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AFTER THE PAIN COMES HEALING! by Dr. Umieca N. Hankton, Ph.D.

By Gwen Clemons -
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I vividly recall learning how to ride a bike and the pain my body felt each time my knee or elbow hit the asphalt. For the life of me, I could not understand why my mother removed the training wheels from my unicorn bike or why she would not put them back on after witnessing my pain. Like many of you, I can remember my first heartbreak and believing I would never get over the lost love. And sadly, I also recall the pain of giving the doctors permission to remove my mother from life support. Each of these experiences reinforced my understanding that pain was inevitable. Asking for the return of the training wheels so that I would stop falling (AVOIDANCE), petitioning for a second chance at a failed relationship (AVOIDANCE), and asking to sustain my mother on life support a little longer (AVOIDANCE) were all instances in which I attempted to escape the coming of pain.

Just as the shore cannot control the ebb and flow of the ocean, we cannot control the arrival of pain. Pain is certain. Accepting that pain will happen shapes how we respond when it inevitably and inconveniently shows up. When we ready our minds to accept changes and shifts, we prepare our minds to take ownership and initiation of our healing.   Embracing the reality that we cannot control when or how physical, psychological, or spiritual pain makes its presence known in our lives allows us to focus on what we can control, which is how we respond. Avoidance of pain leads to suffering and suffering is a choice. However, just as suffering is a choice, so is healing. Viewing life from a healing lens looks and feels better than experiencing life from the lens of hurt. So, how do we begin to heal?

Dr. Umieca N. Hankton, Ph.D.

Start with these simple tips:

  1. DO NOT deny the presence of pain. Pretending things are okay or that you are okay when you are not will not make the pain disappear. Avoidance of pain does not lead to growth and healing.  
  2. DO NOT hurt in silence, isolation, or dark spaces because shame, hopelessness, and apathy grow in those conditions.
  3. DO NOT stay in distressing environments. Get out of spaces and away from people who flourish due to your pain. Misery loves miserable company and narcissists need someone to gaslight.   
  4. DO acknowledge your wounds to yourself and others. We cannot heal that which we do not acknowledge.
  5. DO seek support as soon as you can. There’s no need to wait until the pain becomes suffering or interferes with quality of life. We would not wait to seek medical attention for a broken bone. Therefore, we should not wait to seek mental health treatment for an emotional injury. 
  6. DO connect with a mental health provider, which permits healing to occur sooner than later. Early intervention is vital.
  7. DO strengthen your boundaries. After an emotional or physical injury, the body needs time and space to rest and regain strength. Limit the access of people who drain you of your emotional, spiritual, and financial resources, especially the “if I were you” folks.
  8. DO prioritize your health and needs over the needs of others. Ensuring your needs are met is not a selfish action. Putting YOU first is an invaluable gift you offer to yourself that will also benefit others. A vehicle without fuel cannot travel, nor can you pour into others from an empty cup. 
  9. DO extend grace and forgiveness to yourself for the ways you had to survive that may not have been most helpful. You are human, deserving of forgiveness, kindness, and compassion. May you offer these gifts to yourself first.

Dr. Hankton is a licensed clinical psychologist and the executive director of UNH Counseling Services. UNH Counseling Services is a private behavioral health agency that focuses on the health and wellness of Black women, LGBTQ+, clergy, and college students. Dr. Hankton provides clinical services to those located in TN, LA, TX, GA, WI, AL, D.C., IL, MN, & KY.  

DR. LIZ L. WEST, PH.D. OFFERS AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO “A NEW HEALING!”

By Gwen Clemons -
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Dr. Liz L. West, Ph.D.

Allow me to point out that “anger” is not society’s number one emotional issue, “uncontrolled anger” is society’s number one emotional issue _Dr. Liz West

We have all come to the conclusion that we, as a society, need healing. We have also come to the conclusion that the healing that we once knew is not working for us. So, how and where do we start? We start by seeking a new type of healing first (since the old one isn’t serving us well), and given the fact that emotions are at the seat of the soul, let’s start there. There are many emotional issues, but I will discuss society’s number one emotional issue—uncontrolled anger. Yes, uncontrolled anger has become society’s number one emotional issue. Allow me to point out that “anger” is not society’s number one emotional issue, “uncontrolled anger” is society’s number one emotional issue. Anger is not number one because anger is not a bad emotion. The negative response to anger is what is unfavorable for everyone involved. It is at this point where crime usually comes into play. 

https://anewhealing.org/

We have been unwilling to accept the fact that violence, as a result of anger, is everyone’s individual responsibility. Instead of taking on the responsibility, we have sought scapegoats in minority cultures, racial groups, the mentally ill, as well as subcultures. Look at the crime we see in the news. Instead of taking responsibility, we result to committing crimes. Crime is at an all-time high and is, unfortunately, becoming more and more bazaar. People are dropping babies off bridges, adults are abusing children, filming it and putting it on social media, as well as parents beating children to their deaths.  We’re becoming more aware of rape, child molestation, bombings, and suicide/homicide attempts and commitments. Not to mention sports figures who are abusing women, children, and animals, mass shootings, school shootings, theater shootings, mall shootings, drive-by shootings, and even church shootings. The underlying issue here is uncontrolled anger. 

Pay attention the next time you go to a game or any crowded stadium. When at a football game, I’m always intrigued by the action of the fans. Observe the next time you’re in the stands, and you will notice irrational fits of anger, uncontrolled frustration oozing from people that masquerade under the façade of excitement or “team spirit”. Notice the booing, catcalls, drunkenness, fights in the stands, and unrestrained selfishness in the name of “team loyalty”. These people are trying desperately to release tension from within because these are not people who are at peace with themselves, they are secretly angry. I’ve long stopped looking at the news, but if you still do so, watch and observe the amount of anger and rage that is exhibited by people who are featured in the news. Listen to the lyrics of the most popular songs that are playing today. People also exhibit anger, rage, frustration, discontent, and stress in inequalities. When we are ready to accept that the problem is within ourselves and when we are willing to heal both psychologically and spiritually, then and only then can we approach the cycle of anger, end the suffering, and begin the healing process. This process begins with the connection to a licensed mental health professional, it also requires honest communication to that mental health professional, as well as a commitment to the healing journey. 

“A New Healing” is the name of an intervention that I often use to approach healing from a psychological and spiritual aspect. Healing is not an event; it is a journey, an evolution. Just as we are always learning, we are also always healing (once we decide to begin the healing journey). I can’t tell you how to get healed, I can only share with you how to begin the healing journey, then you take it from there.

I will share five tips to recognize that healing would be beneficial. I will also share 5 tips that will guide you in beginning the healing journey. 

How do I know I need healing?

Tip 1: When it is difficult to forgive yourself or someone else.

Tip 2: When you want to get revenge after someone has offended you.

Tip 3: When it is difficult to let go of past trauma.

Tip 4: If you become triggered and respond emotionally to stimuli such as words, images, music, videos, smells, memories, thoughts, activities, gestures, etc.

Tip 5: When there is no sense of fulfillment.  

How to begin your healing journey?

Tip 1: Realize, admit, and determine that you will begin your healing journey. 

Tip 2: Connect with a mental health professional

Tip 3: Connect with a spiritual advisor, mentor, or guide

Tip 4: Communicate openly and honestly with mental health professionals.

Tip 5: Make the commitment to begin the journey and do the self-work.

Remember, this is a journey, not an event or destination. So, begin your journey to “A New Healing” with honor instead of judgment, and I wish you well.

 Dr. Liz L. West, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CCBT, CART. Dr Liz West is a clinical psychotherapist and founder of A New Healing Inc “Healing For The Culture”.

Dr. West can be found on all social media platforms http://@anewhealinginc.

 

 

THE 2022 TUV MAGAZINE RISE UP ISSUE IS UNAPOLOGETIC

By Gwen Clemons -
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Welcome to 2022 Ya’ll! This is the year that your life will be calling you. The bigger question is will you answer? Let’s jump right into it! The 2022 RISE UP Issue is about offering life principles to help you step into the most important version of yourself…You need to not only know what you want out of life but what “WHY?” Knowing your “WHY” helps prepare you for life challenges (because they will come) and how to overcome whatever is thrown at you!  Inside this issue we are featuring thought leaders, critical thinkers, educators, authors, financial advisors, health experts, mental health advisors and more to give you a great head start on your 2022 NU Year, NU You, Nu Money, Nu Health! LET’S GOOOOOOOOO!

On the Cover is Dr. Lakara Foster, Minister, Psychic Medium, Author is unapologetically living her best life. For many in her inner circle Dr. Foster has always been that one voice of reason one can say she was a life coach even before she knew what to call her gift. Ironically, her businesses bear the name “The Gift” which is a direct reflection of how she explains her ability to help reunite people with their departed love ones and giving them the gifts of healing, closure, and peace all the while helping them to see death, life, and God in a new way! You can follow Dr. Foster via her YouTube Channel @lakarafoster “The Gift” on her website and on all social media outlets.

Dr. Lakara Foster 

Meet Don Abram, M.Div, founder of “Pride in the Pews” a grassroots nationwide campaign aimed at celebrating the stories of resilient queer faith in the Black Church. Pride in the Pews seeks to create a platform by which LGBTQIA+ Christians in the Black Church can share their testimony and overcome queerphobic theologies through storytelling. Don is deeply committed to creating community for queer Black Christians and to equipping the church for progressive, 21st century ministry.

Don Abram, M. Div 

In celebration of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day which is February 07, 2022. We are proud to feature AJ Totten-Reynolds of Atlanta, GA. AJ is a reflection of how one person’s story can have a ripple effect in helping to tear down the strong holds of stigma and shame people with HIV face daily. We are proud of AJ for fearlessly sharing his coming out story with TUV Magazine!

AJ TOTTEN-REYNOLDS

“The issue of sexuality, especially nonhetero expressions of sexuality, is a complex matter within the Black Church community. Even with all of their diversity, Black Church people are regarded as strikingly similar in their attitudes toward non-heterosexual sexualities. They are viewed as not simply homophobic but more homophobic than other populations of society”  (Douglas, 2006).

In 2022, LGBTQIA+ individuals are still fighting for affirming acceptance within The Black Church. In this issue our contributing guest writer Author, Activist  Monika M. Pickett explores the nuisances on the prevalent and pervasive homophobic sentiments of the Black Church. We recognizes that not all Black Churches are homophobic. We also recognize that the main pillars of Black denomination systems are! Yet, LGBTQIA+ individuals still maintain their  memberships and serve in their ministries silently!

As we journey through 2022 it is with utmost importance that you protect your peace! Always remember that God loves you just as you are. Please know that no MAN or WOMAN hold the keys to your salvation…

Let’s Get Social! Follow @tuvmag on all social media outlets to receive updates about exclusive contents and events. Are you a subscriber to TUV Magazine? Consider becoming a monthly subscriber to receive your bimonthly issue in your mailbox! The Subscribe Button is located in the top and bottom tab.

Interested in writing? Submissions can always be submitted via email to info@tuvmag.com

“The energy of the universe responds to positivity, loving yourself as you are is crucial growth”_ Oprah Winfrey 

Lil Nas X Partners With Memphis Nonprofit To Raise Funds & Awareness About The HIV Epidemic In The South

By Gwen Clemons -
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Gwendolyn D. Clemons, Chief Executive Officer, PRC, MBA, MSM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOCAL MEMPHIS, TN HIV AND LGBTQ ADVOCACY GROUP RELATIONSHIP UNLEASHED IS AMONG THOSE ON LIL NAS X’S “BABY REGISTRY” CONNECTING SONGS ON HIS NEW ALBUM, LAUNCHING TODAY, TO GROUPS WORKING TO DEFEAT HIV STIGMA IN THE U.S. SOUTH.

[September 17, 2021] – Today musical artist Lil Nas X is releasing his new album “Montero” and asking fans to donate to HIV and LGBTQ advocacy groups. Relationship Unleashed (RUNL) from Memphis, TNis among those included on Lil Nas X’s “baby registry” connected to the song “Scoop (featuring Doja Cat).” To celebrate the “birth” of his new album, rapper and LGBTQ+ icon Lil Nas X created a portal where fans can donate money to each nonprofit groups based on the track!

https://www.welcometomontero.com/babyregistry/

Lil Nas X “Baby Registry” Photo

Relationship Unleashed is among 13 Gilead COMPASS Initiative® organizations to be included on the registry. The full list of songs and groups is here. Lil Nas X also featured Mardrequs Harris of the Southern AIDS Coalition, a COMPASS Coordinating Center, during his performance at the MTV VMAs last Sunday night. Mardrequs wore the number 433,816 in red, representing the universal color of support for HIV awareness and the number of people living with HIV in the U.S. South as of 2015, which has increased substantially over the years.

The mission of Relationship Unleashed is to fight inequality through comprehensive educational services for the Black LGBTQ Community and people living with HIV/AIDS. It was founded in November 2014 and serves our local community with the purpose of creating social, cultural and professional equity for the Tri-State area of TN, AR and MS. Relationship Unleashed provides services for Harm Reduction Awareness, Faith and HIV Campaigns, Mental Health Awareness, HIV/AIDS, Trauma-Informed Care, Behavioral Modification, Health Services Referrals, Peer-to-Peer Support Groups for the Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming Community, and Black Cisgender Women Living Positively with HIV.

https://www.relationshipunleashed.com/

Gwendolyn Clemons, Chief Executive Officer of Relationship Unleashed, shared her appreciation for the inclusion of RUNL on the registry: “Being included on Lil Nas X’s registry is an invaluable opportunity for our work to raise awareness about HIV prevention and treatment in the LGBTQ Community. The funds his fans are donating will accelerate our nonprofit’s plan to defeat the stigma that drives new infections in our community. We are humbled and inspired by Lil Nas X for using his platform to raise HIV awareness, and are hopeful that other artists will follow his lead to advocate social and cultural change for the LGBTQ community.”

Dr. Davin D. Clemons & his Mother Gwendolyn D. Clemons, MBA, MSM, PRC

The Gilead COMPASS Initiative® has helped prepare nearly 14,000 people across the U.S. South to become better advocates by combating HIV stigma and educating communities across the region. COMPASS focuses on providing concentrated investments in the region to reduce HIV-related health disparities, build awareness, advance education and reduce stigma.

Relationship Unleashed is also asking media to share key facts to help defeat the stigma driving new infections: 

2021 Marks 40 Years of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic
  1. HIV Is a Social Justice and Racial Justice Issue: Black Americans account for more HIV diagnoses (43%) and people living with HIV (42%) than any other racial and ethnic group in the U.S. Black Americans are vulnerable to HIV because of structural barriers, steeped in racist and anti-Black policies and practices, to resources like healthcare, education, employment and housing. The three groups most affected by HIV are Black gay men, Black cisgender women and transgender women of color.
  2. HIV Treatment Works, U=U: People living with HIV, when on effective treatment, live long and healthy lives and cannot sexually transmit HIV, according to the CDC. When someone living with HIV receives effective treatment and follows regimens prescribed by their doctor, HIV becomes undetectable when tested. When HIV is undetectable, it is untransmittable: U=U (#UequalsU).
  3. HIV Prevention Works: HIV testing should be a part of regular medical screenings. The CDC recommends that every person aged 13-64 should receive an HIV test. When a person takes a test and receives an HIV diagnosis, they can be linked to care immediately to protect their own health and prevent passing on HIV to others. Medications like PrEP (a daily pill to prevent HIV) are 99% effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed for people who do not have HIV.
  4. Faith-based HIV Stigma Hurts, and Spreads the Disease: With more than 10,000 congregations having members living with HIV, it is important for faith communities to take leadership in addressing HIV stigma. Shaming people for living with HIV, or for being on medication to prevent HIV, stops people from seeking the care they need and leads undiagnosed people to pass on the virus.

Additional research or interviews are available from Dr. Davin D. Clemons, Chief Financial Officer, or Gwendolyn D. Clemons, Chief Executive Officer, both Co-Founders of Relationship Unleashed.

Relationship Unleashed was founded in Memphis, TN in 2014 by two passionate community leaders, Dr. Davin D. Clemons and his mother Gwendolyn D. Clemons, PRC, MBA, MSM. The vision of Relationship Unleashed is to make life better and more fulfilling by centering programming that brings awareness to healthy relationships, devastating effects of HIV/AIDS, and reducing domestic violence while promoting meaningful messages and faith-based initiatives about wellness, mental health, trauma-informed care, harm reduction and peer-to-peer support for the LGBTQ and Gender Non-Conforming community.

MEET THE NEW DOCTORS ON THE BLOCK IN TUV MAGAZINE 6th ANNUAL WORLD AIDS DAY ISSUE!

By Gwen Clemons -
0

TUV MAGAZNE IS CELEBRATING THEIR 6TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THEIR ANNUAL WORLD AIDS DAY ISSUE “WE ARE BIGGER THAN HIV!” Pays homage to the lives of individuals living and thriving positively as well as those who have joined the fight to end the HIV epidemic.

“The fact that the Southern Region of the U.S. is still being directly impacted with new diagnosis in 2021 is unacceptable.” The fact that HIV is still rising in the South means that “SEX” should not be an anomaly in our society” _ Gwendolyn D. Clemons, CEO of Relationship Unleashed, Editor-in-Chief of TUV Magazine 

WHAT IS WORLD AIDS DAY?

World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Each year, organizations and individuals across the world bring attention to the HIV epidemic, endeavor to increase HIV awareness and knowledge, speak out against HIV stigma, and call for an increased response to move toward Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S..

World AIDS Day was the first observed in 1988 and has now expanded into a global health day. The theme for the 2021 observance is “Ending the HIV Epidemic: Equitable Access, Everyone’s Voice.”

ON THE COVER TUV MAGAZINE OBTAINED AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DR. MARYE BERNARD & DR. MARSHE TURNER CO-FOUNDERS OF SPIRIT HEALTH  CENTER IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. 

Meet “The New Doctors On The Block!” who are creating a paradigm shift in patient care in Memphis, TN. Spirit Health Center delivers Primary Health Care to individuals living with and without HIV in a diverse and respectable atmosphere. 

Dr. Marshe Turner & Dr. Marye Bernard 

Prior to opening Spirit Health Medical, they offered primary care services only to individuals living with HIV. Now they offer primary care services to the entire community. In addition to primary care, they perform school and athletic physicals, acute care visits and COVID-19 testing. Their “Superpowers” as owners of Spirit Health Care places them in direct control of being able to listen and respond to the needs of the community. In the past we would hear the desire of patients to be treated in an environment where they did not feel stigmatized, but we were not able to be a change-agent until now (read more) https://issuu.com/theunleashedvoicemagazine/docs/issu-ready

 

NIKKI EASON

Meet Nikki Eason, Show Creator of The Androgynous Model Contest. Eason has launched Season 3 with a new set of contestants ready to take on life altering challenges in pursuit of becoming The Androgynous Model. The Androgynous Model was created to serve as a platform for education about androgyny, instilling confidence and creating opportunities for the androgynous community. Often, there is a lack of representation of androgynous individuals within the fashion, technology, and entertainment industry. We built this platform to change that by providing space for androgynous individuals to share their stories and showcase their expertise and talents to the world. 

“You have to release yourself from the version of you that you created for survival” Tyron Wells_

Tyron Wells walks us through a transparent moment of self-discovery and reflection on what it now feels like to “Walk in Truth!” As a 40-year-old black gay male, soon to be 41, Wells openly discusses his milestones and setbacks to guide others through the nuisances of what it means to live a full life! Follow Tyron Wells on IG @wellsevents

TYRON WELLS

The Normal Anomaly Initiative launches Project Liberate. Project Liberate is 6-month program that will feature a 3-month intensive with premiere capacity building and development organizations of VisionQue! led by Ms. Jacqueline Coleman, Life Mission Project Network led by Mr. Paul Cain, and LEAD360 led by Mr. J. Albert Nicklos II; this cohort will learn the foundational elements of businesses, organizations, financial planning, pitching, and develop business relationships. In the final 3 months, they will participate in a capstone project to launch or re-launch their business amongst community, family, and the city of Houston.  

The World AIDS Day Issue (WAD) is a signature issue of TUV Magazine. As HIV advocates and service providers it is our duty to tell the stories of the millions of Black & Brown individuals who are no longer here. It is our commitment to remember their lives by providing HIV education, raising awareness to eradicate HIV from our communities. This WAD Issue is filled with compelling stories that are heartfelt and rich in information. Dive in and explore for yourself! https://issuu.com/theunleashedvoicemagazine/docs/issu-ready

Connect with TUV Media if you have a story or are interested in becoming a regular contributor. We are always looking for DOPE CREATORS. we can be reached at info@tuvmag.com

Happy Holidays, Mask UP, Practice Social Distancing & Stay Safe!  

 

 

 

 

 

WHO IS SIRGLEN ALLEN? HE’S “INTENTIONALLY” LETTING YA’LL HAVE IT, ONE OUTFIT AT A TIME!

By Gwen Clemons -
0

New Cover Alert! 

Urban Dictionary describes the word “Intentional” as “A person who practices an intentional lifestyle. One who makes considered, deliberate, conscious and, therefore occasionally unconventional choices about various aspects of their life such as living arrangements intentional community, relationships, parenthood, fashion intentional fashion, work, sex, sexuality etc.”

TUV Magazine releases The Mindfulness Issue “BE INTENTIONAL” to offer collective views from various writers about ways to become intentional about life. These articles are intended to encourage you to play full out with your lives. Remember this… Your Mindset creates your reality!

On the Cover is SirGlen Allen, an author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, designer, image consultant, sought after stylist and an all-around “Klassy Brother.” SirGlen is a native of Arkansas but now resides in Nashville, TN.

Find your inner strength, and reach down inside of you, and be who God has created you to be _ SirGlen Allen

 

SirGlen Allen (Photographer Credits Greg Lopez) https://sirglenallen.com/

SirGlen shares intimate details about growing up in Arkansas, being raised by his mother in the COGIC Church, marrying in his mid-20’s and finding his identity through entrepreneurship.

Philly Muuff 

Entertainment Section: In our One to Watch Section Philly Muuff, wears many hats. She’s an independent artist music artist, owns her own clothing company, and tattoo artist. You can find Philly Muuff on Spotify. Social Media IG: Muuffinnisbitch Tik Tok: philly.muuff  check out her newest single is Innards 

Monika M. Pickett, Author/Activist 

HAPPY WOMEN’S MONTH! MONIKA M. PICKETT, SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR TO TUV MAGAZINE, SHARES A HEARTFELT STORY ABOUT HER TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS THROUGH LIFE ENTITLED ” LETTING GO OF THE LIFE I THOUGHT I WOULD HAVE!” https://www.monikampickett.com/

MEET THE ADAMS-HILL (photo credits) Asuquo Travels 

Every now and again a regal royal wedding gives us a glimpse of what true love looks like for a same-gender loving couple! Take a journey inside this fairytale love story between two beautiful and lucky souls!

Remember, that your on time on earth will be brief, that our days are numbered, and that life will be fleeting. We are only here on earth for just a little while…So, be Mindful about who, what, when, and where you invest your time. Be intentional about making the best use of your life because we won’t be here long…

Interested in writing? Interested in being featured? TUV Magazine readily accepts submissions through our website info@tuvmag.com Also, follow us on all social media channels to stay up to date with us!

 

TRANSDAY OF VISIBILITY

By Gwen Clemons -
0

“Affirming a transgender child’s identity is one of the best things a parent, teacher, or doctor can do to help keep children from harm….” President Biden

 

By: Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use

As a clinical psychologist, academician, and government leader, I have focused on ensuring that mental health care services and policies are culturally responsive, evidence-based and in the best interest of those receiving services. Providing timely, appropriate, and evidence-based treatment vastly improves outcomes and can help save our young people from suicide ideation and attempts. I want to share what we know works to best engage Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Intersex (LGBTQI+) youth as well as the resources we have for them, their families, providers, community organizations, and government agencies.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other sexual orientations are normal variations of human sexuality and are not mental disorders. Similarly, transgender, non-binary, and other gender identities are normal variations of human gender and are not mental disorders.

We know that supporting and affirming LGBTQI+ youth are the best actions mental health providers, families, friends, school personnel, and community leaders can take. Strong evidence shows that family acceptance helps protect against depression, suicidal behavior, and substance use as well as promote self-esteem, social support, and overall health experience for LGBT youth.1 We also know that family rejection can lead to significant inequities in LGBT youth behavioral health.2 LGBT young adults who reported high levels of family rejection during adolescence were:

  • 8.4 times more likely to report having attempted suicide
  • 5.9 times more likely to report high levels of depression; and
  • 3.4 times more likely to use illegal drugs

compared with peers from families that reported no or low levels of family rejection.3

Research also indicates that higher rates of substance use and suicidality are partly explained by experiences of discrimination, victimization, and higher rates of depressive symptoms reported by transgender and gender diverse adolescents as compared to those who do not identify as transgender or non-binary.4 For example, implementation of a state-level nondiscrimination policy prohibiting private health insurers from discriminating based on gender identity appears to be associated with decreased or no changes in suicidality among gender minority individuals living in states that implemented these policies.5  READ MORE!

https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/lgbtqi-youth-all-americans-deserve-evidence-based-care?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=ce31a21a0e-SAMHSA_Announcement_2022_03_31_1600949&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee1c4b138c-ce31a21a0e-168952750

LGBTQ Nonprofit Grossly Misquoted By TMZ About Rapper Dababy!

By Gwen Clemons -
0

Immediate Release: November 02, 2021

LGBTQ Nonprofit Relationship Unleashed is speaking out after TMZ grossly misquoted them in a news articled posted to their website from an email exchange. Relationship Unleashed was contacted via email by TMZ news producer Jacob Wasserman, who requested an interview to discuss Dababy performing at Rolling Loud NY this past weekend. Gwendolyn D. Clemons, CEO of Relationship Unleashed responded via email to express their inability to talk via phone because they were traveling internationally.

The CEO of Relationship Unleashed (RU) wants to address this exchange regarding this triggering article written by TMZ and to provide an accurate statement on behalf of Relationship Unleashed!

  1. Clemons says that 90% of the information posted on TMZ website about what Relationship Unleashed shared via email is completely false and that this article has the potential to cause irreputable harm to the organization. Clemons states that upon reading the website article she immediately telephoned Jacob Wasserman the News Producer with TMZ.  Upon sharing the inaccuracy of the article with Wasserman and requesting a retraction of the misquotes. Wasserman stated that the writer of the story “apparently” misread the email and “apparently” insinuated that she meant to say those things.” Wasserman assured Clemons that the website article would be updated and that he would share her concerns and factual position about this type of behavior during the live TMZ show on Tuesday, November 02, 2021 (we will be watching).

According to Clemons, her email reply to TMZ was completely taken out of context, paraphrased, and then given a click baiting headline title filled with insinuations that does not align with the values of Relationship Unleashed nor the 100+ organizations who participate in writing an open letter to the Rapper DaBaby. Clemons calls this type of misquoting particularly “offensive” and says it erroneously minimizes the work that Relationship Unleashed does for the LGBTQIA+ community and people living positively.

Clemons stated that the writer completely disregarded many qualifying points she shared that nuanced the heart of the question about DaBaby. The greater points she shared were completely ignored, therefore resulting in an overall misleading story! The changes TMZ asserted from our email has intentionally attempted to transform her from an insightful and thoughtful leader to an insensitive, irresponsible rogue voice for the LGBTQIA+ community says Clemons.

Clemons stated that “she understands her assignment” and will continue to stand as a trusted leader for the LGBTQIA+ community and would never betray or sellout for any form of self-serving personal gain. Relationship Unleashed has a strong history in their community for being defenders of the voiceless, marginalized, and the oppressed and nothing has changed.

Everyday, news organizations use their correction sections to acknowledge errors. Relationship Unleashed is expecting Jacob Wasserman, News Producer of TMZ to keep his promise and do the same (WE WILL BE WATCHING)!

New Film Debuts About HIV in the Southern United States

By Gwen Clemons -
0

For Immediate Release: October 12, 2021 from Wake Forest School of Divinity

Faith leaders in the Southern United States aren’t strangers to the disproportionate impact HIV has on Black communities. They’ve seen the shame and stigma that people living with HIV in their communities can face, and they recognize how these things can drive secrecy, isolation and lack of treatment. And now, they’re using the pulpit in a call for change.

Gilead has partnered with Caribbean-American filmmaker Sadé Clacken Joseph to create a short film featuring the powerful words of Rev. Deneen Robinson, Rev. Naomi Washington-Leapheart and Sr. Pastor Earle J. Fisher. The three spiritual leaders explore how faith-based communities can support people living with and impacted by HIV through caring, acceptance and inclusion.

Working with faith-based communities to help change the conversation about HIV is central to the Gilead COMPASS Initiative®, a program intended to help eradicate the serious and systemic challenges that contribute to the HIV epidemic in the U.S. South. Earlier this year, Gilead introduced Wake Forest University School of Divinity as its newest partner in the program.

Click here to see the video on Stories@Gilead

MEMPHIS NONPROFIT RELATIONSHIP UNLEASHED JOINS 11 OTHER AGENCIES TO PIN AN OPEN LETTER TO RAPPER DaBABY!

By Gwen Clemons -
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Updated August 05, 2021 at 6:30 PM CST

Relationship Unleashed a local nonprofit headquartered in Memphis, TN joined 11 other nonprofits to sign an open letter to Rapper DaBaby. Following his recent homophobic and factually inaccurate comments about people living with HIV/AIDS. Relationship Unleashed was founded in 2014 by Dr. Davin D. Clemons and his mother Gwendolyn D. Clemons, MBA, MSM, PRC.

According to Gwendolyn D. Clemons, Executive Director, “we felt honored to receive a call asking to be a part of this alliance to educated DaBaby. As long standing defenders of the Black LGBTQIA+ community and people living positively it is our duty to call out this type of behavior. As an organization dedicated to eradicating HIV/AIDS in the South we could not let this type of errant thinking and misguidance go unchecked. We are committed to reaching across the isle and helping anyone learn the facts about HIV/AIDS to effect change. We look forward to hearing back from DaBaby, Capital Records, and his PR Team so that his legion of fans will know that his apology was sincere and he’s a man of his word. He asked for education and we are offering it to him!”

Dr. Davin D. Clemons, CFO & Gwendolyn D. Clemons, Executive Director of Relationship Unleashed

We, the undersigned, represent organizations leading the fight to prevent HIV and provide care and treatment for people living with HIV, especially Black LGBTQ people across the Southern United States.

We heard your inaccurate and harmful comments at Rolling Loud and have read your Instagram apology. However, at a time when HIV continues to disproportionately impact Black Americans and queer and transgender people of color, a dialogue is critical. We must address the miseducation about HIV, expressed in your comments, and the impact it has on various communities.

2021 marks the 40th year of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the greatest obstacles in our work to end HIV are the compounded stigmas attached to anti-Blackness, living with HIV, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ attitudes and stereotypes, all of which are fueled by misinformation. It’s fear and stigma that keep people, particularly Black Americans, from accessing HIV prevention or care that White Americans have historically and continue to access more easily. We believe that you now have an opportunity to not just move past this unfortunate incident, but to use your platform and celebrity to heal not harm.

We believe that anyone can be an HIV advocate by amplifying: how there is medication (PrEP) that can prevent people from getting HIV with one pill a day, how routine treatment stops the virus from being passed on by people living with the HIV, how people receiving HIV care can survive and thrive while living with it, and how open and empathetic conversations eliminate stigma. You can be a powerful and influential voice, especially across your home base in the South, where the Black community’s needs are notoriously under-represented across every public spectrum. We encourage you to share this information with your fans and followers, and become an agent of truth and change.

Music artists have historically led the way to lift up understanding of HIV and accelerated LGBTQ acceptance. Several artists and platforms have spoken up against you. While we appreciate their stand, we also invite them to take action and to do their part to end HIV by supporting organizations like ours serving people who are Black, LGBTQ and/or living with HIV.

As mentioned in your latest apology, education is important. We agree. GLAAD and Gilead Science’s 2020 State of HIV Stigma Study found that 90% of Americans believe “there is stigma around HIV,” that “people are quick to judge those with HIV,” and “people make assumptions when someone is tested for HIV.” There were a significant number of people (40%) who did not know that HIV can be treated. Nearly 60% wrongfully believe it is “important to be careful around people living with HIV to avoid catching it.”

Here are the facts:

  • People living with HIV today, when on effective treatment, lead long and healthy lives and cannot sexually transmit HIV. Treatment can suppress the virus to a point where it is no longer detected in a person’s body. When it is undetected, it is untransmittable, the key message of the U=U campaign.
  • Approximately 1.2 million people in the U.S. have HIV. 13% of them don’t know it, reinforcing the need for HIV testing and to end stigma around HIV testing.
  • People most vulnerable to HIV are those who have limited access to transportation, housing, healthcare, and social support. We should focus on advocating for resources in our community rather than stigmatizing women and LGBTQ people.
  • Black Americans account for more HIV diagnoses (43%), people living with HIV (42%), and the most deaths among people with HIV (44%) than any other racial and ethnic group in the U.S.
  • The CDC states that the U.S. South experiences the greatest rates of HIV and lags behind in providing quality HIV prevention services and care. According to AIDSVu, a program from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and the Center for AIDS Research at Emory University, 31,864 people are living with HIV in North Carolina, where you were raised.
  • Medications like PrEP protect people who do not have HIV from contracting it. The CDC states that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken as prescribed.

As leaders of organizations directly serving Black, LGBTQ, and HIV+ communities, we invite you to a private, off-the-record, virtual discussion with us. You stated you now understand how and why your comments were damaging. An open conversation holds the potential for you to now create meaningful impact by transforming from an adversary to an advocate.

Sincerely,
Dr. Samira Ali, Director, SUSTAIN Center at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work
Dr. Davin D. Clemons, CoFounder and Chief Financial Officer, Relationship Unleashed
Gwendolyn D. Clemons, CoFounder and Executive Director, Relationship Unleashed
Kia Colbert, Program Director, EnCORE, Emory Centers for Public Health Training and Technical Assistance
Raniyah Copeland, President and CEO, Black AIDS Institute
Ian L. Haddock, Founder and Executive Director, The Normal Anomaly Initiative
Rev. Dr. Shonda Jones, Wake Forest Faith Coordinating Center
Arianna Lint, CEO & President, Arianna’s Center
Dr. Allison Mathews, Wake Forest University Faith Coordinating Center
Warren A. O’Meara-Dates, Founder/Chief Executive Officer, The 6:52 Project Foundation, Inc.
Deondre B. Moore, U.S. Partnerships & Community Engagement Manager, Prevention Access Campaign
Neena Smith-Bankhead, Center Director, EnCORE, Emory Centers for Public Health Training and Technical Assistance
Bec Sokha Keo (they/them), Public Impact Scholar, SUSTAIN Center at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work
Marcus Stanley, Project officer and Director of Programs, SUSTAIN Center at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work
DaShawn Usher, Associate Director, Communities of Color, GLAAD
Dafina Ward, Executive Director, Southern AIDS Coalition

Supporting Organizations:
Catherine Brown, Executive Director, The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation
Jason Cianciotto, Senior Managing Director, Institutional Development & Strategy, GMHC
Tarik Daniels, Executive Director, WhatsintheMirror
Elias Diaz, Executive Director, Eagle Pass SAFE
Daniel Downer, Executive Director, The Bros in Convo InitiativeElder Rev. Antionettea Etienne, Clergy, Love Alive International Sanctuary of Praise
Dumiso Gatsha, Director, Success Capital Organisation
June Gipson, CEO, My Brother’s Keeper, Inc.
Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC)
Orlando Gonzales, Executive Director, SAVE Foundation
Cynthia Gutierrez, Program Manager, HIVE
Nora C Hanna, Executive Director, Until There’s A Cure Foundation
Iris House. Inc
Channte’ Keith, Deputy Director, The Center for Black Health & Equity 
Tammy Kinney, Founder, Rural Woman In Action Inc.
Krista Martel, Executive Director, The Well Project
Vernis McFarland, Founder/Executive Director, The Mahogany Project Inc.
PALSS, Inc. Columbia, SC
Positive Women’s Network – USA
PWN-NYC
J. Donte’ Prayer, Founder, R.O.L.E Models
Pride Action Tank
Michael Ruppal, Executive Director, The AIDS Institute
Karl Schmid, Founder, PlusLife
Marcus Stanley, Founder, President, CEO, Black Power, Liberation & Healing Now
Lee Storrow, Executive Director, North Carolina AIDS Action Network 
Alecia Tramel-McIntyre, Founder/CEO, Positive People Network Inc. 
Masonia Traylor, Lady BurgAndy Inc. 
Carole Treston, Executive Director, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care
Edward Wagner, Chief Officer of External Relations, AIDS Foundation Chicago
Julian J. Walker, Deputy Director, Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative (MOBI)

Please email press@glaad.org to add your organization as a supporting organization. 

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