FROM THE STREETS

NEW YORKGov. David Paterson remains stedfast in his efforts to legalize same-sex marriage in New York, comparing the effort to the fight for the abolition of slavery. The legislation that he introduced passed the NYS Assembly in May is now headed for a final showdown in the State Senate. The proposal is the same bill the Democratic-controlled state Assembly passed in 2007before it died in the Senate, where the Republican majority kept it from coming up for a vote. Democrats now control the Senate, but opponents are vowing to make sure this one fails, as well.
Gay marriage is a crucial issue of equal rights in America that cannot be ignored, Paterson said. He was joined Mayor Michael Bloomberg, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and other elected officials, as well as gay rights advocates and his wife, Michelle.

ALABAMA
Judge Herman Thomas, a prominent member of the Alabama Democratic Party, was found "not guilty" on charges of sex abuse, sodomy and assault. The former Alabama judge was accused of checking dozens of male inmates out of jail and forcing them to engage in sexual activity for reduced sentences in his court office and chambers.
Alleged victims testified of being spanked, told to masturbate or forced to have oral sex with Thomas in exchange for lighter sentences. Semen of two alleged victims was found in the judges office. Despite the DNA evidence, visitor logs and testimony of several witnesses the jury found him "not guilty" on several charges and the judge dismissed the other counts

MILWAUKEEPolice were recently forced to close an investigation of a shooting of what officers initially thought was a woman, shot in the leg. It turned out be a 27-year old man. The short period of confusion developed because the victim was wearing woman’s clothes.
The victim was shot in the thigh, knee, and buttocks. The injuries reportedly were not critical or life threatening. The victim says he was walking home early Sunday morning when the suspect's vehicle pulled up beside him and someone fired multiple shots. The suspect was vaguely described as a black man, 5'07", 170-180 pounds, stocky build, with braids. The victim was uncooperative with investigators.
This incident is only the latest in an increasing number of incidents in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have been attacked or killed in bias-motivated incidents. An increase of 28 percent in 2008 compared to a year ago, according to a national coalition of advocacy groups. Last year's 29 killings was the highest recorded by the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs since 1999, when it documented the same number of slayings, according to a report released Tuesday by the coalition.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
About 100 witnesses testified on Monday before a D.C. city council committee on legislation that would legalize same-sex marriage in the nation’s capital.
Attendees had the opportunity to discuss the measure's language and proposed changes to it, such as replacing the terms “bride” and “groom” on marriage licenses with “spouse,” reports the Associated Press. Many religious organizations attended to vent their concerns, mainly they want to ensure that they are not forced to rent their space for ceremonies uniting gay couples. An extreme anti-gay zealot self-professed "Christian" Earnestine Copeland, the final witness testified or accurately ranted on Sodom and Gomorrah, "devils" and "demons" and compared same-sex relations and marriage to bestiality. She harangued the Council for deciding “to lead my people to hell” by supporting same-sex marriages which “will destroy our society.” and asked “Who among you would allow your male dog to lie with a male dog?”


THE UNITED KINGDOMEngland Celebrates "Black History Month"Black History Month has been celebrated in England widely for many years honouring the achievements, culture, and the history of black people. In Southwark Black History Month has been recognised for over 20 years with a month long programme of exciting and inspirational events and workshops. Every year throughout October people, schools, libraries, groups and organisations host events and get involved with the celebration of black history.
Continuing the theme of "The Journey: Past, Present, Future", Black History Month 2009 will offer a diverse and rich programme of events for everyone to enjoy. Exploring the theme is a mixture of organisations, groups and individuals that will interpret 'The journey: past, present, future' with exhibitions, talks, walks, film screenings, showcases, and more. With this in mind, Outburst UK, in association with Southwark Council and the London Southbank University presents: "Finding Me".
A story of one young man's journey to self-acceptance and self-love. It is also a story that lies close to our hearts, because we have all taken the trip to "Finding Ourselves". This story begins with a question, "What am I doing with my life?"Faybien Allen begins his journey to self-discovery with the aid of his two best friends, Amera and Greg. He also plays the teacher at times to these friends as well.Faybien's father's disappointment looms over any of his achievements or progress toward self acceptance until a stranger enters his life. Lonnie's love for Faybien allows him to open his eyes, hear and mind. As he begins his journey he is introduced to a character, which proves just how harsh life can be and the unfortunate outcomes of poor decisions. This individual forces Faybien to accept his responsibility for his actions, and provides a new obstacle for him on his journey to self-acceptance. Faybien's emotions are defined by his guilt and sadness, because he has not accepted the loss of someone close to him.
Will young Faybien accept who he is?
Will he take responsibility for his life and gain control?
Producer/Writer/Director: Roger S. Omeus, JR
Date: Friday 30 October 2009
Location: London Southbank UniversityThe Keyworth Centre main auditoriumKeyworth StreetLondon SE1 6NG