LIFEbeat Issues Statement, Refuses To Back Down

Andre
July 11 2006, 3:19PM

As a black gay man, I am faced daily with opinions, decisions and laws which affect my race or my sexuality. I usually look at these things from both sides and I can respect another persons perspective. Having said this, I think that speaking of violence against another is just WRONG. When are people of African decent going to realize we are our own worst enemy? We are doomed and dont realize it!

Troy
July 11 2006, 4:20PM

so now's the time to REALLY off the gloves! Provide the names, addresses and numbers of Life Beats top donators and we will send them letters too!
If I don't get them here I will seek them out and tell them what type of two sided view of Life, Lifebeat supports. Until that concert is cancelled WE will not back down either!

Den
July 11 2006, 4:46PM

What influence does LIFEBeat have again?

Dwight Powell
July 11 2006, 5:07PM

The more I read LIFEbeat's response; I get more and more enraged. The fact that they went into this situation knowing that their decision would cause harm and concern from the gay community leaves me to determine that our lives mean very little to the organizers. There are so many other individuals that could have been just as effective if not more than Bennie Man & TOK.

I have a new slogan for LIFEbeat: Stopping AIDS, enhancing HOMOPHOBIA

havin_my_say
July 11 2006, 5:21PM

Right, I agree with Dwight. Why would LifeBeat choose to invite the most blatantly homophobic artists to perfom at this event? It just doesn't make sense to me. I know there are other similar artists who could perform that aren't singing about killing gays and lesbians in their music.

Toph
July 11 2006, 5:22PM

I don't understand trying to get the show cancelled. If the audience is made up of younger people, they may not even know what the issue is. How are you going to teach these young fans of Beenie Man and TOK about homophobia by cancelling the concert?

Let's start our own "dialogue" outside the event and let them know that AIDS kills, but so does homophobia.

Ricky
July 11 2006, 5:42PM

Have the artists promised not to sing the homophobic songs? Just wondered...

Anna Araguala
July 11 2006, 6:17PM

Their statement was so half hearted and just plain blahh that it really holds no water. The truth is they want ticket sales and these particular anti gay, and I might add, anti woman reggae artists will sell. My thing to LIFEbeat, or rather BULLSH*Tbeat, is be real. Y'all want to sell tickets to this event. Period......that's it!

theeunuch
July 11 2006, 6:27PM

HIV/AIDS is not just something that affects homosexuals. So the message you're sending out to them is not altogether clear to me. However, I do agree we need to stop the violence. I would be offended if Beenie Man and TOK were performing at ANY concert because I feel their violent message should not be tolerated.

Donald
July 11 2006, 6:34PM

Who gets what?

LIFEbeat gets to say "We did the first reggae HIV/AIDS awareness concert." Which means they'll continue to marginalize the relationship between Black gay people and HIV/AIDS awareness. You have to wonder "Who would so blatantly and irresponsibly choose TWO homophobes to headline an HIV/AIDS awareness concert?"

Beenie Man gets to promote his new album for Virgin. TOK (on Atlantic) is currently touring Europe. Both get to perform A LOT more after this concert if they can convince promoters and companies like tobacco giant RJ Reynolds (who ejected Beenie Man from a 14-stop tour in 2004) that making money means more to them than spreading hate. If they succeed, they also have the potential to make MUCH more money for their perspective record companies. Still, there's no guarantee they won't perform the very murderous songs that we're protesting against. Because of the significant presence of music industry insiders that currently sit on both LIFEbeat's Board of Directors as well as their Board of Advisors, we must assume that they know this and that they've made this decision based on something other than creating more HIV/AIDS awareness.

And people either at risk for contracting HIV or already infected get what out of this concert? Exactly who is this money going to?

nat
July 11 2006, 7:12PM

in todays bottom line driven society, the only way to get their attention is to mess with their profits. you can call them all day and all nite long, but you have to threaten there ability to make money and not look a like a fool. these companies views are easly changed buy how much money they are gonna make.

one pick up by a news carrier that this is going on with them will make them change faster than you think. call the nyc news station, the post village voice a current affair.....use yslls connections to make a change.

Liquid Fonts
July 11 2006, 7:12PM

I support Lifebeat's mission to reach out to people who would otherwise not get the message of HIV. I also feel that the organization should consider changing its name to "LifeBeatOutCha" because by allowing this Beenie Man/Tok event to continue despite the Statement letter including all the powerful names represented, the message is sent to us lgbt's folks of color(where the HIV transmission rates are the highest) that if you get the shit beat out of you for being gay, it falls outside the parameters of LifebBeats' concern and social function, therefore, so as long as the coroner's report doesn't show that the victim had HIV before the beating, LifeBeat doesn't care.LifeBeat can act irresponsibly by putting on shows with musicians who advocate extreme violence against the lgbt community.

Ricky B
July 11 2006, 7:19PM

Interesting perspective. You know I can understand the demographic thing, but I still see it as a sell out for a purpose that can be accomplished in other ways. Hell, if you don't have an attraction that would have the pull of these artists, then begin to raise one up. Then, the claim that most in the genre are homophobic when the performing arts has been influenced by gays for the last 100 years. I am a big believer that you do NOT support financially, that which does not support you. In negotiations, he could have placed conditions on their terms that could have banned current and future Gay Hate banter. As it stands now, they've sold out Gay Rights for HIV education. I understand the importance of both, but neither is so important, that it should be achieved at the demise of the other. Right now it stands that people will be coming together for HIV hearing lyrics stating that we should kill all Gays. Is this sound rationale?

Ricky
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/positivegayblackmenofnj/

GJ
July 11 2006, 7:31PM

Yeah, LifeBEAT, go ahead and hire some guys who sing "Let's kill the faggots" to do your AIDS benefit.

Makes perfect sense to me.

Losers.

Mel Smith
July 11 2006, 8:00PM

I support free speech but I can't support someone performing at a AIDS benefit concert and then they talk about murdering a group a people who makes up a high percentage of people infected with HIV. This is an insult to some people with AIDS. There is no way LIFEbeat care about HIV if they allow those guys to perform. Thanks Keith for keeping me informed.

Deondray Gossett
July 11 2006, 8:03PM

I was just going to read the article and keep it moving, but I am moved to say just a few things about LIFEbeat's response to Keith:

"...LIFEbeat’s staff and board knew this event might raise concerns..." MIGHT RAISE CONCERNS??? This statement is inflated with political correctness. The truth is they had to have know there would be OUTRAGE in the LGBT communities, but they simply didn't give a damn. "...and required careful consideration before proceeding." I want to know what they considered 'careful consideration' and what greenlit them to proceed. I can't think of a single qualifying factor to allow these artists to perform at a supposed all inclusive, humanitarian event, unless I just didn't give a damn about the damn gays.

"LIFEbeat’s staff and board do not condone anti-gay lyrics or violence against anyone..." Then why are both things a part of your concert? Give me a friggin' break!

ChicagoChild
July 11 2006, 8:05PM

Well, as I understand it, LifeBEAT's message may be "Beat the hell out of some gays and you may stamp out HIV/AIDS."

HIV/AIDS is still THOUGHT to be a GAY DISEASE.

Even if they do not sing the offending songs, everyone knows where they stand and what they believe in. Their being there will send a MAJOR message that these corporations stand behind their MAIN message----that Gays are bad and are the scourge of the earth, and should therefore be erased by ANY MEANS necessary.

wil
July 11 2006, 8:32PM

We all expected this response from Lifebeat. "Sorry if you fags are offended." The same as Rev. Willy Wilson, Bishop "faggots and sissies" Owens, etc.

A Black gay man can't get justice in a letter, or by simply asking for ethical treatment. The only way we get justice is in the streets and on the sidewalks. We must Stand Up and nonviolently make justice for ourselves!

Enough of the tactic of trying to change hearts and minds. It's time to call them out for what they are, take a public Stand, and take our own justice. THAT IS THE TACTIC THAT HISTORICALLY WORKS, not this new-age conversation therapy BS.

Deondray Gossett
July 11 2006, 8:42PM

Part Two:

"The staff and board also strongly believe that dialogue opens doors, creating the opportunity for enlightenment, growth and change amongst all involved." What dialogue? As far as I know they’ve only programmed two long anti-gay monologues set to reggae… There are no gays programmed for the event. Where's our voice in all of this? Did they actually feel like this response to Keith was ENOUGH? That it would just smooth it all out? Like we’d be like, “Ooooh… nevermind, my bad” I’m getting real tired of sitting still and letting this stuff happen to us, ya’ll…

Truth be told
July 11 2006, 8:51PM

Ok everyone, there is a pink elephant in the room....

Why would LIFEbeat listen to us when they have a gay black man on their board, sitting back supporting this.

Why hasn't Emil step down? I mean come on people, his affiliation and commitment to the concert is doing more damage to community than the artist.

GreasyGuide
July 11 2006, 10:08PM

I've been reading through the press on this issue and I think we have to look at through very different eyes. While I do not support the lyrics in Beenie Man or TOK's songs directed towards the murder of the LGBT community we also have to remember that is something that is deeped rooted in their culture and something that was around WAY BEFORE their music and song came to be popular. But lets first start with the Black gay community in NYC. There is not a gay club or party that I have been that I have not heard a Reggae song played. I've heard plenty of times several Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, and TOK songs played at Black gay functions. DJ's has no problem playing the songs and no problems from the crowd packing the floor out to dance to the music.

See what we have gotten caught up into is the music. When it is the art that is imitating the life. If we are really going to make an impact it can't just be with this concert it has to be with our community opening a discussion with Carb. community

darion tariq
July 11 2006, 10:29PM

i have joined in the fight. i have opened up discussion among my generation about this topic also and it's astonishing the responses I've recieved. makes me sad for the youth and my own generation.

Steve
July 11 2006, 10:34PM

Keith - They are obviously on the run or they would not have had to issue a statement. Sic 'em! Don't let up. Keep on it.

You are very much on the right track. While LIFEbeat's goal is admirable, and their method sound, they can reach their goal, using this method, without using a group with such homophobic material.

Don't let up. And if we can support you by writing, emailing, calling, whatever, just say the word.

Good work.

Kenneth Winfrey
July 11 2006, 10:37PM

I would have liked to have seen more on the argument that BM and TOK are vital and essential to the success of this event. Aside from some "math" (i.e., market research that makes it clear the NONE or less that half of their target audience would have attneded the concert.) I just don't see why they can't take the opportunity to say:

"While we appreciate any help we can get to fight this terrible disease, we don't support hateful lyrics that encourage violence against anyone. Therfore, BM and TOK are no longer invited to be part of our fundraiser."

taylor Siluwé
July 11 2006, 10:56PM

And what boggles my mind is that Emil Wilbekin had the nerve to say,

"... almost everyone in that segment of the industry is homophobic, and it would be difficult to find someone who isn't."

That's damn-near head-spinning. I haven't been this disgusted with anyone in a very long time.

Why don't you try growing a pair, Emil. Manhood is really nice.

Craig Washington
July 11 2006, 11:16PM

I wonder if LifeBeat and Emil Wilbekin in particular would be so willing to minimize the toxic impact of white bigots who called for the extermination of Black folk. What will it take for gay brothas like Emil to understand that those who hate us will not get off our necks until we grow a backbone and stand up.I am appalled but not shocked by Jody Miller's patronizing response. It is typical of any dominant culture (and those who collude with it) to disavow the existence and the extent of oppression that helps maintain it. Thank you NY Black Gay Network and Keith for demonstrating love and courage in the face of hatred and cowardice.

Pete
July 12 2006, 12:02AM

"LIFEbeat’s staff and board do not condone anti-gay lyrics or violence against anyone; they are an organization dedicated to promoting life."

Their actions supporting their very "entertainment" contradict their statement above.

TerrenceSays
July 12 2006, 2:30AM

LIFEbeat apparently is not a compassionate organization. And I honestly do not think LIFEbeat would be taking this so lightly if white gays were protesting these artists.

With all of the recent homocides of black gays and lesbians in the NYC area in recent years, you would think the trolls running the LIFEless organization would catch a clue. What about Shakia Gunn and Rashawn Brazell, and countless others nationwide that have died due to homophobic violence? What about their lives?

While I feel sorry for anyone with HIV/AIDS - most had an option to wear a condom or make their partner(s) wear one. Most could choose who they had sex with. Many gays and lesbians have no protection from homophobic murderers. Protection is needed all around.

Is there some kind of law by it being a 501 3(c) non-profit which prohibits them from promoting hate? Maybe that is next area to explore.

Get a life, LIFEbeat.

chris-leo
July 12 2006, 2:32AM

i'm not sure what dialog jody miller's talking about that's supposed to enlighten or open doors.

i think it's important to remember that when the "discussion" begins with one party stating, "god wants you dead," there's nowhere else for the discussion to go - meeting adjourned. i, for one, feel no obligation to convince ANYONE that i have a right to live.

LIFEbeat has made a mistake - an act of cowardice, disrespect and sheer laziness, and they will pay for it.

if i wasn't paying attention to lyrics before, i'm certainly awake now.

but we ALL must do our part. AND freedom of speech works the other way too. if you find yourself dancing to 'burn the chi chi man' lyrics, it is your duty to stop dancing, Boo, approach the DJ booth with your friends, then have a good talk with the manager.

nobody has to love you, but THEY CAN LEARN to respect you.

mcquaidla
July 12 2006, 2:59AM

Fifty bucks says TOK and BM are in this show because their labels pressured Lifebeat to put them there - probably because they know that both artists' reputation as fagbashers limit their potential audience. A quick AIDS benefit, and presto! that homohating past just disappears - more venues, a larger audience, bigger $$$$ for them and their lables...

What Lifebeat needs is an opportunity for "enlightenment growth and change" right in its sorry ass. I wonder what Bob Caviano, the gay founder of Lifebeat, who died of AIDS would think of all this. I wonder further if the fine gentlemen of TOK and BM are aware of that fact.

And how dare Jody Miller patronize us with talk of "looking to the future." I'll look to future when I see an apology plus a disavowal of homophobia from these "artists" and the cretins who booked them.

And as far as holding the at-risk West Indian community hostage to be ransomed with our silence? If TOK and BM are that concerned about HIV, let them organize an event their damn selves.

jason
July 12 2006, 4:27AM

Ok, please make me understand...is everyone upset on this post becuz of the raggae lyrics speaking about murdering gays or murder, period? If everyone is so upset, why not be upset at the lyrics of the rest of the rappers(50, JZ, Nas, Master P, etc), why not be upset at hollywood for the poor images they continue to portray of blacks, and the continual denial of black women in key movie roles? I could go on and on... The point I'm making is is that don't get swallowed up in sexuality. We were born black before we understood our sexualities. Your sexuality cannot be a guiding force, but if that's all you focus on that's all a person will see.

While I don't agree w/ the lyrics of the artists, I agree w/ their right to perform and make a living. Yes, they should curb their lyrics, but I think a lot of artists should curb and tone down their lyrics, but that's all...they should be earn a living from their craft.

chris-leo
July 12 2006, 4:58AM

yes, i suppose you could go on and on, jason. but i'm gonna try to make you understand. when i write a song about murdering my landlord, a trespasser, my wife, my rivals - THAT'S THEATRE. i'm not saying it's always good theatre or that everybody's lyrics are necessarily enriching, but...

when i write a song about murdering gay people, jews, women in general, whites, christians or jamaicans, that's hatespeak - a call for the deliberate and systematic destruction of a racial, political, or cultural group, and THAT'S CALLED GENOCIDE.

yusef
July 12 2006, 8:33AM

I just say tie beenie man up to a tree in prospect park and fuck him without lube.

Den
July 12 2006, 3:15PM

On a sidenote, the music does in no way, create the culture of homophobia we have in Jamaica. That was created loooooong before someone stepped into a studio and thought to lyrically bash gays. That's why i don't think just fighting the music or a concert will do anything, I think you need to do your research Mr Boykins, it goes MUCH MUCH deeper than just the music.

nahtan serious
July 12 2006, 3:47PM

as a caribbean gay man I know that the our culture promotes homophobia due to our colonila history/ crazy fundamentalsit beliefs. If we in the caribbean are will to excuse it and live with it ( I know I am not) then so be it in the caribbean. But how can you expect others in the international community to make excuses for their behaviour. When in rome you must do as the romans do. I don't fundamentalist muslims cutting off hands and stoning women in the USA do you ? So why should jamaican gay artists be allowed to spout their hate in the USA BECAUSE you ALLOW them to do it in Jamaica! Please... Ban them. take them down!

Den
July 12 2006, 5:16PM

"THEN SO BE IT IN THE CARIBBEAN"???

So you, as a self stated Caribbean gay man are cool and criss with gays being persecuted and killed in the Caribbean? You have not a problem with that at all, with gays being so endangered in your land of birth? So be it?

That's exactly how I feel Mr Boykin feels. As soon as its out of face, he will not even bat an eye at going the extra distance. Were this not LIFEBeat and were they not with gay members that he knew on their board and it not a New York issue, I doubt highly he would have even cared before the event.

Riko
July 12 2006, 6:03PM

A letter to LIFE Beat:

http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Z6Nyp3w6cqhwKB5iWd3YKA--?cq=1&p=42

Shaun
July 13 2006, 12:31PM

Den,
If you feel that Mr. Boykin has taken the extra steps necessary to address the root problems then it is your responsibility to do so. He is but one man. You continue to point the finger but have not stepped up to provide a resolution.

Den
July 13 2006, 5:09PM

You have no idea what I've done do you?
I've donated money to organizations down here. I have many homosexuals in my family, they've used my home as a small group trying to do something in terms of rights.
Keith Boykin is interested in helping Afro-American gays. No problem with that.
Just don't go so hard to cancel a dancehall concert on US land in NYC, when the same act just performed in a state of Michigan last week. The people of Michigan and NYC aren't the ones affected by Beenie's music.
The people here are, and when they're lives are in danger i dont think cancelling a show in NYC is doing much for them. Where do you think Beenie and TOK will spend that day now? Probably back home, spreading more homophobia on an unmonitored show.

But at least you got it out of your country.
Good for you. Thats it man, I'm tired of whining.

Mr. Unite Us
July 13 2006, 7:30PM

As a proud Black heterosexual I commend your stand against the reggae artists that proposed killing homosexuals. I would like to see us join forces and put a stop the those, namely Black gangsta rappers & Jewish music execs that promote killing Black people.

Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, 50cent Murray Rothstein aka Summer Redstone (Viacom, CBS, BET, MTV) Lyor Cohen, Jimmy Iovine (Innerscope) Edgar Bronfman Jr. Warner Music Group

Our music brought togther and lifted our spirits for centuries, until the mass promotion of gangsta rap.