Can you lend a hand
with my bid to raise money for the HIV/AIDS Charity, the Terrence
Higgins Trust? I will be running an ebay auction of signed
celebrity memorabilia over the next 2 months. Items include Joan
Baez, Kylie Minogue and Darren Hayes. Pics are here on
my facebook profile:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.28658959327.51901.524934327&type=1
My ebay name is: hideous70 Please tell your
network and help me to raise funds for this vital charity.
Tag Archives: COLTON FORD
GIVE ‘EM HOPE VIDEO CAMPAIGN – VIDEOS (SO FAR)
Director of NBI Associates, motivational speaker and writer, David E. Watters, has recently launched a youtube video campaign to inspire, encourage and uplift those who may feel disenfranchised or who may lack self-belief.
THE “Give ‘em Hope” Video Campaign IS AN INITIATIVE TO INSPIRE ALL YOUTH AND ADULTS WHO MAY DOUBT THEIR VALIDITY because ALL people, regardless of cultural heritage, physical or psychological ability, age, sexuality or gender identity, may feel self-doubt at various stages in their lives.
Watters is seeking individuals, couples and groups to share their stories, in whichever way they choose, in a bid to provide support and encouragement to anyone who may question their place in the world. These stories of living authentically, with dignity and unlimited by labels will become a powerful toolkit to help others understand how self-perception determines the path that they choose and that life need not be a self fulfilling prophecy when they improve self-concept, drive out fear and embrace new challenges as opportunities to learn and to grow.
IF YOU LIVE UNLIMITED BY LABELS…
THEN TELL US HOW IT’S DONE
Whether you are L.G. B or T…or ANY other letter of the alphabet, make and send your video to: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
MAKE A VIDEO AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE
SHARE YOUR STORY AND HAVE IT SHOWN ON:
THE NBI ASSOCIATES YOUTUBE PAGE: NBIassociates
NBI WORDPRESS: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/
THE NBI ASSOCIATES WEBSITE:
TRANSLATIONS OF THIS PRESS RELEASE CAN BE FOUND HERE: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/category/give-em-hope-campaign-nbi-associates/
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/226577107352368
OFFICIAL PAGE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
PRESS RELEASE – GIVE ‘EM HOPE CAMPAIGN
Director of NBI Associates, motivational speaker and writer, David E. Watters, has recently launched a youtube video campaign to inspire, encourage and uplift those who may feel disenfranchised or who may lack self-belief. THE “Give ‘em Hope” Video Campaign IS AN INITIATIVE TO INSPIRE ALL YOUTH AND ADULTS WHO MAY DOUBT THEIR VALIDITYbecause ALL people, regardless of cultural heritage, physical or psychological ability, age, sexuality or gender identity, may feel self-doubt at various stages in their lives. Watters is seeking individuals, couples and groups to share their stories, in whichever way they choose, in a bid to provide support and encouragement to anyone who may question their place in the world. These stories of living authentically, with dignity and unlimited by labels will become a powerful toolkit to help others understand how self-perception determines the path that they choose and that life need not be a self fulfilling prophecy when they improve self-concept, drive out fear and embrace new challenges as opportunities to learn and to grow.
IF YOU LIVE UNLIMITED BY LABELS…
THEN TELL US HOW IT’S DONE
Whether you are L.G. B or T…or ANY other letter of the alphabet, make and send your video to: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
MAKE A VIDEO AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE
SHARE YOUR STORY AND HAVE IT SHOWN ON:
THE NBI ASSOCIATES YOUTUBE PAGE: NBIassociates
NBI WORDPRESS: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/
THE NBI ASSOCIATES WEBSITE: http://www.facebook.com/groups/www.nbiassociates.co.uk
TRANSLATIONS OF THIS PRESS RELEASE CAN BE FOUND HERE: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/category/give-em-hope-campaign-nbi-associates/
JOIN THE “Give ‘em Hope” GROUP ON FACEBOOK:
PRESS RELEASE image designed by Sherri Higgs ©
COLTON FORD – GIVE ‘EM HOPE CAMPAIGN
COLTON FORD IS A KEY VOICE IN MY BOOK, NEVER BLEND IN, IN WHICH HE SAYS:
You are entitled to be the person you are. Your sexual orientation is a part of that entitlement. It doesn’t make you good or bad, it just is a part of who you are. Try to embrace it and forgive those that cannot. Live your life fully, take good care of yourself, and in the process the people around you will be able to see the authenticity of you.
I think more and more people are getting frustrated with what we are doing to ourselves, and are becoming more aware of the hypocrisy of it all.
THE FULL, FRANK AND FASCINATING INTERVIEW WILL APPEAR IN NEVER BLEND IN LATER THIS YEAR.
http://www.myspace.com/coltonfordmusic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colton_Ford
HERE IS HIS GENEROUS AND INSPIRING CONTRIBUTION TO THE “GIVE ‘EM HOPE” CAMPAIGN.
To find out more about the campaign and how to take part:
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give–em-Hope-Campaign.html
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
Colton Ford is the professional name of Glenn Soukesian, a former same-sex adult film star who has successfully transitioned to become a mainstream musician and actor. In his first mainstream film appearance, Ford appeared in the documentary film, Naked Fame (2004), which follows his journey from the world of adult films to mainstream club/dance music.
He released his first album, Tug of War, digitally in 2008, and…
…he was part of the True Colors Tour 2008 (an annual music tour created by American pop singer Cyndi Lauper to benefit the Human Rights Campaign and other organizations that provide support to the LGBT community and to the straight friends and family who love them, including PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)) and the Matthew Shepard Foundation, as well as local organizations in cities where the concerts were held.
From 2007 to 2009, Ford played Sheriff Trout in TV series, The Lair.
Under the Covers (2009) is his second full-length album.
Self-proclaimed as “a work in progress”, Colton Ford/Glenn Soukesian currently resides in New York City.
Tug of War is the debut album by former adult film star Colton Ford.
Track listing
All songs written by Ford and DJ/producer Quentin Harris, unless noted otherwise.
- 1. “Ready” – 3:04
- 2. “You Ain’t Gonna Change” – 4:50
- 3. “Gotta Do” – 4:51
- 4. “That’s Me” – 3:32
- 5. “Bluntly Speaking” – 3:30
- 6. “The Way You Love Me” – 5:05
- 7. “You Get What You Want” – 4:59
- 8. “Tug of War (My Heart Won’t Let Go)” – 4:32
- 9. “Love Has Found a Way” – 4:14
10. “I’ll Be Alright” – 5:28
11. “Wait for Me” – 5:40
12. “Your Love Is Everything” (Ford, Denise Rich, Laythan Armor) – 6:09
Under the Covers is the second full-length album from Colton Ford
Track listing
- “Rock the Boat” (Aaliyah) interlude
- “With Every Heartbeat” (Robyn)
- “Losing My Religion” (R.E.M.)
- “Dreams” (Fleetwood Mac) interlude
- “It’s No Crime” (Babyface)
- “Trouble” (Britney Spears)
- “It Seems Like You’re Ready” (R. Kelly) interlude
- “Follow Me” (Aly-Us)
- “By Your Side” (Sade)
10. “Music Sounds Better with You” (Stardust) [Hot Tracks Re-Edit]
11. “It’s like That” (Mariah Carey) interlude
12. “No One” (Alicia Keys)
14. “What About Us?” (Brandy) interlude
15. “You Gonna Want Me” (Tiga)
16. “Show Me Love” (Robin S.)
17. “Out of Time” (Hall & Oates) interlude
18. “Ashes to Ashes” (Faith No More)
EXTRACT FROM NEVER BLEND IN
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
COLTON FORD INTERVIEW EXTRACT:
You are entitled to be the person you are. Your sexual orientation is a part of that entitlement. It doesn’t make you good or bad, it just is a part of who you are. Try to embrace it and forgive those that cannot. Live your life fully, take good care of yourself, and in the process the people around you will be able to see the authenticity of you. If they are able, they will open themselves up to a new way of perceiving things, which is a great gift that you will have given them. If they are not able, accept it and move on. You can’t force anyone to change. They have to want it.
I think more and more people are getting frustrated with what we are doing to ourselves, and are becoming more aware of the hypocrisy of it all.
THE FULL FRANK AND FASCINATING INTERVIEW WILL APPREAR IN NEVER BLEND IN LATER THIS YEAR.
SEEKING A PUBLISHER NOW! EXCLUSIVE CELEBRITY ROLE MODEL INTERVIEWS
|
NEVER BLEND IN
How to live unlimited by labels
DAVID E. WATTERS
FOREWORD: STUART MILK
 NEVER BLEND IN is an accessible book about achieving personal authenticity, a groundbreaking and vital book of exclusive celebrity and deeply personal non-celebrity interviews, which is aimed primarily at a young lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning audience. The book, however, is also of value to educators, parents, family and mental health professionals seeking insight into the LGBTQ experience.
Role models from education, entertainment, law enforcement, medical and emergency services, politics, religion and sports have participated in this accessible and much needed discourse to illuminate the reader’s journey of self-discovery and to illustrate that living a life unlimited by labels will lead to personal, professional and spiritual fulfilment.
 These candid stories and wise words are a powerful toolkit to encourage, inspire, uplift and give hope to those who need it most; those who may feel disenfranchised or who may lack self-belief.
 STALKING ALAN CUMMING Inspired by the life of Harvey Milk and with a foreword by his nephew Stuart Milk, this book includes original and insightful interviews with actors Alan Cumming OBE (Cabaret, Spy Kids, The Good Wife), Stephen Fry (Peter’s Friends, Wilde), Anthony Rapp (Rent), Colton Ford (The Lair), Marcus Patrick (My Wife & Kids, CSI: Miami, Passions and Dancing With The Stars), Scotch Ellis Loring (Frasier, Malcolm in the Middle, 24, Alias, Touched by An Angel) and Adele Anderson (Fascinating Aida); key equality advocates, educators and influencers of policy Sue Sanders (Schools Out), Charles Robbins (CEO, The Trevor Project), Stephen Williams MP, Jack MacKenroth (Project Runway, Queens of Drag: NYC), Rabbi Denise Eger, Lt. Dan Choi and veteran human rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell; filmmaker Parvez Sharma (A Jihad for Love); musicians Darren Hayes (Savage Garden) and Levi Kreis (Tony Award winner for “Best Featured Actor in a Musical” for his role as Jerry Lee Lewis in the Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet) ; sporting greats, NBA star, John Amaechi (author of Man in the Middle) and Olympic swimmer Bruce Hayes; transgender trailblazers Calpernia Addams, the Rev David E. Weekley (author of In from the Wilderness) and Jamison Green (author of Becoming a Visible Man); Mental Health professionals, Gladeana McMahon, Antoine Spiteri and Dr. John Shafer; writers Tom Robb Smith (Child 44, The Secret Speech), Leslea Newman (A Letter to Harvey Milk), Linda Goldman (Coming Out, Coming In), Michael Musto (The Village Voice); Del Shores (Sordid Lives) and Stephanie Silberstein (Shades of Gay); representatives from organizations including The Trevor Project, The Harvey Milk Foundation, PFLAG, FireFLAG, The Gay Police Association and Schools Out and colleagues of Harvey Milk; Anne Kronenberg, Daniel Nicoletta and Tom Ammiano.
 with Stuart Milk 2009 These stories of living authentically, with dignity and unlimited by labels will help readers to understand how self esteem determines the path they choose and that life need not be a self fulfilling prophecy when they improve self-concept, drive out fear and embrace new challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, eliminate self imposed limitations and cease dependence on others to provide validity.
David E. Watters
 |
RECIPROCAL RECOMMENDATIONS AND FREE PUBLICITY
I’d like to invite you to write a brief recommendation of my work that I can include in my LinkedIn profile. You will need to be a member of Linkedin to do this.
MY PROFILE IS HERE: http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/david-equality-watters/23/371/95b
Alternatively an endorement for my website would be appreciated and this can be emailed to DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
I will gladly reciprocate and endorse the work that you do. Top quotes will also be featured on http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk with a link to your site.
Thanks in advance for helping me out. DAVID EQUALITY WATTERS
YOU CAN ENDORSE ME AS A WRITER, PUBLIC SPEAKER OR WORKSHOP PROVIDER – HOWEVER YOU KNOW ME BEST.
LINKS:
WRITING: http://www.ambiente.us/05509JohnAmaechi.html (JOHN AMAECHI)
http://www.ambiente.us/010011Trevor.html (THE TREVOR PROJECT)
PUBLIC SPEAKING: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Motivational-Speaking.html
WORKSHOPS: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/default.html
David was recently profiled on 10,000 Couples as Someone You Should Know:
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute. He is a writer on social inequality issues, is a key player in the Equal Love Campaign UK and author of the forthcoming book, NEVER BLEND IN which supports and is supported by the Trevor Project and theHarvey Milk Foundation, features key voices from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community including Stephen Fry, Colton Ford, Mike Ruiz, Calpernia Addams, Alan Cumming, Darren Hayes, Lt. Dan Choi, LGBT Olympic athletes, actors, politicians, military, firefighters, Harvey Milk colleagues (Anne Kronenberg, Tom Ammiano and Dan Nicoletta) and has a foreword by Stuart Milk.
This groundbreaking book aims to inspire and encourage those who may lack self-belief or who question their validity.
David is also currently promoting a youtube campaign, “Give ‘em Hope”, and is asking individuals, couples and groups to make and share videos telling about the benefits of living with personal authenticity.
He has shared a platform with Stuart Milk and Peter Tatchell and is a supporter of 17-24-30, The Trevor Project, Schools Out, The Harvey Milk Foundation and has great admiration for the WHOF initiative and all the brave members of this group who speak out against the prejudice and bigotry in our society.
ENDORSEMENTS
COPYRIGHT NOTICE © TEXT & IMAGES
I think that out of everyone in society LGBT people, especially LGBT youth, are subjected to most negative energy and the most negative portrayals of themselves and so it’s really important for us as a community to give back and to let people see that the sun can shine
ALAN CUMMING
Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
He (Harvey Milk) had great confidence in me; I really felt that the basic message was “you can do it”. He was a cheerleader first and then he would deconstruct content second. I think there was always this attention to helping somebody really feel that they can make their way.
If you look at his speeches that’s there; there’s really this broad stroke that’s about positivity and confidence so you’re on the right path in terms of carrying on his work that way.
DAN NICOLETTA
PETER TATCHELL
For young people coming to terms with their sexuality it’s really important that they have positive, high achieving role models as a way of boosting their self esteem and confidence. This kind of book shares the experience of a very diverse group of LGBT people. Individual and collective experience offers the inspiration and motivation for LGBT people to do something worthwhile with their lives and live their dream.
There are two ways you can approach not fitting in. If you get to see it as a blessing, feeling like an Outsider can eventually give you the freedom and license to create your own world, follow your own goals, and make your own reality. I’ve always thought it must be a lot harder for those who effortlessly belong – how much stronger the temptation to just blend in and be a non-questioning sheep! Yes, there is pain. Feelings of rejection, confusion, self-doubt. But think of those negatives in a positive light: you have the chance to acquire resilience, fortitude, understanding and the realization but you have one life to live, so you absolutely have the right to live it your way!
It’s no shame to get help and inspiration from others, which is why David Watters ‘Never Blend In’, is so timely.
TRISHA GODDARD
…some people growing up LGBT will certainly want affirmation that they are not alone, but they will also (quite rightly IMHO) resist the idea that there is a “type” and that they fall into a categorisation. Such is the human paradox, yearning to assimilated and demanding to be treated as unique and apart. A part of the tribe and apart from the tribe. There are plenty of young LGBT people I know or have known who hate the idea of any sort of ghetto or connection with others. I’m Jewish and I’ll fight against anti-Semitism, but I’ll also raise issues about Israel’s violations of human rights and express my happy atheism and contempt for much of Judaism… It’s not a question of “hurrah, there’s a role model, now I know who I am and who my people are and where I belong in the world.”
Links to MORE of my writing:
AMBIENTE.US, NEVER BLEND IN ARTICLES:
POLARI ARTICLES:
MANCHESTER MOUTH (INTERVIEW APRIL 2010):
aechi opens-up on gay issues
10thousand Couples LLC (ARTICLE MAY 2010):
AVAILABLE FOR YOUR PRIDE EVENT
DEMAND DAVID E. WATTERS IN YOUR TOWN.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS LINK TO YOUR LOCAL PRIDE ORGANISERS.
LINKS TO PRIDE EVENTS WORLDWIDE ARE AT: http://www.nighttours.com/gaypride/
Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, has said:
“I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
DAVID E. WATTERS
IS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR PRIDE EVENT
David E. Watters is keen to bring something fresh and uplifting to your Events this year.
Below is a brief biography of motivational writer, workshop provider andinspirational speaker David E. Watters.
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute. He is a writer on social inequality issues, is a key player in the Equal Love Campaign UK and author of the forthcoming book, NEVER BLEND IN which supports and is supported by the Trevor Project and the Harvey Milk Foundation, features key voices from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community including Stephen Fry, Colton Ford, Mike Ruiz, Calpernia Addams, Alan Cumming, Darren Hayes, Lt. Dan Choi, LGBT Olympic athletes, actors, politicians, military, firefighters, Harvey Milk colleagues (Anne Kronenberg, Tom Ammiano and Dan Nicoletta) and has a foreword by Stuart Milk.
This groundbreaking book aims to inspire and encourage those who may lack self-belief or who question their validity.
David is also currently promoting a youtube campaign, “Give ‘em Hope”, and is asking individuals, couples and groups to make and share videos telling about the benefits of living with personal authenticity.
He has shared a platform with Stuart Milk and Peter Tatchell and is a supporter of 17-24-30, The Trevor Project, Schools Out, The Harvey Milk Foundation and has great admiration for the WHOF initiative and all the brave members of this group who speak out against the prejudice and bigotry in our society.
See below for endorsements, links to David’s public speaking and to his work as a freelance writer.
Please email, call or contact via skype (never.blend.in) with your requirements.
Kind Regards
David E. Watters
To hear David’s powerful Deadliest of Sins speech:
David was recently profiled on 10,000 Couples as Someone You Should Know:
ENDORSEMENTS
COPYRIGHT NOTICE © TEXT & IMAGES
I think that out of everyone in society LGBT people, especially LGBT youth, are subjected to most negative energy and the most negative portrayals of themselves and so it’s really important for us as a community to give back and to let people see that the sun can shine
ALAN CUMMING
Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
He (Harvey Milk) had great confidence in me; I really felt that the basic message was “you can do it”. He was a cheerleader first and then he would deconstruct content second. I think there was always this attention to helping somebody really feel that they can make their way.
If you look at his speeches that’s there; there’s really this broad stroke that’s about positivity and confidence so you’re on the right path in terms of carrying on his work that way.
For me as a care professional, working in chem-dependency, to have any kind of guidebook that talks about self-esteem or how to keep people from committing suicide…I’m all for it. The few kids that have shown up that had suicide ideation, quite honestly, I didn’t have a template for what to tell them so I had to rely upon my intuition but I have no idea if I’m doing the right thing. I definitely feel that the therapeutic community, the psychological therapeutic community has a role to play in LGBT civil rights and I applaud you for doing this.
I was reading some of your pages on your website and I thought, “This is the antidote to my suicidal friend. If he could just read this, it would help him rephrase what he is defaulting to now.”
This is a very spiritually adept person; he’s practiced many disciplines, meditates, and he’s gone through all kinds of personal growth stuff and, because of his propensity to respond to his own addiction, he really ends up in these suicidal places. It’s really heartbreaking, you know and I don’t know why I got saved, why I didn’t, why I figured it out, how not to do that. When I see this happening to him, it’s just mind-boggling and it really is good to have a map available to find your way out of those negative moods.
DAN NICOLETTA
PETER TATCHELL
For young people coming to terms with their sexuality it’s really important that they have positive, high achieving role models as a way of boosting their self esteem and confidence. This kind of book shares the experience of a very diverse group of LGBT people. Individual and collective experience offers the inspiration and motivation for LGBT people to do something worthwhile with their lives and live their dream.
There are two ways you can approach not fitting in. If you get to see it as a blessing, feeling like an Outsider can eventually give you the freedom and license to create your own world, follow your own goals, and make your own reality. I’ve always thought it must be a lot harder for those who effortlessly belong – how much stronger the temptation to just blend in and be a non-questioning sheep! Yes, there is pain. Feelings of rejection, confusion, self-doubt. But think of those negatives in a positive light: you have the chance to acquire resilience, fortitude, understanding and the realization but you have one life to live, so you absolutely have the right to live it your way!
It’s no shame to get help and inspiration from others, which is why David Watters ‘Never Blend In’, is so timely.
TRISHA GODDARD
…some people growing up LGBT will certainly want affirmation that they are not alone, but they will also (quite rightly IMHO) resist the idea that there is a “type” and that they fall into a categorisation. Such is the human paradox, yearning to assimilated and demanding to be treated as unique and apart. A part of the tribe and apart from the tribe. There are plenty of young LGBT people I know or have known who hate the idea of any sort of ghetto or connection with others. I’m Jewish and I’ll fight against anti-Semitism, but I’ll also raise issues about Israel’s violations of human rights and express my happy atheism and contempt for much of Judaism… It’s not a question of “hurrah, there’s a role model, now I know who I am and who my people are and where I belong in the world.”
STEPHEN FRY
Role models are described as those individuals who we ‘aspire to’ and who provide strong and achievable targets that we can emulate in pursuit of our career or personal aims. This book breaks down the common stereotypes of gay people and unveils a more realistic perspective, chronicling the success of many gay role models that others aspire to.
Be inspired by the successful members of the gay community; real men and women. Read about the challenges they faced along the way, what helped to keep them going, and what it takes to make a small business, a life, a success.
This book illustrates the breadth and creativity of gays everywhere. It is a pioneering work and the success stories of inspirational gay role models from a wide variety of backgrounds should be made available in every library, every school. These are men and women you can aspire to but who have all shown just what it takes to become a role model – determination, courage and an unwavering desire to succeed.
“Never Blend In” brings you some amazing candidates all of whom have succeeded in very different ways. They each have inspiring stories to tell about their achievements and future ambitions, yet I noticed they all had one thing in common they were passionate about what they did.
So in reality gays are still struggling for acceptance and to reach the top of the ladder. However, I think for the gay who enters the celebrity arena or who decides to do his/her own thing - they no longer have to do it at the expense of their happiness- they can do things on their own terms. For many it will provide them with the work/ life balance that wasn’t available for them in the past. It’s vital we have gays in big business and we need more gays to be there. I think companies need to realize they can’t operate without gays. But they do need to provide the very thing we all tend to take for granted – the basic right of being given the same opportunities and earning power as str8 men. We are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, lovers, and friends. We are like you.
Anthony Spiteri, BS, MSc, PhD (Psychology)
I am excited to order several copies of your book and share them with friends and family as gifts. I may try to use it with one of my classes that I teach at my college on the psychology of diversity.
DR JOHN R. SHAFER,Director of the Counseling Center and Professor at Franklin College of Indiana, President, Shafer Consulting Services
Gladeana McMahon, As one of the leading personal development and transformational coaches in the UK, Gladeana was instrumental in founding theAssociation for Coaching for which she now holds the positions of Life Fellow and Vice President.
The Book that David Watters is proposing is long overdue as there is little written on the topic of LGBT issues.
Positive role models are important to individuals whether they be LGBT individuals talking about their experiences or the family and friends of such individuals who can model acceptance and positive affirmation. Therapists are likely to be interested in such a book in a bid to understand the specific needs of those who identify as LGBT considering the best ways to work with such individuals and/or their families. Academics are likely to find the book useful in considering issues around diversity and, of course, the general public will also benefit as a book of this sort educates the reader. This book will also help LGBT individuals to understand their situation and consider how to develop a deep and meaningful sense of self-worth. It will also help such individuals understand how best to help those around them to understand their situation as much as it will educate family and friends.
The LGBT community has often been portrayed in a less than favorable light – NEVER BLEND IN rips that inaccurate veil off, and offers a face and portrait of today’s LGBT community, its leaders, history, accomplishments and potential.
Herb Sosa, Editor|Publisher – Ambiente Magazine
& President – Unity Coalition|Coalicion Unida
By showcasing people who are out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender and living authentic lives, David Watters is sending an important message to those struggling to come out and be out: You CAN be yourself and live a full, satisfying, meaningful, and glorious life.”–
Lesléa Newman
We can never become complacent in our fight for equal rights and we need to remember the trailblazers who ignited the spark for the flame of progress that burns today.
As role models following in the legacy of others like Harvey Milk, we need to stand as proud confident people and continue to broaden the path of acceptance for those that follow us.
JACK MACKENROTH
This project authored and edited by David Watters will help certainly reach out and touch a generation of young people who will be the ones to carry on his legacy by helping transform our perceptions of the LGBT community and lay the foundation for a healthy and whole sense of self.
Rabbi Denise L. Eger
Congregation Kol Ami
West Hollywood’s Reform Synagogue
…we are in the fight for our very lives. NEVER BLEND IN says that we are committed to living out in the open, as we have a right to do. NEVER BLEND IN, means never settle for second best or the notion that we are “second class citizens” I will NEVER blend in.
SIMONE CAMPBELL
I always feel inspired by someone everyday. I think we should learn something new each day from anywhere or anyone. I’m inspired right now, by you, answering your intelligent questions Mr. David Watters. It’s not often I get to answer some great meaningful questions. So Bravo!!!
MARCUS PATRICK
There’s plenty of times in this world where we can feel isolated and alone and anytime we can find a source of community, a feeling of being a part of something bigger than ourselves; that can provide tremendous inspiration and solace, then that’s invaluable.
ANTHONY RAPP
Links to some of his writing:
AMBIENTE.US, NEVER BLEND IN ARTICLES:
POLARI ARTICLES:
MANCHESTER MOUTH (INTERVIEW APRIL 2010):
Amaechi opens-up on gay issues
Colton Ford Gives Hope
My wonderfully supportive Never Blend In brother Colton Ford has agreed to join my “Give ‘em Hope” Campaign and has promised a video contribution! Will you join the campaign and give hope to those who need it most?
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
COLTON FORD INTERVIEW EXTRACT:
You are entitled to be the person you are. Your sexual orientation is a part of that entitlement. It doesn’t make you good or bad, it just is a part of who you are. Try to embrace it and forgive those that cannot. Live your life fully, take good care of yourself, and in the process the people around you will be able to see the authenticity of you.
Colton Ford is the professional name of Glenn Soukesian, a former same-sex adult film star who has successfully transitioned to become a mainstream musician and actor. In his first mainstream film appearance, Ford appeared in the documentary film, Naked Fame (2004), which follows his journey from the world of adult films to mainstream club/dance music.
He released his first album, Tug of War, digitally in 2008, and…
…he was part of the True Colors Tour 2008 (an annual music tour created by American pop singer Cyndi Lauper to benefit the Human Rights Campaign and other organizations that provide support to the LGBT community and to the straight friends and family who love them, including PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)) and the Matthew Shepard Foundation, as well as local organizations in cities where the concerts were held.
From 2007 to 2009, Ford played Sheriff Trout in TV series, The Lair.
Under the Covers (2009) is his second full-length album.
Self-proclaimed as “a work in progress”, Colton Ford/Glenn Soukesian currently resides in New York City.
Tug of War is the debut album by former adult film star Colton Ford.
Track listing
All songs written by Ford and DJ/producer Quentin Harris, unless noted otherwise.
- 1. “Ready” – 3:04
- 2. “You Ain’t Gonna Change” – 4:50
- 3. “Gotta Do” – 4:51
- 4. “That’s Me” – 3:32
- 5. “Bluntly Speaking” – 3:30
- 6. “The Way You Love Me” – 5:05
- 7. “You Get What You Want” – 4:59
- 8. “Tug of War (My Heart Won’t Let Go)” – 4:32
- 9. “Love Has Found a Way” – 4:14
10. “I’ll Be Alright” – 5:28
11. “Wait for Me” – 5:40
12. “Your Love Is Everything” (Ford, Denise Rich, Laythan Armor) – 6:09
Under the Covers is the second full-length album from Colton Ford
Track listing
- “Rock the Boat” (Aaliyah) interlude
- “With Every Heartbeat” (Robyn)
- “Losing My Religion” (R.E.M.)
- “Dreams” (Fleetwood Mac) interlude
- “It’s No Crime” (Babyface)
- “Trouble” (Britney Spears)
- “It Seems Like You’re Ready” (R. Kelly) interlude
- “Follow Me” (Aly-Us)
- “By Your Side” (Sade)
10. “Music Sounds Better with You” (Stardust) [Hot Tracks Re-Edit]
11. “It’s like That” (Mariah Carey) interlude
12. “No One” (Alicia Keys)
14. “What About Us?” (Brandy) interlude
15. “You Gonna Want Me” (Tiga)
16. “Show Me Love” (Robin S.)
17. “Out of Time” (Hall & Oates) interlude
18. “Ashes to Ashes” (Faith No More)
EXTRACT FROM NEVER BLEND IN
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
COLTON FORD INTERVIEW EXTRACT:
You are entitled to be the person you are. Your sexual orientation is a part of that entitlement. It doesn’t make you good or bad, it just is a part of who you are. Try to embrace it and forgive those that cannot. Live your life fully, take good care of yourself, and in the process the people around you will be able to see the authenticity of you. If they are able, they will open themselves up to a new way of perceiving things, which is a great gift that you will have given them. If they are not able, accept it and move on. You can’t force anyone to change. They have to want it.
I think more and more people are getting frustrated with what we are doing to ourselves, and are becoming more aware of the hypocrisy of it all.
THE FULL FRANK AND FASCINATING INTERVIEW WILL APPREAR IN NEVER BLEND IN LATER THIS YEAR.
http://www.myspace.com/coltonfordmusic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colton_Ford
GET YOUR 2011 COLTON CALENDAR: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/2010/12/06/colton-fords-2011-wall-calendar-reserve-your-copy-today/
COLTON FORD IS…
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
Colton Ford is the professional name of Glenn Soukesian, a former same-sex adult film star who has successfully transitioned to become a mainstream musician and actor. In his first mainstream film appearance, Ford appeared in the documentary film, Naked Fame (2004), which follows his journey from the world of adult films to mainstream club/dance music.
He released his first album, Tug of War, digitally in 2008, and…
…he was part of the True Colors Tour 2008 (an annual music tour created by American pop singer Cyndi Lauper to benefit the Human Rights Campaign and other organizations that provide support to the LGBT community and to the straight friends and family who love them, including PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)) and the Matthew Shepard Foundation, as well as local organizations in cities where the concerts were held.
From 2007 to 2009, Ford played Sheriff Trout in TV series, The Lair.
Under the Covers (2009) is his second full-length album.
Self-proclaimed as “a work in progress”, Colton Ford/Glenn Soukesian currently resides in New York City.
Tug of War is the debut album by former adult film star Colton Ford.
Track listing
All songs written by Ford and DJ/producer Quentin Harris, unless noted otherwise.
- 1. “Ready” – 3:04
- 2. “You Ain’t Gonna Change” – 4:50
- 3. “Gotta Do” – 4:51
- 4. “That’s Me” – 3:32
- 5. “Bluntly Speaking” – 3:30
- 6. “The Way You Love Me” – 5:05
- 7. “You Get What You Want” – 4:59
- 8. “Tug of War (My Heart Won’t Let Go)” – 4:32
- 9. “Love Has Found a Way” – 4:14
10. “I’ll Be Alright” – 5:28
11. “Wait for Me” – 5:40
12. “Your Love Is Everything” (Ford, Denise Rich, Laythan Armor) – 6:09
Under the Covers is the second full-length album from Colton Ford
Track listing
- “Rock the Boat” (Aaliyah) interlude
- “With Every Heartbeat” (Robyn)
- “Losing My Religion” (R.E.M.)
- “Dreams” (Fleetwood Mac) interlude
- “It’s No Crime” (Babyface)
- “Trouble” (Britney Spears)
- “It Seems Like You’re Ready” (R. Kelly) interlude
- “Follow Me” (Aly-Us)
- “By Your Side” (Sade)
10. “Music Sounds Better with You” (Stardust) [Hot Tracks Re-Edit]
11. “It’s like That” (Mariah Carey) interlude
12. “No One” (Alicia Keys)
14. “What About Us?” (Brandy) interlude
15. “You Gonna Want Me” (Tiga)
16. “Show Me Love” (Robin S.)
17. “Out of Time” (Hall & Oates) interlude
18. “Ashes to Ashes” (Faith No More)
EXTRACT FROM NEVER BLEND IN
MATERIAL HERE IS COPYRIGHTED AND SHOULD NOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE CORRECT AUTHORISATION.
THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING THIS.
COLTON FORD INTERVIEW EXTRACT:
You are entitled to be the person you are. Your sexual orientation is a part of that entitlement. It doesn’t make you good or bad, it just is a part of who you are. Try to embrace it and forgive those that cannot. Live your life fully, take good care of yourself, and in the process the people around you will be able to see the authenticity of you. If they are able, they will open themselves up to a new way of perceiving things, which is a great gift that you will have given them. If they are not able, accept it and move on. You can’t force anyone to change. They have to want it.
I think more and more people are getting frustrated with what we are doing to ourselves, and are becoming more aware of the hypocrisy of it all.
THE FULL FRANK AND FASCINATING INTERVIEW WILL APPREAR IN NEVER BLEND IN LATER THIS YEAR.
http://www.myspace.com/coltonfordmusic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colton_Ford
GET YOUR 2011 COLTON CALENDAR: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/2010/12/06/colton-fords-2011-wall-calendar-reserve-your-copy-today/
INSPIRING QUOTES FROM NEVER BLEND IN (PART TWO)
NEVER BLEND IN: The Legacy of Harvey Milk
| RICH OVERTON
Not only do I believe that you can have a positive impact on the lives of others in even one single meaningful moment, it is ALL ABOUT and STARTS WITH that one single moment. Maya Angelou said “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” In every single meaningful moment, even if and sometimes especially just between two people, always be mindful on how you make someone else feel. This can change the world. |
JESSE ARCHER
I think everyone should tell their own truth, in their own way. It’s great for self awareness and self-examination with the added bonus that your story may show someone else they are not alone. I write to express my views and to document my life. I feel sometimes like if I don’t write it down, it didn’t happen. My hope is that I’m able to give a voice to those who aren’t able to use or articulate theirs. My purpose is to highlight and legitimize those who exist far out of the mainstream. |
| JACK MACKENROTH
I think my success came from facing adversity. I was always teased and taunted in my youth for being effeminate so I took solace in one of my natural talents which was art. It helped me escape and feel pride in something that I was good at doing. One aspect of my artistic endeavours was making my own clothes. I taught myself to sew when I was 13 and I didn’t really care about what my peers thought about what I made and how I wore it. In a sense I was taking control of their mockery by blatantly being proudly different. |
GUY GUIDO
My attitude toward myself has evolved and changed over the years by trial and error, success and failure, and mostly by coming out of the closet and being true to who I am. Many people do not have a clear view of what they really believe in. Lots of people just regurgitate what they have been taught or told by their peers or parents. It is only when you question the things you have been told and research, learn and study different ideas, that you can come to your own conclusions and live your life the way you see fit. |
| DEL SHORES
My hero, “Mark” in my play “Southern Baptist Sissies” has a mantra and the play ends with — “Sometimes I close my eyes and create a perfect world. A world of acceptance and understanding and love. A world where there’s hope. Even if the hope is just whispered I hear it.” I hear the hope. And yes, our visibility, our fight is a good fight, a worthy fight — and I have hope that we are getting there. |
COLTON FORD
Living openly and powerfully is a very strong message to everyone; Gay, straight, bi, transgender, black, white, rich, poor, etc. The only thing that I can represent is myself. I would never want someone to use my life as a template for his or her life. Everyone has their own unique life journey and should follow what’s in their heart. The thing that I hope to show is a sense of pride in who I am and what I’ve accomplished, to be as kind and generous as possible, and that loving myself enough to live for me has been the greatest gift I’ve given myself. |
| FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE CONTRIBUTORS |
| RICH OVERTON
http://www.rjoartists.com/http://www.myspace.com/rjoartistshttp://twitter.com/RJOArtists JESSE ARCHER http://www.jesseonthebrink.com/ JACK MACKENROTH http://www.jackmackenroth.com/
GUY GUIDO
DEL SHORES
COLTON FORD |
NEVER BLEND IN
A PRO-EQUALITY BLOG, written by Diversity Specialist, writer and motivational speaker David E Watters (NBI ASSOCIATES).
Articles on Equality & Diversity, Personal & Professional Development, Education & Management; his book, NEVER BLEND IN (http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Never-Blend-In.html), and the Give 'em Hope Campaign http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give--em-Hope-Campaign.html)
EMAIL: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
SKYPE: never.blend.in
