Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Association
Since its inception in 1989, OPALGA has become one of the largest community based, multipurpose lesbian and gay membership organizations in Illinois.
Book Club to Discuss Sense and Sensibility in October
We encourage anyone who loves to read to join us for the upcoming meetings of the OPALGA book club. The discussions are informal and enjoyable, and we always have a lot of laughs. So, if you want to find out what you’ve been missing, check out the OPALGA book club!
Following are our upcoming selections:
October 19 Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s debut novel follows the adventures of the Dashwood sisters as they find love in a class-conscious Regency England.
November 16 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
A young Indian on a reservation wants to become a comic author.
The book club meets every third Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The OPALGA Center, unless otherwise specified. All books are available through http://www.amazon.com. In addition, copies can be requested from the Oak Park Public Library (834 Lake St., Oak Park) or ordered from The Book Table (1045 Lake St., Oak Park). Remember, OPALGA receives a charitable donation from The Book Table for each book purchased there (regardless of whether it is a book club selection). Please let them know that you are purchasing your book as a member of OPALGA.
Recipe Corner
Several years ago, OPALGA talked about putting together a cookbook containing our members’ favorite recipes. Now, in anticipation of our organization’s 20th anniversary, we have decided that the time is right for this tasty project!
Talk to your family, your friends, and your neighbors to find those recipes that you really enjoy and want to share with other OPALGA members. Please feel free to submit any of your favorite recipes, and be sure to give a credit for the originator of the recipe, if applicable.
All recipes should be submitted to jeziebarth@comcast.net. Please include the word “RECIPE” in your subject line, and be sure to attach your recipe to the e-mail as a Microsoft Word document. Thank you!
In the meantime, we plan to publish a few of the recipes that we have already received in upcoming issues of Empower. Bon appétit!
Caribbean Spiced Salmon Steaks
Submitted by Gayle Weiss
4 1-inch thick salmon steaks
½ c. brown sugar
½ tbsp. allspice
½ tbsp. dried mustard
½ tbsp. ginger
Combine dry spices with brown sugar; mix well.
Clean and dry salmon steaks and coat well with spice mix. Rub mixture into the salmon flesh and refrigerate for at least four hours (overnight is okay, too).
Broil for approximately five minutes per side. Delicious and easy!
Looking Across the Lines of Gender
“Mask,” “cocoon,” “closet” . . . all are metaphors to describe how we choose to hide ourselves before coming out and being free to be ourselves. On this National Coming Out Day, October 11, one Oak Park area resident will be able to celebrate being free for the first time after over 35 years of hiding in a physiological cocoon.
At the age of 11, with pains in his chest, Shawn Baggett went to the doctor. The diagnosis, not unusual for a pre-teen, was puberty. What was unusual was that chest pains (also known as breast tenderness) are a common symptom for puberty in girls. The doctor confirmed his diagnosis in an x-ray that revealed an ovary and a partial uterus (hidden within Shawn’s clearly male exterior) and in blood tests that showed lower than normal levels of testosterone in Shawn’s blood.
The information made a lot of sense and explained why Shawn was so different from his brothers: less competitive, less aggressive. Shawn had even earned the nickname “Sis” from his father because he was reluctant to fight. Even so, in fearing for his safety, Shawn and his mother decided that they needed to hide his feminine side from the world. Shawn would continue to hide for 35 years, until April, 2008, when Shawn came out to his family and to the world as Shauna.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet Shauna at George’s for breakfast. During our meal together, she talked openly about her life, the process of coming to accept herself, coming out, and the journey ahead of her. She has led a complex life where even the question “What is your name?” does not have a simple answer.
Q: Name?
A: My legal name for now is Shawn Eugene. Shauna Elizabeth will be my name in April.
Q: Age?
A: 47.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Brookfield.
Q: How long have you been in Brookfield and the Chicago area?
A: 35 years I believe.
Q: What were some early indications of your being transgender?
A: As others can, I cannot say that I was born in a male body and have a female mind. I do have an 89% female and 11% male body, and the same goes for my soul. How can someone with one ovary, one testis, and a partial uterus be classified in female and male gender roles? I have no answer for that. I am an intersex person, and that is all I know.
Q: After the medical appointment that resulted in the discovery of your ovary and uterus, how did you decide to continue identifying and dressing as a male?
A: I was 11 years old, and being a boy was all that I knew. Also, my mother believed that I would be safer if I never told anyone about my intersex. She was right. I was more effeminate than I was manly, but I tried to hide that the best I possibly could so as not to be beaten or worse.
Q: When did you come out?
A: April 8, 2008.
Q: At what age?
A: 46.
Q: What support systems do you have/have you had?
A: I have a wonderful family, which includes my sister and three brothers. My friends, who are in the hundreds, have sent me e-mails and expressed their utmost happiness at being friends with someone like myself. Even though my outside appearance will change, it is the person on the inside with whom they will always be friends.
Q: Are there organizations in the area specifically for transgender individuals?
A: There are so many: Tri-Ess, CGS, Island Girls, Transend, Transitions from the Inside Out. These are for transgender people. And then I also belong to OII (http://www.intersexualite.org), Bodies Like Ours (http://www.bodieslikeours.org), and AIS (http://www.aissg.org). I belong to about nine or so different organizations ranging from intersex to transgender to LGBT groups.
Q: 35 years is a long time to be in the closet. Did you want to come out and embrace your female side previously?
A: I have wanted to change a couple times in my life, but each time I talked myself out of it. It is so confusing at times because there were times in my life when everything was working out. I’ve learned that to be intersex isn’t a sexual mishap. My gender is balanced between the female and male sides. I just think I will be much happier with my female gender.
Q: Do you have a significant other?
A: No, I have been divorced now for eight years.
Q: What are some problems and issues specific to the transgender/intersex community?
A: There is not enough help or enough ways of finding help.
Q: How can OPALGA help or what can we do to raise awareness of intersex and transgender issues?
A: I am so new to this. Can we work together on this? I think mostly it is making children and teens aware that there are people like us to help them. I was hidden for 35 years because no one was there for me. I don’t wish to see anyone live that kind of life.
One evening in April, 2008, Shawn dressed up as Shauna and went out for the first time. Her blog describes the anxiety and excitement of coming out as herself, of being Shauna for the first time in public after over 35 years of hiding as a man.
Shauna writes, “I felt more comfortable tonight than I have in 46 years. As it washes over me, I now know where I belong. Being Ms. Shauna B has given me more happiness than anything I have ever felt or had before.”
We all want to be comfortable and to be accepted as ourselves. National Coming Out Day is a chance for us to celebrate who we really are. While many intersex individuals remain conflicted and in hiding, this year, October 11 will hold a special significance for one Brookfield resident. Congratulations, Ms. Shauna B, and we wish you well!
November Presidential Election
This November will present us with one of the most important presidential elections in our history.
The next president will be presented with a host of issues: two wars, economic turmoil, global warming, and international relations. Add to this three very important words: THE SUPREME COURT. The next president will probably have the opportunity to nominate at least two Supreme Court justices. These justices will eventually decide very important matters, two of which will likely be same-sex-marriage rights and women’s right to choose.
In an effort to inform the LGBT community, with the assistance of the Human Rights Campaign, we have compiled issues that we believe are important and that stand out for the two candidates for President of the United States: Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) and Sen. John McCain (R-AZ).
Transgender-Inclusive ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act)• Obama: Supports ending employment discrimination against the entire LGBT community.
• McCain: Cast a deciding vote against ENDA.
HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment• Obama: Supports Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act and cosponsored the Medicaid Early Treatment for HIV Act.
Supports comprehensive sex education aimed at preventing disease.
• McCain: Voted for a Jesse Helms strategy to remove the LGBT community from HIV/AIDS programs.
Supports abstinence-only education.
Lifting the Military Ban
• Obama: Opposes the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
• McCain: Believes that LGBT people should not be allowed to serve openly and supports “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”
Relationship Recognition• Obama: Supports repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act.
Voted against the Federal Marriage Amendment.
Supports civil unions and domestic partnerships.
Opposes civil marriage for same-sex couples.
• McCain: Voted for and supports the Defense of Marriage Act.
Voted against the Federal Marriage Amendment but campaigned for a state amendment that would have banned civil unions and domestic partnerships.
Does not support family benefits for partners of federal employees.
Opposes civil marriage for same-sex couples.
Same-Sex Adoption
• Obama: Supports adoption by LGBT people.
• McCain: Opposes adoption by same-sex couples.
Hate Crimes
• Obama: Supports inclusive legislation to protect entire LGBT community against bias-motivated crimes.
• McCain: Voted against hate crimes legislation three times.
Message from the Co-Chairs
On July 2, the Wednesday Journal printed a letter from Ms. Hannah Phillips in which she expressed outrage over the fact that the paper saw fit to publish a separate section the week before in celebration of gays and lesbians. She went on to say that it disgusted her that her village was happy with “this vulgar affair.” Needless to say, her letter was extremely offensive, and I am pleased to say not only to the gay and lesbian community. Many straight friends were amazed by the prejudicial language of the letter. Since the letter coincided with OPALGA’s participation in the annual 4th of July parade, I wrote a letter to the Journal editor. The letter read as follows:
On July the 4th, a day that is quite special to most of us, I had the privilege again this year of driving a vehicle for OPALGA (Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Association) in the Oak Park parade. The outstanding job done by the Community Relations Commission and the Village in putting on this parade is obvious. What was even more amazing to me and everyone else in the vehicle was the absolutely tremendous reception afforded us again this year by the residents of Oak Park. Every possible sign of affirmation is present—high-fives, loud applause, peace signs, louder applause, raised fists, whatever. From senior citizens to young kids to the policemen and policewomen on duty, it is truly a sincere way of saying that it does, indeed, take a village, and we are glad you are a part of our village. From our point of view, nothing could be more affirming as to the pride we share in living in Oak Park and participating in events like the parade that bring us together.
Hannah Phillips, however, has different thoughts. She was “discomfited” to see the “insert thing” about gay pride in the Journal. Imagine her outrage—a local paper that actually sees fit to give coverage to a very large and active segment of the population. A paper, moreover, that finds many advertisers who want to be a part of such coverage. Why, the next thing you know she might be buying a different paper—now, there’s a thought. She then goes on to say that we in Oak Park are happy with “this vulgar affair.” On behalf of every gay and lesbian resident of this village, and many, many straight ones as well, I am outraged by her choice of words. The only vulgar thing I see displayed here is her hatred and ignorance. Out of courtesy and respect I will not use her word of “disgust,” but it truly saddens me that in 2008 an individual who lives in Oak Park would think in this manner. I have been a resident of Oak Park since 1991, and every day something about Oak Park reminds me why this village is such an exceptional place in which to live. Now, here’s another thought—if Oak Park is causing such strong feelings for Ms. Phillips, perhaps she might want to consider living in another location.
Ms. Phillips then complained about coverage of “dog weddings.” Well, only if they are same-sex dogs—she seems to get the humor if male and female dogs marry. That she actually is spending time worrying about this gives me a perverse sense of enjoyment. Why worry about the price of gasoline when Fido and Rover may be tying the knot? That entire paragraph of her letter just floored me, and I won’t even bother to respond. I guess the world really is going to the dogs.
Finally, she mentions that she doesn’t see the Oak Park parade, as she is usually in a parade portraying Civil War veterans. Here, I must tip my hat to her—she finally has gotten something right. I don’t know how she did it, but she found a parade whose portrayal of time is right in line with her thinking. You go, girl!
Mike Cochran
Oak Park
OPALGA Coffeehouse Returns!
The OPALGA coffeehouse is again open for business beginning Friday, September 19, at 7:00 p.m. The coffeehouse will be held on the third Friday of each month in various locations in the Oak Park area. Our coffeehouse performance on Friday, September 19, will be held at the New Spirit Community Church, 542 S. Scoville, Oak Park. New Spirit has a great performance area that will provide ample space for the performers and for attendees to socialize before and after the event.
The coffeehouse is a free event, but tips for the performers are accepted. We are working on our line-up of entertainers as we go to press, so please visit the calendar page on the OPALGA Web site (http://www.opalga.org) for an updated list of performers. We are very excited about our upcoming performers, and we hope that you’ll join us for these upcoming events!
If you are a performer, or if you know someone who wants to perform, please call The OPALGA Center at 708-848-0273, or send and e-mail to our current coffeehouse coordinator, Pocha Carter, at jaiharu@gmail.com. Let us know—we are inclusive of all artists/performers! We also want to thank the Oak Park Area Arts Council and the Community Bank of Oak Park-River Forest for their generous support of the OPALGA coffeehouses.
Volunteer Spotlight
Given the number of volunteers that OPALGA counts on annually to do the amazing work that we do, it was decided that everyone should get to know each other a little better. This month, we are highlighting volunteer member David Steven Rappoport.
Empower: How long have you lived in the Chicago area?
David: I have lived here for one year.
Empower: What town, village, or city do you live in?
David: I live in Oak Park.
Empower: What is your professional background?
David: I am a consultant, working primarily with safety net health care systems. Previously, I was the senior program officer of a large health care philanthropy, managed AIDS clinical research, worked as a hospital administrator, and was a housing consultant.
Empower: Tell us about your family—are you single, dating anyone special, or do you have a partner? Do you have children and/or pets?
David: I am presently single, and everyone I date is special or I don’t date them. No kids, no pets. I hope to get one or two dogs at some point over the next year or two.
Empower: How long have you been a member of OPALGA?
David: One year.
Empower: How long have you volunteered with OPALGA, and in what capacity do you volunteer?
David: I am on the Board and I am the chair of the Social Committee.
Empower: What first inspired you to become active and involved with OPALGA?
David: I moved to Oak Park from Maine in the summer of 2007. I joined OPALGA as a way to meet new people and to become established in the community.
Empower: Are you involved with other LGBT organizations?
David: Yes—Twin Spirit Tribe, which is primarily an LGBT spiritual group.
Empower: What do you find most satisfying or rewarding about your OPALGA involvement?
David: It’s very community-focused and full of smart and interesting people.
Empower: What is your favorite color?
David: Any that mimics lichens and moss.
Empower: What are you listening to on your iPod?
David: Everything from Bach to Bettye Lavette.
Empower: What is your favorite restaurant?
David: Ethiopian Diamond. I love Ethiopian food!
Empower: If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?
David: I’d like to have dinner with any or all of the following: Voltaire, Casanova, Gautama, Rasputin, Hesse, Marlowe, and Kinsey. Unfortunately, they’re all dead.
Empower: What is the greatest music video of all time?
David: I don’t pay much attention to music videos.
Empower: What is your greatest accomplishment?
David: Enduring.
Empower: If money were no object and you could do anything you want, what would it be?
David: Just what I’m doing now—only I’d have a fabulous house to do it in.
Thank you, David, and thank you to all of our volunteers! You may be next in the spotlight!
Nominations Solicited for OPALGA Board Positions and Nominating Committee
Each year, the OPALGA Nominating Committee is charged with soliciting written nominations for the upcoming open positions on the OPALGA Board of Directors. Members of this year’s Nominating Committee are Susan Anderson, Kim Hefner, Jim Kelly, Dan Salotti, and Davida Williams. OPALGA encourages you to become involved in the decision-making process of our great organization, and this year, we thank those who have served on the committee.
For 2009, the Nominating Committee is seeking nominations for Female Co-Chair, Secretary, and four Member-at-Large positions. Each of these positions requires a two-year commitment.
In addition, the Nominating Committee must fill three positions on the Nominating Committee for 2009. Each of these positions requires a one-year commitment.
All nominees must have been OPALGA members for at least six months prior to October 31, 2008. You are encouraged to nominate yourself. If you nominate others, please first check with your nominees about their interest in serving.
The solicitation for nominations letter and form were mailed to the entire OPALGA membership in mid-August. Please return the form in the envelope that was provided to the Nominating Committee, The OPALGA Center, 947 Garfield, Oak Park, IL 60304 by September 15, 2008.
Once the nomination process has been concluded, the candidates’ biographies and election ballots will be mailed to the membership. The ballots will be opened and tabulated at the start of the OPALGA Annual Meeting in November.
In Memoriam
OPALGA acknowledges with sadness the passing of Mary Jane Beech, 68, on August 6, 2008. A celebration of Mary Jane’s life was held on August 16 at the Oak Park Conservatory.
As an advocate for women’s equality, Mary Jane was active in several organizations in Oak Park, including OPALGA. Many of us remember her participation in the semi-annual membership meetings, the book club meetings, the monthly potlucks, and other OPALGA programs.
Mary Jane received her Ph.D. in anthropology and sociology from Michigan State University in 1972 and then began a wide-ranging professional career. Part of her doctoral work was done at the American Institute for Indian Studies in Calcutta, and prior to that she was awarded a Hayes-Fulbright Scholarship to study the role of women in Bengali society. She returned to Bengal and other parts of India several times during her career. Over the course of her career, she taught anthropology, sociology, and women’s studies at several colleges in the Chicago area. She also worked part-time at the Lisle Public Library. In the later years of her career, she returned to her early interest in child development and taught children at Green Tree (later renamed Bright Horizons Esplanade) in Downer’s Grove.
Mary Jane shared a love of cooking, gardening, learning, and books with her many friends and her family.
OPALGA was fortunate to be among the numerous organizations that Mary Jane chose to support. On behalf of OPALGA, the editors of Empower extend sincere condolences to the many friends and family members whose lives she touched.
Out and Proud In Chicago
Out and Proud in Chicago: An Overview of the City’s Gay Community is the first full-length history of the LGBT community in Chicago. Released this month, the book is edited by Chicago publisher and journalist Tracy Baim and features contributions from more than 20 historians and journalists and hundreds of photographs.
Among the contributors is historian and writer Marie Kuda, who is an Oak Parker and OPALGA member. Marie and Tracy will appear at Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore, 7419 Madison St., Forest Park, IL 60130 on Sunday, October 5, at 2:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the public and will include a book discussion, question and answer session, and signing. On Saturday, October 11, at 2:00 p.m., Tracy, Marie, and other contributors will be at Borders, 1144 Lake St., Oak Park, IL 60301. National Coming Out Day is the occasion for this discussion and signing.
Published as a companion to the WTTW public television documentary of the same name, and to the Web site http://www.ChicagoGayHistory.org, Out and Proud in Chicago spans Chicago LGBT history from the prairie settlement to the present. Significant local history includes the chapter “A Model Community: Oak Park Pioneers Diversity” by OPALGA cofounder Mel Wilson and includes references to many local pioneers. Don’t miss OPALGA Youth Program Volunteer Andrew Walensa, who is pictured on p. 219 with the rest of the 2007 Windy City Times “30 Under 30” award winners.
Marie has generously donated a copy of Out and Proud in Chicago to keep at The OPALGA Center. We would like to thank Marie for her ongoing contributions to The Center.
