Gay PRIDE

Kevin Aviance at The Roxy, 2001

Rather than tell you of all the cool parties I went to as part of the Pride celebrations, or show you the hot men that I met and photographed, I thought the following incident was much more important to relate to you as what "Gay Pride" means to me.

Each June, the month of Gay Pride, the number of hate incidents against the gay community increases. It could have happened to anyone of us, but this year, it happened to a personal friend of mine and one of the world's beloved dance divas and Billboard recording artist, Kevin Aviance. On Saturday, June 10th at approximately 1:30am, Kevin Aviance was beaten up by four young assailants in the East Village of NYC. They threw a spray can at Kevin, knocking him to the ground; and then punched and kicked him - all the while screaming that they were going to "kill the faggot". Kevin suffered a broken jaw, fractures in his arms and legs, and many bruises. After surgery at Beth Israel Hospital, Kevin is now home in stable condition. His jaw will be wired closed for at least two weeks. Afterwards, he will need to begin physical therapy. Doctors have told us it will be several months before he will be able to perform again. I've had the pleasure of knowing Kevin since I first moved to NYC in 1995, he is an amazing presence in the clubs and on the stage. He depends solely on performing for his livelihood. Without the ability to work, he will lose everything. He also has mounting medical bills and unfortunately, no medical insurance. Today, you can make an immediate difference with a donation to the "Kevin Aviance Dance for Love Fund". Your generous donation will provide Kevin with much-needed assistance toward his medical bills, rent and food. Please help! Every dollar counts. Donate by clicking here and send money to: kevin@kevinavianceworld.com or you can send it to Kevin Aviance World 115 East 57th Street, 11th Floor. NYC, New York, USA 10022. Thanks you!



Needless to say, I was deeply disturbed by what happened to Kevin but in trying to turn this horrible event into something that I could learn from, I decided that this year, more than ever, it is incredibly important to be and stay visible! Support your local Gay Pride events, especially the rallies and parades where by sheer number we show those who would hate us, oppress us, and hurt us; we are here amongst them and we are strong. Our basic human rights depend on it.