and justice. Resources are also included to help service providers respond effectively and appropriately. The collection highlights the importance of using a strengths-based approach, recognizing the courage, strength, resilience, and perseverance of immigrants who have sought to establish a new life for themselves and their children in the United States.
Despite the fact that people who identify as trans or non-binary experience violence at alarming rates, there are still significant gaps in services for these survivors of domestic and sexual violence. This collection supports advocates and agencies seeking to provide accessible, sensitive, and relevant services that are inclusive to survivors of all genders.
Gender Based Violence and Intersecting Challenges Impacting Native American & Alaskan Village Communities
The content of this collection has been selected to highlight areas of intersections impeding the safety of Native American families. Each section contains extremely unique impacts regarding sovereignty, policy, historical trauma and cultural impacts of cultural oppression or colonization.
This Special Collection offers information regarding the experiences and needs of individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing and have experienced abuse. The purpose of this collection is to: 1) increase victim advocates' knowledge and understanding of Deaf culture, 2) provide resources to assist helping professionals in direct service work with Deaf individuals, and 3) highlight best practices for addressing domestic and sexual violence in the Deaf community.
This special collection provides a compilation of tools and resources developed specifically by Latin@s and for Latin@s as well as culturally adapted materials (not simply translations) to address domestic violence in Latin@ communities.
This collection highlights the common experiences of immigrant women who are victims of sexual violence, the legal protections and public benefits available, and practices and suggestions for increasing the effectiveness of services provided to immigrant women.
Preventing and Responding to Domestic Violence in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Queer (LGBTQ) Communities
The select resources and research in this Special Collection illustrate the LGBTQ communities’ experiences with domestic violence within the U.S. Resources especially relevant to these individuals, as well as straight allies and professionals, address the issue of domestic violence in LGBTQ communities, relationships, and the impact on society. Guidance for enhancing culturally specific practice and policy initiatives is provided.
This special collection outlines how faith leaders from many different spiritual communities can become effective allies in the prevention and intervention of domestic violence in their communities.
Trauma-Informed Domestic Violence Services: Developing Collaborations and Increasing Access (Part 3 of 3)
The third of a 3-part collection, which also includes Understanding the Framework and Approach (PART 1 of 3), and Building Program Capacity (PART 2 of 3), PART 3 provides resources for building collaboration to ensure that survivors and their children have access to culture-, DV- and trauma-informed mental health and substance abuse services.
The select resources and research in this special collection illustrates the LGBTIQ communities’ experiences with sexual violence within the US. Resources especially relevant to these individuals, as well as straight allies and professionals, address the issue of sexual violence in LGBTIQ communities, relationships, and the impact on society.
- General Material
- Training Tools
The goal of this safety card is to be both a survivor-centered resource and a useful conversation starter for service providers working with Muslim youth who are doing universal education around healthy relationships and assessing for violence. It provides information on healthy relationships and sex, guidance and resources for support, how to help a friend, and cultural and religious factors that play into decision-making.
- General Material
Tools for Transformation: Becoming Accessible, Culturally Responsive, and Trauma-Informed OrganizationsPublisher(s):
The National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health (NCDVTMH) has designed this toolkit for organizations serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their children. Its purpose is to support organizations in their efforts to become more accessible, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed (ACRTI) in their approach and services. | {
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In partnership with:
Write Like A Grrrl
Book now for Ignite, a six-week creative writing course for women and non-binary writers, live online!
You’ll learn how to push through doubt, reduce fear of the blank page, become disciplined in your practice and enjoy writing so much more. You’ll become skilled in characterisation, dialogue, creating dynamic settings and other essential writing techniques.
Whether you want to write short stories, novels, essays or plays, Ignite is for you! Whether you’ve written before or are an absolute beginner, you are very welcome.
With Ignite, you aren’t expected to write for big chunks of time or to share work. You’ll develop your skills and confidence in a small supportive group, joining us via Zoom for live two-hour workshops each week.
If you haven’t written creatively before but always wanted to, or if you haven’t written for some time and want to kick-start your practice, then this low-cost, intensive course is for you.
Hundreds of women and non-binary writers have graduated from Write like a Grrrl and For Books’ Sake’s Ignite courses! Come and join us!
Kerry Ryan is the founder of Write like a Grrrl and has facilitated workshops all over the UK, in Ireland and in St Petersburg and Moscow. She has a Masters in Literary Studies and a PhD in Creative Writing. She has taught Writing for Performance at Spotlight, creative writing for women leaving sex work and domestic abuse survivors and facilitated a year long LGBTQ creative writing course as part of the Arts Council-funded New Queers on the Block. Her work has been featured in various publications including Steer, The Manchester Review, the Kenyon Review and Spilling Ink. Her play Trust was recently performed at the Gulbenkian Theatre.
What Students Say...
“Kerry Ryan’s Write Like a Grrrl workshops were perfectly pitched, informative, inclusive, and empowering. Kerry creates a non-threatening space to explore our ideas and produce valuable work in class. Her teaching style is informal and supportive – exactly what we need.”
“I really enjoyed Kerry’s writing workshops. She created a conducive atmosphere for writing, making it friendly and collaborative. It was also a good mixture of practical exercises and useful advice. I would definitely attend a course run by Kerry again.”
“The course was fantastic. Without Kerry’s great lesson on ‘How to start writing and keep going’ I would not be writing at all, but I have now managed to do so regularly for the last year.”
“Kerry was an incredible tutor! She was supportive, encouraging and fun. I loved the fact that everything was up for discussion and she never talked down to us. She created a really friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The course was also so well structured, really easy to follow and never felt daunting or difficult. She was just brilliant!”
Please use the ‘add to basket’ option above to book your place. An option to pay in two installments is also available: please email us to set up your payment plan.
Write Like A Grrrl
Write like a Grrrl was founded in 2013 by Kerry Ryan. Since Write like a Grrrl began its collaboration with For Books’ Sake in 2014, hundreds of women and non-binary writers across the UK have graduated from our courses. For more information on the history of Write like a Grrrl, see: www.writelikeagrrrl.com | {
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Julian Clark Global Senior Partner
Shipping gets smart
On 25 November 2021, the UK Law Commission published its Advice to the UK Government on how English law currently applies to smart legal contracts. Subsequently, on 16 March 2022, the Law Commission published its report on electronic trade documents, together with draft legislation that would implement its recommendations to allow for the legal recognition of trade documents such as bills of lading and bills of exchange in electronic form.
The Law Commission undertook these projects at the request of the UK Government, which sought recommendations on potential reform of English law to allow for emerging technology. The Law Commission also intends to publish consultation papers on digital assets and cryptocurrency, as well as conflict of laws and emerging technology, during the course of 2022.
These projects reflect the increasing awareness at international, governmental, legal and industry levels that technological advances require consideration of whether the law needs to be reformed and how industry working practices might be adapted to accommodate emerging technology.
This paper considers the potential for using smart legal contracts in shipping and highlights some of the benefits and the challenges.
Distributed ledger technology (DLT) allows a database of information, records and transactions to be shared and managed simultaneously by an entire network of participants across multiple locations. All participants within a network can have their own identical copy of the ledger. Any changes to the ledger are reflected in all copies. The security and accuracy of the assets stored in the ledger are maintained cryptographically through the use of ‘keys’ and signatures to control who can do what within the shared ledger. Entries can also be updated by one, some or all of the participants, according to rules agreed by the network. The ledger, therefore, provides an accurate record of all the information contained on the blockchain, and of the history and validity of all the transactions.
Blockchain is a form of DLT. Data is stored in “blocks” that contain data relating to a transaction. These blocks are then “chained” together to form a record of the information, hence the name "blockchain”.
While traditional databases are centralised in one place and administered by a single person or body, a blockchain database decentralises all the data in the database so that there is no single master copy of the database, no single authority who authorises changes to it and consequently no possibility of anyone altering the data without the consent of all the participants.
In some instances, information may be required from sources that are not on the blockchain. These sources are referred to as “oracles”. Oracles usually push information onto the blockchain at predetermined times. In shipping, oracles can for example provide weather data or information on location of shipment.
As well as being a database that records transactions, blockchain can also process transactions, by acting as a platform on which code can be executed: so-called smart contracts.
What is a smart legal contract?
A smart legal contract is a legally binding contract in which some or all of the contractual obligations are defined in and/or performed automatically by a computer program. Automating a contractual obligation enables contractual performance to occur without the need for human intervention.
Smart contracts usually follow a conditional logic with specific and objective inputs i.e. if X occurs, then Y results. In other words, a trigger event causes the smart contract to execute automatically without the need for intermediary involvement.To use an example given by the Law Commission by way of illustration:
“Alice (as seller of the goods) is bound to load the goods onto a ship nominated by Bob (as buyer of the goods). It is a term of the contract that Bob must nominate the ship suitable for loading by a certain date. Once Alice receives notification of the relevant ship for loading, Alice will load the goods onto the ship. Upon submission of proof that the goods have been loaded, the smart legal contract will automatically transfer the purchase price to Alice.”
As a further example, parties to a smart sales contract can set it up so that when the seller’s bank confirms receipt of payment by logging it on the blockchain, the system will automatically send a notification to the seller’s distribution arm to ship the goods to the buyer.
There are three main types of smart legal contract, as identified by the Law Commission:
- Natural language contract in which some or all of the contractual obligations are performed automatically by computer code. The code does not define the parties’ obligations but is merely a tool that the parties use to perform the obligations. This is currently the most commonly used form of smart legal contract.
- Hybrid contract in which some contractual obligations are defined in natural language and others are defined by computer code. Some or all of the contractual obligations are performed automatically by computer code. Natural language terms can be incorporated in an accompanying natural language agreement, or in natural language comments included in the computer code.
- Contract recorded solely in code, in which all the contractual obligations are defined in, and performed automatically by, computer code. There is no natural language version of the agreement.
Law Commission’s Advice on smart contracts
In summary, the Law Commission concluded that English law, as it currently stands, can accommodate the use of smart legal contracts without the need for statutory law reform. Current legal principles can apply to smart legal contracts just as they do to traditional contracts, with a few exceptions (e.g. deeds). English common law is sufficiently flexible that it can be developed by the English courts in order to accommodate any novel legal and factual scenarios that arise in relation to smart legal contracts.
In the Law Commission’s view, any potential uncertainties and novel issues arising in relation to specific contracts could be addressed by the parties including express terms dealing with them. The Law Commission also stated that contracts recorded solely in code were those most likely to prove challenging from a contract law perspective, in terms of determining whether and when a binding legal agreement is formed and how that contract can be interpreted. However, it also commented that solely code smart legal contracts are likely to be rare in practice because commercial contracts are usually too nuanced to be reduced solely to code. On the other hand, the most common form smart contract – natural language contract with automatic performance by code – does not raise any novel legal issues in terms of contract formation and interpretation.
The Law Commission also expressed the view that the statutory definition of “writing” was wide enough to accommodate emerging technologies so that an “in writing” requirement could in principle be satisfied. A digital signature is also capable of satisfying a statutory requirement for a signature in most cases.
The Law Commission recognised that complicated cross-border jurisdictional issues can arise in view of the multipartite/multi-jurisdictional nature of most smart legal contracts and recommends that parties entering into a smart legal contract expressly include a governing law and jurisdiction provision in the contract. It also acknowledged, however, that the application of existing private international law rules to smart legal contracts is complex and it will, therefore, consider conflict of laws and emerging technologies in a separate project.
Law Commission’s Report on electronic trade documents
In its report, the Law Commission noted that international trade is worth around £1.266 trillion to the UK. Global container shipping is estimated to generate billions of paper documents a year and digitalising trade documents could generate £25 billion in economic growth by 2024 and free up £224 billion in efficiency savings. However, outdated processes and market practices mean that nearly all documentation in international trade transactions is in paper form even though the development of technologies such as DLT make electronic trade increasingly feasible.
In part, the industry remains traditionally committed to paper documentation because English law does not currently permit an electronic document to be possessed, with the result that it does not have the same legal status as a paper document. Paper trade documents that are capable of possession can bring with them legal rights in relation to bailment, possessory security interests and wrongful interference with goods (conversion). The lawful holder (possessor) of a paper bill of lading is entitled to claim delivery of the cargo and has title to sue the carrier for loss of or damage to the goods.
The report, therefore, makes recommendations that are intended to enable trade documents in electronic form to be used in the same way as their paper counterparts. The Law Commission has also produced draft legislation setting out certain gateway criteria that a document in electronic form must satisfy in order to qualify as an electronic trade document that is capable of being possessed for these purposes. The Law Commission intends that electronic trade documents that satisfy the stated criteria and can be possessed should be treated in law in the same way as paper trade documents. This means that the law that currently applies to paper documents would also apply to electronic trade documents and there would be no need for two separate legal regimes with equivalent effects.
The Law Commission focused its report on a limited category of trade documents, although the scope of its recommendations was not limited to them. These documents are: bills of exchange; promissory notes; bills of lading; ship’s delivery orders; warehouse receipts; mate’s receipts; marine insurance policies; and cargo insurance certificates.
The report also acknowledges that even if English law is reformed to allow for the legal recognition of electronic trade documents, other jurisdictions might take a different view. Given the cross-border nature of international trade transactions, the Law Commission recommends allowing for change of medium from electronic to paper documentation or vice versa.
Following on from this report, the UK Government announced that a draft bill to legally recognise electronic trade documents was part of its legislative agenda for 2022/2023.
Some ongoing initiatives
There are currently a number of software platforms being used for international trade (include trade finance) transactions that allow multiple parties to securely exchange documents and conclude agreements with each other. In essence, the parties enter into a contract with each other whereby they agree that transferring a trade document in electronic form will put the transferee in a similar position to that of the holder of the equivalent paper trade document.
In broad terms, there are two types of system, DLT-based and non-DLT based. As indicated above, DLT-based electronic documents can be transferred between participants without the need for a central authority, with transfers recorded on a secure ledger which is for all practical purposes permanent. The data recorded on the ledger is said to be “immutable”. TradeLens is an example of a blockchain (i.e. DLT) system providing a digital shipping platform to which some of the world’s largest carriers have signed up.
Other, non-DLT, systems have a central registry and are administered centrally. Users sign up for accounts which are accessed with a password or other security credentials. Documents with unique identifiers are allocated to a particular user account upon issue or transfer, and the relevant user can hold or transfer the document. BoxTech’s Global Container Database, for example, allows container owners/operators to register their entire container fleets in a central data repository, making key container technical details instantly available to trading partners and other users in the supply chain. MSC, CMA CGM and Maersk are all said to be members of BoxTech.
Since 2011, the International Group of P & I Clubs has approved a total of seven electronic bill of lading systems, although uptake by members reportedly remains limited. Further, and as recognised by the Law Commission, the contractual frameworks provided by these private systems will only bind participants and not third parties (whereas e.g. the rights of a paper bill of lading holder will be effective against non-parties). The enforceability of these contractual frameworks also remains untested in the English courts.
In 2017, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) adopted a Model Law on Electronic Transfer Records (MLETR), aimed at enabling the legal use of electronic transferable records both domestically and across borders. MLETR was designed to either be adopted as is or to be used as a basis for domestic legislatures to enact their own equivalent laws. However, only a handful of jurisdictions have so far done so, among them Bahrain and Singapore.
The key advantages of smart legal contracts have been much discussed. In essence, these have been articulated as costs and efficiency savings, environmental benefits as well as enhanced security.
However, there are also concerns that training on and implementation of the relevant technology will incur significant costs, at least during the transitional phase. There are additionally heightened cyber security concerns associated with the digitalisation of contracts. Parties will, therefore, need to think carefully about risk allocation for cyber hacks, as well as system (or oracle) failures if and when they enter into smart contracts.
Governing law and jurisdiction issues are also key. The use of global and decentralised platforms for implementing smart legal contracts means that there are likely to be divergent views and potential uncertainty as to applicable law and jurisdiction in relation to a digital transaction, unless the parties have expressly provided for this in the agreement. As already highlighted also, different jurisdictions may recognise smart contract to varying extents. It is, therefore, to be hoped that the Law Commission’s planned review of conflict of laws and emerging technology will shed useful light on potential solutions to anticipated problems.
Smart contracts are most suited to straightforward contractual transactions such as ensuring payment upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or imposing financial penalties if certain objective contractual conditions are not satisfied. These are actions that do not require human input and are, therefore, easy to automate. Blockchain is best suited to rights and obligations that are binary in nature. Where things start to get more complicated, or where a contract is ambiguous or requires flexibility, then automated processes are not ideal.
Smart contracts are not as flexible as traditional contracts because they do not allow in the same way for non-quantifiable clauses and conditions or for unforeseen events. Bespoke clauses will, therefore, be more complicated to incorporate or implement effectively and must, in any event, be agreed upon from the outset because of the very restricted scope for interfering with the blockchain. Any subsequent changes to a contract e.g. to allow for force majeure events or new sanctions regulations, may need a new contract to be executed, amending or replacing the previous one.
This inability to easily modify or indeed to terminate a contract by consent is a downside of using blockchain technology to execute smart contracts. Amending a smart contract may prove complex and involve much higher transaction costs than a traditional text contract. There may also be an increased margin of error, meaning that any amendments do not accurately reflect the modifications that the parties intended to implement.
The self-executing nature of smart contracts also means that the parties may not be able to resolve any issues that arise in a commercial way and through negotiations. By way of illustration, the parties to a sale of goods contract may have incorporated a late payment provision in their contract. In a traditional form contract, where one party is in breach of an obligation, the counterparty may choose not to enforce the relevant penalty for various commercial considerations. So if payment is made late in respect of one delivery, the seller can decide to excuse the breach by not terminating or omitting to charge a late payment fee or additional interest. A smart contract will not necessarily allow an ad hoc decision of this type and late payment might automatically trigger a financial penalty or suspension of a customer’s account. Similarly with late or part performance, there may be no flexibility within the smart contract to allow for the parties’ broader commercial dealings.
In a charterparty context, the parties might have expressly incorporated a standard form or individual bespoke clause from the outset dealing e.g. with late or non-payment of hire (such as the BIMCO Non-Payment of Hire Clause for Time Charterparties 2006). However, the owners might wish to renegotiate the consequences if they wish to preserve a potentially valuable relationship with the charterers but this may not be so straightforward with a smart contract. Automated processes might not, therefore, reflect the way in which commercial relationships operate in the business world.
Under English law, so long as the parties have agreed the essential terms of a contract and intend to be legally bound by their agreement, they can leave ancillary terms to be decided later on. Smart contracts limit the scope for leaving certain issues to be resolved at a later stage in order to allow the parties flexibility to tailor their contractual arrangements according to future developments or to allow for unanticipated events. They may also not allow for contractual provisions that require a value human judgment to decide whether certain conditions have been fulfilled (e.g. material adverse change, best endeavours, reasonable endeavours, force majeure etc.) or where a non-binary choice is required.
On the other hand, smart contracts can reduce the risk of non-compliance. A party that threatens not to perform its contractual obligations (non-delivery, non-payment etc.) in an attempt to pressure the counterparty to renegotiate more favourable terms may find itself prevented from doing so because contractual obligations execute automatically. There is also a lot to be said for contracts that do not allow for ambiguous provisions that often lead to disputes as to their interpretation and effect and result in costly litigation. It may indeed prove a useful discipline for contracting parties to give proper thought at the outset to their express contractual rights and obligations, rather than leaving important matters undecided.
The role of the courts
The English courts are expected to play a key role in resolving disputes related to smart legal contracts. English law and jurisdiction are the preferred choice in international commercial contracts, including shipping contracts, and express English law and jurisdiction clauses are likely to be incorporated into many smart contracts.
The Law Commission is confident that the English courts, applying English common law principles and referring to past English cases, will be able to resolve any legal issues that arise out of or in relation to smart contracts similarly to the way in which they have traditionally done with paper contracts.
Certainly, natural language contracts with automatic performance by code are not expected to raise any unusual problems. However, in relation to hybrid or solely code contracts, novel issues may arise in relation e.g. to determining an intention to create legal relations or interpreting the terms of the smart contract. The Law Commission envisages scenarios where the Court may have to assess the nature and the purpose of the platform on which the code is deployed and the nature of the transactions executed by the code.
The Court will also need to consider how to apply the usual principles of contractual construction to coded terms. The English courts take an objective approach to contractual interpretation i.e. they do not ask what the parties themselves meant by the language they used, but what the language would have meant to a reasonable person, equipped with all the background knowledge available to the parties at the time the contract was made.
The Law Commission proposes the “reasonable coder” test i.e. what a person with knowledge and understanding of code would understand the coded term to mean. An expert coder would explain the effect of certain combinations of words and give a reasoned opinion as to what the code appeared to instruct the computer to do. This would provide the Court with an insight as to what the parties intended the code to do, regardless of the computer’s ultimate performance.
Parties would nonetheless be well advised to set out a natural language explanation of how they intend the code to operate and to expressly provide that the natural language explanation forms part of the contract.
There may also be practical difficulties in e.g. rectifying coded terms where these are recorded on an immutable DLT system. One potential solution is for a revised code to be deployed on the blockchain. Where the code has already executed, it may be too late for rectification. The Court may then need to award a different remedy e.g. damages. In situations where rescission would have been the appropriate remedy, a second transaction may have to be entered on the blockchain, reversing the first.
In relation to electronic trade documents specifically, the courts will need to consider how to adapt certain legal concepts applicable to paper trade documents to the digital form. The Law Commission’s draft legislation is silent on issues such as what constitutes possession, timing of transfer of possession, delivery, rejection and acceptance etc. Instead, it was considered appropriate to leave it to the courts to fit existing common law principles around digital subject matter.
Taking a non-interventionist approach, the Law Commission has not recommended any particular technology or computer system. Therefore, it will be for the courts to decide whether a system used by the parties is sufficiently reliable to satisfy the criteria for a legally valid electronic trade document. The English courts have previously considered what constitutes a reliable computer system (for example, in the Post Office Horizon litigation) and so there is precedent for such an exercise.
Some jurisdictional issues
The Law Commission highlighted some jurisdictional issues that could arise in the context of smart legal contracts in the absence of an express choice of English jurisdiction by the parties.
Firstly, the physical location of a defendant may not always be clear because a party may enter into a smart legal contract on a DLT system without knowing the identity of the counterparty. This makes it difficult to found English court jurisdiction based on the defendant’s presence within the jurisdiction.
Secondly, the contract’s place of formation may be relevant to determining jurisdiction. Different elements of a smart legal contract may be dispersed across a variety of jurisdictions and a number of legal systems may potentially be engaged, making it difficult to decide where the contract was concluded.
Thirdly, could third party coders be regarded as agents of one or both contracting parties for the purposes of concluding a contract on their behalf? The Law Commission thinks that this could be the case, depending on the exact nature of the relationship.
Fourthly, if the smart contract provides expressly for applicable law, this could be a factor in determining the appropriate court jurisdiction. In the absence of a choice of law clause, the Court will need to determine with which legal system the contract is most significantly connected. This is a fact-sensitive inquiry and novel considerations arising in the context of smart legal contracts could involve the location of any private key or the domicile of the central administrator if the relevant ledger is permissioned.
Fifthly, smart legal contracts may present unique challenges when seeking to found jurisdiction based on the place where the contract was breached. Identifying the geographical location of a contractual breach may also be harder where the contractual obligations concern a digital asset rather than a physical asset with a clear real world location.
The Law Commission acknowledged that the issue of digital location was amongst the most significant jurisdictional challenges in relation to emerging technology and indicated that it would carefully consider this problem as part of the conflict of laws and emerging technology consultation.
For the shipping and trade communities specifically, the next key development will be the enactment of UK legislation recognising the legal validity of electronic trade documents. It is anticipated that this will happen within the next legislative year and, if it does, it could likely lead the way for other jurisdictions to follow suit.
Additionally, the Law Commission’s forthcoming consultation on conflict of laws and emerging technology will be of great interest to the wider legal and commercial sectors. Jurisdictional issues can prove a real obstacle to the favourable resolution of disputes. Post-Brexit, the UK can no longer rely on the EU jurisdictional regime under the recast Brussels Regulation or the Lugano Convention, which operates on the basis of mutual reciprocity between EU states. There are now also a wider range of circumstances in which leave to serve proceedings out of the jurisdiction will be required. Nonetheless, the English courts are well used to dealing with tricky jurisdictional disputes and parties can minimise jurisdictional disputes by including express law and jurisdiction clauses in their smart contracts.
Blockchain is not a passing trend in the global maritime industry. Key players in the global shipping industry have for some years been cooperating with each other, and with advanced technology providers, to find digital solutions appropriate for their shipping transactions.
One such initiative is TradeLens, mentioned above, the blockchain-enabled digital shipping platform jointly developed by Maersk and IBM that went live in 2018. Among others MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd and ONE have joined TradeLens, which enables participants to digitally connect, share information and collaborate across the shipping supply chain ecosystem. TradeLenseBL provides a secure and streamlined process for the issue, transfer and surrender of original bills of lading. A number of banks and other financial institutions have also joined TradeLens for the opportunities it offers them in digitalising trade finance transactions.
The Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN), incorporated in Hong Kong in 2019, is another blockchain shipping network that aims to digitalise trade. Founding shareholders include Hapag-Lloyd, COSCO Shipping Lines and OOCL. GSBN initiatives have so far included a blockchain cargo release solution involving an electronic bill of lading, as well as collaboration with a Hong Kong trade finance network, eTradeConnect.
Also worth mentioning is the Blockfreight blockchain platform aimed at the freight and logistics sectors, the key features of which include smart contracts and a tradeable token to pay for transactions fees that is secured by the bitcoin blockchain.
These are just some of the many industry initiatives currently underway that are creating an increasingly digitalised shipping sector. Clearly, the future of shipping is smart and digital.
新闻 / Thélem’s the breaks: recovering English solicitors’ fees in the Scottish Courts
10-08-2022 / 航运
Kirkwood v. Thélem Assurances CSOH 53 A recent Outer House Opinion has provided welcome clarity on the recovery of English solicitors’ fees in the Scottish Courts.
新闻 / Court finds extra-contractual counterclaims fell within scope of arbitration agreement
02-08-2022 / 航运
Sea Master Special Maritime Enterprise & another v. Arab Bank (Switzerland) Ltd (Sea Master) EWHC 1953 (Comm) This bill of lading dispute raised issues as to whether the Bank financing the purchase of a cargo, and the holder of a switch bill of lading for the cargo, was a party to the arbitration agreement incorporated into the switch bill and, if so, whether certain counterclaims brought by the Owners came within the scope of that arbitration agreement. The Court agreed with the tribunal’s findings that, once the Court had decided that the Bank was a party to the arbitration agreement, then the counterclaims for reasonable remuneration and quantum meruit came within the ambit of the arbitration agreement, being claims “arising out of or in connection” with the bill of lading contract.
新闻 / Party offered reasonably satisfactory security following collision obliged to accept it
20-07-2022 / 航运
MV Pacific Pearl Co Ltd v. Osios David Shipping Inc (Panamax Alexander) EWCA Civ 798 The Court of Appeal has confirmed that a party to ASG 2, the standard form Collision Jurisdiction Agreement, is obliged to accept reasonable security once it is offered and cannot choose to refuse that security and seek alternative or better security by arresting a ship. In such circumstances, there is no right to an arrest or any justification for it.
新闻 / Rosita Lau, MH calls for China businesses to opt for Hong Kong arbitration in their contracts
15-07-2022 / 航运
In an interview published this morning (14 July) in The Hong Kong Maritime Hub, Ince Partner Rosita Lau, MH calls for Chinese businesses to opt for Hong Kong arbitration in their contracts, initiative that requires attention of officials from the highest level.
新闻 / Court finds Covid-19 restrictions did not constitute force majeure under MOA
13-07-2022 / 航运
NKD Maritime Limited v. Bart Maritime (No 2) Inc (Shagang Giant) EWHC 1615 (Comm) The Court has construed a force majeure clause and considered whether Buyers validly terminated a contract for the sale of a vessel on the basis that Covid-19 lockdown restrictions prevented Sellers from transferring title in the Vessel.
新闻 / Carrier Under CMR Successful in Limiting Liability for Consignee’s Losses
14-06-2022 / 航运
Paul Knapfield v. C.A.R.S. Ltd & others EWHC 1437 (Comm) Disputes under the Carriage of Goods by Road Act 1965, which incorporates the Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road 1956 (CMR), do not come up very often. This decision is, therefore, useful in illustrating when and how the CMR applies. In this case, the Court found that the CMR limit of liability applied to the claimant’s claim, with the result that his losses far exceeded the amount he could ultimately recover from the carrier. | {
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"token_count": 6017,
"url": "https://www.incegd.com/index.php/zh-hans/node/4838"
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Chuck Bruce is a senior executive with broad-based experience in finance, operations, and corporate governance. Currently the inaugural CEO of the Public Service Pension Plan Corporation in Newfoundland and Labrador, he was previously the CEO of the Nova Scotia Public Service Long Term Disability Plan Trust Fund (NSPS LTD).
With an extensive background in the fields of corporate finance, strategy and governance, he is former Chair of the Nova Scotia chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Mr. Bruce has been a member of the MHCC Advisory Council, providing strategic advice and expertise to the MHCC leadership, while serving as an external Ambassador at MHCC events.
Mr. Bruce holds the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA), Chartered Director (C. Dir) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) professional designations.
Watch Mr. Bruce’s introductory message.
Anne-Marie Hourigan is a retired Judge of the Ontario Court of Justice where she presided exclusively over criminal matters for 12 years. Prior to her appointment to the Court, she practised criminal law in Toronto, both as a defence counsel and as a prosecutor for the Attorney-General of Canada.Over the course of her 30 years in the Canadian criminal justice system, Ms. Hourigan worked with thousands of people affected by mental illness and came to appreciate the direct and repeated co-relation between the gaps in their mental health care and their appearance before the Courts. She retired early from the Bench so she could bring awareness to this issue. Since her retirement, Ms. Hourigan has lectured extensively about the intersection of mental illness and criminal behaviour. She has also spoken about the need to embed mental health literacy into the education system in order to increase awareness, reduce stigma and promote early intervention and treatment. Ms. Hourigan has served on the Boards of various organizations dedicated to furthering the mental health of Canadians, including The Institute of Families for Child & Youth Mental Health, Vancouver and the Eva Rothwell Centre, Hamilton. She also has lived experience supporting family members living with mental illness. Ms. Hourigan holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts from Trinity College, University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Laws from Queen’s University and a Master of Laws (Criminal) from Osgoode Hall Law School. She was awarded the Prime Minister of Canada’s Certificate of Excellence for Public Service and the Ontario Court of Justice Distinguished Service Medal in 2014 and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.
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Armaghan (Army) is currently a medical student at the University of British Columbia. He has long been passionate about advocating for youth mental health and providing peer support to help ensure that these resources are available and readily accessible across Canada. He also recognizes the importance of educating primary care physicians and other health-care providers on how to become better mental health allies.
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Mike is a CPA with an Executive MBA and holds the ICD.D designation.
Initially trained as a mathematician specializing in information technologies, André Delorme has been a psychiatrist for over 25 years. He works within an assertive community treatment team at Granby Hospital’s Integrated Centre for Health and Social Services (CIUSSS) in Estrie.
Dr. Delorme also has extensive experience as an administrator. After serving as head of the CIUSSS psychiatry department and director of professional and hospital services, he became head of psychiatry at the CHUM Research Centre, and then director of mental health and director general of mental health at the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services. He is also on the Frayme board of directors.
In 2017, he was selected as one of 150 CAMH Difference Makers in mental health.
New Glasgow, Nova Scotia
Cheryl Fraser brings over 35 years of experience in the public and private sectors. Currently Chief Talent Officer and Vice President, Communications with Crombie REIT, she has held senior executive roles with the Canada Revenue Agency, Correctional Service of Canada, Treasury Board Secretariat, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
A graduate of Dalhousie University, holding a Masters of Environmental Studies and a Bachelor of Science, Ms. Fraser is President of the John Howard Society of Nova Scotia and the Vice Chair of the YMCA of Pictou County.
She has an ICD.D designation and received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for her commitment to public service.
Ms. Fraser’s passions are music and the arts, and in providing mental health awareness and support.
Watch Ms. Fraser’s introductory message.
Kellie Garrett is passionate about helping others reach their potential. She is an executive coach, speaker and consultant in the areas of leadership, internal culture change, employee engagement, governance and business strategy.
She coaches individuals, teams and boards on trust, constructive conflict, accountability and high performance. A marketing communication expert, Garrett was granted the titles of Master Communicator and Fellow by the International Association of Business Communicators. She is a Certified Daring Way Facilitator, qualified to teach Dr. Brené Brown’s work on courage, vulnerability and shame. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur in 2013, Garrett was a Senior VP at Farm Credit Canada, responsible for business strategy, enterprise risk management, the customer experience, and reputation management.
Three generations of Garrett’s family have lived with depression and anxiety, and she speaks about her own experience to encourage others to seek help and to reduce stigma. An ardent volunteer, Garrett received the Red Cross Humanitarian Award (SK) in 2014, primarily for her work in the area of autism awareness and Dress for Success.
Sarika has extensive experience working with leaders and staff on creating and sustaining mentally healthy workforces. She currently leads Deloitte Canada’s wellness and benefits program. She formally pioneered the development of a national workplace mental health program at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), National Office called the Workforce Mental Health Collaborative.
She currently is a technical committee member for the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.
Sarika has held previous board positions including board director for Ontario Workplace Health Coalition, Links2Care and vice chair for the Canadian Mental Health Association (Halton Branch).
She holds a Master of Science in Health Services Administration and a Bachelor of Psychology.
Vancouver, British Columbia
An experienced leader in the field of the design and implementation of health services for Indigenous peoples, Richard Jock is currently Interim Chief Executive Officer of the First Nations Health Authority in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Mr. Jock brings a wealth of experience gained at the community, provincial and national levels while working with the Assembly of First Nations, Health Canada, The Mohawk Council of Akwasasne, Norway House Health Services Incorporated and as Director of the First Nations Health Commission.
Mr. Jock holds a Bachelor of Arts from the State University of New York (Plattsburg) and a Master of Education from St. Lawrence University, Canton, New York.
Watch Mr. Jock’s introductory message.
Deputy Minister of Health Canada
Before joining the Department, Dr. Lucas served as Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) since January 2017.
As Senior Associate Deputy Minister (Climate Change) from June 2016 to January 2017, Dr. Lucas led ECCC activities in support of the development and adoption of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
Before joining ECCC, Dr. Lucas was Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Plans and Consultations and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Privy Council Office. From 2013 to 2014, he was Assistant Secretary, Economic and Regional Development Policy, at the Privy Council Office.
As Assistant Deputy Minister, Science and Policy Integration at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) from 2009 to 2013, he was responsible for strategic policy development related to energy, mineral and forest resources, climate change and clean energy and international and intergovernmental relations. Prior to that, from 2007 to 2009, he was Assistant Deputy Minister, Minerals and Metals Sector, at NRCan, where he provided leadership on innovation, green mining and corporate social responsibility.
Dr. Lucas was a Director General in the Health Products and Food Branch (HPFB) at Health Canada from 2003 to 2007, Senior Director at NRCan for Science, Innovation, Regional and Aboriginal Affairs from 2000 to 2003, and Director of Policy Planning and Coordination in the Earth Sciences Sector at NRCan from 1998 to 2000.
Dr. Lucas started his career as a research scientist at the Geological Survey of Canada in 1988. He has a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Geological Engineering from Queen's University and a Ph.D. in structural geology and tectonics from Brown University.
St. Lazare, Manitoba
Carole Shankaruk is a Registered Social Worker and certified counsellor. She is currently the division school social worker for the Mountain View School Division, and will transition to the newly created role of Indigenous Education Facilitator in the 2018-19 academic year.
Carole is also Chair of the Board for the neighbouring division, Park West School Division. Carole is of Metis descent and the great-great-great-great granddaughter of Metis leader Cuthbert Grant.
Carole possesses strong and innovative leadership skills and has extensive experience within diverse sectors including: health care, child welfare, education and private business. Carole’s career trajectory included President of the Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children and an appointment as board member of the Child Welfare Intake Agency All Nations Response Unit. A small business owner and operator in the French Metis community of St. Lazare, Manitoba, Carole also assists her husband with the management of a cattle and grain farm.
A mother of two and a first-time grandparent, Carole seeks a balanced, holistic lifestyle by following her cultural beliefs, focusing on all aspects of self: spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical.
Donovan’s unique governance and policy background includes being elected to a town council as a teenager in rural and remote Newfoundland and Labrador, serving as vice-chair of the technical committee mandated to develop the world’s first national standard on post-secondary student mental health, and advising the government of Canada as an inaugural member of the Prime Minister’s Youth Council.
Believing in the need to bring the local into conversation with the global, Donovan has advanced international co-operation on key issues at the United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Youth 7 summit in Tokyo, Japan (counterpart of the G7 summit), and the International Association for Youth Mental Health Conference in Brisbane, Australia.
Donovan believes firmly in the need for individuals with lived experience to have a strong voice at decision-making tables. They have spoken openly about their experience as a queer and non-binary person, in rural and remote Canada and as a person living with mental illness, including through the 2019-20 Faces of Mental Illness campaign.
Donovan is currently the health communication and knowledge translation coordinator at the University of Toronto’s Health and Wellness Centre. | {
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On a sunny Saturday morning in one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods (Fulton Market in the West Loop), passersby may have assumed the long line of mostly millennial-aged women winding out of one of the area’s newly refurbished warehouses were awaiting entrance to the latest brunch destination—or perhaps a sample sale at an exclusive boutique. But the hundreds of women (and a few men and non-binary folk) gathered patiently outside the gorgeously designed, soon-to-open Chicago outpost of international women’s club The Wing were there to garner wisdom from one of the most accomplished and dynamic women in public service. Valerie Jarrett, the longest-serving senior advisor to President Obama, held court in her hometown on Saturday in celebration of her new memoir, Finding My Voice: My Journey to The West Wing and the Path Forward, published by Viking on April 2.
While the world knows her as a political dynamo, Chicagoans recognize Jarrett as a member of a dynamic local family dynasty. Her grandfather, Robert Rochon Taylor, was the first black chairman of the board of the Chicago Housing Authority and namesake of the city’s Robert Taylor Homes public housing projects, which stood from 1961 to 2007 (one of Jarrett’s great-grandfathers, Robert Robinson Taylor, was the country’s first accredited African American architect and first black student at MIT). Her father, James E. Bowman, was a pathologist, geneticist and professor at the University of Chicago while her mother, Barbara Taylor Bowman, was an early childhood education pioneer and co-founder of the acclaimed Erikson Institute.
The now 90-year-old Bowman was proudly front row on Saturday as her only child—flanked by a library wall filled with books about women, by women, for women—discussed her own contribution to the genre. Both the atmosphere and the incredibly diverse crowd were buoyant as the frank, funny and unbelievably relatable Jarrett spoke with The Wing’s Senior Director of Impact, Giovanna Gray Lockhart.
For those who need a refresher on Jarrett’s political career: prior to becoming what the New York Times called “the ultimate Obama insider,” she built her career in public service in the administrations of Chicago mayors Harold Washington (the first black mayor of America’s third largest city) and Richard Daley. While Daley’s deputy chief of staff, in 1991, she hired a dynamic young attorney named Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, then engaged to fellow attorney Barack Obama.
After serving in both the public and private sectors, including as commissioner of Chicago’s department of planning and development and chairwoman of the Chicago Transit Board, Jarrett joined Obama’s administration in 2008, co-chairing his transition team as well as overseeing the offices of public engagement and intergovernmental affairs. Notably, Jarrett also chaired the White House Council on Women and Girls and the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault. Among her still-growing list of accolades in the years since the Obama presidency, Jarrett has become co-chair of the United State of Women and chair of the board of When We All Vote.
It’s a remarkable life in public service that predates most of our current presidential candidates (as well as the current president himself). And while, no, she won’t be tossing her hat into the ring in 2020 (as she was asked during her appearance at The Wing), listening to Jarrett’s common sense and compassionate approaches to workplace parity, self care and even motherhood, you almost wish she would.
In fact, Jarrett told The Wing’s audience it was her experiences as a young working mom that informed her views on policy. A now-outspoken woman who recalls being the painfully shy child of very accomplished parents, like many of us, Jarrett grew up subscribing to the idea of the “10-year plan.” And like many of us have experienced, Jarrett’s life didn’t exactly go according to that plan.
Following the prescribed path to a successful law career didn’t lead to happiness; neither did a perfect-on-paper marriage. Jarrett says she found her path—and her voice—by deviating from the plan into single parenthood and public service, largely motivated by the desire to raise her daughter with a strong example.
“Laura was a great motivator for me … I really wanted to do something that would make her proud of me. … and I began to appreciate that just because my marriage failed, that didn’t make me a failure.”
Jarrett shared that her experience—divorced, but nevertheless well supported financially and by surrounding family—made her aware of her own privilege, even as a single parent. Arguably, it was her sense of wanting to value and use that privilege in service of others that led her to leave a lucrative career in the private sector to a career in civic engagement.
“I think we have to realize that we are going to stumble and fall,” Jarrett said. “I could afford to take risks. And I think for those of us who are in positions to take risks, if you don’t take a big enough risk where you don’t fail from time to time, then you’re not going to enjoy the magic of the adventure of life.”
“And I will say to you that it is scary,” she continued. “And it’s not that you should be fearless—fear is fine, it’s a human emotion. The question is do you have the courage to overcome it, and to realize that life is going to be full of multiple chapters. … most failures you can bounce back from, and you have to have that strength inside of you—and if you don’t have it, you can find it; you can develop it. And it just gets easier with time.”
Jarrett also spoke to the perfectionist syndrome that plagues so many women—especially mothers, who frequently feel that they must do it all to have it all.
“I thought I should do everything myself,” she admitted, advising that playing superwoman is a losing game. “It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to say it’s hard,” she said. “You pretend, not just to yourself, but to your friends, and that’s such a disservice [to each other] … the fact of the matter is just that it is all hard.”
Obviously, some of the harder aspects of being a working woman are issues like the gender pay gap, lack of workplace flexibility and the “bro culture” that plagues many male-dominated fields. The former was an issue Jarrett helped Obama confront head-on in his administration, encouraging a “lean in” culture in the White House well before Sheryl Sandberg brought the popular phrase to zeitgeist in 2013.
Jarrett says in addressing all three issues, “this is where the speaking up became important. ... There’s power in numbers, but we have to speak up, even when we’re alone.”
Speaking of power in numbers, it’s impossible to speak to a political insider like Jarrett without acknowledging the record five women and counting running for president in 2020. While Jarrett said it’s too early for her to have picked a favorite, the legendary advisor had some advice for the candidates:
“Be authentic. Be who you are. Let people in … because you have to earn their trust; they’re not going to just give it to you lightly, because you have a lot of control over their lives,” she said.
“I think you’ve gotta recognize that nobody’s going to hand this to you; you have to go out and earn it, and you have to explain not only why your vision for America is right, but how you are competent to execute that vision. And I think it is that level of trust that the American people deserve,” she added.
But despite (or perhaps, because of) her decades-long experience in politics, Jarrett implored us all to not rely on government to determine our standards or our culture. She believes at the heart of our American matter is a lack of empathy—whether addressing the wage gap, differences in identity, or confronting sexual abuse and misconduct. “Change doesn’t actually start in Washington,” she said. “Sustainable change begins with you.”
“There isn’t a silver bullet. It’s a change in the culture. And that culture change only happens when the people who are involved make up their minds that they are going to behave different,” Jarrett continued. “You don’t have to wait for somebody to tell you what to do coming from Washington. The change begins with you, and you have many more ideas about solutions than you may think.”
The Glow Up tip: Valerie Jarrett’s Finding My Voice: My Journey to The West Wing and the Path Forward is available now. The Wing’s Chicago location opens on Thursday, April 11 on the 2nd floor of 811 W Fulton Market. Memberships start at $185 per month; you can apply to any of their locations on their website. | {
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Reboots of ’80s and ’90s sitcoms have pervaded streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu. “Full House,” “One Day At A Time” and “Will and Grace” are just a few of the shows that received such treatment, which includes higher production values, louder laugh tracks and several layers of HD makeup.
Having grown up on these sitcoms, I was excited about the trend at first. How would these shows tackle huge topics in America right now? School shootings, political divides and radical changes in internet culture have made navigating everyday conversation overwhelming and confusing. How would these reboots show that?
The thing is, most of them didn’t. “Fuller House,” while edgier and more racially diverse than its 90s original, seems to have completely missed the #MeToo movement. In their world, everyone is basically good at heart, and a vet’s salary is enough to heat that enormous house, a reality not seen by a large chunk of Americans.
Because of this, my expectations were low for the “Roseanne” reboot. I worried that even the nostalgic, and now-famous afghan hanging from the back of the couch wouldn’t be enough to cover up the unavoidable truth: the world is simply different now, and maybe sitcoms don’t have a place in it.
The pilot episode changed my mind on that. The Connor household is as relevant today as it was in 1995.
When we open on them, Dan and Roseanne, now aged, are dividing antidepressants from previous prescriptions because neither can afford to go to a doctor. They nearly lost their home in the 2008 stock market crash, Roseanne has to drive Uber to pay the bills and retirement has now become a pipe dream. After divorcing David, Darlene is forced to move back home with her two kids, the rebellious Harris and Mark, a non-binary child.
Early on, we find out the reason Aunt Jackie is absent from the opening scene is that she and Roseanne haven’t spoken since the 2016 election. Throughout the pilot, Darlene’s return forces them to have an uncomfortable reunion. In an unusual display of vulnerability, Roseanne apologizes for making her Democratic sister feel less-than because of politics.
This scene, while short, reflects a conversation going on in millions of American households today. With the election having been so tense, many of us have had the realization recently that we cannot boycott our racist grandparents’ birthdays forever. We cannot avoid the reality that we are stuck with these people, for better or worse, awkward post-Trump discussions with them are inevitable.
Beyond politics, “Roseanne’s” inclusion of a non-binary grandchild does not feel forced or gimmicky. While other shows may have been scared to comment on this relatively modern identity, “Roseanne” tackles it head-on. The Connor grandparents, while loving, just don’t quite “get it.” This is most expertly shown in a scene where Dan tries to bond with Mark in the kitchen.
Mark: “I like your nail polish, Grandpa!”
Dan: “That’s drywall, son.”
While it never tries to be sensitive, the strength of “Roseanne’s” comedy is that it always punches up. The punchline is not the fact that Mark is non-binary; the punchline is the fact that none of us quite knows what to make of that.
No matter what someone thinks of Roseanne Barr herself, the show is important and relevant, even 20 years later. Its viewership is a testament to this, as it held strong in the 18-to-49 demographic that TV networks aim for. According to the Hollywood Reporter, the back-to-back pilot episodes attracted over 25 million viewers in its first week on air. The majority of these viewers come from the Midwestern states, a demographic that is often overlooked on TV.
As of now, it looks like Roseanne, in all of her opinionated, no-nonsense, tactless splendor is here to stay, and maybe that’s something America needs right now. | {
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If you’re like most students I know, chances are you take the summer off from school. People do this for various reasons: to save money, to plan for fall, because certain classes aren’t offered or because they need to mentally recover from the winter semester. It’s really that last reason that seems to be common amongst many. What better way to wind down than to catch movies over the summer, without the burden of homework, group projects or tests? Over the summer I managed to catch several movies, with varying degrees of enjoyment. Here is a quick rundown of some of those movies I saw:
John Wick 3
Release date: May 17, 2019
Should you watch it: Absolutely. Who doesn’t love Keanu Reeves?
Thanks to its popularity, this series hardly needs any introduction. John Wick has become synonymous with a higher standard of action movies. On the surface we’ve got another great entry to the franchise. The action is bigger, the lore is expanded and Keanu Reeve’s commitment to the character is unwavering. Lawrence Fishbourne returns, who is always great fun, and Halle Berry is added to the cast as an assassin with a pair of well-trained attack dogs.
What stands out the most in this film however are the latest villains. Actor and martial artist Mark Dacascos shake things up as the villainous Zero, who equals John Wick in skill. Zero’s number two enforcers are played by Cecep Arif Rahman and Yayan Ruhian, both martial artists from the well-respected Raid films (directed by Gareth Evans). Arguably the most surprising addition is the Adjudicator, a powerful force in the world of assassins. The Adjudicator is a non-binary character, which is played by non-binary actress Asia Kate Dillon. Despite this series being so action heavy it still has time to be surprisingly inclusive. I can only imagine how the fourth entry in this series hopes to top this one.
Release date: June 14, 2019
Should you watch it: Maybe. It depends on your taste.
I was surprised to hear that another Shaft movie was being made, this time in a modern context. It’s essentially a loose continuation of the movie Shaft from year 2000, which itself was a loose continuation of the original Shaft trilogy and TV series from the 1970s. Despite this connection (and confusing redundant title), you really don’t need to watch any of the earlier films to enjoy this one. But all that aside, this film is an action comedy that stars Samuel L. Jackson as detective Shaft and Jessie T. Usher as his funny but less than capable son, who happens to be an FBI agent. On the surface this is an inoffensive film that homages past action films while making jokes at Millennial tropes. A common running gag is old school methods vs new school technology.
Your overall enjoyment of this film depends on how much you like Jackson as an actor. This film has some moments, but it feels a bit undercooked. For me, as a fan of the original trilogy, this film feels way too modern and way too unsure of what its identity is. Because the landscape of films has changed so much this movie was never going to be a return to form for this series- unless they did a full-blown period piece, which this film is not. The cameo from Richard Roundtree, who played the original Shaft, was a fun element added late into movie, but it wasn’t enough to elevate this film beyond a passive viewing. I have one personal gripe with this film I cannot forgive: they played up a cool villain (played by Isaach de Bankolé) and did absolutely nothing with him. Nothing is more lukewarm than wasted potential.
Toy Story 4
Release date: June 21, 2019
Should you watch it: Of course. Your childhood depends on it.
I considered Toy Story 3’s ending to be epic and nearly perfect. So initially, I questioned if a fourth entry even needed to happen. But it managed to surprise me in a few ways.
Instead of trying to go big like its predecessor, Toy Story 4 scales things back to tell a more personal story. While most fan favorite characters return, a batch of newcomers help keep this entry fresh, which is always fun. I know this entry’s existence is offensive to certain die-hard Toy Story fans, and I can understand why those select few have essentially committed to never seeing it. But I promise that this film’s intimate approach works well, and it doesn’t take anything away from Toy Story 3’s ending.
The biggest update is the evolution of Bo Peep, played brilliantly by Annie Potts, from small cameo to full blown supporting character, which works well in service to the narrative, and helps tie up some loose ends. While I can’t say this entry is the best in the series- it’s very debatable- it is easily the most surprising. Admittingly, I got a bit emotional by the end, because one of the franchises’ most beloved characters got a well-earned ending to their narrative arc. I don’t know how the series will continue beyond this entry because there is only so much you can squeeze out of any series. But if we never see another Toy Story again, they left the franchise in a good place.
Release date: June 21, 2019
Should you watch it: Don’t bother, trailers only set up unreasonable expectations.
In short, Anna is a hot mess. Flashbacks in films can be important to relay relevant information. Usually, it’s an infrequent film making device. But in Anna, flashbacks are the rule and the only thing this accomplishes is bogging down the narrative with slow pacing and overloads of exposition. This film goes for a more European style of filmmaking, with sex and espionage at the forefront. This wouldn’t be so bad if it wasn’t always going for pure exploitation, rather than playing to its strengths. Even Cillian Murphy pulling off a convincing American accent is more of a distraction than an achievement.
The film does have some good action scenes, particularly one that takes place in a restaurant, which homages the John Wick style of action. But unlike John Wick, Anna doesn’t have any substance beyond its sex and violence. Director Luc Besson has covered this territory before with his 1990 film La Femme Nikita, which was later followed by a TV series of the same and an updated American remake TV series, simply titled Nikita. Either of these are much better than the slog that Anna turned out to be.
*Note: This is an opinion piece. All opinions stated here are those of the author. | {
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This is Taylor Mason, a character from the tv series Billions. Even though I’ve never even seen the show, Taylor is important to me. Let me tell you why.
I once had this conversation with a game developer who said, paraphrased, “I just don’t understand why we need to make LGBTQ stuff a thing? Like, if it’s a game that’s about war, why should a charater’s sexuality matter at all? Or if they’re trans. Why make a big deal of it?”
There was nothing whiny or disingenuous about the question; he simply didn’t understand. And I struggled to explain, then, why representation matters. I struggled to explain it because at that point, I hadn’t really experienced what it’s like to actually feel represented, and what an impact that can have.
Some time later, an ad showed up in my facebook feed, featuring Taylor Mason. It wasn’t the photo above, but one similar to it. There was nothing about it suggesting the person in the photo was anything but male. I’m so used to everyone on tv being one of two genders that when I first saw it, I thought I was looking at a young man with a rather unusual hair style (considering the setting is wall street). And maybe a week later, another ad showed up, featuring a photo more like this one:
That body shape. The hips, the hint of breasts. But there’s not a smidge of femininity about this person! My heart skipped a beat. Could it be they’re trans? I had to find out. A quick google:
Not only is Taylor Mason transgender, they’re non-binary. And, they’re played by an actor who also identifies as non-binary!
Holy fucking hell. There exists a character in a tv show — a tv show that isn’t about LGBTQ issues or people — that shares my hair style, some aspects of my dress sense, and most importantly, who also is non-binary.
Now, I haven’t watched Billions. The series doesn’t interest me at all. So I’ve no idea who Taylor is. Maybe they’re a shitty person, or a shitty representation of non-binary people. Maybe their portrayal is hugely problematic for a number of reasons. I have no idea, and honestly, I don’t care. I’m happy simply knowing that someone decided to include a non-binary character in this series. That they know people like me exist.
It feels incredibly validating, in a way I’ve never quite experienced before. For most of my life I have (somewhat reluctantly) identified as female, and sure, it’s nice to see female characters in roles where you don’t normally see them. But this is a whole different thing. People who’ve watched the show and then learn of my gender identity can think “Oh, like Taylor in Billions!” People who know me and then watch the show can think, “Oh, like Alex!”
Representation tells those of us who diverge from the norm that others are aware we exist. It makes us feel validated, less invisible. Hell, it can even help us realise we exist. In a world where you grow up being told you can either be red or blue, how are you supposed to figure out on your own that you’re a kind of greenish purple?
I can’t help but wonder: If I had watched a show like Billions in my teens — if, say, Ally McBeal (which my family followed religiously) had featured a non-binary character — would I perhaps have discovered and embraced my lack of gender identity much sooner? Instead of having to go this long, meandering and sometimes painful (though sometimes also triumphant) route of first having to claim femininity as my own, only then feeling secure enough to eschew it.
I hope more characters like Taylor start appearing in pop culture. Until then, I’ll do my part by being as visible as I can. | {
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Not to put too fine a point on it, but our first installment of Queer IRL — the Queer in the Kitchen gallery — was without a doubt the best part of January 2017, and it was ALL YOUR FAULT. You showed up to be seen for exactly who you are, in the heart of your home at that precise moment in time. You made a thing! A fairly sprawling gallery of nearly 200 AS readers just being yourselves all across the world. It was beautiful and real as fuck and it’s time to do another one! Will anything be as magical as its first iteration? Let’s find out.
February’s Gallery Theme: Queer in the Bedroom
This is a gallery of bedrooms that belong to queer people!
I thought about waxing poetic re: the bedrooms of our youth, or how bedrooms tend to be our safest caves and proving grounds, but I want you to do that for me. Send me your pictures and your stories — tell us what it means to be a queer in the bedroom right now.
1. Take a high quality picture of you in your bedroom. This is doable with most smartphones, so don’t worry if you don’t have a fancy camera. You know what else works and is super fun? Disposable cameras. Just saying. I am just saying to you. That disposable cameras work. And are fun. Ok.
Photos should be between 1024-3024 pixels wide so they’ll look nice on a full screen. Please don’t send anything smaller than 1024 pixels wide.
2. Send your picture and info to me at [email protected] with the subject QUEER BEDROOM. Please include the following (technically optional but highly desired) details!
A sentence or two describing how you feel about your room, the last thing you think of before falling asleep/first thing you think of after waking up, or your favorite item or space in the room.
I reserve the right to edit your sentence/s for length or spelling errors. (I’m a pretty good editor though, so.) Your photo will appear in a full screen gallery on Autostraddle.com — the main site, not A+ — and might be used on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr) to promote the gallery. If you don’t want your photo to appear on social media, please make a note of that with your submission. You reserve full rights to your photo. Photos will not be used to promote anything other than this exact gallery, and will not be used in any other future post.
Deadline: February 20
1. What is a bedroom?
A bedroom is a space, no matter how big or small or narrow or bright or outdoors or in or covered in cat hair, where you eventually sleep.
2. What is a queer person?
Queer people are lesbians, bisexuals, queer and otherwise-identified women, trans and non-binary folks.
3. Do you want us to be in the photo?
I do, yes! I’d love that. You don’t necessarily have to be in it, but I think all your other queer person-reader friends would appreciate seeing another queer person staring back at them from their electronic screen situation. I know I do. Please be in your photo!!
4. What about my dog or cat or bunny or iguana? Should my they be in the photo?
5. My bedroom is messy and weird and I really don’t like my windows and it probably doesn’t look like yours at all. Should I still do this?
Yes you should! The perfection is in the fact that it’s yours.
6. How sexy can we get here? Also tell me about your nudity policy.
We shan’t show nipples, genitalia, or simulated or actual sex. Sex toys or nude art throughout your room are totally permitted.
Deadline: February 20
Leave your questions in the comments and if you have an idea for a future theme, let me know! [email protected] | {
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Feeling angry? Why a spoonful of sugar sweetens your mood
The next time you are nearing the end of your tether, consider some time out with a chocolate bar.
High sugar levels can help control aggression and prevent loss of temper, researchers have found.
Their study compared the behaviour of sugar-starved volunteers with those who had been given a sweet drink, and concluded the latter were less inclined to snap.
The simple sugar glucose is thought to stem aggressive behaviour by providing more self-control
Researchers believe the effect is caused by glucose, a simple sugar found in the bloodstream that provides energy for the brain.
Study co-author Professor Brad Bushman from Ohio State University said: 'Avoiding aggressive impulses takes self control, and self control takes a lot of energy. Glucose provides that energy in the brain.
'Drinking sweetened lemonade helped provide the short-term energy needed to avoid lashing out at others.'
Professor Bushman said the finding is more than just a medical curiosity. In two published papers, he and his colleagues did several studies showing that people who have trouble metabolizing, or using, glucose in their bodies show more evidence of aggression and less willingness to forgive others.
The problem is that the number of people who have trouble metabolizing glucose - mainly those with diabetes - is rising rapidly.
'Diabetes may not only harm yourself - it is bad for society,' Professor Bushman said.
'The healthy metabolism of glucose may contribute to a more peaceful society by providing people with a higher level of energy for self-control.'
Anger issues? Sugar can calm the nerves say scientists
In the study, which appears online in the journal Aggressive Behavior, 62 college students fasted for three hours to reduce glucose instability.
They were told they were going to participate in a taste-test study, and then have their reaction times evaluated in a computerised test against an opponent.
Half of the participants were given lemonade sweetened with sugar, while the others were given lemonade with a sugar substitute.
After waiting eight minutes to allow the glucose to be absorbed in their bloodstream, the participants took part in the reaction test.
Participants were told they and an unseen partner would press a button as fast as possible in 25 trials, and whoever was slower would receive a blast of white noise through their headphones.
At the beginning of each trial, participants set the level of noise their partner would receive if they were slower. The noise was rated on a scale of 1 to 10 - from 60 decibels to 105 decibels (about the same volume as a smoke alarm).
In actuality, each participant won 12 of the 25 trials (randomly determined).
Aggression was measured by the noise intensity participants chose on the first trial - before they were provoked by their partner.
Results showed that participants who drank the lemonade sweetened with sugar behaved less aggressively than those who drank lemonade with a sugar substitute.
Those who drank the sugar-sweetened beverage chose a noise level averaging 4.8 out of 10, while those with the sugar substitute averaged 6.06.
'To our knowledge, this is the first study to find that boosting glucose levels can reduce actual aggressive behavior,' Professor Bushman said.
'To be sure, consuming sugar should not be considered a panacea for curbing aggression. But the results do suggest that people who reportedly "snap" with aggression may need some way to boost their mental energy, so they can override their aggressive impulses.'
The findings were corroborated in another series of studies, published recently in the journal Personality and Individual Differences.
In that paper, Professor Bushman and colleagues from the University of Kentucky had participants complete a commonly used and well-accepted checklist that measures the number and severity of Type 2 diabetes symptoms.
These include numbness in the feet, shortness of breath at night, and overall sense of fatigue. In three separate studies, the same participants completed different measures of their willingness to forgive others.
On all three measures, people with higher levels of diabetic symptoms were less likely to forgive others for their transgressions.
'These studies are more evidence that diabetic symptoms may cause difficulty in how people relate to each other on a day-to-day basis,' Professor Bushman said.
'It's not an excuse – diabetes does not mean people have to act aggressively, but it may shed some light on why these behaviors occur."
'With the rate of diabetes increasing worldwide, it is something that should concern all of us.'
To see the scientific paper click here
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Following is the text of my talk at ALAN on Nov 19, 2018. It touches on an event that happened at a panel at NCTE on Saturday. Video is available here.
Thank you. I am honored to be here with you today.
I feel a strong need to start off by talking about an experience I had just this weekend at NCTE. Since we’re talking about acting up and speaking out in YA literature, I would be remiss to not start by talking about an experience in which I had to act up and speak out at a major YA literature conference.
As some of you may know and some of you may not, I I had a challenging experience on Saturday at a panel that was supposed to be about disproportionately banned and challenged books. Most of the panelists came to talk about that topic, but one of the panelists did not.
I’m not going to name this panelist. I don’t care enough about her to elevate her by doing so. If you want or need to know, you can probably look it up. Later. It was section L.06, and she wasn’t me, she wasn’t Michael Cart, she wasn’t Sabina Kahn, she wasn’t Joan Kaywell, and she wasn’t Tillie Walden.
She was allegedly there to talk about challenges to Latino texts for young adults, but when asked she passed on that, claiming that Latinos were not disproportionately challenged at all, that in fact the major concerns she had were for the marginalized groups in this country: straight people, Catholics, and the police.
Her comments included the following:
-LGBTQ people make up only 3 to 4 percent of the population, so why do we need all these books for so few kids?
-Books like THE HATE U GIVE paint cops in a bad light, and are dangerous. She’s a cop.
-Parents have a moral responsibility to protect kids from LGBTQ texts.
-Gays are mentally ill and that the average gay man only lives to 39.
By the way, on that last fact: I pushed back and said that sounded wrong and if not wrong, probably taken from the middle of the AIDS epidemic. She assured me it was modern. Someone from the audience fact checked her. It came from The Family Research Council, considered a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, from 1994, the height of the epidemic, and had long since been debunked as a myth.
She did this all, she brayed about the tragic, horrible deaths of so many young gay men, with a confident smile on her face.
So: Homophobia is not new to me; I’ve been dealing with it all my life. But I definitely didn’t expect to encounter it here. At NCTE. In a panel discussion. By a panelist. My shield was down, and I got, as they say, triggered.
I was the first to counter her. First nicely, trying to engage her in dialogue, and then, when it became clear that she wasn’t there for a conversation, not as nicely. I was angry. My hands were shaking up there on the stage.
I was not alone in my anger. The other panelists were also angry. So was, it seemed, just about the entire audience, who had come to hear about strategies to overcome the disproportionate challenges to these books.
I’ll tell you: I’ve spent a lot of the last couple years looking for ways to connect with people who feel differently than me. Because a part of me still believes that we are all the same. That we are all connected.
Saturday I found my edge. I found the place where I will not–cannot–equivocate.
When it comes to young people who are marginalized, whether for reasons of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, ability… there is no conversation to be had about whether their lives have as much value as the lives of other kids. I won’t engage in that conversation. I will not give credence to an “other side” of this argument, because there is none.
I know first-hand what these books mean to LGBTQ kids. I’ve received so many messages—emails, tweets, Facebook messages—from young people who wanted me to know what my books did for them. That they ingested them, they clung to them, that these novels carried them in difficult times. I assume all LGBTQ YA authors have similar stories. The fact is that books are powerfully different than movies or TV shows. They feel more personal, and the connection is quite powerful. So yes, these books save lives.
And those who wish to restrict young people’s access to those books? They put young lives at risk.
This is a health and safety issue. According to the CDC, LGB youth are five times as likely to have attempted suicide compared to heterosexual youth. For trans youth, the number is far higher. More than half of transgender male teens who participated in a study by the American Society of Pediatrics reported attempting suicide, as did nearly 30 percent of transgender female teens. Among non-binary youth, the number was over 40 percent.
When this idea was brought up, this panelist inferred it was because LGBTQ people are mentally ill.
She is wrong. The reason the numbers are so high are because of the bigotry of people like this panelist, of people who tell LGBTQ youth that their lives are less important than the lives of straight kids.
I know this too well. My life almost ended at 27. And it was a lifetime of being called a fag and hearing that I was dirty and sinful and wrong and perverted that led me to that place. And when I woke up in the hospital after my stomach was pumped, I knew that I could not spend the rest of my life running away from the pain. That I had to face it head on. Which I try to do but even at 48, believe me. The urge to not feel is so great, because sometimes that rib crush is unbearable.
Words like hers are powerful and destructive and harmful. There were no high school kids in attendance, but there were some young (college aged) people, and I saw the looks on their faces. The hurt. The dismay. I wanted to hug each of them and say, No. This is not about you. This is about this woman and her stuff. Not about you and yours.
Another panelist, debut author Sabina Kahn, is the parent of a bisexual child, and she spoke powerfully from that capacity. I thought about how I don’t have kids, and then, quickly, I realized that I most certainly do.
LGBTQ youth are my kids. And I’m a fierce papa bear and you do not come after LGBTQ youth. Let’s widen that. You do not come after marginalized kids. They, too, are my children. We’re adults, and this panelist is free to believe whatever bullshit she wants to about me. Where I draw the line is when she advocates against my children.
So.. um. Enough of that. The Music of What Happens. Okay.
Interestingly, this is NOT a book about homophobia. It’s a love story between two boys who are openly gay, who are comfortably out. That’s a modern tale, and despite all the people like that panelist out there, it’s not an incorrect one. It’s just … complicated. We live in multiple worlds at the same time, it seems, these days.
This is a book that couldn’t have been written 10 years ago, because it wouldn’t have made sense to have kids NOT dealing with coming out. But now, thank god, we can have some books that are just about the lives of LGBTQ kids.
The Music of What Happens is the story of Max and Jordan, two 17-year-old boys from Mesa, Arizona, who fall in love one summer while working on Jordan’s family food truck. They are very different boys.
Max, who is half Mexican, half Irish, is a dude bro who plays baseball and loves video games.
Jordan is a more delicate white boy who writes poetry.
Both boys have secrets. Max had an unwanted sexual experience the night before the book starts, but he’s been taught by his father that men don’t get upset. He believes he’s a superhero, and that his smile is his superpower. He smiles through adversity, and always has. Jordan’s mother has just told him that if the family is about to lose their home if they can’t pay three months of back mortgage. Jordan, however, has inherited his mother’s belief that he is powerless and worthless.
This book is about the music of what happens when our desire for the thing we need most–love, in this case–butts up against the agreements we’ve made about who we are supposed to be.
It’s about the cultural messages we give boys about who they have to be. How they have to be. And in particular, how those messages fall on gay and bisexual boys.
I got a lot of interesting messages growing up. From my stepfather, who was my hero and the man I considered to be the ideal man, I learned to hide my pain. When I was 11, we were playing this game we used to play where he spun me around by my feet. It was fun until my head thwacked against an armoir in our living room. It hurt so much, and I started crying, but when I looked up at him for love and support, he said, “Pain doesn’t mean that much to me. Buck up.”
I got other messages, too, once I came out. I was told—and this one is interesting—that it was okay to be gay, so long as I was masculine. I was also told that men don’t take things into their bodies. This may have been meant physically, but it has an emotional corollary, doesn’t it?
The message I got there was about making sure I wasn’t vulnerable.
This book is about the search for wholeness in a world where we’ve internalized messages that keep us from being whole. Because I wasn’t whole, due to these messages. I could not allow myself to be open, because I had been taught to fear my own feelings. To fear anything that my stepfather deemed as not masculine.
This is the basis for what we’ve come to understand as “toxic masculinity”. It’s the basis for every school shooting that happens. It’s the basis for most of society’s ills.
I wrote this book in 2017, right after we elected the worst possible role model for boys and put him in the white house.
The election elevated to the highest office in this country a man who is utterly unwilling to look at himself and see his own shadows. A man who is entirely unaccountable, unwilling to take responsibility, unable to be authentic, who dives into anger as it is the only emotion he allows himself. Because he’s a “real man.” He denies the existence of all other emotions.
But a new kind of masculinity is emerging.
One that is balanced. Based on being accountable, emotionally intelligent, connected to others, authentic.
One that understands that there’s power in vulnerability, and that there are things to learn about how and when to put up our shield and brandish our sword, and when to take it down.
In fact, the definitions I just implicitly made about what true masculinity is, are also the definitions for true femininity, in my opinion. The men’s movement and the women’s movement are full allies. The vision is the creation of a world in which men and women and all people honor each other, work in harmony.
And I hope this book, The Music of What Happens, can be a small part of that. | {
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Because it’s not possible for all people in the transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive community to find a local gender-affirming surgeon, our practice works with patients across the nation and around the world. If you’re an out-of-town patient considering surgery or other services we provide , we are happy to help you plan a stay to visit us in the San Francisco Bay Area.
We want to ensure you have access to reasonably priced lodging while you’re in the Bay Area. In addition to affordable housing during your stay, it’s equally important to find trans and nonbinary sensitive environments to ensure the most comfortable and holistic recovery.
Below, you will find sections that outline the ideal travel timeline, how to book flights and arrange transportation, information about low-cost lodging accommodations, a pre-travel checklist, and a bonus section on how to turn your Bay Area surgery visit into a vacation.
Most pre-operative steps can be completed virtually, butall traveling patients will need to arrive in San Francisco 2-3 days in advance of their surgery. Breast augmentation and chest reconstruction top surgery are outpatient procedures, which means you will need to have appropriate accommodations in place that same day. Gender confirming facial surgery patients usually stay in the surgery center overnight for one night after surgery, but will need accommodations for the rest of their visit.
We ask that all top surgery (both chest reconstruction and breast augmentation) patients stay in town for 6 days after surgery so that we can effectively monitor their progress and address any side effects, complications, or concerns in person. The total amount of time that a patient is likely to spend in the Bay Area around the time of surgery is 8-9 days.
For similar reasons, facial surgery patients will need to stay in town 7-10 days after surgery before they will be cleared to travel home, meaning that patients should expect to be in San Francisco for 12-15 days total.
Some airlines have special guidelines regarding patients who have recently undergone surgery. Our surgeons routinely provide a TSA letter so that you can get through security without any trouble with regard to arm position limitations.
When booking flights for surgery, search for flights on Southwest Airlines first if you have an airport nearby that they serve. They sometimes offer ‘getaway deals’, where flights are at a much lower rate than other commercial companies. Their flights won’t come up on Google search, so you’d need to visit their website independently to see what their rates are.
We also recommend the use of websites that compare the prices of different airlines. Examples of these websites include (but are not limited to) Kayak, Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz.
When you’re looking for flights, be sure to look at Oakland International Airport as well as San Francisco Airport. The prices for airplane tickets vary and sometimes you can get a better deal at one airport over the other. The Bay Area Rapid Transport (BART) train runs from both airports and can drop you off at designated BART stations. Wherever your lodging will be (see “Lodging Accommodations” section below), ensuring that it’s near a BART station will cut down on your transportation costs while you’re in the area.
Wherever you’re staying in the Bay Area, you can utilize the BART either to get to our office or St. Francis Hospital by getting off at the ‘Montgomery BART station’ in Downtown Union Square. Prior to your arrival in the Bay Area, you’ll want to download a transportation app on your smartphone such as Lyft or Uber. You can utilize Lyft and Uber to get you to BART stations if you’re not staying within walking distance of one. It is recommended that folks take a Lyft or Uber with whomever is accompanying them after their surgery. Utilizing the BART and transportation apps will cut down your costs tremendously.
A note on Lyft and Uber: they are “rideshare apps,” which means that drivers sign up with these companies and use their own cars to pick up passengers utilizing their services. For new users, the app will walk you through instructions for how to get set up and order a ride. To find the cheapest ride, it is recommended to download both apps, as they often have different prices for the same travel distance. Both apps also usually offer a promotion for new users. If you have never “ordered” a Lyft or Uber, search online for new user promotions to get the best deal while traveling for surgery.
We understand that surgery is a big expenditure both emotionally and financially. Below is an extensive list of affordable options to choose from. We realize all identities differ and so do your accommodation preferences. Due to the large queer, trans, and non-binary community in the Bay Area, there is a possibility that you will be able to find a place to stay in a shared community for free or discounted cost fairly close to The Gender Confirmation Center. The closer your accommodations are to a BART station, the cheaper your trip will be. The longest acceptable travel time to and from our office is 45 minutes to one hour. Please refer to our “Transportation” section above to map out the cheapest and/or most convenient route from your lodging to our offices.
Below are three Facebook groups you can use to find community-based accommodations. When using Facebook groups you will need to follow some simple steps. Your first step would be to request access to the group, which should be done about a few weeks before travel to ensure that you get accepted within enough time to make your accommodations. The second step would be to introduce yourself with your name, pronouns, and need. Example: “My name is Kai, I use he/him pronouns and I’m having top surgery in San Francisco on January 4th. I’m looking for a place to stay from January 2nd (when I fly in) until January 12th. If anyone is able to help out, please let me know. Thank you!” Make sure to check your post/request frequently and follow-up with any folks who might be open to hosting you.
Often, staying outside San Francisco is cheaper than finding lodging with city limits. We recommend that patients traveling from out of town view the BART map to find an option that is close to a BART station to minimize spending on transportation. Again, anywhere within an hour journey from our offices is a suitable option for lodging.
Options for staying outside San Francisco include but are not limited to:
Learn more about surgery timelines for breast augmentation, chest reconstruction top surgery, and gender confirming facial surgery. Here is a brief list of things you can do in advance of your procedure.
Ask questions – Our practice offers virtual consultations using a combination of phone calls or video conferencing and photographs. Before undertaking any additional planning, make sure that you feel comfortable with all of the details. We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your surgery.
Discuss all current medications – Certain prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements will hinder healing and should be discontinued prior to surgery. Our staff will work with your physician to determine which medications should be temporarily discontinued.
Complete all required preoperative evaluations, blood tests, and CT scans – Most patients do not need any lab tests before surgery. However, if you have medical conditions that warrant further evaluation, we will be in touch about which tests need to be done. In most cases, you should be able to complete these labs from a distance in your home city. Gender confirming facial surgery patients will need a CT scan of their face in their home city before surgery.
Book travel and accommodations – We have done our best to outline the best ways to book travel and accommodations for patients coming from outside the Bay Area for surgery. If you have further questions, see our contact information below.
Let’s Make A Vacation Out of It!
Our office is close to popular destinations if you’re traveling to San Francisco and would like to make a vacation out of this experience! Please see below for a list of popular destinations to check out while you’re here and how far they are from our office. However, remember that after surgery you cannot walk faster than a slow stroll, and you can’t exert yourself with stairs or hill climbing for 3 weeks after surgery:
Contact Our Office for Additional Travel Details
A lot of planning and preparation go into surgical procedures. If you have additional questions, or if you are feeling overwhelmed with all the necessary planning details, our staff would be happy to assist you. Please feel free to contact our office at (415) 780-1515 or at [email protected]. | {
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