Eyes Open Wickedly Wide

COP 24/7 :Reaching Upward and Outward

In our effort to stay on the cutting edge of the ever bending tech curve, this post contains our first magazine link featuring content from HIV Plus magazine!

This link will allow readers to view content  directly from the online version of the publication. You can get a great interactive view issuu.com/heremedia/docs/hiv_plus_99_march_april_2014_opt?e=0/6606214

Most interesting is the cover feature of Carlton Wilborn, motivational speaker and teacher who shares
his journey from sexual abuse to big time touring with Madonna in his book "Front and Center, How I Learned to Live There."

In the article he also talks open as well as candidly about dealing with HIV and his mission to empower individuals through his various presentations to both NPO's and in corporate settings.

Wilborn offers not only the current book but several other books and recordings on the "mind, body, soul" connection which can be found on his portal at www.livingfrontandcenter.com

COP 24/7 is always proud to share those same gender loving individuals who are always on the move to take their lives to the next level. If you know a person who needs to be celebrated or showcased, hit us up with a notice in our comment section or e-mail box!

Renegades Raising Funds for Equality

Save the Date, Friday Feb. 21 as the raging Renegades for a Cause keep doing what they do best in engaging local charity causes while mobilizing area entertainment in the process. Most sentimental about this outing is the fact that this will be the last fund raiser in the MK venue which will take the last stage out of dodge supposedly March 1.

According to organizers, this effort is being mounted due to what they say is "it was not Arkansas' turn" to access those high powered equality dollars donated by national entities.

COP 24/7 had a WTF moment as again Arkansas continues to get dissed, sliced and diced by those gay politico's and other lavender glitterati know it all's who seem think that they know what's best for everyone else. This forum takes the position that "no one know what's best for us but us!"

 For too long, many of this ilk continue to roll into town with fancy thoughts and expense accounts to pat us Arkies on the head and tell us our place. Enough already! Please will someone close the borders and stop paying for any more "gay experts" to come to town. We have plenty of talented individuals who could use all the per Diem's, honorariums and mileage reimbursement that would have more impact than any more big dollar folk who don't have a damn clue as to the who or what the hell is going on in this state. With that off my considerable chest, I urge our local LGBTQ community, allies and supporters to mobilize around strategies to fund community based organizations and other entities including this platform that have been dedicated to answering the advocacy call.

It is paramount to understand that we are seriously lacking on infrastructure that is common place in other metro areas. Such as equality centers, gay oriented health clinics, political action committee's and venues where we can do what we damn well please without dealing with lots of bullshit. Either we drive the bus or watch the bus back over us. Think about it! If you can't make it out and then send your donation, volunteer your time or do whatever you can do to help make a different.


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Celebrating A Diverse History and More

Looking Back, Moving Forward: Black History Month 2014

Welcome to Black History Month 2014!  Did you say what that all about? Well this year's month long theme is "Civil Rights in America,"  chronicling the important milestones by African-Americans and others in the battle for civil rights and equal treatment under the law. And now for the history lesson that COP 24/7 often like to share with our readers and visitors.

Black History Month began in 1926 as part of an initiative by writer and educator Dr. Carter G. Woodson who launched Negro History Week in 1926.

 

Woodson proclaimed that Negro History Week should always occur in the second week of February —between the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

 

Since 1976, every American president has proclaimed February as Black History Month. Today, other countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom also devote an entire month to celebrating black history. Now that you've got that, lets now get it twisted. Black History Month is for everyone and anybody open to educating themselves to culture, contributions and conditions in which Black people have endured as well as thrived.

 

As history buff, I have spent many hours making the connection to those who were forced from the African continent into a dehumanizing system of slavery in which they were consider human chattel. The spectrum of achievement and accomplishments since then has soared from all corners of the nation with the ultimate pinnacle culminating in the two term election President Barack H. Obama. Unfortunately as we celebrate our tremendous strides, it is no secret that the Black community continues to suffer societal disparities including rampant internal "Black and Black" crime, education challenges, urban blight and continuing STI/ HIV/AIDS infections among Black youth 12-24.

 

Yet from all that I've learned about the Black American experience ranging from myself being a descendant of slaves to my standing face to face with the Emancipation document that was exhibited at the Clinton Center or my April returning trip to meet my Capitol Hill Representative concerning  HIV/ AIDS for AIDS Watch, I am proud to have not only witnessed history but did my part to add my thread to great tapestry that tells the story of from then to now. I am determined to leave a legacy of service to all that I touch, communicate and empower to be the best that they can be too!

 

 

Coming OUT History Continues

 

Not a minute to too soon, Hitchcock, Texas, native, Michael Sam made his watershed announcement via interviews with ESPN and the Times that were published simultaneously Sunday night.

He said he went public now in part because many seemed aware of his sexual orientation at the Senior Bowl two weeks ago.

"I didn't realize how many people actually knew, and I was afraid that someone would tell or leak something out about me," Sam told ESPN. "I want to own my truth. ... No one else should tell my story but me."
He celebrated in advance by having dinner Saturday with a group that included former NFL running back Dave Kopay, who was one of the first ex-players to come out as gay, and former punter Chris Kluwe and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, who both have been outspoken in their support of gay rights.

Sam joins an emerging legion of Black Athletes such as basketball player Jason Collins, and most recently WWE wrestler, Darrin Young (pictured) who have taken a leap of faith to stand in their truth.

As we celebrated Black History Month, these Black gay men are vital in demonstrating to others that you can be truly be all you can be by naming it and claiming it. Big props to these guys and all who move forward living their same gender loving lives out loud! Salute my brothers!!

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Black HIV Awareness Day 2014: Still Roaring OUT Loud

Editors Note: This item is a final in our content series around the issues and challenges concerning people of color communities in recognition of Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day. COP 24/7 has been an ardent and steadfast ally while staying on point about this ongoing health dilemma. Although
some continue to question the usage of ethnic distinctions, I support the premise of this piece as well as the fact that "African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV and AIDS in the United States" No matter what hue, shade or physical characteristics, it vitally important that passive action, homophobic attitudes, stigma and sheer ignorance in the Black community must not continue to allow "silence to equal death."

In an era of dynamic drug breakthroughs, Affordable Care Act including Arkansas' Medicaid expansion, Ryan White Policy changes, and the National HIV/ AIDS Strategy, this forum roars as to why there seems to be vapid public health response, inter-community disconnects and ebbing and flowing service gaps. COP 24/7 certainly applauds those providers, advocates and allies who have been moved to call out triumphs and tragedies over the past three decades.

This work has been courageous but we must not be lulled into a sense of complacency, being content with the status quo or cloaked in a disability status. But rather understand that the fight is simply not over if infection rates among our brother's and sisters go unchecked, unidentified  and or even denied as some in Black leadership have openly stated.  I urge the HIV/ AIDS community to know that retreating is not an option, instead we must become re-entrenched in efforts to educate and empower across the board.

Furthermore it is imperative that those living with HIV and AIDS also fully embrace aspects of personal responsibility in assembling the best medical team to suit your needs and accessing resources to increase quality of life issues ranging from skills training to gainful employment.  We stand with those individuals and urge a new wave of activist to demand that Arkansas gets in the game to be apart of the end game of HIV and AIDS! 

Sharpening Our Focus to Meet National Goals on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

by Timothy Harrison, Senior Policy Advisor, Office of National AIDS Policy

As we observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) 2014, we are reminded that African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV/AIDS in the United States. Among African Americans, gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (Black MSM) are especially hard hit, representing more than half of all estimated new HIV infections among African Americans each year. A particularly disconcerting estimate in 2010 showed that young Black MSM aged 13 to 24 accounted for the greatest number (4,800) of estimated new HIV infections among African Americans.

Furthermore, from an analysis of data about African Americans diagnosed with HIV infection from 19 jurisdictions that CDC released yesterday, we know that compared to Black women, Black men — regardless of transmission category — have lower levels of linkage to and retention in HIV care and are less likely to have achieved viral suppression (i.e., have controlled the virus at a level that helps keep them healthy and reduces their risk of transmitting the virus to others). The study also revealed that by transmission category, men with infection attributed to male-to-male sexual contact had the lowest percentage of linkage to care.

These disparities highlight that, despite important strides that have been made toward national HIV prevention, care and treatment goals, we clearly have more work to do as a nation to effectively address HIV among Black MSM, especially with regard to outcomes along the HIV care continuum [PDF 1.9MB].

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy highlights both the disproportionate impact of HIV among MSM in the U.S., the concentration of HIV among Black MSM within the African American community, and clearly states that “the United States cannot reduce the number of HIV infections nationally without better addressing HIV among gay and bisexual men.” The Strategy also observes that our national commitment to this population has not always been commensurate with their disproportionate burden of HIV.

So, as we mark the annual observance of NBHAAD, we all—both individually and collectively—are called to be even more thoughtful, creative, and focused about actions we can undertake to strengthen HIV prevention, testing, care and treatment for Black MSM in communities across the United States.

Among federal programs, several important activities are underway in this regard:

• Increasing the capacity, quality, and effectiveness of HIV/AIDS service providers to serve Black MSM – Applications are due later this month for a new Resource/TA Center for HIV Prevention and Care for Black MSM being supported by HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau. To assist HIV service and other healthcare providers, the new center will identify, compile, and disseminate best practices and effective models for HIV clinical care and treatment across the HIV care continuum for adult and young Black MSM ages 13 to 24.
• Promoting and supporting HIV testing among Black MSM – CDC’s Testing Makes Us Stronger social marketing campaign encourages Black MSM to get tested for HIV. Through compelling campaign ads in national magazines and on targeted websites, as well as through local advertising and materials distribution in target cities, CDC emphasizes the importance of getting tested for HIV regularly to help stop the spread of the epidemic. The campaign also includes a Facebook  page and a dedicated website with a suite of campaign materials available for individuals and organizations to download and distribute. Complementing this important outreach campaign, CDC makes significant investments in both health departments and community-based organizations to support high impact prevention activities, including testing.  
• Supporting engagement in HIV care – The HHS Office for Civil Rights’ Information is Powerful Medicine campaign focuses specifically on Black MSM, underscoring how having access to your medical records can help you better manage your health. Access to this information empowers patients to track their progress, monitor their lab results, communicate with their treatment teams, and adhere to their important treatment plans. The campaign also provides information on e-health tools, such as the “Blue Button,” which make it easier, safer, and faster for consumers to get access to their health information.
• Strengthening state efforts for Black MSM – Under the Care and Prevention and Prevention of HIV in the U.S. (CAPUS) demonstration project, several of the eight participating states are focusing their efforts specifically on Black MSM. The three-year demonstration project is supported by the Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund and seeks to support these states, each with disproportionately high burdens of HIV/AIDS among minority communities, to improve HIV testing, engagement, and retention in care among racial and ethnic minorities. In Illinois, for example, the state health department has launched a youth of color-specific initiative in East St. Louis to co-locate medical (including LGBT health), psychosocial, prevention and support services in a single setting by collaborating with the local health department and community-based organizations in East St. Louis, Illinois and across the river in St. Louis, Missouri.
• Supporting Implementation Research – The focus of the ongoing NIH-supported HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 073  study is determining the willingness of Black MSM to use a daily antiretroviral pill as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Studies such as HPTN 073 are critical in bridging our understanding between biomedical advances in HIV prevention and behavioral, social and structural factors that are often in play. 

“We are greatly encouraged that many of these federal activities are consistent with recommendations made during our 2012 consultation with community leaders and federal partners about HIV among Black MSM,” notes Dr. Ronald Valdiserri, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health, Infectious Diseases. “These efforts, and many more underway at the federal as well as state and local levels, are vital to reducing new HIV infections among Black MSM and to improving outcomes all along the HIV care continuum for this disproportionately impacted population.”

Taking it Forward

Progress on the HIV Continuum of Care Among Blacks
by Hazel D. Dean, MPH, ScD, Deputy Director, NCHA

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new study, “Progress Along the Continuum of HIV Care Among Blacks with Diagnosed HIV— United States, 2010,” in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). The study looked at outcomes for adult and adolescent blacks, both male and female, who have HIV for the five stages of the HIV continuum of care, including HIV diagnosis, linkage to care, staying in care, getting antiretroviral therapy (ART), and achieving a low amount of HIV virus in the body, referred to as viral suppression. These are the steps of the continuum of care and critical steps in our HIV prevention efforts.

 

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) outlines goals for the continuum of care, which includes achieving 85% linkage to care, 80% retention in care, and a 20% increase by 2015 in the number of persons with an undetectable viral load.

 

The new CDC analysis shows that among blacks of all age groups and both sexes who are HIV positive, 75% were linked to care, 48% were retained in care, 46% were prescribed anti-retroviral therapies (ART), and 35% had achieved viral suppression.

 

The study released today also shows

• That by age group young persons aged 13-24 years had the highest number of diagnoses and the lowest linkage to care (69%);
• That young persons, aged 18 to 24 years, were the least likely to have a suppressed viral load (18%);
• That by transmission category, male-to-male transmission had the lowest linkage to care at 71.6 percent;
• That more women (40%) than men (33%) have a suppressed viral load;
• That women with HIV attributed to injection drug use or heterosexual contact had the highest rate of linkage to care at 82% and 81%, respectively, and
• That lack of health insurance, poverty, and stigma are still leading reasons as to why blacks with HIV might not seek care, receive care, or adhere to care or achieve viral suppression.

Our first step has been and still is to get people tested for HIV. Once diagnosed, we must focus on strengthening our efforts to link and keep people with HIV in care, and promote adherence to medication to achieve optimal health outcomes.  

The Affordable Care Act strengthens continuum of care efforts by increasing coverage for HIV testing and ensuring that insurance companies can no longer deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, including HIV—a big step forward for our efforts.

 

For this National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (Feb. 7) and every day, our work is dependent on all of us. As this year’s theme states, we are our brothers’/sisters’ keepers. We need to use the most effective tools and programs, and do all of this in a collaborative manner; so we can meet the goals of NHAS and continue our movement toward an AIDS-free generation.

 

Three Decades Later: HIV & AIDS Shifting and Trending

Trajectories and Torpedoes
HIV & AIDS in Arkansas' Black Community

HIV/AIDS continues to disproportionately affect Black America. Currently, three in five Black Americans know someone living with or who has died from HIV/AIDS. Although we account for
less than 14% of the U.S. population, Black America represented 44% of all new HIV infections in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Men who have sex with Men (MSM) remain the group most heavily affected by HIV, while young Black MSM continue to account for more than half of new infections among young MSM.

Subsequently in Arkansas, according to HIV Surveillance Report 2012, there has been a cumulative total of 7,937 cases. As of December 31, 2012, the report cites that 42.9%  or 2260 cases represent as individuals living with HIV/ NA (non AIDS) in the Black community which is only 16% of the entire state population.

In the MSM ( Men who have sex with Men) category, the report shows 2625 cases which according to CDC estimates at least 48%  or 1260 of these new cases were found among Black gay men 13-44 whom represent approximately 1% of the population. This data support was sourced from the Arkansas eHARDS ( Enhanced HIV AIDS Reporting System/ www.healthy.arkansas.gov)  and speaks to the ongoing dilemma of the impact of this chronic disease.

Meanwhile, the CDC reports a 21% decline in new HIV infections among women overall, however the new data shows that black women continue to be far more affected by HIV than women of other races/ethnicities. Of all the women living with HIV in the United States, approximately 66% are African American. Arkansas data breaks out along gender lines of "men and women" but does not specifically address ethic make up in the reported categories. Furthermore, the report does not include information concerning the trans person population although cites one person stating gender as "unknown."

With three decades passed in Arkansas there have been many bright moments of conferences, testing tours, gospel and comedy shows, awareness day programming and many other window dressing mash up's that have their purpose. Added to this mix has also been  Act 842 of 2007, which created the Arkansas HIV/AIDS Minority Task Force which produced a report citing conditions and practical solutions that was not funded.

Currently the group continues its monthly meetings and other activities that have resulted in marginal outcomes. Elected Black leadership has ebbed and flowed in their response to HIV and AIDS among their constituents. There has been no concerted effort to create legislation or address deficiencies in response to current conditions. Much of this neglect can be attributed to complacency and further necessary civic responsibility education.

Over the years we've had numerous other community assessments and the noted 2010 Harvard Law and Policy Clinic analysis entitled State Healthcare Access Research Project which took a comprehensive look at the states systems across the board. Yet, today much of that reports recommendations have all but been ignored or unimplemented as suggested.

Most glaring of those recommendations was creating a Consumer Office which was to act a liaison between the agency and the community. Another being revising cumbersome state contracting rules which can be vexing as well as obstructive to any community based organization attempting to fulfill their contractual expectations. 

This snapshot is not complete, but begs the questions that if the rest of world is talking about the end game of HIV and AIDS, it seems that Black communities across  Arkansas need to take a stark look at understanding its role in being in "the game" to end HIV and AIDS. Its inexcusable that more young individuals continue to become infected while many throughout the community have decided to take a position that they are not affected by this health dilemma. This is about "us healing us," and not waiting for another meager patronizing attempt to stem this "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" genocide.  Ask yourself, "what you going to do about it?"


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Can U Hear Me Roar

So Just What is the State of Black Gays in Arkansas? commentary by COP 24/7 Executive Producer, Cornelius Mabin

Earlier this week, The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's Creating Change came to a close after a multi-day extravaganza of workshops, empowerment sessions and a virtual who's who of the LGBTQ issues and subcultures. Although I had some intentions of attending, those plans were thwarted to my regret. However, I was totally into the Plenary sessions that were streamed either "live" or delayed for your viewing pleasure.

During that conference there was a "State of State " assessment from Rea Carey who proclaimed, "The state of our movement is, in fact, strong. Issue number one for the Task Force and for the movement in this last year was ending discrimination—from employment discrimination to marriage discrimination; from bullying in schools to the lack of support in assisted living programs; from discrimination against undocumented immigrants to transgender people, who face horrific discrimination in literally every single area of their lives."

In the Los Angeles, Atlanta and many other metro areas there will be a "State of State" speeches and dialog that outline the who, what, and WTF is going on in their communities. Yet in Arkansas, there's no aggrandized event where such proclamations or edicts are done. No major community think tank  where there's a collective understanding or enlightenment session where everyone has an "Aha" moment that we can digest for greater clarity.

For myself it was not what Ms. Carey had to say that struck my senses but rather that of Mr. Charles Stephens (pictured), whom has been a fellow at the CDC Institute for HIV Prevention Leadership and the Black AIDS Institute Community Mobilization College. He called out public health by inquiring that it is not "what has been done" concerning Black gay men but rather " what is planned to reach a better understanding" of Black gay men here and now.

I couldn't agree more, but what perplexes me is the fact that even though there are leadership academies, capacity building meet up's, conferences, Black Gay Men's Portfolio, BGM MSM working groups and probably even a kitchen sink or two, in Arkansas we can't get much interest from the population that all those aforementioned pools of thought were designed and created to assist.

Case in point, there have been several attempts to "connect" Black men to mentorship's or opportunities to learn self efficacy strategies. I know for a fact that great expense, intervention funding and extreme logistics have been explored to usher qualified persons into this realm of knowledge without any significant outcomes.

I fully understand that there are a myriad of issues to tackle especially those personal barriers that preclude some folk to participate. However, I have a terse reaction to those who stay in the shadows while throwing "shade" at others who are tying to improve the situation.

I get it and then I don't get it. I sat pensive as long time advocate Phil Wilson listed how many opportunities his organization has for training and what all the Black AIDS Institute has to offer. I recalled that a long ago fledging Black gay men's start up called RAPPS ( Reaching and Affirming, :Positive Progressive Systems)  was the first group to bring Wilson to Little Rock. It was a triumph for that struggling entity being supported by a small grant from Sisters on New Ground. I was so proud that it seemed that we were on our way to asserting ourselves amidst no real assets or resources.

Yet as I look around today from where I stand, all I can say is "hey Phil, I've looked in my state and there doesn't seem to be that bounty of Black gay men of any age interested in their community!"  Oh by the way Phil, I'm running out of optimism and patience trying to develop, build, elevate and certainly educate my ultimate replacement.

 In closing  let me roar out loud to the universe, where are the Black men in Arkansas who are willing to be of service to their community and provide the necessary leadership for the next generation. Who will continue to be my brother and sister's keeper?  Listen up, don't be fooled, Because if you are not at the table, most likely you will be the lunch! Think about it.

 

Talking Out Loud about HIV and AIDS in Arkansas

COP 24/7 Special: Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Week 2014

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) was first observed in 1999. The Strategic Leadership Council of the National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day Planning Committee plans and implements this observance.  The 2014 theme is “I Am My Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper. Fight HIV/AIDS!”. COP 24/7 has been forthright in our efforts to staying on point around the issues, challenges, breakthroughs and updates concerning the shifting landscape of this malady in Arkansas.

Although there have been three decades of tremendous resources expended ranging from the early
days of limited research to now a burgeoning infectious disease industrial complex, including future delivery systems centered around the Affordable Care Act, there still seems to be a distinct disparity in communities of color.

Arkansas statistics have been quoted by Arkansas Department of Health, State Health Director, Dr. Nathaniel Smith that "Over 5,000 people in Arkansas are living with HIV and hundreds more are diagnosed each year.” He further explained in 2013 prior to community training sessions on HIV and AIDS in Arkansas that “There is a great need for early detection and treatment not only for the health of individuals with HIV, but also to stop the spread of the disease,” said Smith. “The purpose of the training sessions is to make community members aware of the impact of HIV and AIDS in Arkansas and provide the tools they need to help stop the spread of the disease in their areas.”

Yet as these efforts come and go, there seems to be a continuing disconnect in the Black community in which citizen leaders and policy makers can't move forward with understanding that the continuing silence will certainly mean more deaths despite the infection being a chronic one. The embed below features a 2006 ABC report which addressed the then and now, out of control nature of infection rates across the nation. Even though we are now in the age of treatment cascades, care continuum's and 4th Generation Testing, we must begin to further question Arkansas' ability to create the high impact  prevention that has been outlined by the CDC as central to the endgame of HIV and AIDS. What about the fact that Arkansas HIV/AIDS funding has ebbed and flowed on federal funding for years without much question nor much effort to capture other additional resources or revenues.

Amazing as it would seem, much of the information highlighted in this piece, still has relevance still to this day. The question is why? It is no secret that Black on Black crime has taken center stage, not to mention a plethora of other social concerns such as unemployment, affordable housing and economic parity. Meanwhile newly infected young gay Black men 13-24 continue to languish in the states patchwork system that can be a nightmarish navigation even before dropping one ounce of medication.

However, it is imperative that Black community leaders and policy makers not only raise hand over fist dollars for child obesity but not be uncomfortable with using their considerable networks to re-address stigma, homophobia, and how they can assist with raising awareness on all levels. All this week COP 24/7 will be exploring many questions, rationales and resistance to dealing with HIV and AIDS in the Black Community. Stay with us all week. We encourage your comments, observations and dialog.

 

Pop Goes this Friday

Houston Goes Big for Creating Change 2014

As technology would have it and as budget sometimes require, I had the wonderful experience of "being their" from my Big Chair. Where is this you ask? Well its Creating Change 2014 in none
other than "gayest city in Texas, Houston," according to organizers. In a high definition live stream, I was able to get the same big city welcome from the host committee as those feeling the love in the room. Of course I would love to have been there but nevertheless this was the next best thing. I certainly our Arkansas delegation from The Alliance is taking it all in and more.

Now what was even more amazing was some of the facts that were touted before the rousing speech by 3 time re-elected Mayor Mrs. Anise Parker and then the keynote speaker transgender

activist Lavern Cox (pictured) of "Orange is the new Black" cable television show. Cox was an ardent supporter of Ce Ce McDonald who was freed after a June 5, 2013 incident in which she was arrested after being slashed in the face by a individual in the aggressive homophobic crowd.

 Cox's speech spoke to her story and what she says is "loving a trans women is a revolutionary act." She also spoke to her teachable moment with Katie Couric as she educated Couric that "she was more than transition and surgery" conversations.

The host committee put together over 600 volunteers, yes volunteers! Then went on to organize a conference that registered over 4000 attendees while raising over $33,000 in 9 months as operating funds outside of major sponsors such as Southwest Airlines, Office Depot, Grey Goose and Wells Fargo. Now that's some corporate power to add to a total embrace my the city of Houston!

If you couldn't get to this years event, watching the live stream really takes you their!  Check it out at www.taskforce.org Just so you know that next years Creating Change is going mile high, literally in Denver Colorado 2015.

Don't forget to join STRILITE at Lounge 610, 610 Center Street in Downtown Little Rock for a Black HIV Awareness Day networking event, Feb. 7, 2014  Call 379-8203 for more information on how to get your VIP pass for special beverage pricing during this event. Call Today!!!  We are our Brother and Sister's Keeper! And don't you forget it!!!!

Man Show Coming to MK's

As time winds down to the March 1 closing, Miss Kitty's is going full steam with a full roster of events and shows. There has been some talk that other locations are being scouted, yet as of this post there's been no announcements or further details released. So with that said,  next up is The Man Show coming 2/1/14 featuring beef galore! If you don't have anything scheduled or need something to do, get on out to MK's before the final stage pulls out for the last time. Tell em COP 24/7 told you about it!

Need Affordable Care Act information? Call 349-7777 to get the facts on how you can get enrolled and get into care or remain in care today!

Another COP 24/7 OUT Post

POTUS Calls for a Better State of The Union

Earlier this week, President Obama took the bully pulpit of the U.S. Capitol to make the case that he believes that this year can be a break through year on variety of fronts.

He further illustrated his remarks while citing that better employment numbers, cited that the continuous rancor of the governing bodies must be dismissed, budget comprises and a laundry list of action items. Let's just hope that they were listening and will do something about it.

One of the highlight of his speech was taking on the state of the minimum wage situation in this country. He pointed out the value of raising the wage in its affects on the economy and boldly decided that through Executive Order he ordered government contractors to raise the wage to $10.10.

With this shoot from the hip action, President O has "triangulated" the issue causing those across the isle to scramble to find away to counterpoint his point of being against raising the minimum wage to more of a living wage. Since the speech, Republicans have done a 360 by forwarding a letter to citing that they have found some common ground to work from. Who would have thought it? I bet those Tea Party folks are rolling their eyes and waving their hands!

In case you missed it and I fear that perhaps many of you decided to go channel surfing instead. You can count on COP 24/7 to offer a link to his entire speech at non other than, www.whitehouse.gov


STRILITE Emerges to Recognize BHAAD

STRILITE, a mentoring and self efficacy program of The Living Affected Corporation will 
recognize Black HIV Awareness Day, Feb. 7, 2014 at 610 Lounge, 610 Center Street, 6:30 till 9 pm. The centerpiece of the evening will be a reunion of local models who participated in the Arkansas Department of Health's "Know Now" HIV/AIDS messaging campaign. The campaign was originated as a multi-tier prevention messaging attempt to continue to raise awareness to the importance of knowing one's status and accessing testing opportunities.

When the campaign was unveiled during a 2012 AIDS awareness even, members of STRILITE became disillusioned and discouraged to the lack of significant imagery that resonated with themselves and they felt did not address the population most affected which was Black gay men 13-24 according Center for Disease statistics. Currently advocates and activist have been alarmed to individuals whom have co-infections of Syphilis and HIV including many cases across Arkansas.

The group countered the release of the campaign with a "Know Not," rebuttal that went viral, causing ADH management to move to further investigate the misstep and concluded that a re-shoot of the campaign would occur using members of STRILITE as consults and participants.  "We were proud that we chose to speak truth to decision makers concerning the original campaign," said Kevin Holmes. He continued, " It is vital that we be about the business of striving to enlighten our brother's and sisters that HIV has not gone away and still knowing your status is important.

The evening will be filled with complimentary food, drinks specials, surprises and the models on hand to autograph their posters. Save the date and call 379-8203 to RSVP your VIP pass for special discounted drink specials. Stay tuned to this platform for the latest updates!!

Live From Houston

The Task Force is in Houston for the 26th National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change, the largest ever gathering of LGBT and allied activists, organizers and leaders! What they say is true, everything really is bigger in Texas and COP 24/7 hopes our delegation from UALR's The Alliance is taking it all in and more! The Task Force will be streaming live video from our main stage, starting with tonight’s opening plenary session at 8:00 PM CT. Houston Mayor Annise Parker will welcome us to Houston, and the always funny Kate Clinton emcees. The fabulous Laverne Cox will deliver tonight’s opening keynote speech, so you’re not going to want to miss out! In addition to tuning in live, I hope you’ll participate in the conversation online with #cc14 on Twitter and on our Facebook page. We're also posting daily highlight shows on our website, you can watch the first episode of Task Force TV here. Click here to watch video from the conference and bookmark our livestream channel so that you can tune in all week long.  Kudos to the Task Force being a trendsetter in bring the conference directly to your laptop, desktop or mobile device. Rock on Task Force and congratulations of 40 years of service to the LGBTQ community and beyond!!!!

 

All That Wednesday

On the Road to Change: The Alliance Rolls

Congratulations to The Alliance of UALR on their quest to participate in Creating Change 2014 in Houston. The event is sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, January 29-February 2 will feature a dizzying array of topics, speakers, workshops, receptions and all manner of capacity building. COP 24/7 has been an ardent advocate that local activist and allies discover the power of networking during these empowerment opportunities. Furthermore, as fundraising goes, there should be a distinct funding stream that supports this type of activity. If you haven't attended a conference, these can be on the expensive side with ground transportation, registrations, and hotels.

The Alliance is a UALR organization for straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students to come together in an accepting, open environment designed to discuss topics related to both the gay and straight communities. The alliance is dedicated to promoting equality on campus, educating people, and providing social activities to build community while promoting the acceptance of all minorities on the UALR campus, plus work to fight discrimination by educating others on issues challenging the gay community.

 

The group meets every Wednesday at 3 in the DSC room 201R and offer a safe space to all students on campus while promoting equality and community. Check out their Facebook page and stay tuned as we hope the group will check in with COP 24/7 in real time!!

 

Using Social Media to Expand Outreach

 

In response to the rapidly approaching ACA open enrollment end date of March 31, COP 24/7 Executive Producer and licensed Assister C. Mabin will be doing a live Q & A session online this Friday from 10 am to 11:30 pm on the new COP 24/7 Facebook page!  This social media approach was created after learning about other navigators whom  helped a people get covered through HealthCare.gov, and had their stories shared through the Share your Story collection tool found here on the new “Got Covered” page. 

Those success stories featured help raise awareness about the Health Insurance Marketplace, and to help put a face and story to what affordable health coverage really means. If individuals are interested in participating in this element or need enrollment assistance call 501.349-7777

 

Digitally Yours from OnTrack

 

COP 24/7 is always proud to see any platform that seeking to capture information directly for the LGBTQ community. Especially those who have staying power, which is not for those with unable to stay focused or committed to the effort. The tabloid OnTrack has been chugging along and keeping it coming for a number of years since its inception as a print piece years back. Produced by the management of Trax's and the soon to be closed Miss Kitty's on March 1, instead of March 31 as posted by COP 24/7.

Usually the cover features a local such as cover boy Mr. Christopher Robinson or other notables that range from the royalty set to the establishment's clientele. Although some COP 24/7 items have been found on the pages of the magazine and a occasional passing shot, unfortunately we have yet to be a cover boy. Just sayin...

In the meantime, inside readers can find updates, announcements and links to either upcoming local events or those across the region. It can be an interesting read if you want to stay in the entertainment know or information loop. But to this point, even with tabloids such as this, there still seems to be some type of information disconnect.

Even with the advent of the social media "know it all" Facebook one would think that everybody should know everything. However this is still not the case. There has been much talk about some type of monthly or bi-monthly rag to fill the "info void" yet to date, no one has tackled this task. With that said, The Living Affected Corporation (www.livingaffected.org ) has produced a series of Resource Guides as well as, a signature publishing piece entitled, Omnibus which was a LGBT health journal. In the past there was, Out on the Town, Pink Spectrum, AGR Writes, The Advisor and as usual those that came and went with little to no notice. So what to do? Well, somebodies got to make a move and there's got to be mucho support to sustain it. Got ideas? Feel free to share them in our comment sections anytime. We love hearing from you!

 

Seeding the COP 24/7 Cloud

ADH Announces Ryan White/ ADAP  Policy Changes

The Arkansas Department of Health's Ryan White Part B and ADAP Program Manager, Tiffany
Vance has announced recent changes to the Ryan White Part B and AIDS Drug Assistance Program, commonly known as ADAP.

As, of Monday, January 20, 2014 the program increased the gross income criteria to 400% FPL for both Part B & ADAP services. Prior to the change the level stood at 200% FPL (Federal Poverty Level) which current client could not exceed to qualify for the programs.

According a released memo, with this change the program views these changes as an opportunity to assist more HIV positive Arkansans across the state. Those persons previously denied or discharged can be contacted to re-apply for services. Those persons currently in Transition to Discharge (TTD) will be able to remain on Part B and ADAP services.

Cornelius Mabin, Arkansas HIV Planning Group, Community Co-Chair said, "We have been awaiting this ruling in lieu of the Affordable Care Act roll out last year." He continued, " the significance of this move is again apart of the shifting landscape in health care and the continuum of care for those living with HIV and AIDS. Nevertheless, AHPG encourages consumers to be vigilant in being informed and educated as to options whether it be at www.Healthcare.gov  or seeking assistance through this policy change." For more information contact Miss Vance at 501.661-2745 concerning the RW/ADAP programs or for Affordable Care Act information and assistance call 501. 349-7777.

Arkansans to Attend AIDS Watch

Arkansas HIV Planning Group Co-Chair, Cornelius Mabin and local advocate, Mr. Lee Brown will be joining the largest annual national constituent-based advocacy event focused on HIV and AIDS in the United States, April 28-29 in Washington D.C.
as apart of AIDS Watch 2014.

A partnership of Treatment Access Expansion Project, AIDS United and the US People Living with HIV Caucus, AIDSWatch draws hundreds of HIV-positive advocates and their allies to Washington DC to educate Members of Congress and their staff about HIV/AIDS. All participants are provided with training on current science, legislative agendas, and conducting effective meetings with their elected representation.

Mabin serves as the Community Co-Chair of the Arkansas HIV Planning Group which seeks to decrease HIV infections across the state while monitoring the implementation of HIV/AIDS prevention education and interventions. "I am excited about this chance to again engage our Capitol Hill Representatives, said Mabin. "It is vitally important that the many issues surrounding HIV and AIDS not be lost despite the passage of the Affordable Care Act. The message I want to leave with policy makers will be one that speaks to the needs of many of their constituents." Brown stated, " I'm glad to get the opportunity to be apart of the Arkansas delegation to reach out to our elected officials to remind them their support is still needed around this chronic disease. I can't wait to meet other activist from around the country and enjoy the training being made available."

The next Arkansas HIV Planning Group meeting will commence on February 14,  from 10am - 1pm in the Arkansas Department of Health Auditorium, 4815 West Markham Street in Little Rock. This group is open to anyone and everyone interested in continuing to bring awareness around HIV and AIDS, additional health disparities and increasing the wellness of the community at large. Call for more information at 661-2942.

Statement from Sir Elton John on LGBT Law in Russia

I am deeply grateful for the support of the Russian people who have welcomed and accepted me in their country ever since I first visited in 1979.

On my last visit, in December 2013, I wondered whether the new legislation banning “homosexual propaganda” might have changed that. It hadn’t. I still felt the same warmth and welcome from the audiences that I have felt every time I have been in Russia.

On that trip I met with members of the LGBT community in Moscow. Although I was still welcomed as an openly gay foreigner, I wanted to really understand at first-hand what difference the legislation had made to Russian LGBT in their own country. What I heard reinforced all the media stories that have been circling since the propaganda bill became federal law: that vicious homophobia has been legitimised by this legislation and given extremists the cover to abuse people’s basic human rights.
The people I met in Moscow – gay men and lesbians in their 20′s, 30′s and 40′s -  told me stories about receiving threats from vigilante groups who would “cure” them of homosexuality by dousing them with urine or beating them up.

One young man was stalked outside a gay club by someone posing as a taxi driver who tried to garrotte him with a guitar string because he was a “sodomite.”  Everyone shared stories of verbal and physical abuse – at work, in bars and restaurants or in the and restaurants or in the street – since the legislation came into force last June.  And, some of the vital work providing HIV prevention information to the gay community has been labeled “homosexual propaganda” and shut down.

It was very clear to me that although foreigners like myself who are visiting Russia are not affected by this new law (and President Putin has recently confirmed this), it is a very different story for those living inside the country. As Maria Maksakova told her fellow Russian MPs last month:  “We are seeing extremely negative consequences as a result of this law, with the growth of hate crimes.”

President Putin asserts that this was not the intention, but it is undoubtedly the effect that this law has had by promoting misunderstanding and ignorance. In particular, it is very disappointing that the law explicitly links homosexuality with child sex abuse, which countless studies have shown to be conclusively wrong.

The people I met in Moscow were decent, kind, patriotic men and women who had no thought of forcing their sexuality on anyone. Whatever the intention of Russia’s homosexuality and paedophilia propaganda laws, I am absolutely clear from my own personal experience that it is proving deeply dangerous to the LGBT community and deeply divisive to Russian society.  I would welcome the opportunity to introduce President Putin to some Russians who deserve to be heard, and who deserve to be treated in their own country with the same respect and warm welcome that I received on my last visit.



Tulsa Pride Produces Regional Conference

The inaugural Heartland Pride Summit, a regional conference of Pride Festival Organizers will take place February 7-9 2014 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

This conference is an official conference of InterPride Region 3, however you do not have to be an InterPride Region 3 member to attend.  Early Bird registration is free to the first 100 people by January 31, 2014 at TulsaPride.org. Holiday Inn Tulsa City Center will serve as the host hotel and will offer a $89 per night rate for participants. Underground parking is free to hotel guest.
All activities will take place at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center at 621 East 4th Street.

This conference is specifically tailored to small to medium sized prides in the Midwest United States.  Learn from our subject matter experts, presenting on topics which matter to your Pride.  Mingle with the region’s allied elected officials, network with your fellow organizers, and enjoy the fantastic nightlife Tulsa has to offer. 

 

NEED AFFORDABLE INSURACE INFO? CALL 349-7777 to get the facts on how you may qualify for subsidies or tax credits. Do it Today!!! 

Stay OUT of My Panties Part 2

GOP: Get Out my Panties!
Ladies and Gentlemen: Nina Turner Is In The Room

Firebrand Nina Turner caught my eye as a frequent guest on the Ed Show on MSNBC hosted by "let's work," Ed Schultz. Her swagger and ability to wield the good kings English as a weapon of mass destruction was awesome to myself. I learned a few new terms that I'll be using soon.

Especially since I love those who have no problem using their language skills to paint vivid picture while making the case around issues. Also Turner rolled with it last week as a guest on that other "diva with a mind" Melissa Harris Perry Show.  Currently Ms. Turner is running for Ohio Secretary of State after being appointed to a vacant Ohio Senate seat and two years later she was elected to the office. According to her campaign website (www.ninaturner.org ), she is a first generation college graduate, Nina earned an Associate of Arts degree from Cuyahoga Community
College before earning her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Cleveland State University and an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Wilberforce University.

Turner thoroughly got my attention with her fierce GOP ( Get Out of My Panties) stance in reference to he counterparts across the isle who wanted to present efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. The action would have put Planned Parenthood at the bottom of the state's priority system for federal family planning funds. She has also been forthright speaking out concerning voter suppression tactics, economic parity in collective bargaining and most certain around reproductive justice issues. COP 24/7 is proud to introduce Mr. Tuner to our audience and hope that she keeps calling out folks while taking it to the next level. We need more Turners who believes in being a member of the party of the “Right Thing” above all else.


The Dog Whistle Chronicles: Who You Calling A Thug?

We can't go a week without checking in on the latest from the "Outrage Machine," that spews the latest dogma and or verbiage around what ain't right in the land. This week the target is Mr. Richard
Sherman, athlete extraordinaire as a defensive back of the Seattle Seahawks.

All of this brouhaha is centered on his end of game rant toward a fellow player in which Sherman "got loud" after making the winning maneuver that will send the team Super Bowl bound.  In other words, Sherman went off and went ham in his remarks concerning  the decisive Kaepernick interception by tipping away a pass intended for Crabtree, Sherman ran up and offered a handshake to Crabtree while yelling “Hell of a game, hell of a game.” Crabtree pushed Sherman away by the face mask.

And that's when the rant heard around the world got the "thug" treatment from talking heads all over the place. The outrage meter went into overdrive as folks did a NFL worthy pile on that resulted in the word thug being used some 625 times! Sherman himself was broadsided and said that he was "mind boggled" at the swift reaction to his statement. Furthermore in a CNN interview he stated that "He also said he was shocked by some of the racists responses he received." This is where we have the conundrum of is the word "Thug" being used as the new "N" word?

Sherman, who was his high school's salutatorian graduated from Stanford and started a masters degree there his final year playing football there. Yet none of this was seemed to matter in the discourse of demonizing his comments and the further mis-characterizations of exactly who Sherman really is. Although he admitted that his rant was intense trash talking that he now regrets but the vile and racist vomit flowed calling him ghetto gorilla, thug ape and those who even stated that he should be shot.

Ultimately this situation continues to dispel the notion that some how that racial tension in the land don't exist. Even though we've elected a Black man to the highest office in the world. he too has been personally called a "Thug," Travorn Martin was berated as "Thug like or wannabee," and countless other Black men deal with being seen as exhibiting "Thug" behavior or attitudes. Consequently this matter speaks to the plight of imagery of Black men both on the playing field as well as the Executive Board room.

For too long Black men have suffered from the stereotypical Mandingo image, feared social vigilante's W.E.B. Dubois, Malcolm X and Medgar Evers and now this population faces serious challenges around HIV infections, continuing economic disparities and increase violence throughout communities of color. Its alarming that no ounce of  "creative maladjusting" that King spoke to seems to matter. With that said, you can count on it that COP 24/7 ain't done with this one!


Need Information on the Affordable Care Act? Call 349-7777 to make your appointment to enroll or get educated. Do it today! Open enrollment continues until March 31, 2014!
Watch for our online chat coming soon!

Stay OUT of My Panties Part 1

Huckabee Up in Women's Panties

In the memorable words of former President Ronald Reagan,"...there you go again!" goes to failed
presidential candidate and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee in reference to his comments about women's "libido's," during his speech at the RNC winter meeting. 

Say what? Yes read on...these folks have the gift of gab that keeps on giving.

The Huckster "opened mouth and inserted foot" when he argued that Democrats believe women are "helpless" and in need of government handouts and that Republicans want to empower women "to be something other than victims of their gender."

“Democrats want to insult the women of America by making them believe that they are helpless without 'Uncle Sugar' coming in and for providing for them a prescription each month for birth control because they cannot control their libido or reproductive system without the help of the government - then so be it," Huckabee said. Who the hell is "Uncle Sugar?" Is he saying that Uncle Sam got some sugar in his tank?

These poor Republicans just don't seem to get it as they continue to alienate women by calling them "sluts," talking about legitimate rape", pregnancies from rape are God given," "vaginal probes," and all manner of orchestrating policies to restrict any reproductive justice gains demanded by those over 8 Million women and counting who voted in 2004.

Just as a reminder Mr.Huckabee, your party has had a short list of programs under GOP attack including those helping women with parental leave, cancer screening, HIV testing, job training, supporting moms and babies, aging, nursing care, wage theft, fair pay and countless others that threaten women at all economic levels. Hey Huck, what does Janet have to say about keeping her libido in check. Keep up the good work mansplaining the GOP right out of existence.

"The Latino Gender Gap in US Politics"

Christina Bejarano, associate professor of political science at the University of Kansas 

Latino political participation in the United States is generally lower than the rest of the population, mainly due to their high proportion of youth and foreign born populations that are ineligible to vote. This dynamic is slowing changing, partly as a result of the rapidly growing Latino population in the United States.  Bejarano delves deeper into the complex gender differences for Latino political behavior. More specifically, it is a political analysis of the diverse U.S. Latino population and the interacting factors that can influence male and female differences in voting and policy attitudes. As the Latino population highlights their growing political sway, the major political parties have and will strategically mobilize and court the Latino electorate, Latinas in particular.
When:  Friday, January 31, 2014 at 12:00 p.m.
Where:  Clinton School of Public Service, Sturgis Hall
*Reserve your seats by emailing  publicprograms@clintonschool.uasys.edu or calling (501) 683-5239.

 

 

Need Healthcare Information? You can get the facts and direct assistance by calling 349-7777 or hit up nealix101@comcast.net  Make your appointment to get your coverage today!!