THEGAYUK

Category: News

  • Gay News Site Proud To Re-Publish Charlie Hebdo Muslim Gay Kiss

    In a defiant move, PinkNews has re-published a picture that depicts a controversial cartoon showing murdered editor Stephane Charbonnier French kissing a Muslim man.

    Yesterday, (7th January) Paris was rocked to its core when up to three masked men stormed the Charlie Hebdo offices and murdered 8 staff members, including the editor Stephane Charbonnier. Charlie Hebdo is a satirical magazine that has in the past published pictures that have been considered offensive to some Muslims.

    Twelve people have now known to have died from the shootings, including two police officers, a caretaker and guest at magazine’s offices. The majority of those killed were staff members who were in their morning editorial meeting. Four of the staff were cartoonists for the magazine, which has been running since 1970.

    Despite the massacre, the publishers at Charlie Hebdo have announced that they will go ahead and publish next week’s issue.

    The magazine has previously been targeted with a firebomb attack in 2011 and cyber terrorism for its editorial decision in showing content considered to be controversial.

    In defiance, PinkNews said that it was proud to republish a controversial picture which showed the late editor kissing a Muslim man, in an article which shows powerful cartoon responses to the terror attack in Paris. The wording above the picture state: “Love Is Stronger Than Hate.”

    A PinkNews spokesperson said,

    “The PinkNews editorial team decided to repost the cartoon simply to send the message that love is stronger than hate. This applies to all forms of prejudice, including homophobia, transphobia, Islamophobia and to any extremism against the West.

    “In the end it is positivity and love which will always trump evil and hate.”

  • Gay New Years Honours 2015 Announced

    This year’s New Year’s Honours for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Trans (LGBT) community, voted for by the readers of THEGAYUK magazine for the heroes that have helped, supported or fought for the LGBT Community in 2014.

    Thousands of people nominated and voted for 24 individuals, companies and organisations, which have contributed, to the community in eight categories.

    Adam Lambert, ASDA and the Naked Rowers are just some of the big names that have won the admiration of voters. Amongst those recognised were George Montague, the self-proclaimed ‘Oldest Gay In The Village’ who has just released a book about nine decades of being gay in Britain.

    This is the third year that TheGayUK has run the New Year’s Recognition, deemed to be the gay New Year’s Honours, however 2014/15 is the first year in which members of the public were invited to nominate and then vote for anyone, any company or organisation they deemed to have aided the LGBT community in the previous year. Thousands of people took the opportunity to nominate and then vote on their heroes.

    The eight categories are: Entertainment, Education, Community Project, Politics, Activism and Awareness, Sports, Health and Businesses.

    Full list of winners:

    Education:
    LGBT History Month

    Entertainment
    Adam Lambert

    Community Project
    Proud 2 Be

    Politics
    Angela Eagle

    Activism and Awareness
    Peter Tatchell & George Montague (Tied)

    Sports
    Warwickshire Naked Rowers

    Health
    London Lesbian And Gay Switchboard

    Business Of The Year
    ASDA

  • THEGAYUK’s top 10 stories of 2014

    2014 has been an interesting year for news, culture and celebrity for the gay community in the UK. Here are the top 10 stories people read on THEGAYUK.

    1) Lee Ryan Bisexual Talk and Webcam Sex Scandal
    Celebrity Big Brother contestant Lee Ryan has been reportedly caught having some quality time on Skype, in explicit webcam video. He also talked about having a sex experience with another man

    2) Nude Pictures of Alex Minsky Leaked
    Marine turned model Alex Minksy is a bit hot. There we said it – and judging by these pictures, he’s not afraid to show a bit of skin. Alex Minsky turned out to be one of the most searched for celebrities on THEGAYUK.

    3) Interview with Andrea Faustini
    He won the hearts of viewers all over the UK, most were trying to find out whether the Italian crooner was gay. Went had a little interview with the nation’s Diva.

    4) Duncan James talks about being gay for the first time.
    Duncan James delivered a speech, in which he publicly referred to himself as gay for the first time and received a standing ovation from those in attendance. He discussed the personal difficulties he had coming out to his mother and how he flew her to L.A to tell her about his sexuality.

    5) BNP Youth member threaten to disown his dog over penis licking
    A BNP Youth Organiser has seemingly threatened to disown his dog because it licks the penises of other dogs.

    6) Jimmy Bullen and Jake Quickenden fall out over ‘Banter’
    When former Wigan footballer, Jimmy Bullard wants to be nasty he certainly knows what buttons to press – as he clearly left former X FACTOR singer Jake Quickenden upset by his remarks.

    7) Facebook users demand action to remove homophobia
    A picture of Adolf Hitler cooking a Jew in an oven is the latest picture on Facebook to be deemed ‘not offensive’ by the social network as a group of users continue to demand a public meeting with Facebook representatives claiming the site is actively permitting content that incites racial and homophobic hatred to go unchecked.

    8) Vile reactions to Johnny Carter’s gay kiss on Eastenders.
    After the gay kiss between Sam Stike and Gary Lucy, many viewers of EastEnders weren’t happy and took to Twitter to vent their fews.

    9) Interview with Doctor Christian Jessen – Cure Me I’m Gay
    Doctor Jessen, undertook a number of ‘gay cure’ treatments this year to prove that none of them actually work. Here is our interview with him.

    10) James Franco in bed selfie with Keegan Allen
    Honourary gay James Franco sent the internet on fire after he uploads this selfie with him snuggling with model Keegan Allen.

  • Ugandan President Sent Book On Gay Animals

    The German online dating company Gleichklang.de has sent a book on homosexuality in animals to the president of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni.

    (more…)

  • All Aboard: Gay Commitment Ceremonies At Sea

    Cunard’s exquisite ships have always offered the perfect setting to celebrate a special occasion from a birthday, anniversary, or wedding. However, from December 2014 Cunard be giving their guests even more reason to celebrate as they introduce Commitment Ceremonies on board their magnificent fleet.

    For the first time in Cunard’s history, guests who are looking to confirm and declare their love in a stylish and memorable Commitment Ceremony will be able to on board Cunard’s Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2.

    Dr Field from Maine, New England in the United States, who first sailed on Queen Mary 2 in 2007 from New York to Southampton, has booked the very first Commitment Ceremony on board Cunard’s flagship liner, choosing to renew his vows with his husband Joe in style:

    “Queen Mary 2 is a work of art and all of the staff was highly professional and personable,” explained Dr Field.

    “When I saw that Cunard would have a Christmas and New Year’s cruise I very much wanted to share my love of the ship and crew with Joe, my husband. Soon after booking our travel I came across the Commitment Ceremony and thought what a beautiful way to renew our vows.”

    Seizing the opportunity, Dr Field and his partner had no hesitation when it came to booking their special day with Cunard; Dr Field continued:

    “We were recently married in Maine with the thought that we could strengthen and deepen our love with the ceremony. We wanted to exchange our vows in the Commitment Ceremony because it was described as both simple and elegant. Joe had indicated what he wanted in the ceremony and we both look forward to having his dreams come true. What’s more, Cunard has been fantastic in helping us to shape that special day.”

    Guests can relax and enjoy their special day as they let Cunard organise everything from the invitations to guests, complimentary champagne, floral arrangements, traditional music and much more.

    Angus Struthers, Cunard’s Marketing Director, said:

    “Cunard is renowned for playing to host to some of the most important occasions in people’s lives, and we are extremely pleased to add Commitment Ceremonies to our ever-growing agenda. With the timeless elegance of Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth our ships will provide the perfect setting for our guests very special day.”

    Prices start from £2,000 on board Queen Victoria (Q410-V601) and Queen Elizabeth (Q411-Q601) and $2,500 on board Queen Mary 2.

  • Domestic Abuse Helplines For LGBTs Open Over Christmas

    Christmas is a really difficult time for many lesbian gay bi and trans people who suffer at the hands of their partner and family.

    Broken Rainbow have put together this message in a view of keeping them safe.

    Christmas is a difficult time for lesbian, gay bi and trans* (LGBT) people who are experiencing domestic violence or abuse. At this time of year, many of us spend more time with partners and our families, that can be exhausting, put a strain on finances and often involves a fair bit of alcohol- all of which can trigger incidents.

    Also at this time of year, it is easy to believe you need to ‘try harder’ for the sake of family celebrations and not wanting to spoil the holiday. For some returning to the closet is also the only option for the sake of keeping the peace. Some are victims of coercive control with the threat of being ‘outed’ to family, colleagues and friends
    All of this can be increasing stressful and isolating.

    Broken Rainbow will be running business as usual throughout the festive season.

    The helpline will be available
    Monday 22nd December 10am -8pm
    Tuesday 23rd December 10am -5pm
    Christmas Eve – 10am -5pm
    Christmas Day – 10am to 8pm
    Boxing Day – 1pm – 5pm

    With the same hours repeated the following week for New Year.

    Broken Rainbow have also compiled 7 key points to remember This Holiday Season in order to look after you and stay safe.
    1. If you are immediate danger call 999
    2. Call the Broken Rainbow domestic violence and abuse helpline 0300 999 5428 / 0800 999 5428 to talk confidentiality to another LGBT person who will listen and help you understand your options
    3. Email Broken Rainbow if you don’t feel able to talk over the phone our email is help@brokenrainbow.org.uk
    4. Talk to a friend or someone you trust. It helps to share your problems.
    5. Remember the violence or abuse is not your fault no matter what excuses you are given
    6. Plan for your safety – think about worse case scenario; if you had to leave in a hurry, what would you take with you (money, id, and other important documents). Pack a bag with a change of clothes. Where would you go to be safe and get help? Remember you can always go to the police for help.
    7. Keep your mobile fully charged and handy.

    Remember you are not alone: Broken Rainbow receives thousands of calls each year from people experiencing domestic violence and abuse.

  • EXCLUSIVE | Michael Fish MBE give THEGAYUK his Christmas Weather Report

    Following numerous requests for information on the BIGGEST Christmas question, we speak exclusively with National Treasure Michael Fish MBE for a (ahem) ‘guaranteed’ prediction on if it’ll snow this December 25th?

    It’s an age-old question that us forecasters have battled with for many a year. Will it or won’t it snow on Christmas Day? Of course if I knew the answer to this then I’d be a very rich man by now. If we’re to believe the newspapers each year, then yes ‘Snowmaggeddon’ is coming and we should all bulk buy our port and Stilton now and get ready for hibernation. Sadly it’s very hard to even try to predict until about five days before the event…

    However, never being shy of a challenge, I’ve monitored the instruments in the garden and had the Met Office charts sent over to study and I think I can quite categorically say…

    Don’t worry. A Christmas snowstorm is NOT on the way… [wink].

    To find out more about Michael Fish do visit: www.Michael-Fish.com

  • Today Dubbed Booze Friday As Millions Set To Drink To Excess

    Today (19 December 2014) is dubbed ‘the black Friday of booze’, as the Christmas party season reaches its peak with an influx of revellers in pubs, bars and restaurants creating high demand across the emergency services. However, a spike in sign-ups to Dry January is also predicted, as people start to think about giving their bodies a break in the New Year.

    This comes as new figures show that:

    * last year, Friday 20 December 2013 saw sales of alcohol in pubs, bars and restaurants rise by 114% compared to an average Friday

    * £3.7 billion was spent on alcohol last December, with total sales of alcohol rising by more than a quarter (28%) from November to December

    * sales of sparkling wine and liqueurs jumped by 88% and 54% respectively

    Jackie Ballard, Chief Executive of Alcohol Concern, said:

    “In the run up to Christmas many people start drinking more than usual as they celebrate the festive season with parties and get-togethers.

    “This is the perfect time to sign up to a holiday from alcohol. Dry January is not about never drinking again. It’s just an opportunity for people to reflect on their drinking patterns and to give their body a break from alcohol after the festive period. We know from previous years that people who do Dry January will feel better, lose weight and save money.

    This data is supported by a number of people who have been keeping a record of their drinking for the past month, with many noting that their alcohol consumption in December had increased considerably from the previous month.

    Charlotte Gowing, aged 38 from London, said:

    “I don’t really see myself as a big drinker but I was quite shocked to see just how much more I drink in the run up to Christmas. Drinks on nights out with work and friends, as well as a few when I’m at home, all start to add up.

    “I am definitely going to give my body a bit of TLC after New Year’s Eve and Dry January will be a good place to start.

    Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing at Public Health England, says:

    “Over 17,000 people took part in Dry January in 2014 and many reported that taking a month-long break from alcohol acted as a reset button concerning their alcohol use for months afterwards, not only helping people to drink less per drinking day but also to drink less frequently.

    “As with any commitment to a healthier lifestyle change, people need some time to prepare themselves in advance so that they are in the best position possible to successfully achieve their goal. People who sign up to Dry January will receive the tips, ideas and encouragement to stay motivated and make the most of their month off alcohol”

    To sign up for Alcohol Concern’s Dry January and register for tips and tools to make the most of the month, please visit the Dry January website.

  • Over THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND Homophobic Incidents Not Reported In The UK

    Commission launches new project to help tackle LGB and T hate crime.

    (more…)

  • Man Killed In Sydney Siege Leaves Behind Partner Of 14 Years

    The man who has been hailed a hero, after being killed after he grabbed the gun of terrorist Man Haron Monis has been named as Tori Johnson.

    Mr Johnson, 34, was the manager at the cafe in Sydney when self-styled Muslim cleric Man Haron Monis took 17 staff and patrons hostage during a 16-hour siege over the weekend. The lone gunman was eventually killed after a sustained gun fight. It is believed that Mr Johnson, who had worked at the cafe since October 2012, tried to overpower the gunman to protect staff and customers.

    The horrific ordeal began at 9:45 AM, when police were notified and called to Lindt Chocolat Cafe in Sydney’s Martin Place in the central business district. The siege eventually ended at 2:10 AM when commandos stormed the cafe. The exact sequence of events inside the building is not clear.

    Mr Johnson had been in a long-term relationship with his partner of 14 years – Mr Thomas Zinn, who is currently being looked after by Mr Johnson’s family. A statement from the family have said via a journalist Ben Fordham,

    “We are so proud of our beautiful boy Tori, gone from this earth but forever in our memories as the most amazing life partner, son and brother we could ever wish for.

    “We feel heartfelt sorrow for the family of Katrina Dawson.

    “We’d like to thank not only our friends and loved ones for their support, but the people of Sydney; Australia and those around the world for reaching out with their thoughts and prayers.

    “Our deepest gratitude to the NSW police, armed forces and paramedics for their tireless efforts.

    “We ask that the media respects our privacy in this difficult time.

    “Let us all pray for peace on earth.”

    A former colleague Peter Manettas said Mr Johnson was,

    “a very selfless manager… he put his staff first in everything that he did.”

    A co-worker, and mother of three Katrina Dawson, 38 also died.

  • How to survive the UK’s “Weather Bomb”

    With Britain bracing itself for potential chaos brought on by the “weather bomb”, one of the nation’s favourite building societies is advising people how to stay safe and be prepared this Christmas. A few simple preparations can help save a great deal of time and trouble.

    Nationwide’s winter weather tips:

    Give your car a winter weather check
    – avoid breaking down by keeping your car maintained. Make sure your tyres have enough tread; check oil, anti-freeze and screen-wash levels and keep fuel topped up. Many garages offer a winter health check for a small fee which will ensure your car is ready for the cold snap.

    Make sure you have breakdown cover
    – flat tyres, minor accidents caused by icy or snowy weather conditions and a flat battery are just a few of the common reasons people need breakdown assistance over the winter months. Save a great deal of time, money and distress by having breakdown cover in place beforehand.

    Keep emergency items in your car
    – check the weather report before you leave the house and only travel if the journey is essential. If your journey is necessary, keep emergency items in your vehicle such as a blanket, extra clothes, a torch, water, non-perishable food and a shovel, which could come in handy if stuck in snow.

    Carry emergency telephone numbers
    – avoid being stranded in freezing weather conditions by having your insurance provider’s telephone number to hand. Make sure your mobile phone is charged and keep an in-car phone charger for emergencies. Also, tell family and friends where you are going before setting off on a journey.

    Protect your home
    – prevent water damage by protecting your pipes. Keeping your boiler serviced not only keeps you warm but will prevent pipes freezing and if you are going away, consider asking a friend or relative to check your home. This means if you do suffer a burst pipe, it will be detected as soon as possible.

    Martyn Dyson, Nationwide’s Head of General Insurance, said,

    “Winter weather brings with it many challenges, particularly with ice and snow, and many of us are ill prepared. These conditions can be hazardous and it’s important to plan ahead to not only reduce the financial impact and inconvenience, but to also stay safe. A few simple steps can make a big difference if the worst were to happen, for example taking the time to understand what your home and car insurance covers you for can prevent a great deal of anxiety and expense.”