News: Marriage, Martha Stewart, Black Church and Gays, Pharrell

· Two-hundred and fifty evangelical Christian ministers arrive in Albany at the NYS Capitol to protest Gov. David Paterson’s directive requiring state agencies to recognize same-sex marriages. At the same time, the Empire State Pride Agenda releases the names of 335 clergy who support marriage equality for gay couples.

· Albany Times Union praises the governor. "In an age of divisive politics, it's almost astonishing to hear someone speak in a calm, clear voice—especially when his words have life-altering consequences for a significant portion of the electorate. But that was how Gov. David Paterson decided to inform the public of his May 14 executive order that New York should honor same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions."

· Martha Stewart denied permission to enter Great Britain because of her 2004 conviction for obstructing justice.

· Naomi Campbell pleads guilty for temper tantrum directed at two police officers at London’s Heathrow Airport.

· Social Security Administration must now recognize the children of same-sex couples.

· The Associated Press reports on the new transgender inclusive policy in the New York juvenile detention system that allows trans youth "to wear whatever uniform they choose, be called by whatever name they want and ask for special housing."

· Pharrell Williams has time to produce Madonna, cover fashion magazines, design clothing, design jewelry ... and now designs furniture.

· PrideSource reports on a town hall meeting in Detroit that brings together black gay men to "tackle the tough questions about the state of HIV for black men and how to fight" the epidemic in the black gay community.

· Rev. Dennis W. Wiley argues why the black church should support gay rights in The Daily Voice: "Because homosexuals are human beings who deserve the same rights as heterosexuals.& ; These people did not choose their sexual orientation. ... Many if not most of us in the black church are aware of this, but it is too difficult and uncomfortable for us to go against the grain of what has been taught to and instilled in us all of our lives. It is much easier for the black church to bash or ignore gay people, while at the same time exploiting their tremendous gifts and talents, than it is to become a safe space in which they can realize their full, God-given potential without having to hide in the closet."

Comments

[Riley]

Thanks for bringing the news briefs back.

David Paterson is a courageous man. I am very impressed with him and everything he does.