The following news items were taken from the February and March 1971 editions of the Empty Closet.
Gay People vs State Assembly
Reported by Bob Osborne
Three members of the Rochester gay community (Bob Osborne, R.J. Alcala, and Marshall Goldman) addressed the Special Committee on Discrimination Against Homosexuals, of the New York State Assembly in its first (ever) public hearings January 7 in New York City.
Assembly men present for the hearings were Stephen Solarz (Brooklyn) and Tonly Olivieri and Franz Leichter (both Manhattan).
In the invitation to present testimony the Assemblymen indicated an interest in determining the extent of the problem of discrimination and what if anything could be done about it, particularly emphasizing repeal of the consensual sodomy and solicitation statutes and barring employment discrimination.
Note: The Sodomy Laws in New York were repealed in 1981.The Sexual Orientation Non- Discrimination Act was passed by the State Legislature and signed into law by the Governor in late 2002, became effective on January 16, 2003, and protects individuals who are discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation from that date forward.
One Segment of Women’s Liberation in Rochester
By Susan Minor, Women’s Center
Rochester Women’s liberation consists of six small groups which meet one night a week at the homes of the women. These groups gather in a city-wide meeting once each month to exchange ideas and to build closer ties amongst all the women. The connecting thread in these groups is that in this male-defined culture it is necessary for women to share their views and feelings essential in developing respect for each other and to break the bonds of male dominance.
“Welcome” Riverview Restaurant and Bar, 242 South Avenue
Ann Landers writes:
Dear Marshall,
Obviously you do not read my column very often or you would not have written to me as you did. I have been in the forefront for 15 years fighting for acceptance and a better understanding of homosexuality. I was somewhat instrumental in getting some decent legislation on behalf of homosexuals here in Illinois.
Of course most of the laws in regard to homosexuality are archaic and wildly punitive. I shall continue to do what I can to make this world a more sane and livable place for everyone, including homosexuals.
Good luck and thank you for writing.
March 14th – State March of Albany to change the State Sodomy Laws
Gay Community Center
Do you want a gay community center, coffeehouse, library, dance hall? We do too Help us find a building and raise money to staff it. Call 275-6181 and come to Saturday meetings.
Gay and Proud
Reported by Bob Osborne
“SAY IT LOUD, GAY AND PROUD!” Report on first annual Gay Pride March in New York City in commemoration of Stonewall.
Bob Osborne writes, “Living an open life is a sign of pride, a visible sign that you no longer secretly believe that you are “sick” or in need of punishment. Just remember the only lasting punishment you will ever receive is that which you give yourself.
Compiled by Evelyn Bailey