Breaking News: Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Announces Sponsorship of Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend

Los Angeles, CA - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, is joining forces with Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend, the nation’s largest lesbian event. HRC is coming onboard as a full sponsor at the upcoming 23^rd Anniversary of the largest lesbian event in the world April 3-7, 2013 in Palm Springs, CA.

Embracing the “party with a purpose” philosophy, for more than two decades, Mariah Hanson, founder and promoter of Club Skirts presents The Dinah, has relentlessly travailed to support LGBT rights.

And this year will be no different. Continuing her activist efforts to raise awareness among the LGBT community about marriage and equality rights, Hanson, who sat on the Board of Equality California for numerous years, is putting the focus on HRC to rally more lesbians around their endeavor.

As a national sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign’s Her HRC program, HRC will be hosting a special soiree during the weekend, giving Dinah goers the opportunity to meet, mingle, network and celebrate with their favorite celebrities and “celesbians”, and get involved with the HRC team in attendance.

HRC will also be present throughout the entire weekend with an information kiosk at all pool parties offering pamphlets and other literature to all attendees who wish to learn more about HRC’s efforts and/or join the movement.

In addition, Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend will be hosting for the first time ever a world-class Celebrity Poker Tournament on Saturday night (April 6, 2013) with all proceeds going to HRC. Participants will have a chance to join some of the hottest celebrity guests for a fun night of poker and charity to benefit HRC.

Club Skirts involvement with HRC extends beyond the actual Dinah Shore Weekend. Effective immediately, Club Skirts has generously donated an exclusive VIP package valued at $2500 to be raffled off at all Her HRC events around the country leading up to the Dinah.

“I am proud to name HRC as the charity we showcase at The Dinah 2013,” says Hanson,  “their work in securing our civil rights is as always to be applauded. I look forward to helping them gain more visibility with our unique Dinah demographic.  HRC was open to creating visibility in a fun way.  HRC gift items will be thrown from the stage during the weekend and we are creating a high profile celebrity poker tournament on Saturday night, with all proceeds going to HRC.”

As the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, the Human Rights Campaign represents a force of more than 1.5 million members and supporters nationwide — all committed to making HRC's vision a reality.

Founded in 1980, HRC advocates on behalf of LGBT Americans, mobilizes grassroots actions in diverse communities, invests strategically to elect fair-minded individuals to office and educates the public about LGBT issues.

 

“HRC is proud to come on board as a sponsor for the 2013 Club Skirts Dinah Shore weekend. While thousands of women gather to celebrate, it’s crucial that we remember the importance of being engaged politically as LGBT Americans fight for full equality across the United States. To this effect, HRC will have a presence aimed at engaging the Dinah audience with our organization and our goals,” says Margot Rosen, Director of Membership Outreach at HRC.

 

The road to Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend is always paved with good intentions!

Socially responsible, The Dinah sees to it that this “consciousness” permeates everything it does year after year. Stepping up its efforts with increasing effectiveness and productivity, its commitment to “give back” and advance goodwill has successfully translated into community activism, famously partnering with a variety of activist associations and charity organizations such as GLAAD, NOH8, Love is Louder, Equality California, and The Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center among others. 

As the biggest All-Girl Party in the world, The Dinah also prides itself in giving back to the LGBT community remaining faithful to its “party with a purpose” theme to remind everyone that while we have made a lot of strides, we’re still fighting for our rights!

ABOUT HRC:

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

ABOUT CLUB SKIRTS DINAH SHORE WEEKEND:

Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend (popularly known as The Dinah) is the largest lesbian event in the world. 

Held annually in Palm Springs, CA, over a 5-day weekend packed with not only non-stop activities, spectacular comedy shows, live concerts, activism and legendary pool parties, but also premier talent in music, film and television, The Dinah provides women a life-changing experience.  It's an opportunity for Lesbians to escape for five days from the rest of their 360-day life of make believe, in the closet, and provides them the freedom to be who they are as well as gain an incredible amount of self-worth. 

The Dinah also actively travails to support the LGBT community by championing social and political causes directly affecting it.

Over the course of these past 23 years, The Dinah has not only become one of the hottest celebrity hotspots but also a trendsetting event that entertainment industry insiders watch and jockey to book their artists’ performances. Artists who have performed at The Dinah include: Katy Perry, Ke$ha, Natasha Bedinglfield, Chaka Khan, Colbie Caillat, The Pussycat Dolls, India Arie, Chely Wright and Lady Gaga, to name a few.

For more information about the Club Skirts go to: www.TheDinah.com

To get additional information about HRC visit their official website at: www.HRC.org

Lucas Silveira (THE CLIKS) Announces March 2013 Release

Awesome LGBTQ music news for you gays right here on All Things Lesbian!

Toronto, Canada – Lucas Silveira, the openly transgender lead singer of Toronto alt-rock band The Cliks, returns to the music scene after a 5 year-hiatus with a highly-anticipated new LP dubbed “Black Tie Elevator” dropping March 2013.

Founded by front man Lucas Silveira in 2004, The Cliks have gone through the highs and lows that make an artist a true veteran of change. Almost nine years since the formation of the band, The Cliks are still standing.

After a slew of line up changes, Silveira is the sole remaining original member of the band and, the Cliks, an extension of his personal vision.                                                                                                                  

The Cliks’ first two major label releases, Snakehouse (2006- Warner Music Canada/Tommy Boy) & Dirty King (2009-Warner Music Canada/Tommy Boy) brought the band international recognition.

They caught the attention of pop music icon Cyndi Lauper, who invited the band to join her on two consecutive True Colors tours alongside Margaret Cho, Debbie Harris, Erasure, The Gossip and The Indigo Girls to name a few.

The first “out” male transgender to be signed to a major record label, which drew as much publicity as controversy, he also became the first transgender man voted “Sexiest Canadian Man” by ChartAttack.com The Cliks have made headlines for their gender-bending style, being compared to David Bowie and other musical fashionistas. But Lucas’ rock icon take on the classic suit comes with the genuine desire to just be himself. Lucas is one of those beautiful people who lays it all on the table - uncensored.

After 5 years of living as a man but appearing to most as a woman, the image in the mirror needed to match the image internally. The voice coming through the speaker never felt familiar.  In 2009, Lucas took the opportunity to take a hiatus from the band to follow a very personal life-changing venture and began the formal process of testosterone hormone therapy; something he had been told by Doctors could cost him his singing voice. Knowing that his current existence was leading him down a road of deep depression, he felt his only option was to venture into the unknown and not let his fears dictate his choices

The result was a voice that was changed, deeper and huskier, but somehow more soulful. In 2010, his rebirth landed him in Brooklyn, NY, a home away from home to concentrate on songwriting. He recorded a solo album “Mockingbird” and wrote new songs for The Cliks next music venture.

Lucas found his songwriting style growing and changing towards a more soul/blues/rock styling. The result was a collection of songs that make up the new Cliks LP release BLACK TIE ELEVATOR.

BLACK TIE ELEVATOR, scheduled for release in March 2013, was produced by Toronto based musician/singer/songwriter Hill Kourkoutis (Hill & The Sky Heroes, The Weeknd) who’s understanding of Lucas’ vision was integral to the final sound of the record.

While the songs on this album may be a surprise to many, loyal fans of The Cliks know that with Lucas, change is constant, though the foundation remains the same -  songs that are real and true, lyrics that speak a universal language and music that will move and bind you to those words.

But we wouldn’t expect anything less from Lucas, an artist at heart who doesn't hold anything back in his music or in his life.

When he’s not creating music, Lucas can be found drawing and painting, acting, writing and doing public speaking events at Colleges & Universities on his personal story and experiences.

He has successfully sold many pieces of art on line and will be concentrating on creating a full body of work for an art exhibition. Notably, the cover for the new The Cliks record Black Tie Elevator, is a self portrait painted by Lucas.

As an actor, Lucas played the role of “Jimmy” in Phi-Films (Montreal, QC) award winning short film titled “HOPE” by award wining director Pedro Pires. He is currently preparing to play the male lead role in the short film “CANDY” by Cassandra Cronenberg, daughter of infamous director David Cronenberg.

Lucas currently lives in Toronto, Canada with his beautiful fiancée Skye Chevolleau who can be heard singing on the track 4 Letter featured on Black Tie Elevator.

No matter what the challenges that Silveira has faced, the vision he has had for The Cliks remains clear. When asked what that vision is, Silveira says “If it ain’t true, it ain’t worth it.”

An Interview with The Real L Word and Hunter Valentine Star, Kiyomi!

Hey you gays, its finally that moment you've all been waiting for: an interview with the absolutely darling and gorgeous Kiyomi!

Let's not delay it any longer!

All Things Lesbian: When I saw Hunter Valentine live in Peterborough, Ontario, there was quite a small crowd. How has the rest of the tour been so far? 

Kiyomi: The tour was actually very successful. I think that was probably one of the smallest dates we did on the whole thing. We sold out majority of the rooms across North America.

ATL: What can we expect from your new album, Collide and Conquer? Can you describe it in 3 words? 

K: Vulnerable, gritty and catchy 

ATL: We saw the arrival of new band member, Aimee, on the Real L Word. Do you think she’s in it for the long run? 

K: I would love to have Aimee along for the ride. She is an amazing musician and an even better friend. She’s is incredibly easy to work with and we are extremely happy with the addition of her in the band. 

ATL: As a HV fan from the UK, I’ve noticed you rarely gig over there. Are there any plans for European dates any time soon? 

K: We are trying to get over there as soon as possible! We have gone to Germany a few times, but never really spent much time in the UK. It’s definitely in our future plans. 

ATL: So we already know you’re extremely invested in the band and spend a lot of time working. Do you ever have spare time and what do you like to do when you’re free? 

K: I rarely have free time these days. I am a bit of a workaholic. When I am not doing band stuff, I am working on other projects. I have some acting stuff on the go and also the beginnings of a clothing line. In the free time that I do get..I love hanging out with my girlfriend, cooking, going to live shows and just relaxing in my home.

ATL: Let’s talk The Real L Word. If it gets picked up for a fourth season will you and your band mates be appearing? 

K: We are still waiting on word from the network, so we will all just have to sit tight and see.. 

And some quick fan questions… 

What is something you and Lauren want for your future as a couple? - @TheIslandLez, Canada 

K: We want so many things in the future! I definitely want to have kids and Lauren shares that passion. 

On a more serious note, Danielle from California asked: Do you think marriage is a possibility for Lauren and yourself in the future?  

K: Marriage is also something that we think about already, but right now we are both very much focused on our careers and learning the ins and outs of each other. We believe you should know everything about each other before you make such a big commitment! 

Do you have any favourite bands (except Hunter Valentine)? – Fay, Oklahoma City 

K: I love the Distillers, Muse, Kings of Leon, Andrew Bird, Rihanna, Calvin Harris and the list goes on!

Kiyomi loves the Distillers? Right on!

What do you think about Kiyomi? So much nicer than they portrayed her on The Real L Word, am I right?

Check out Hunter Valentine's official website: http://www.huntervalentine.com/

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS: Hunter Valentine & Lauren Russell at Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors Fund"

Don't you love it when your favourite reality lesbians get on the charity work?

So do we!

Check out these awesome photos from NYC on December 8th.

Hunter Valentine and Lauren Bedford Russell ("The Real L Word") attend the 2nd annual Cyndi Lauper and Friends: 

Home For The Holidays presented by Lauper’s True Colors Fund  

at The Beacon Theatre on December 8, 2012 in New York City.

The event helps to raise awareness about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth homelessness and raises money for the organization's Forty to None Project.

Other celebrities in attendance included: Adam Lambert, Andy Cohen, Sarah McLachlan, Carmen Electra, Rosie O'Donnell, Whoopi Goldberg, Terri Nunn, Jason Mraz and Cyndi Lauper, among others.

Hunter Valentine looking hot as balls - as always.

Is that Adam Lambert?!

Look! Its everyone's favourite couple - Lauren & Kiyomi.

Gorgeous, right?

What do you think of the photos? And don't you just wish you were there?!

"Grey's Anatomy" Creator On Why She Includes Gay Characters

You know that little, low key drama on television, Grey's Anatomy? Of course you do.

Well Shonda Rhimes, the show's creator is responsible for one of lesbianism's current favourite television couples, Calzona.

And as usual, Ms. Rhimes succeeded in giving an applause-worthy response when asked "why she has all the gays on her shows".

Check it out:

“And because I love all my gay and lesbian friends. AND because I think same-sex marriage is the civil rights fight of our era and back when being a person of color was the civil rights fight, people like Norman Lear put black people on TV and helped change some minds. So you know, it's gotta be paid forward. As long as we are willing to sit by while one person is not free, none of us are free.”

Amen, sistah!

*Cue shameless plug of Grey's Anatomy*

If you've never watched it, GO WATCH IT. If not just for the lovely ladies above, a.k.a. Jessica Capshaw (left) and Broadway songstress, Sara Ramirez.

It's gritty, raw drama. Check it out. We've already proved its LGBT friendly!

LESMOVIE REVIEW: Room In Rome (2010)

What's that? That's the sound of me reviewing the second lesbian movie in my lesbian movie review series!

I know you're excited.

This time it was Room in Rome, suggested to me by an anonymous reader, which pretty much all takes place in one room... in Rome.

The movie can be summarized by a series of images:



(Source | bloodyalba via Tumblr)


(Source | fuckyeahelenaanaya via Tumblr) 

(Source | flyto-venus via Tumblr)

(Source | bloodyalba via Tumblr)
Looks pretty sexy, right?
Honestly, the film looks like its all about sex, but there are a dozen of mixed and hidden metaphors within the movies. You probably won't spot or understand all of them, but they are there.
Room in Rome tells the story of Alba (Elena Anaya, Van Helsing) and Natasha (played by Natasha Yarovenko, Youth) - if they are their real names - and how they spent a night together on their last day in Rome. Sounds pretty boring when you put it like that... but its not!
You probably won't like this film if you're not into gritty, raw realist movies, but if you do then this is the film for you.
The cinematography is actually pretty fantastic and if you're into independent movies, this one will fit right in with your collection.
I honestly don't want to spoil the entire movie for you, so there's not much more I can say about it... but this movie is not just about a Room in Rome. Its about love. Watch it and see.
Lesmovie Rating: 8 and a half out of 10 - I was tempted to give it a 9 but I'm harsh. Watch it!

Hunter Valentine Announce West Coat Tour w/ Sum 41!

You read correctly: the awesome Hunter Valentine will be touring with one of the most successful pop-punk bands, Sum 41!

HUNTER VALENTINE is a band in nonstop motion.  From starring on Season 3 of Showtime's The Real L Word to the release of their third record, Collide & Conquer on Megaforce/Sony in October to a just-wrapped 6-week tour of North America, the ladies of Hunter Valentine are everywhere.  Now the band has announced a January West Coast tour with fellow Canadians SUM 41 which kicks off on January 8th in San Diego (tour dates below). 

Formed when singer/guitarist Kiyomi McCloskey met drummer Laura Petracca in a crowded bar in their hometown of Toronto, the two quickly forged an unbreakable bond that has seen the band create three studio albums and tour over 200+ dates a year and includes bassist Veronica "Vero" Sanchez.  For Collide & Conquer the band teamed up with famed Canadian producer Greig Nori, best known for his hit-making influence on SUM 41 and Iggy Pop.  Nori turned out to be exactly what Hunter Valentine needed to hone their skills and craft a new record that packs a serious punch.  The release of Collide & Conquer has the band has turning up everywhere from the cover of Curve Magazine to Huffington Post to Revolver Magazine's Hottest Chicks in Metal issue. 

Their first single, "Liar, Liar" has been burning up airwaves everywhere from Portland to Chicago to DC, and the song is a shining example of Hunter Valentine's distinctive, intense melodies and fiercely bold rock.  It's clear the band has arrived and is exploding into the mainstream.  Hunter Valentine have never been more primed to take the musical world by storm.

TOUR DATES:
1/8/13 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
1/10/13 - Pomona, CA @ The Glass House
1/11/13 - West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues
1/12/13 - San Francisco, CA @ Regency Ballroom
1/15/13 - Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
1/16/13 - Reno, NV @ Knitting Factory
1/18/13 - Portland, OR @ Roseland
1/19/13 - Seattle, WA @ The Showbox at Market

No word as to when the tickets are coming on sale yet, but keep a look out - don't miss your chance!

Check out my review of a Hunter Valentine gig HERE.

LESBOOK REVIEW: But She is My Student

Looking for some easy-read, lesbian novels?

Then we have a treat for you!

Kiki Archer is an up and coming, out lesbian author from the United Kingdom.

Her first, best-selling novel, But She is My Student caters chiefly to the lady lovin' lady audience - not to say men and straight women can't enjoy it too!

BSIMS tells the story of a forbidden romance between a teacher and her student - now where have we heard that before?

However, unlike its motion picture siblings (Loving Annabelle, Bloomington), Archer's tale has a difference.

First and foremost, it is set in a UK school. True, there are some references that North American (and other) audiences won't understand, but don't worry - this novel won't leave you feeling lost.

Archer succeeds in including relevant, modern allusions and interweaves them with an exciting plot that will leave you not wanting to put the book down. Of course, me being the grammar Nazi that I am, I spotted some grammar errors, but they don't get in the way of telling this great story.

The dialogue between the protagonists and their friends is never unrealistic - I'm pretty sure I've had some of these exact conversations in my real life! - and the characters are easily relatable, what with all their anxieties and drama, creating a love for each personality.

Perhaps the biggest difference from most lesbian media we see today is the ending. I won't spoil it for you, but it won't leave you disappointed like the majority of lesbian fiction.

On the whole, Kiki Archer is no doubt one of the top lesbian authors of today - being gay herself really shows throughout the novel and you can tell she has an understanding of troubles the LGBTQ community goes through day by day.

LesBook Rating: 9 out of 10 - I'm not saying its perfect, but its definitely worth a read! (Especially with there being so little, good lesbian novels out there.)

Click HERE to download the (extremely cheap!) Kindle version of But She is My Student. (And HERE if you're in North America!)

For more on Kiki Archer, go to her official website: http://www.kikiarcherbooks.com/

Coming Soon: We review Archer's sequel - Instigations!

LESMOVIE REVIEW: Bloomington (2010)

As an addition to this wonderful website of lesbianism, I've decided to begin reviewing a series of lesbian movies, all for your amusement.

The first movie in this series is a movie I watched last night - Bloomington.

Okay, maybe I'm a little late with this one. I'd heard of it, but never forced myself to watch it.

Made in 2010, Bloomington has a plot line not dissimilar to the 2006 lesbian movie, Loving Annabelle.

Teacher-student lesbian relationship? You got it. Take a look:




(Image courtesy of lezgirlslike via Tumblr)

Stopped staring at that image yet? Okay.

Unlike Loving Annabelle though, we follow a girl who was formally a child TV star named Jackie, who begins a new life at college, in a town aptly named 'Bloomington'.

Give the film, oh, around 15 minutes, and we already have our first lesbian kiss. That's right - unlike many other lesbian movies, this one gets going pretty much straight away. SCORE.

Jackie gets involved with her sexy psych professor, Catherine, who sweeps her off her feet in an instant.

Similarly to the majority however, this lesbian film comes with drama. Lots of drama.

Sure, you'll fangirl over this:



(Image: Lipstick-Lesbian via Tumblr)

But then you'll lose your shit over... Well, I can't ruin it for you, can I?!

Unfortunately, what would have been a good (if not ultra-cheesy) lesbian movie turns into an old lesbian cliché: the end is abrupt and sort of just fizzles out.

I won't tell you how it ends, but safe to say you're not gonna be happy about it. (Don't base your expectations of this lesbian love story on the likes of The Notebook, because the end will just disappoint the crap out of you.)

But hey... At least no one dies!*

Lesmovie Rating: 7 out of 10 - watch it... but don't expect too much.


*If you don't watch lesbian movies or television a lot, you probably won't know that someone always dies. So this was actually a nice surprise!

Queer As Folk's Thea Gill Stars in "Failing Upwards"

So, lesbians. I'm not sure how many of you watched Queer as Folk (I certainly didn't), but great news if you were a fan of Thea Gill on the show: she's starring in the web series finale of 'Failing Upwards'!

I did see Thea in the ultra-gay, ultra-camp TV show, Dante's Cove, so I know she's a legit talent... But what exactly is Failing Upwards, you ask?

"Failing Upwards" is a brand new feel good comedy web series about unemployment and the hilarity of finding a job…even if you have to lie to get one.

Failing Upwards stars writers/creators: Alma Award-Winning actress Michelle C. Bonilla (Celena) and Matt Crabtree (Charlie). Rounding out the cast are writers Deidra Edwards (Annabelle) and Pip Lilly (Pip). The guest cast includes Thea Gill, Stephanie Erb, and Gerald McCullouch.

What openly out actors Michelle Bonilla and Matt Crabtree have created is not just another web series but a timely social series that creates comedy out of heart break, provides a chuckle to those who “pound the pavement” every single day, and most importantly show how little it takes to reverse some of the negative psychological effects that come with being unemployed and living off of "survival jobs". 

Via the series' official website, they also gives back to the job seeking community by supplying online viewers with links to job source sites, discounts, tips, and relevant news topics of the day.

You can click HERE to see Thea in action OR right below this post, here on All Things Lesbian!

Stay gay xo

(Source | FailingUpwards1 via YouTube)

Interview with Tucky Williams

Well, its the moment many of you have been waiting for: an interview with Girl/Girl Scene's Tucky Williams!

So, without further ado...


All Things Lesbian: Where did you find the inspiration to create Girl/Girl Scene?

Tucky Williams: I wanted to see a show that depicted what life was like for me and my friends, and there wasn't anything like that out there.

So the thing most readers asked was if you could give us any spoilers about Girl/Girl
Scene. Can you give us any hints on what fans should expect next on the show?

More Bender, more Avery, and more Ling. Those characters became really popular with the audience, so I gave them more screen time.

We read somewhere a while ago that you did not have funding for the series. Do you
have funding now? If not, how do you do it?!

The show is made on a modest budget. We’re only able to pull it off due to the dedication of the cast and crew and our belief that we’re making something great.

Are you hoping to carry on with more seasons of the web series?

That, and The Christmas Special.

Do you have any other projects in the running?

My friend Amber and I spent one weekend making a short film, just for fun with my FlipCam. It’s a found-footage movie. Some people saw it, and now it looks like we’re going to develop it into a real thing.

A lot of people tweeted saying how hot your voice was. Can you sing?

I’m a classically-trained singer. A contralto, obviously. But I can’t sing pop or rock to save my life.

Fan question time!:

“How did you meet Abisha?” – Bridget, New Jersey.

Through a bizarre series of events that the universe conspired to make happen. I accidentally wound up at a Sick of Sarah show in North Carolina. I vaguely knew who she was, and vice versa. We sort of kept in touch. I ran into her again in West Hollywood six months later, and I asked her to be on the show.

“What do you listen to on your iPod? Apart from Sick of Sarah, of course!” – Becky, England.

Lights! I’m in love with her.

“Are any of the storylines in G/GS based on things that have happened to you in real life?” – Jamie, California.

They are all based on things that have happened to me or to someone I know. Sometimes I’m accused of making the show too over-the-top, but I always laugh because I know that all of this stuff really happened.


Thanks you gays for all of the fan questions you sent in - they were awesome!

Click HERE for the official Girl/Girl Scene website!

"A Vote for Obama is a Vote for Equality"

Those of you in the States will know that today is crucial to the future of your country.

Let's quickly take a look at a genuine quote from Mitt Romney himself:

I do not favour marriage between people of the same gender and I don't favour civil unions.

I'd like to ask you one question: If Mitt Romney is saying things such as this, why are you voting for him?

A vote for Romney is a vote for turning back the clock. A vote for Romney is a vote in favour of discrimination against who you are and against those you love.

Now, I don't care if you don't want to get married. I don't care if you don't think marriage is an important factor to you. All I care about is the fact that you should think about your LGBTQ brothers and sisters who do believe that marriage is a step towards equality for all people who come under the queer umbrella.

A vote for Romney would mean that you are taking this right away from them; a right that gay people and their straight allies have fought for for a number of years.

A vote for Romney is a vote in favour of treating gay people like second-class citizens, who are different from their straight counterparts.

Some of you may say "you are being a one issue voter". Does that really matter?

Your sexual orientation is central to who you are. I'm not saying it defines you, but it is definitely a big part of your life. A VOTE FOR ROMNEY IS A VOTE AGAINST YOURSELF.

Now, let's compare this to the current president, Barack Obama.

Remember when he supported gay marriage publicly: the first time any president in US history has explicitly stated this? Let me remind you.

(Source | orangecountyfldems via YouTube)

Can you not see? Are you so blind as to hear Obama speak so emotionally about our LGBT family, yet vote for Romney anyway?

Not only that, but Obama has supported other legislation regarding LGBT equality.

In 2010, President Obama repealed Don't Ask, Don't Tell, which prevented gay service members from serving openly in the US armed forced.

President Obama has constantly supported the idea that foreign nationals in the States should be low priority cases in terms of deportation, allowing them to stay with their partners.

Obama has spoken out publicly against bullying in regards to pupils who regard themselves as gay - he even released an "It Gets Better" video, to show thousands of young people that he supports them and their right to be whoever they want to be.

So, you lovely gays, I'm going to ask you one more time: If you're voting for Romney... why? You are voting against everything many people just like you believe in.

A vote for Obama is a vote for civil rights.

A vote for Obama is a vote for moving forward.

A vote for Obama is a vote for EQUALITY.

Interview w/ The Real L Word's Lauren Russell

What a treat we have here for you gays - an interview with the gorgeous Lauren Russell from Showtime's The Real L Word!

Check below for what she has to say about The Real L Word, her new jewelry line and of course, her girlfriend Kiyomi!

How has life changed for you since appearing on the Real L Word?

Life has changed in a lot of ways, but the biggest is how it has changed my feeling of purpose. I have been and continue to be inspired every day by the people that message me with their stories of how I've helped them come out, to be confident, one woman even said I saved her life. I would have never in a million years expected that. I think it has really shown me what impact I can have both with my actions in life and with philanthropy, and I have a very clear sense of where I want my direction in life to go now. 

The show hasn’t been picked up for season 4 yet. If it is, are you still interesting in being a part of it?

Yes, we are still waiting to hear the word about season 4. I am contractually obligated to do the show, but even if I wasn't, I would still want to do it. 

I’m assuming you’re not used to having your relationships filmed in real time. Was it weird for your relationship with Kiyomi to be so publicized?

Ha! No, not used to it at all. Yes it was a little strange for sure. Especially watching the first time we meet, etc. But it was so fun to watch for me, that overcame the weird aspect.

We understand you have your own line of jewelry. Tell us more about it. 

My jewelry line is called Lyon Fine Jewelry (www.lyonfinejewelry.com) and I started it about a year and a half ago. It started as a high end line but I also am starting to incorporate some more affordable designs. I have a line of charity bracelets too that (http://lyonfinejewelry.com/charity_bracelets.html) I am constantly adding to.

Did you always want to work in fashion? 

I always had an interest in fashion, but only about three years ago I decided to focus solely on jewelry.

Were you inspired by any other designers when designing your pieces?

No.

Do you have any other projects in the works?

The lower priced jewelry line, the expanding charity bracelet line, and always adding to the fine jewelry. Plus I am always working on custom designs for customers.

 
 

And some quick fan questions…

What is something you and Kiyomi want for your future as a couple? - @TheIslandLez, Canada

We talk about all sorts of things, but that question may be answered if there is another season. I can't really say right now! Sorry, lame answer, but true.

On a more serious note, Danielle from California asked: Do you think marriage is a possibility for Kiyomi and yourself in the future?

I think we both are very committed to each other, and we have talked about marriage yes, but not for a few years I don't think.

How do you stay in shape? Do you go to a gym? You always look great! – Grace, Brooklyn

Thank you, I do normally work out at least 5 times a week but since filming started in March of 2012 I have fallen way off the gym wagon due to lack of time!! I eat pretty healthfully, most of the time. I try to always focus on what are good healthy things TO eat, instead of obsessing about cutting out things that are bad for you.

Fun interview, right? Lauren gave some great answers!

What did you think of what she had to say? Comment below and let us know!

To follow Lauren on Twitter, click HERE.

To check out her absolutely beautiful jewelry line, go to http://lyonfinejewelry.com/.

Send In Your Questions for Girl/Girl Scene's Tucky Williams NOW!

And the exciting news just keeps on rolling in, lesbians.

Ever watched Girl/Girl Scene? Ever looked at Evan and though "damn, she's hot"? (Or maybe you think "damn, she looks like an interesting person"... whatever.)

Well this week, All Things Lesbian will be interviewing Tucky Williams herself! But we need your help.

If you have anything at all you'd like to ask Tucky, comment below!

Alternatively, send your questions to our official Twitter page, http://twitter.com/allthingsles! And if you'd rather keep your question anonymous, email anything you'd like me to ask to allthingsles.gmail.com.

Submissions will close tomorrow (October 31st - HALLOWEEN!) at 7pm EST, so get in there quick!

Can't wait to hear from you!

All Things Lesbian Now Has Facebook!

Okay, okay, so we're a little late to the Facebook bandwagon... But it was time we pulled our socks up, right?

So click HERE to like the all new Facebook page for exclusive updates, gossip and more!

Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend: One Ticket for Two Pool Parties!

Great news from me here at All Things Lesbian - I've been chosen to deliver exclusive coverage for you all to see about this year's Palm Springs Dinah Shore weekend!

Palm Springs, CA - After twenty-three years of blissful marriage, the City of Palm Springs and the famed Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend (www.TheDinah.com) – the largest all girl event in the world - are officially renewing their wedding vows.

Celebrating the 2013 milestone “Silver Plate” Anniversary, the victorious pair is symbolically solidifying the lifelong relationship and commitment that run deep between both brides, and reaffirming the sacred union as two of the most popular gay Meccas in the country. 

The Palm Springs Convention Center (http://www.palmspringscc.com/), the Greater Palm Springs CVB (http://www.palmspringsusa.com/), and the Bureau of Tourism (http://www.visitpalmsprings.com/) are handing an exclusive VIP Rewards program to Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend on a silver platter (pun intended). 

For the highly anticipated 23 rd installment of the Dinah Shore Weekend (April 3-7, 2013), the city of Palm Springs has decided to encompass the Club Skirts group within their brand new VIP Rewards Program. 

As the official host city, Palm Springs is exclusively offering Dinah participants a VIP Rewards Card in association with local patrons to welcome one of their favorite loyal groups.  As many attendees arrive a few days earlier and depart a few days after the conclusion of The Dinah, the rewards card offers premier benefits to enjoy discounts at restaurants, spas, attractions and retailers, and discover the city’s hidden treasures. 

That's right, ladies - there are THIS MANY LESBIANS!

The 2013 Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend is already moving in that direction with all prime hotels located on the Tahquitz Canyon way block sanctioned for the event. The official host hotels are the Hilton & Spa Resort and the Zoso. Secondary Dinah hotels include The Courtyard Marriott, the Marquis, the Spa Resort Casino and The Renaissance Hotel. Dinah customers will have an opportunity to find out what downtown Palm Springs is all about and what the community has to offer. 

Palm Spring is one of the #1 travel destinations for the LGBT market. There is something truly special about Palm Springs. The city, dubbed "the new Gay Mecca" boasts more gay and gay-friendly restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, retailers and other businesses than any other one gay destination in the world.  Nowhere else in the world do lesbians get such a strong sense of community, solidarity and acceptance, feeling as much as home within the walls of the event as anywhere else on Palm Springs' playground. 

It’s no surprise Showtime’s hugely popular hit reality TV show, “The Real L Word” (http://www.sho.com/sho/the-real-l-word/home) - the network's top-performing unscripted show in prime time- brought its cast and crew to The Dinah, not once but twice, showing on national TV the cultural and social phenomenon that the Dinah Shore weekend in Palms Springs has become. A place where lesbians from all over the world have the opportunity to escape for five days from the rest of their 360-day life of make believe, in the closet, and have the freedom to be who they are.  

Having reached epic proportions, The Dinah Shore Weekend doesn't just attract lesbians, but also straight women who come to the event to have the peace of mind to feel safe and also gain an extraordinary amount of self worth. It has also become a new hot party trend among many female celebrities who get themselves a girls' night out partying in a sea of women. From Katy Perry, Ke$ha, Natasha Bedingfield, Chaka Khan, Colbie Caillat, The Pussycat Dolls, India Arie, Chely Wright to Lady Gaga, among many other, these celebrities have all done it!

Gaga herself at the Dinah in 2009

The natural symbiosis between these two iconic LGBT hubs is a match made in heaven. More than a tradition The Dinah Shore Weekend has over these past 23 years  (and counting) intrinsically been linked to the Sunny Oasis, not only becoming a Palm Springs institution but as well the city’s hottest ticket!  

"2013 is poised to be our best year yet. With the onset of our Dinah Block party theme, and on the tails of two episodes of The Real L Word dedicated to The Club Skirts Dinah event, we are expecting the largest Dinah Shore in history," says Mariah Hanson.

On the activist front, HRC is coming onboard as full sponsor of The Dinah 2013, and will host a special soiree during the event. 

Joined in matrimony for twenty-three solid years, now the symbolic vow renewal ceremony commemorates the enduring bond and feeling of loyalty that has been and still is keeping the spark alive. 

Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend in Palm Springs … a “shore” thing!

Looks amazing, right?!

For more information on this awesome annual event, check out the official website by clicking HERE, Dinah's Twitter by clicking HERE and their official Facebook page by click HERE!

Also, stay tuned right here at All Things Lesbian for even more exciting news as we get closer and closer to Dinah 2013!

SEND IN YOUR QUESTIONS: Interviews with The Real L Word's Kiyomi & Lauren are coming soon!

Hey you gays!

Exciting news for us over here at All Things Lesbian - we've secured two interviews with the lovely ladies from the Real L Word (and Hunter Valentine) fame, Lauren Russell and Kiyomi McCloskey!

Remember them? Of course you do!

And what do we need from you? Why, your questions of course!

What would you like to hear from the lovely couple? Plans for the future? What is was like to star on the Real L Word?

Include your name if you wish and we'll include that with your question too!

Gig Review: Hunter Valentine

Okay, so I saw Hunter Valentine 2 weeks ago and I should have probably reviewed this gig before now... But they still have a lot of touring to do so I figured I'd do it anyway!

If you don't watch The Real L Word, haven't watched Girl/Girl Scene or you're not a fan of Sick of Sarah, Tegan & Sara or An Horse, you probably haven't heard of this quartet.

Okay, I crossed Somer's face out because she's actually not in the band anymore - she was replaced by the incredibly down to earth Amy. (The band really need to do some new photoshoots).

I saw Hunter Valentine in a pretty small venue where I live in Ontario, Canada. There was barely anyone there - I'm not sure whether this was because no one knew about it or because not enough gays were willing to party on a Tuesday - but the band were great nonetheless.

Playing tracks from both old albums and the soon to be released Collide and Conquer, this quartet put on an unforgettable show.

Frontwoman Kiyomi rocks the mic.

My personal favourites were played (Liar Liar and Scarface) so that was a bonus - for me at least!

Both before and after the gig, drummer Laura was my favourite out of the four girls. Not only was she hilarious, but she played the whole gig with a broken ankle. What a trooper.

Laura soldiers on.

Of course it was a little awkward - lack of turn out even made the band feel kind of awkward. I spent a lot of the concert wishing there were more people to show these ladies some support... they really are an awesome band!

Nevertheless, they played on. Kiyomi sort of crowd surfed at one point. Bassist Vero asked which lesbians the two men in the front row belonged to - of course none of us knew who the fuck they were...

Vero - cool as a freakin' cucumber.

What's more is... I got to meet them! Eek!

They were all so lovely: Kiyomi told me she liked my name (duh) and Amy told me I smelled good. Mhmm, I got a compliment from the hot new girl. Jealous?

Fan-girling. *swoon*

I met the other three girls and had pictures with them too but quite frankly, you're not really all that interested, are you? Hah!

Honestly, I wouldn't say I'd choose Hunter Valentine over Uh Huh Her just yet (click HERE to read my review of an UHH gig) but I will say that I think big things are coming for HV.

Not only are they are ridiculously sexy, but they're so down to earth and their music is pretty awesome too.

For more information on Hunter Valentine's US/Canadian tour, click HERE to go to the list of upcoming concerts on the band's website.

p.s. It only cost me $5 to see them. BARGAIN!

Expedia: Supporting Gay Marriage

Hey you gays! Remember Jill & Nikki from the first season of the Real L Word?

Yes, the "normal ones", you remember correctly.

Well, you may or may not know that Expedia recently followed Jill's path to marrying Nikki in one of their adverts.

I knew about the commercial but only just got round to watching it... So in case you haven't seen it either, I've decided to post it here on my blog too!

Adorable, right?

Oh, and just for a bit of fun I've decided to share with you the hilarity of some of the comments the ad has received on YouTube:

Because there is clearly only one opinion on this matter...

Tell that to Bob & Carl next door who used their sperm to create two beautiful baby daughters.

Ah, the old "gay people are perverts" argument. Blah Blah.

There was a time when everyone became gay?... SHOW ME THIS MYSTICAL LAND OF RAINBOWS AND UNICORNS!

And then there was one legend who replied to the above comment with the argument "Well my dear, if everyone become a catholic priest or nun, how the hell we gonna have next generation?" I've never heard that argument before. KUDOS.