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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
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Tag Archives: The Trevor Project
THE TREVOR PROJECT | REPAIRING THE WORLD
Researched and Written by David Watters
How and why author Stephanie Silberstein plans to support the Trevor Project
Many of us can take a lifetime to understand and “accept” ourselves, even with the support of enlightened peers and family members.
Just imagine how it must be for those who grow up in the darkness of a conservative environment, where there is an active resistance to diversity; where family and the wider community are intolerant to homosexuality or gender variance.
Developmental psychologist and psychoanalyst Erik Erikson famously said, “Someday, maybe, there will exist a well-informed, well-considered, and yet fervent public conviction that the most deadly of all possible sins is the mutilation of a child’s spirit”.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people continue to live in a world where singular sexuality is promoted, binary definitions of gender prevail and where heterosexism dominates every aspect of culture.
For many individuals identifying as LGBT, there can be a social disconnection, not through choice but through their awareness of “otherness” and of a difference which is sadly still perceived as “less than”.
For those isolated individuals, who are or perceive themselves to be without family support, the feelings of invalidity and hopelessness can be overwhelming.
In 2010, the impact of this was all too clearly and shockingly illustrated, with the tragic deaths, through suicide, of so many desperately lost, tormented and disenfranchised young people, who could find no other alternative than to prematurely leave this world.
Charles Robbins, Executive Director and CEO of the Trevor Project had this to say, “Much like cancer used to be the unmentionable health epidemic; it’s now suicide and has been. Suicide, in America, is the third leading cause of death among youths in general and LGBTQ youths are up to four times as likely to attempt suicide”.
There are so many ways to engage in social change, to participate in assisting others, and it is vital that we recognize and support the numerous local, national and international organisations which exist to celebrate diversity, advocate equality and assist the vulnerable to achieve the self-belief and confidence to make better and more positive life decisions.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.
They are determined to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources including a nationwide, 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline, digital community and advocacy/educational programs that create a safe, supportive and positive environment for everyone.
By providing these critical resources, The Trevor Project, are key players in actively advocating a future where possibilities, opportunities and dreams are the same for all youth, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Charles Robbins, who has greatly inspired my work as an Equality Advocate and is a vital contributor who has influenced the direction of my book, NEVER BLEND IN, told me:
Youths reach out to us in a time of crisis or when they are actually experiencing suicide ideation and our goal is, clearly if it is a high risk or rescue call, and a rescue would mean that there is imminent danger of them harming themselves, we would deploy rescue services to that youth.
Usually those calls are a one time relationship, meaning that the youth at some point in time in their life came to this kind of critical juncture, reached out to us, we were able to take the call and in some way provide some kind of help; whether it’s emergency medical services or more often it is reducing the risk level from a high or medium risk to a low or no risk.
What we found, in doing all that work, was that our relationship with our constituency was just that one phone call. So what we noticed and what we felt was missing was some kind of continuum of care and that’s why we decided to deploy the website, because it provided linkage for youths. One statistic that’s really interesting for us is that two thirds of the calls that originate, originate from non-urban areas in the US, so you can imagine these are the mid-West, the South, areas where there’s a higher concentration of conservatism and conservative religious backgrounds and not a lot of services.
In order for us to effectively tackle both homophobia and Transphobia, in order for the younger generation to feel worthy, valid and empowered, in order, let’s be blunt, to SAVE lives, we must all engage in actions which address discrimination and prejudicial attitudes in every area of our society; our schools and universities, our workplaces, our communities and our shopping malls.
We all have the potential to use our particular skills to educate and bring light to the world. Whatever those strengths, whatever those core character traits, there is something that each individual can do to influence change in the world.
One such person is author Stephanie Silberstein, who has utilised her considerable talents to create the novel Shades of Gay, an engaging work of sensitivity, compassion and humanity.
Shades of Gay is described by Silberstein as a young adult novel, written specifically for LGBT teens, which features three teenagers caught up in a love triangle of sorts: Arthur, who is gay; Mitch, who is bisexual; and Emily, who is asexual.
The novel is told from Arthur’s point of view, and examines the effects of homophobia on LGBT teen’s lives, as well as delving into coming-of-age issues such as leaving home and holding onto friendships for longer than appropriate.
Author, Stephanie Silberstein, created Shades of Gay in response to a close friend’s struggle to accept her orientation. The novel is intended to support LGBT teens who may be feeling isolated and/or suicidal and 10% of the novel’s profits will go to support the Trevor Project.
Stephanie told me:
My main interest as an LGBT advocate is in suicide prevention. My best friend nearly committed suicide, in the summer of 2008, because of non-acceptance of her sexual orientation. Even at times when she was not acutely suicidal, she was suffering and hurting.
Nobody should be in that kind of pain just because they don’t happen to be heterosexual.
I decided to write my novel, Shades of Gay, in honor of her struggles. It is for her and for all the people who still suffer from depression/suicidal thoughts and impulses because of being LGBT.
Somewhere along the way, I learned that her situation is not at all uncommon; in fact, 1 out of 3 suicides are LGBT related. At this point, I realized my mission was bigger than writing a book for LGBT young adults. I wanted to dedicate my life to lowering the suicide rate in the LGBT community.
This issue has become even more important to me now because I’m realizing that it is not a ‘hot button” issue like many of the legal issues we are dealing with. I believe this issue is just as important and needs as much press time/advocacy time as marriage equality. Our community is losing members to suicide on a daily basis. My mission is to change that.
There are many ways to make a difference, many methods to repair the world. It’s not necessarily about writing a book and it’s not even about waving a placard or marching in a parade, unless that’s your style. Instead, it’s about finding the correct method of communication for you.
Sign that petition, tweet and retweet your views, repost a powerful YouTube video or an article you’ve found, Facebook or MySpace it, write to your political leaders, talk to, write to, email if you have to politicians, police forces, health services, broadcasters and employers so that they too can all positively influence the way that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are perceived.
Above all, take a moment to view The Trevor Project’s website where you can access information on their mission, values and service provision portfolio.
We should not be complacent and presume that, without our support, the Trevor Project will continue to exist. They are literally a lifeline providing support services to those who have all but lost hope; yet who have, in their time of crisis, found the courage to reach out.
Charles Robbins tells us why the Trevor Project needs public support and emphasises the need for us all to remain vigilant:
The single most important act that anyone can do is to send a contribution because we are not government funded; we rely solely on the goodwill of the general public. It’s an investment that goes a long way because it really only costs about fifteen dollars to answer one call and, therefore, one fifteen dollar gift is literally saving one life. Financial contributions matter and then also what we’ve posted on our website are the warning signs of suicide and it’s really important for us to have people read what those warning signs are for two reasons:
- 1. Should anyone ever have a friend or family member who exhibits those signs, you really need to know what to do and
- 2. It’s very empowering for people to be able to talk about the subject of suicide, because it’s often, it’s like the hidden epidemic, it’s something that a lot of people just don’t talk about and so to be able to arm yourself with some educational talking points I think is just a very, very helpful way in helping to reduce suicide across the country, here in the United States, and I’m sure anywhere else.
Each and every one of us has an obligation to take responsibility for making our society safer, fairer and more inclusive and we should not rely on the good will and hard work of others to secure that just and equal society, whilst complaining that we ourselves are powerless.
We can no longer wait for another Harvey Milk to follow or rely solely on the high profile leaders of this world, the pioneers, a visionaries, to fight our fight; but instead must learn ways to be tenacious, tireless and determined advocates for social equality ourselves.
We must, ourselves, find the strength, resolve and determination to lead and influence the change we want to see, to bring hope to those who have none. Somehow in some way we too can be capable of great things.
As Stephanie Silberstein says, “I live by the principle of Tikkun Olam. God calls Jewish people to repair the world. According to the Kaballah, when we do mitzvot (good deeds), we reclaim the lost pieces of God. In addition, on a personal level, I feel my life has meaning when I have helped and/or positively affected others. So I strive to make people’s lives better and by so doing make the world a little better”.
Save Lives/Take Action
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
If you are feeling suicidal, please call their 24-hour lifeline immediately at 866-4-U-TREVOR [866.488.7386]. All calls are confidential and toll-free from anywhere in the United States 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
SUICIDE RESOURCES:
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/suicide-resources/suicidal-signs
YOUTH RESOURCES:
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/youth/lifeline
VOLUNTEER: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/volunteers/opportunities
DONATE: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/investors/ways-give
STEPHANIE SILBERSTEIN:
Shades of Gay – Author Interview: http://vimeo.com/14876927
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/shadesofgay
Shades of Gay KINDLE EDITION:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FGLNLU
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shades-of-Gay/dp/B004FGLNLU
OPEN LETTER TO SANDRA BERNHARD
Dear Miss Bernhard
I am writing a book to support the Trevor Project, NEVER BLEND IN, which is an inspirational collection of interviews with role models; those living authentically – “regular” people and well known contributors including Lt Dan Choi, Stephen Fry, Alan Cumming, Parvez Sharma, Stuart Milk, The Trevor Project, Mike Ruiz, Anthony Rapp (Rent), Calpernia Addams, Darren Hayes, Harvey Milk colleagues (Dan Nicoletta, Anne Kronenberg and Tom Ammiano), Rabbi Denise Eger, Rev David Weekley, amongst many others.
The book is intended to provide a source of inspiration for readers who may question their validity.As someone who lives a life of integrity and authenticity, your voice would be an incredible addition. Can we please arrange an interview whilst you are here in London? I will be sitting front row, centre, on February 13th at the Leicester Square Theatre so perhaps we could talk beforehand.
Links to verify my validity and to see what the project is all about: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk
Please get back to me as the book will be missing a vital voice without your contribution.
I also write for http://www.ambiente.us so could perhaps use an edit of the interview to promote you current work.
Best wishes, David E. Watters
never_blend_in@rocketmail.com
IF YOU THINK SANDRA BERNHARD SHOULD BE IN MY BOOK THEN WHY NOT EMAIL OR CALL HER AGENT TO TELL HIM WHY:
Live & Personal Appearances:
For All Acting, Live Performances & Personal Appearances Please
Contact:
Kenneth Hartung ManagementKenneth Hartung
Kenneth@KennethHartungManagement.com
Phone: (516) 303-6019
Biography
Since she first stepped on stage at the Comedy Store in the ‘70s, Sandra Bernhard has been challenging fans and critics with her outrageous humor, keen satire and rollicking stage shows. “Give the dame her due,” writes the New York Times, “It’s invigorating to be in the presence of a true original.”
Bernhard, who writes and develops all of her own material, has produced numerous one-woman shows over the years, among them: Without You I’m Nothing—which was released as a feature film—Excuses for Bad Behavior, Giving ‘Til It Hurts, Hero Worship, the Love Machine, and Everything Bad and Beautiful, which ran for two months off-Broadway, before Bernhard toured with it, making numerous stops across the U.S. and in Europe. “A performer of stunning originality. Funny but foxy, super smart and slightly mad!” proclaimed WCBS. “Bernhard is a very funny woman by nature, a rocker by sheer determination and an actress you’ve seen in eclectic offerings,” says the Washington Post.
Bernhard’s last show, “Hero Worship,” featured a five-piece band and was a post-September 11th tribute to Bernhard’s commitment to irony—that it, too, has survived September 11th. The show featured a range of musical numbers (some original and some covers). It was a fearless attempt to show that life must continue and the show must go on. Other notable performances include her participation in the “Stormy Weather Benefit ’98,” organized by Don Henley, which also featured Stevie Nicks and Joni Mitchell, as well as “The Elton John Tribute for Broadway Cares.”
Bernhard’s one-woman Broadway show, “I’m Still Here … Damn It!,” was hailed by the New York Times as “an angst driven, foul-mouthed poison-laced joy ride that banks and careens frenetically through the worlds of fashion, celebrity, rock, and religion. In her own voice, unfiltered, [Bernhard] is a living, breathing bonfire.” The show, which initially ran for five months off Broadway, went on to play sold-out runs in Boston and San Francisco, and was filmed for an HBO special.
Bernhard first earned film accolades in 1983 when she appeared in Martin Scorsese’s “The King of Comedy.” Other film work includes “Inside Monkey Zetterland,” “Track 29,” “Hudson Hawk,” “Dinner Rush,” and “Dare.” And she is about to begin filming on two new projects.
From 1991-1996, Bernhard portrayed Nancy Bartlett on “Roseanne,” and she has had guest starring or recurring roles on numerous other shows, among them; “Ally McBeal,” “The Larry Sanders Show,” “The Sopranos,” “Law & Order: SVU,” “The L Word,” “Will & Grace,” and “The New Adventures of Old Christine.” She has appeared numerous times on “Late Night with David Letterman,” and has been a guest on “The Tonight Show,” “The View,” “The Joy Behar Show,” “The Jimmy Kimmel Show,” “The Rachel Maddow Show,” and Showtime’s “The Green Room,” among others. She has appeared regularly on the Howard Stern show since the ‘80s. And was the host of “Sandra After Dark,” for HBO, and “Reel Wild Cinema.”
In addition to her original songs, Bernhard performs covers from Led Zeppelin to Laura Nyro; Burt Bachrach to Britney Spears. “One moment, her voice is lulling you into a wistful sigh; the next, she’s knocking you back several rows with it,” proclaimed the SF Weekly. Her albums include: “I’m Your Woman,” and most recently she collaborated on the world music album “Whatever it Takes,” featuring African musicians such as Papa Wemba and TK. She has also sung with or opened for various musical acts, including: The Pretenders, Cyndi Lauper, and the Scissor Sisters. She participated in the “Stormy Weather Benefit ’98,” organized by Don Henley, which also featured Stevie Nicks and Joni Mitchell and “The Elton John Tribute for Broadway Cares.” Bernhard has also lent her talents to benefits for organizations including: The Ali Forney Center for LGBT Homeless Youth, and Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS.
Bernhard has written three books: Confessions of a Pretty Lady (Harper&Row, 1988), Love, Love and Love (HarperCollins, 1994), and May I Kiss You on the Lips, Miss Sandra? (William Morrow, 1998). And she is currently at work on her fourth collection. Her work has also been published in numerous magazines, including, The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, Conde Nast Traveler, Rolling Stone, Interview, and Spy.
Sandra Bernhard – Whatever It Takes
About the Show
Back performing in London for the first time in two years, Sandra Bernhard is returning to Leicester Square Theatre for 5 shows based on her latest album, ‘Whatever It Takes’.
‘Whatever It Takes’ is an inspired musical cross-cultural road trip which travels musically from New York, to Africa, the middle east, and South America.
But music is just one element of a Sandra Bernhard gig. Described by the New York Times as “a living, breathing bonfire”, Bernhard has been combining comedy and rock ‘n’ roll and courting controversy for 25 years, challenging fans and critics with her knife-edged humour, satire and emotive performances on film, television and stage.
An accomplished comedienne, actress, singer, and writer, Sandra Bernhard defies easy categorisation. Her live performances – part comedy, part social satire, and part cabaret – perfectly showcase her astonishing range of talents.
Performances
9th Feb 2011 to 13th Feb 20117.30pm
TICKETS: http://www.leicestersquaretheatre.com/lqt/show/S1288368995/Sandra+Bernhard
NEVER BLEND IN NEWS:JANUARY 2011
SCROLL DOWN FOR INFO AND ARTICLES
HELLO ALL…HOPING THAT 2011 HAS STARTED WELL. I’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR NEWS AND, IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING EQUALITY RELATED GOING ON PLEASE POST IT ON THE PAGE.
THE BOOK IS ALMOST DONE ( I KNOW I KEEP SAYING THAT!) AND NBI ASSOCIATES ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
I HOPE THAT YOU WILL HELP ME TO HELP OTHERS, ONE MIND AT A TIME, BY REPOSTING LINKS TO MY WEBSITE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk
HAVE A GREAT FEBRUARY … I PROMISE TO LEAVE YOU IN PEACE FOR ANOTHER MONTH!!! I APPRECIATE YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.
BEST WISHES, DAVID
NEVER BLEND IN
JANUARY NEWS:
29 January 2011: NBI Associates are now on Skype. Add us for free consultation call and ongoing one to one support. Skype Username: never.blend.in
28 January 2011: Recent interviews for the book, NEVER BLEND IN, include Parvez Sharma (A Jihad for Love) http://www.ajihadforlove.com/home.html, Assemblyman, Tom Ammiano http://www.tomammiano.com/, Lt. Dan Choi http://www.ltdanchoi.com/, photographer; Mike Ruiz http://www.mikeruiz.com/ and the incredibly inspirational and candid, Liza Friedlander http://www.lizaproductionsnyc.com/.
14 January 2011: David E. Watters has been selected, by Vodaphone, from 11,000 applicants to take part in the World of Difference Program. He has chosen to support The Albert Kennedy Trust.
The application involved writing a detailed proposal, a telephone interview and references from at least two referees; thanks go to Mike Colby & Stuart Milk (The Harvey Milk Foundation) and Charles Robbins (The Trevor Project) for supporting this successful application. WHY? READ HERE: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/2011/01/29/why-i-support-the-albert-kennedy-trust/
1 January 2011: Recent articles for http://www.ambiente.us; THE TREVOR PROJECT | REPAIRING THE WORLDhttp://www.ambiente.us/010011Trevor.html and EQUAL LOVE CAMPAIGN UK – ECHR LEGAL BID ANNOUNCED http://www.ambiente.us/010011EqualLove.html
31 December 2010: Article in http://www.10thousandcouples.com ; Expanding Equal Love in 2011 UK Style http://10thousandcouples.com/issue/january-2011/article/expanding-equal-love-in-2011-uk-style
Stephanie Silberstein is…
It was now or never, and the idea of never hurt too much…
Seventeen-year-old Arthur Jensen has never kissed another boy. The small town he lives in thrives on gossip, and he has enough problems fitting in being Jewish and mainly fatherless.
Then handsome, muscular Mitch moves in next door. For the first time ever, Arthur decides to pursue an actual relationship. At first the boys keep it to themselves, but soon that isn’t enough for Arthur. Mitch is afraid to come out, but Arthur can’t stand to keep their relationship in the closet. When the boys decide to declare their love openly, the whole school turns on them in ways they never expected.
They just wanted to be happy. That was their “sin”.
Author Stephanie Silberstein has utilised her considerable talents to create the novel Shades of Gay, an engaging work of sensitivity, compassion and humanity.
Shades of Gay is described by Silberstein as a young adult novel, written specifically for LGBT teens, which features three teenagers caught up in a love triangle of sorts: Arthur, who is gay; Mitch, who is bisexual; and Emily, who is asexual.
The novel is told from Arthur’s point of view, and examines the effects of homophobia on LGBT teen’s lives, as well as delving into coming-of-age issues such as leaving home and holding onto friendships for longer than appropriate.
Author, Stephanie Silberstein, created Shades of Gay in response to a close friend’s struggle to accept her orientation. The novel is intended to support LGBT teens who may be feeling isolated and/or suicidal and 10% of the novel’s profits will go to support the Trevor Project.
Stephanie told me:
My main interest as an LGBT advocate is in suicide prevention. My best friend nearly committed suicide, in the summer of 2008, because of non-acceptance of her sexual orientation. Even at times when she was not acutely suicidal, she was suffering and hurting.
Nobody should be in that kind of pain just because they don’t happen to be heterosexual.
I decided to write my novel, Shades of Gay, in honor of her struggles. It is for her and for all the people who still suffer from depression/suicidal thoughts and impulses because of being LGBT.
Somewhere along the way, I learned that her situation is not at all uncommon; in fact, 1 out of 3 suicides are LGBT related. At this point, I realized my mission was bigger than writing a book for LGBT young adults. I wanted to dedicate my life to lowering the suicide rate in the LGBT community.
This issue has become even more important to me now because I’m realizing that it is not a ‘hot button” issue like many of the legal issues we are dealing with. I believe this issue is just as important and needs as much press time/advocacy time as marriage equality. Our community is losing members to suicide on a daily basis. My mission is to change that.
There are many ways to make a difference, many methods to repair the world. It’s not necessarily about writing a book and it’s not even about waving a placard or marching in a parade, unless that’s your style. Instead, it’s about finding the correct method of communication for you.
We must ALL find the strength, resolve and determination to lead and influence the change we want to see, to bring hope to those who have none.
As Stephanie Silberstein says, “I live by the principle of Tikkun Olam. God calls Jewish people to repair the world. According to the Kaballah, when we do mitzvot (good deeds), we reclaim the lost pieces of God. In addition, on a personal level, I feel my life has meaning when I have helped and/or positively affected others. So I strive to make people’s lives better and by so doing make the world a little better”.
Save Lives/Take Action
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
If you are feeling suicidal, please call their 24-hour lifeline immediately at 866-4-U-TREVOR [866.488.7386]. All calls are confidential and toll-free from anywhere in the United States 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.
SUICIDE RESOURCES:
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/suicide-resources/suicidal-signs
YOUTH RESOURCES:
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/youth/lifeline
VOLUNTEER: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/volunteers/opportunities
DONATE: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/investors/ways-give
STEPHANIE SILBERSTEIN:
Shades of Gay – Author Interview: http://vimeo.com/14876927
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/shadesofgay
Shades of Gay KINDLE EDITION:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FGLNLU
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shades-of-Gay/dp/B004FGLNLU
http://www.flickr.com/photos/shadesofgay/
http://gavigirl.wordpress.com
http://meowingatthemoon.wordpress.com
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FGLNLU
DAVID EQUALITY WATTERS
DAVID WATTERS – BIOGRAPHY 2010
David Watters, a graduate of Trinity College of Music, London and the Institute of Education, University of London, has worked internationally as a singer, director and teacher for more than 20 years and has taught drama and music within socially and culturally diverse settings.
He is a personal and professional development associate with The Pacific Institute (www.pacificinstitute.co.uk), personal tutor, freelance writer and founding member of NBI Associates and Tech Queens.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who 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!”
His background in arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT, and his passion for Equality Advocacy drive every aspect of his work as a personal development facilitator and a writer.
David is currently finalizing his book, Never Blend In: The Legacy of Harvey Milk which supports and is supported by The Trevor Project.
The book sets out to highlight and challenge social perceptions of the LGBT community; to understand the causes of low self-esteem and suicide ideation felt by many LGBT individuals and, through a unique collection of inspirational interviews with well known and everyday people, to inspire and encourage the younger generation, or anyone questioning their validity, to lead a balanced, fulfilling and dignified life.
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 self- efficacy.
Openly LGBT and successful role model figures can play an enormous part in highlighting the wealth of possibilities available to young people. These people, who are successfully modelling admirable qualities and character traits such as determination, diligence, vision and consistent effort, can only serve to inspire and encourage the younger generation, or anyone questioning their validity, to lead a balanced, fulfilling and dignified life.
Notable voices in the book are Harvey’s colleagues, Anne Kronenberg and Danny Nicoletta; actors Stephen Fry and Alan Cumming; musician Darren Hayes (Savage Garden); Sordid Lives writer Del Shores; Michael Musto; filmmaker, Parvez Sharma; Calpernia Addams; NBA star John Amaechi and authors Lesléa Newman and Tom Rob Smith.
We, as a community, are under or misrepresented in the media and this impacts upon how individuals are perceived and treated by society. Positive, inspirational role models from the LGBT community can have an enormous impact on addressing this and can give hope to individuals who feel less valid and disenfranchised from society.
Most inspiring have been the “regular” people (the Scottish fireman, the Canadian concert pianist, the American professor, the South African artist or the student in Cardiff) who live with authenticity and, perhaps without realizing, are role models and inspirational figures to those whose lives they touch.
The “community” if such a thing exists is diverse but too many live in the shadows. My point, with this book, is that self worth determines our potential and that blending in is a direct result of feeling “less than”, feeling ashamed of how God (whatever that means to you) made you”.
Harvey Milk’s legacy, for this author, is the growing number of proud LGBT individuals who refuse to live lives limited by the judgment of others.
We can be part of society without blending in. To me it means living with 100% authenticity (as Dr Phil or Oprah might say!). We shouldn’t compromise our identity to be accepted and everyone regardless of sexuality or gender identity has a right to fully live.
Life need not be a self-fulfilling prophecy and by recognizing that our “truth” has been shaped through our relationships, our environment and our experiences, we can begin to change our perceptions, heighten our self-esteem and move toward our personal and professional goals with clear vision and purpose….
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.
Peter Tatchell
It’s no shame to get help and inspiration from others, which is why David Watters ‘Never Blend In’, is so timely.
Trisha Goddard
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DAVID WATTERS AND NEVER BLEND IN:
PRE- PUBLICITY
AMBIENTE.US, NEVER BLEND IN ARTICLES: http://www.ambiente.us/05509JohnAmaechi.html
http://www.ambiente.us/08009ChrisMason.html AND http://www.ambiente.us/04510JackMackenroth.html
POLARI ON SPRINGS ARTICLE: http://www.polarimagazine.com/?p=794
PIRATE CAT RADIO (INTERVIEW WITH CONTRIBUTOR SIMONE CAMPBELL, MARCH 2010): http://www.piratecatradio.com/
MANCHESTER MOUTH (INTERVIEW APRIL 2010): http://www.manchestermouth.co.uk/index.php?action=content&content_id=27
10thousand Couples LLC (ARTICLE MAY 2010): http://10thousandcouples.com/issue/may-2010/article/never-blend-in
INTERVIEW WITH KIERAN PROUT, ’Reporting to you from outside of the closet’: http://www.mediafire.com/?lghmymnbgan
NEVER BLEND IN IS CITED, BY ANTOINE SPITERI PhD, AS BEING LITERATURE THAT GAVE BIRTH TO GAY EXILES: http://www.antoinespiteri.com/exile.htm
BLOGS:
WORDPRESS: http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/
MILK.COM: http://harvey.milk.com/forum/topics/prop-8-equality-and-other
BLOG.HOLLYWOODPORTRAITARTIST.COM (James Michael McCracken): http://blog.hollywoodportraitartist.com/2009/04/11/interview-with-mr-david-watters-londonengland.aspx
SOCIAL NETWORKS:
FACEBOOK PAGE: http://www.facebook.com/?sk=messages&tid=1351055150278#!/profile.php?ref=profile&id=524934327
FACEBOOK GROUP: http://www.facebook.com/?sk=messages&tid=1351055150278#!/group.php?gid=106980051654&ref=mf
MYSPACE: www.myspace.com/n_b_i
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/NEVER_BLEND_IN
READY FOR PUBLICATION NOW
STALKING ALAN CUMMING
In what would have been Harvey Milk’s 80th year, a book celebrating his life and legacy is born.
Never Blend In: The Legacy of Harvey Milk by British writer David Watters, and with a foreword by Harvey’s nephew, Stuart Milk, is a timely and unique collection of inspirational interviews with well known and everyday people who represent the great diversity within the LGBT Community.
The research, supported by PFLAG, The Trevor Project, FFLAG (UK), The Gay Police Association (GPA) and Schools OUT (UK), investigates the disenfranchisement often felt by marginalized members of the community and offers inspiration, through interviews with positive role models, and practical guidance toward developing self-esteem.
A second book, The NBI Workbook, based on the NBI Program will also soon be completed.
Notable Voices in the book are:
Harvey Milk’s colleagues, Anne Kronenberg and Danny Nicoletta;
actors Stephen Fry, Alan Cumming and Marcus Patrick;
musician Darren Hayes (Savage Garden);
Sordid Lives writer Del Shores;
Michael Musto (Village Voice);
filmmaker, Parvez Sharma;
Calpernia Addams;
NBA star John Amaechi;
Olympic Medalists, Ji Wallace, Mark Tewksbury and Bruce Hayes
designer Jack MacKenroth,
political activist, Peter Tatchell
authors Lesléa Newman, (57 books including A Letter to Harvey Milk), Linda Goldman (Coming Out, Coming In) and Tom Rob Smith (Child 44, The Secret Speech).
A FULL ALBUM OF CONTRIBUTORS CAN BE FOUND @ http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/
Global interest already exists and I am confident that there is a large and diverse market for the book.
AMBIENTE.US, NEVER BLEND IN ARTICLES: http://www.ambiente.us/05509JohnAmaechi.html
http://www.ambiente.us/08009ChrisMason.html AND http://www.ambiente.us/04510JackMackenroth.html
POLARI ON SPRINGS ARTICLE: http://www.polarimagazine.com/?p=794
PIRATE CAT RADIO (INTERVIEW WITH CONTRIBUTOR SIMONE CAMPBELL, MARCH 2010): http://www.piratecatradio.com/
MANCHESTER MOUTH (INTERVIEW APRIL 2010): http://www.manchestermouth.co.uk/index.php?action=content&content_id=27
10thousand Couples LLC (ARTICLE MAY 2010): http://10thousandcouples.com/issue/may-2010/article/never-blend-in
INTERVIEW WITH KIERAN PROUT, ’Reporting to you from outside of the closet’: http://www.mediafire.com/?lghmymnbgan
NEVER BLEND IN IS CITED, BY ANTOINE SPITERI PhD, AS BEING LITERATURE THAT GAVE BIRTH TO GAY EXILES: http://www.antoinespiteri.com/exile.htm
Each celebrity interviewed has their own following and the name of Harvey Milk is now internationally recognized and respected through the multi award winning movie, MILK.
David Watters, a graduate of Trinity College of Music, London and the Institute of Education, University of London, has worked internationally as a singer, director and teacher for more than 20 years and has taught drama and music within socially and culturally diverse settings.
He is a personal and professional development associate with The Pacific Institute (www.pacificinstitute.co.uk), personal tutor, freelance writer and founding member of NBI Associates and Tech Queens.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who 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!”
His background in arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT, and his passion for Equality Advocacy drive every aspect of his work as a personal development facilitator and a writer.
SELECTED ARTICLES:
AMBIENTE.US, NEVER BLEND IN ARTICLES: http://www.ambiente.us/05509JohnAmaechi.html
http://www.ambiente.us/08009ChrisMason.html AND http://www.ambiente.us/04510JackMackenroth.html
More information on the book and the author’s NBI Program can be found here:
http://neverblendin.wordpress.com/
Email David at: never_blend_in@rocketmail.com
TELEPHONE: 07800813189
SYNOPSIS: OVERVIEW OF CHAPTERS
NEVER BLEND IN: THE LEGACY OF HARVEY MILK
About the author
About the book
Author’s acknowledgements
FOREWORD: Written by Stuart Milk
| CHAPTER ONE: GIVE THEM HOPE |
The importance of role models for LGBT youth, the LGBT community and the wider society
|
THE IMPORTANCE OF ROLE MODELS TRISHA GODDARD ME, SUICIDAL? (Abridged) by DAVID CHAYIM STEPHANIE SILBERSTEIN INTERVIEW CHARLES ROBBINS (THE TREVOR PROJECT) JENA LEWIS ANTOINE SPITERI BS, MSc, PhD (Psychology) DR JOHN R. SHAFER GLADEANA McMAHON
|
| CHAPTER TWO: HARVEY MILK (PART ONE) |
- BIRTH IS THE BEGINNING
| CHAPTER THREE: WHO AM I? |
The Authenticity Audit – “Truth” v Perception
|
ALAN CUMMING JACK MACKENROTH JOHN AMAECHI JUSTIN REED EARLY SARA DAVIS BUECHNER SIMONE CAMPBELL STEPHEN FRY
|
| CHAPTER FOUR: WHY AM I? |
Self-Esteem and the Environment
Labels
4.1 INTERVIEWS WITH PARENTS, FAMILY & EDUCATORS
| LINDA GOLDMAN (Coming Out, Coming In)
RAYMOND & IRENE MILLER GEOFF PINE HELEN CLEWS
|
4.2 INTERVIEWS WITH FAITH CONTRIBUTORS
Reconciling faith with sexuality and gender identity
| REV. DAVID WEEKLEY
RABBI DENISE EGAR REV. JO HUDSON PARVEZ SHARMA TONY SWEET LEVI KREIS
|
CHRIS BUTLER (GCN) RICK BROWN (GCN) HANNAH GEORGE PAUL MISTY GRANDISON R.J. BROWN (SGI-UK Nichiren Daishonin Buddhist) |
4.3 INTERVIEWS WITH MEDIA CONTRIBUTORS
|
ADELE ANDERSON ARIEL APARICIO BEN PATRICK JOHNSON CALPERNIA ADDAMS CASPER ANDREAS COLTON FORD DARREN HAYES DEL SHORES ERIC HIMAN
|
JILL BENNETT JOI CARDWELL SCOTCH ELLIS LORING MARCUS PATRICK MARK BARNES MICHAEL MUSTO REED MCGOWAN RICH OVERTON |
| CHAPTER FIVE: THE DEADLIEST OF SINS |
A Cross Burning in Willacoochee
ROY KIRKLAND & DOUG SEBASTIAN
| CHAPTER SIX: HARVEY MILK (PART TWO) |
- MY NAME IS HARVEY MILK#
| CHAPTER SEVEN: WHAT DO I WANT? |
Personal or Professional Goals
| ARMANDO DIAZ
CHRIS AITCHISON CHRISTOPHER HULL DANIEL EWAN IMOGEN MANN JOEL FRAZIER, M.D. JOSHUA FENNELL JULIE NORTON KEN O’NEILL |
KEVIN FREEL
KIERAN JAMES PROUT LIZ CLARK MISAE RICHWOODS NEIL PEARSON REX CAMERON SCOTT ELLIS TERI BARKER VALDELICIO SILVA |
| CHAPTER EIGHT: WHAT’S STOPPING ME? |
Our BELIEFS, THOUGHTS and CHOICES
Self-Talk, Self-Image and Goals
Labels and Limitations
|
8.1 “GOOD SPORTS” INTERVIEWS ARDEN JOHNSON BRUCE HAYES JI WALLACE MARK TEWKSBURY
|
8.2 INTERVIEWS WITH POLICE, SOLDIERS
DIANE DOYLE J.R. CRAWFORD MICHAEL P CARNEY JIMMY ANDRUSZKEWICZ MITCHELL GROBESON KELLY REED JEFF OLSON STUART THOMAS
|
| CHAPTER NINE: HOW DO I GET IT? |
Reprogramming, visualising and taking affirmative action
- Mind Control
- Thinking Traps & Comfort Zones
- Affirmative Action
- Thinking Traps & Comfort Zones
| CHAPTER TEN: MORE GLITTER – LESS BITTER |
|
ABEL CRUZ AL PILLAY ANDREW JAMES HASLAM ARIAN LEVANAEL BRENT MARR FABRIZIO PAGAN GEORGE TOWNE GUY GUIDO |
JAMES MICHAEL MCCRACKEN JESSE ARCHER KEVIN STEA MOXY HART SCOTT CAPURRO SY BOCCARI TOM BIANCHI TOM BROOKS |
| CHAPTER ELEVEN: HARVEY MILK (PART THREE) |
- HOPE WILL NEVER BE SILENT
The enduring legacy of Harvey Milk in the words of those he knew and those whose lives he influenced.
|
STUART MILK DANNY NICOLETTA ANNE KRONENBERG TOM AMMIANO CLEVE JONES DUSTIN LANCE BLACK GUS VAN SANT SEAN PENN LESLEA NEWMAN
|
| CHAPTER TWELVE: COME OUT, COME OUT…WHEREVER YOU ARE |
Some inspiring people who walk the path that was laid by Harvey Milk and his generation.
|
ALEX RANDOLPH CHRIS MASON CLIVE HARVEY FOX EVAN WOLFSON HERB SOSA JEFF SHENG
|
JOHN R. SELIG KYLE QUANDEL MARK MACKENZIE MELISSA SUE ROBINSON PETER TATCHELL SARAV CHITHAMBARAM
|
| APPPENDIX ONE: BIOGRAPHIES OF CONTRIBUTORS
APPENDIX TWO: RESOURCES, SUPPORT & USEFUL LINKS APPENDIX THREE: GLOSSARY OF TERMS |
| APPENDIX FOUR: INTRODUCING THE NBI WORKBOOK
|
| INTRODUCING THE NBI WORKBOOK |
|
Did anyone ever tell you that you have unending potential?
Even if they did, did you believe them? |
Do you always miss out on that promotion at work? Is dating disastrous and do your romantic relationships derail? Does this sound familiar?!
So often, and this is not uncommon, people start with the premise that something is impossible to achieve, that things won’t go their way and that these negative outcomes are predetermined.
Well, of course they are predetermined! Not because these people are undeserving losers but because their inner dialogue is telling them that they will fail and this is outwardly reflected in their words and actions.
Wasn‘t it Henry Ford who famously said, “”Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.”?
Many of us feel trapped in circumstances which make us unhappy or unfulfilled but resign ourselves to thinking that we are unworthy of more.
If the decisions that you are making – accepting an abusive relationship for example – are not bringing you happiness then you need to take a look at your self-concept. The belief that an abusive alliance is what you deserve, whether this be a bullying parent, partner, peer, spouse or a domineering work colleague, needs to be addressed.
|
Our BELIEFS inform our THOUGHTS, which in turn inform our CHOICES |
Understanding the origin of your BELIEFS, challenging their accuracy and redefining those which are creating limiting THOUGHTS will empower and enable you to make CHOICES to say and do only those things which bring you closer to emotional, intellectual and spiritual fulfilment.
Since childhood, we have been conditioned to see the world and ourselves in terms of the attitudes and beliefs of those around us. The influence of parents and family in the early years has an immense and so often underestimated impact on the developing identity. We learn from their example and, as the first models of attitude and behaviour that we encounter, they have a moral obligation to offer a balanced view of the world and our place in it.
What this program does is to give you the tools to understand how self esteem determines the path you will take but that life need not be a self fulfilling prophecy when you improve your 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
INDEX
ABOUT THE BOOK
Never Blend In: The Legacy of Harvey Milk
by David Watters
Never Blend In: The Legacy of Harvey Milk is a unique collection of inspirational interviews with well known and everyday people who represent the great diversity within the LGBT Community.
The research, supported by PFLAG and The Trevor Project, FFLAG (UK), The Gay Police Association (GPA) and Schools OUT (UK), tackles the issue of teenage suicide and the disenfranchisement often felt by LGBT youth.
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 self- efficacy.
Some of those included in the book are Alan Cumming, John Amaechi, Calpernia Addams, Stephen Fry, Darren Hayes, Parvez Sharma, Harvey Milk colleagues Anne Kronenberg & Danny Nicoletta and a foreword by his nephew Stuart Milk.
Openly LGBT and successful role model figures can play an enormous part in highlighting the wealth of possibilities available to young people. These people, who are successfully modelling admirable qualities and character traits such as determination, diligence, vision and consistent effort, can only serve to inspire and encourage the younger generation, or anyone questioning their validity, to lead a balanced, fulfilling and dignified life.
Each chapter is prefaced with sound advice and guidance on how self-worth determines potential.
Life need not be a self-fulfilling prophecy and by recognising that our “truth” has been shaped through our relationships, our environment and our experiences, we can begin to change our perceptions, heighten our self-esteem and move toward our personal and professional goals with clear vision and purpose.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000924072854#!/group.php?gid=106980051654&ref=mf
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.
Peter Tatchell
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, 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 realisation 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
“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!”
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.
In “Never Blend In” David Watters has brought together a number of role models in one publication featuring successful gay artists, scientists and entrepreneurs, who share their experiences and take you on their journey. These are men and women with whom you can relate, whose stories will inspire and motivate you and leave you ready to move forward, both personally and professionally.
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 realise 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, friends. We are like you.
ANTOINE SPITERI
Anthony Spiteri, BS, MSc, PhD (Psychology)
The book NEVER BLEND IN is a provocative look into the lives of successful people who live in a world where the odds are stacked against us. It is important to give hope to the younger generation with diverse sexual orientations to see that we can be happy, healthy, and successful players in this game we call life. I hope by telling my story in this book, I can, in some small way, make life easier for those who march to the beat of a different drum. I am a rebel with a cause…you can either march with me, or step out of my way.
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
“Never Blend In,” is so absolutely crucial to our very survival. For when we first discovered our difference, we believed we were alone. This is why statistically, gay teen suicide attempts are four times that of heterosexual youth, and for every completed suicide by a gay youth, there are between 100-200 attempts that are made by other gay teens. Astoundingly, one-third of ALL teenagers who commit suicide do so because they are gay. In America, we have had as many as 11 teenagers a day commit suicide due to their sexual orientation! “Never Blend In” provides a guiding light for all LGBT people (in fact, for all non-LGBT people as well) because it demonstrates that not only are you not alone, but that you too can rise to attain your most desired dreams. There is nothing and no one that can hold you back. Harvey Milk paved the way for us all to be able to be ourselves and to simultaneously provide a role model for others. Whether you are the parent, uncle, or cousin of a gay child, or friend of a gay adult, the stories presented here give a unique insight into the relationships we cherish. You do not need to be gay to be inspired by the lives of these amazing heroes, whose stories are told, often for the first and only time, in “Never Blend In.”
MITCHELL GROBESON
This book is crucially important because we need to continually shed light on the struggles and adversity facing the LGBT community. 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
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
