Press Archive April 14, 2014 – Posted in: Press
“Heart of a Woman: The Transgender Female Journey The male-to-female transformation is one that begins very early for most transgender people, with a feeling in the heart and the soul. The common thread I have found among most male-to-female transgender people is that they felt different (“I am in the wrong gender”) from their very earliest memories. From my earliest memories, I remember my heart and soul beating to a different drummer and feeling that I was a different bird. “Heart of a woman” adequately describes what transgender women experience internally and the emotions and feelings that go along with that experience. It is such a natural transistion once the individual decides to walk this difficult journey. I applaud Matrix co-director Lana Wachowski for being true to herself no matter the obstacles. The difficulty comes in accepting the call of gender identity and being honest to oneself. The biggest obstacle is finally making that transistion and telling the public (family, friends, coworkers) the decision to change genders. Having been raised in the Deep South in a Christian tradition, I am very aware of the teachings of the Bible and the strict values that are taught as being necessary for good Christians to uphold. I have studied the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, and consider it a source of encouragement and guidance. But I am so amazed by the major controversy over comments made by Chick-fil-A president and COO Dan Cathy regarding his stance on gay marriage. First and foremost, Mr. Cathy has a constitutional right to believe what he wants, and to state his beliefs. His beliefs do not have to coincide with mine, but as a business owner, I am baffled that a businessman would speak for his whole company, which is made up of individuals of various belief systems, sexual orientations, and gender identities. In a July 19 blog for the Washington Post, Gregory Thomas writes: [A]ccording to an interview published Monday in the Baptist Press … Cathy says his Atlanta-based company is “very much supporting of the family — the biblical definition of the family unit.” Cathy also said on Ken Coleman’s radio show in June that people advocating for same-sex marriage are “inviting God’s judgment on our nation.” “As it relates to society in general I think we’re inviting God’s judgment on our nation when we shake out fist at him and say, ‘We know better than you as to what constitutes a marriage,'” Cathy said. “And I pray God’s mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we have the audacity to try to redefine what marriage is about. As humans on the planet, and as people, we should always seek love and acceptance of one another. I respect Christian beliefs, but there is seldom respect for my beliefs. Must we all believe the same thing and do the same thing to be accepted and loved? There is not enough room for difference and individuality. I am an individual first, with my own beliefs and thoughts, and should be accepted for my originality. It baffles me how so many claim to speak for God and spread hate and discord under the banner of Christianity. God is love, and the best description of love that I have found is 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Tolerance and acceptance are what we need as a country and as people on this Earth. I have lived on this Earth as an African-American male, as a gay African-American male, and as a transgender African-American woman, and I am happiest now, with my heart full of love — my heart of a woman. Let’s all love one another and treat each other with love, as God has instructed us all to do while living on this Earth. My memoir, I Rise, has been adapted by British director Keith Holland and writer Alton Demore into a feature film called Heart of a Woman, with actors Elisabeth Rohm, Rachel Sterling, Daniel Sobieray, Angelica Ross, Aerin O’Connell, and Leslie Jones. For more information, visit heartofawomanmovie.com. This Blogger’s Books from I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman by toni newman Follow Toni Newman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonidnewman ”
“Hip Hop Weekly Magazine Features LL Cool J and Transgender Author Toni Newman on LL Cool Gay Cover Celebrity Gossip Journalist Jacky Jasper Interviewed Transgender Author Toni Newman about Her New Book I Rise and Celebrities LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy and NYC Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee she met as a Transgender Street Prostitute and Homeless a Decade ago. 123 HIP HOP WEEKLY COVER LL COOL GAY? PRLog (Press Release) – Aug 08, 2011 – Hip Hop Weekly Magazine featured rapper/actor LL Cool J and Transgender Author Toni Newman on the cover titled LL COOL GAY? The article was written by Journalist/Celebrity Blogger Jacky Jasper of Diaryofahollywoodstreetking.com and features celebrities LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy and NYC Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee and their involvement with Transgender Toni Newman while she was a street prostitute and homeless over a decado ago. Toni Newman in her book I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman discusses her transformation from male to female and her struggles in beginning her transformation with no support. Toni Newman is a 1985 graduate of Wake Forest University with BA degree and currently studying Law. Before beginning her transformation Toni was a male fitness model who appeared in fitness magazines, male calendars, Playgirl Magazine and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. To Read the Entire Article In Hip Hop Weekly magazine go to :http://www.hiphopweekly.com Here is an excerpt from the article LL Cool Gay?“LL Cool J was a onetime encounter and very enjoyable.”“Mister Cee picked me up and many others for the sole purpose of receiving oral sex. Mister Cee was obsessive about receiving good head, and he was very verbal and very generous if you performed up to his expectations.”“I never had an encounter with Eddie Murphy, but he was visiting 14th Street late at night. I know at least five transgender who did have sex with Eddie Murphy. He was interested in the girl with the biggest male genitalia.”The book I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman is available on Amazon and Kindle now. Here is the link to purchase the book.http://www.amazon.com/I-Rise–Transformation-Toni-Newman …To read more about Transgender Author Toni Newman and her Book I Rise go tohttps://www.tonidnewman.com and for PR media contact Kayo Anderson at kayo@ohyeahnetworks.com. 310-405-9839.”
“Transgender Author Toni Newman Opposes Dr. Keith Albow position That Transgenderism is Similar to Heroin Addiction Submitted by thereporter on Oct 3, 2011 Dr. Keith Albow has described Transgenderism to being addicted to heroin or being a drug addict. I recently met Transgender Author Toni Newman who just recently wrote a memoir called I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman. Her book talks about a 20 year journey of transforming from male to female. Toni Newman is the first African American Transgender to write a memoir in the United States.I Rise, is the true story of Toni Newman’s transformation from an effeminate, conflicted male to a proud, educated transsexual. You will follow Toni on her rise from a “sissy boy,” a scholarship student, a business professional, an escort, a drag queen, a NYC prostitute, an LA dominatrix, and finally, a transsexual attending law school in order to help her transsexual sisters in need. Along Toni’s journey you will see the highs and lows, as well as life-long quest for self-acceptance”.Toni addresses the comment of transgenderism as being addicted to heroin by saying “I lived on the streets as homeless person of New York City for two years and I have lived with drug addicted people in a crack hotel and from time to time I ate from restaurant trash cans, but not once did I partake in any type of drugs or become addicted to heroin or any type of drugs. I had no support from family or friends during my initial transformation which left me in a really bad situation. I lived in a drug environment for two years and I never became a drug addict. My focus was transforming from male to female and being true to myself. I can assure you kids reading a transgender book or watching a transgender on television will not desire to change to the opposite sex. Transforming comes from deep deep within and one does not take that journey unless they are convinced within that they were born in the wrong body. It took me almost ten years of soul searching after graduating from Wake Forest University to begin my personal transformation from male to female. I know heroin addicts and I can assure you being transgender is not like a heroin addict.”Dr. John Oldham, M.D. (President, American Psychiatric Association) wrote: “The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognizes gender identity disorder (GID) as a psychiatric disorder that involves significant distress or impairment in functioning. The APA supports access to appropriate diagnosis and treatment for persons with GID and recognizes that the decision to undergo gender transition is a deeply personal one. The APA opposes all forms of discrimination against persons with GID. There is no evidence that viewing a television show with a transgender contestant or reading a book by a transgender would induce Gender Identity Disorder in young people.”We are all just trying to be true to ourselves no matter who we are straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Toni can be found on myspace, twitter and facebook at tonidnewman. Her webpage is www.tonidnewman.com ”
“Did LL Cool J Pay a Tranny for Sex? May 27th, 2011 7:38 AM by Hilton Hater 29 The Ladies might Love Cool James, but does LL Cool J love them back? No, according to Toni Newman, a former transsexual prostitute who writes in a new book, excerpted in the latest issue of Hip Hop Weekly, that the rapper/NCIS: Los Angeles star was once his client! I had sex with LL Cool J,” Newman claims in his memoir. “For a street prostitute doing fifty-dollar blow jobs and hundred dollar hotel dates, he gave me five times more that I had already made… I wasn’t aware until we got into the encounter and the glasses came off that he was in fact LL Cool J. We were a versatile group, and when I say versatile, that means the other person gives and receives. We wonder how LL will respond to this allegation. If he takes the advice of his Mama, Newman will soon be knocked out. Read more celebrity gossip at: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2011/05/did-ll-cool-j-pay-a-tranny-for-sex/#ixzz1eDFOwvgX” – Hilton Hater
“Whoa! Transsexual “Memoirist” Claims To Having An Affair With LL Cool J! Posted by Perez Hilton on Friday May 27th at 1:30am If you haven’t gotten your latest copy of Hip Hop Weekly in the mail yet, you’re missing their biggest story to date. The mag has an exclusive interview with one Miz Toni Newman, who until recently, worked NYC’s “Tranny Row” for years, but now considers herself a “memoirist.” She has a new book out that documents her time as a prostitute and within the pages, she details the, um, services she provided to some of her more profitable clients…like LL! In her interview, she revealed: I had sex with LL Cool J. At that point, he had been one of the top five dates I ever had. I made over five-hundred dollars. For a street prostitute doing fifty-dollar blow jobs and hundred dollar hotel dates, he gave me five times more that I had already made…I wasn’t aware until we got into the encounter and the glasses came off that he was in fact LL Cool J. We were a versatile group, and when I say versatile, that means the other person gives and receives. Share, share! That’s fair! LOLZ! We find this really hard to believe, considering the source and the subject, but we have to admit, stranger things have happened. No doubt LL will have something to say about this. Just chose your words carefully! Do U think LL was involved in something this scandalous??? ” – Perez Hilton
“ Transgender Author Toni Newman Dishes to TT Torrez About His Sexual Encounter With LL Cool J, Her Book ‘I Rise’ And More! Previous Click for More Post by TT Torrez in Cap City on May 13, 2011 at 6:11 pm Ex PlayGirl magazine model and male fitness model turned transgender author Toni Newman called into the TT Torrez show to chit chat with TT about the hardships of transforming from a southern boy to a woman, his book I Rise and whether or not she slept with LL Cool J. Check it out: On his book I Rise: The book is about his 25-year journey from going from a southern North Carolina boy to a full fledge transgender in 2011. It took him 25 years to transform himself from a male to a female. The book will be in stores on June 1st but you can get the e-book on Amazon.com. On his background: He was born in the south in Jacksonville, North Carolina. He realized at the age of 8 that something was different about him and he would be called a “sissy boy” by family members. He said he had his first sexual experience with another male in high school. He didn’t immediately come out because he was bought up as a Christian and his family wouldn’t have accepted that. He didn’t come out until he went off to college. On his previous success: He was an ex-play girl magazine model. He said he wasn’t sure if he wanted to transform and become transgendered because back then after doing research he found that many transgenders didn’t have a real job and was prostituting. He decided to go against how he was feeling and started bodybuilding but he would still “drag” at night. On transitioning into a woman: 7 years after he graduated from college he became a full-fledged drag queen. He “dragged” for 4 years. Then in 97-98 he began taking hormonal pills and getting “pumped” with silicone in his chest, face and buttocks. In 99-2000 he went full-fledged transgender (meaning going out in the daytime). He said he resembles a woman and doesn’t deny he was born a man. At this point, he has not had his penis removed and doesn’t plan on it. On having an encounter with a woman: Toni said she tried to have sex with a female one drunken night but she “never got up.” On “his fall from grace”: Toni has a degree from Wake Forest University; she was the CEO of MPI Productions, and producer of male/female fitness calendars. She began accepting money from people to see her body (as a male body builder) and that’s the beginning stages leading her into prostitution. On if he slept with LL Cool J: Toni said she DID sleep with LL Cool J as a street prostitute one time. She said LL was one of hundreds during that time. She said there are so many other names but she doesn’t name them in his book. She said LL was a ONE time encounter. Toni signed a contract with The National Enquirer and took a lie detector test to prove that she did have sex with LL. Later, The National Enquirer contacted Toni and said they were not going to run the story and she was released from his contract. She said she has taken another polygraph with another magazine with the same 9 questions. On Eddie Murphy, DJ Mister Cee and rappers: Toni said Eddie Murphy was caught with a transgendered prostitute. She said she’s never had an encounter with Eddie Murphy but she knows at least 5-10 transgenders who has been with him, some more then once. Toni said DJ Mister Cee was caught two times previously before his latest arrest with a transgender. She said this is his 3rd arrest for picking up a transgendered prostitute. She said she has many encounters with Mister Cee on more then 10 occasions. No sex, just oral. She said he will treat you well financially and will give you an extra $20-$40 if he enjoyed it. She admits to having sex with rappers as well and will take a polygraph test to prove it verses just going around saying she slept with this person and that person. On the transgendered community dealing with downlow men: Toni said she has always used condoms but a lot of these downlow men want it “raw and bare” and will pay that extra money to get it. Toni said these men get down and then go back to their girlfriends and wives. Toni said that there are many trangenders who DON’T have a job, so how are these people surviving if no one is supporting them? You don’t see them in professional settings and in your Starbucks, so how are they surviving? On why she hasn’t named any names in her book: At the beginning she said she was going to name names but she got up to 38 names. Toni’s editor said she shouldn’t out anyone because it would get her into a world of trouble. On celebs being bisexual: Toni said there are many men on the downlow who are celebrities, politicians, etc. She said these men would not consider themselves bisexual or gay because “she” has breast. She said that they are blindsided by the glitz and glamour. She said if it’s happening and these transgenders have proof, then why should they have to keep quiet about it? On if all the men she’s slept with knew she was born a man, including LL Cool J: She said when she is naked she has male genitalia between her legs. Whether she tells them or not, it’s a little hard to hide so they know!” – TT Torrez
“ LL Cool J Rep Denies Transexual Encounter The Internet went crazy today (May 6) when a transexual named Toni Newman, claimed that she had sex with rap legend LL Cool J. [Listen above] The hip-hop veteran’s manager, Claudine Joseph, vehemently denied the accusations to XXLMag.com, calling them “pure comedy.” Newman recently appeared on Santillian and the Wild Out Wake-Up Show on 102-Jamz in Greensboro, North Carolina. During the 15-minute interview, Newman, a woman that was born a man, said that she had sexual relations with Cool J. “I was a street prostitute and LL picked me up, back as a street prostitute walking the block what we called trannie now,” she alleged. “There were lots of trannies walking that block, late at night back in the days. That’s how we all made our money….that was in the late ’90s, so about 13 years ago.” Newman went on to say that LL was aware that she was a man, and they had sex. She claimed the former Def Jam MC paid her $500. Along with Cool J, Newman writes about her experiences with several other famous figures like Hot 97 DJ, Mister Cee (who was recently arrested for indecent exposure with a drag queen in New York City), Eddie Murphy and others. Her book, I Rise: The Transformation of Toni Newman, is currently on stands. —Elan Mancini ” – Elan Mancini
“3.0 out of 5 stars Repriced appropriately. Short, but good reading, May 5, 2011 By Samuel Rafael – See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What’s this?) This review is from: I RISE-THE TRANSFORMATION OF TONI NEWMAN (Kindle Edition) After being the first to write a review questioning the $45.00 price tag that originally accompanied this book, I felt almost compelled to purchase it the moment I noticed the author seemingly had heeded my advice (and that of all the “seconds” by other interested folks) and repriced it at my suggested purchase point of $9.99. For the most part, although it was rather short in length and sometimes a bit repetitious, I wasn’t sorry I did so. The author’s account held my interest as she described her gradual, impactful and almost inexorable march toward gender transition. This autobiographical narrative was a very moving, graphical and seemingly honest presentation of the author’s journey from a male gender role to a female one. Along with her transformation, the author vividly describes the struggles of being transsexual in the context of the enhanced hardships she endured, just by virtue of being an African American transsexual, an exceptionally rare bird indeed. Her viewpoint, as a person of color, provides the reader with a much different and very unique perspective. I found the account of the author’s transition to be quite a refreshing change from the more common, almost cookie-cutter narratives of the similar journeys of white, middle class types, not that those transitions weren’t unique and fraught with their own particular issues, it’s just that no other account I’ve read about previously was by a black transgender person, and very few memoirs or autobiographies reveal such intimate details of what many would consider to be a rather sordid side of life. The author, who lived for many years on the “Wild Side,” has obviously come through her experience in great emotional shape, keeping that part of her existence in complete prospective as being necessary for her survival at the time. Other memoirs, “I’m Not Myself These Days,” by Josh Kilmer, or, “The Champagne Slipper” by Joann Layne, come to mind as being comparable in this sense. Just a couple of concerns I wanted to express. First, in terms of the writing, which on the whole is excellent, I want to point out that being “transgender” or “transsexual” is described on several occasions as a “life style,” when, in reality, it isn’t that at all, but as much a part of a person as their arm. I know the author realizes this, but I think this idea is expressed incorrectly a few times, including in the forward, written by a learned individual. In addition, I felt the author did quite a bit of gratuitous “name-dropping,” particularly in the first half, that wasn’t really necessary to the cause of the book. It seems that there wasn’t much connection with the celebrities she encountered at that time, other than simply crossing paths with them. Later on, the author relates that she interacted, rather intimately it seems, with some other famous individuals, but doesn’t mention their names, obviously not to embarrass them. However, one can determine who they were by doing a search of the author’s name on Google, as the author apparently did eventually disclose their identities in interviews she did. Lastly, this book is a very short and disappointing four-hour length, as a Kindle text-to-speech experience, but let me take the high road here and just say that I’m pleased the author repriced it and that, although short and sweet, I really enjoyed it.” – Samuel Rafael
“ Transgender Woman Outs Celebs in Her New Tell-All Book Author Toni Newman makes claims that put LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy and DJ Mister Cee on blast. By Nakisha Williams Posted: 05/04/2011 10:27 AM EDT Filed Under Eddie Murphy, LL Cool J, DJ Mister Cee (Photo: CreateSpace) Move over Superhead! There’s a new girl in town, and she’s claiming to have some juicy details about big names in the entertainment industry. In the tell-all book I Rise, The Transformation of Toni Newman, which is currently available for purchase, Newman talks about the journey from being born a little boy in North Carolina to working the New York streets as a “lady of the night.” During her days as a prostitute, Newman details alleged encounters with rapper LL Cool J, comedian Eddie Murphy and Hot 97 DJ Mister Cee. Here are excerpts from Toni’s book: “LL Cool J was a onetime encounter and very enjoyable.” “Mister Cee picked me up and many others for the sole purpose of receiving oral sex. Mister Cee was obsessive about receiving good head, and he was very verbal and very generous if you performed up to his expectations.” “I never had an encounter with Eddie Murphy, but he was visiting 14th Street late at night. I know at least five transgender who did have sex with Eddie Murphy. He was interested in the girl with the biggest male genitalia.” So much for client confidentiality! If the tales are true, of course.” – Nakisha Williams
— bet
“Toni Newman Interview with DJ Baker about LL Cool J and Eddie Murphy and other Celebrity Clients Image via Wikipedia DJ Baker interviewed Toni Newman today on his 900th show, the Da Doo-Dirty Show. The Da Doo-Dirty Show is the longest running LGBT urban daily syndicated radio program on the internet. In the interview Toni Discusses her life on the street in Harlem and many of the clients she had as a transgendered prostitute including LL Cool J, the smooth rapper, known for licking his lips during concerts and interviews. Click on the link below to hear the interview. The link goes to Podomatic. The Da Doo-Dirty Show is an hour long. To skip to Newman’s interview scroll to 56:40 mark or listen to the whole Da Doo-Dirty show. In the show DJ Baker discusses: Celebrity Apprentice and who goes home Who’s joining the X Factor Will Smith playing a slave in a Quentin Tarantino “Spaghetti Western“ Oprah’s OWN Network 50 Cent canceling his headphone line Gay-bashing outside a Texas Gay Club And out music news Toni Newman Interview Discussing LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy, Brian McKnight, and many others (This is the interview link) If you like DJ’s radio show also check out his late night show below. http://blip.tv/play/AYK5vXYC Related articles Author Spotlight: Toni Newman (victoryates.wordpress.com) LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy, and Mister Cee Blasted By Former Tranny Prostitute In New Book (crunktastical.net) Say It Ain’t So: Timmy The Shimmy Goes Superhead On LL Cool J, Mister Cee And Eddie Murphy In New Book! (bossip.com) ”
“This year has seen a big push for equality and equal rights for all LGBT Americans, including for the transgender community. As an African-American transgender woman, I have faced much discrimination and injustice in my life. Transgender people of color continue to fight for basic human rights in the justice system, but today we have achieved broader awareness and understanding of our issues. I believe equality is a right for all American citizens regardless of economic status, race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. As young kids, we all learned about the Declaration of Independence in history class. I believe our founding fathers spoke to equality and human rights in the very beginning while establishing our country. The United States’ Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776 by Congress, speaks to the equal rights of all humans by saying, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This statement became the foundation and the underlying principle that the United States was to strive for and stand for. In no particular order, here are five organizations pushing for equality and human rights for all LGBT people: The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE), led by Mara Keisling, achieved four major results for transgender equality in 2012: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the end of discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in all public or public-funded housing programs and homeless shelters; prison regulations included better recommendations for treatment of trans prisoners; the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) updated its medical requirements to reduce the burden on trans pilots; and the TONI project, a resource for trans students to connect, share information and organize for trans equality on college campuses, was released. Equality California, the largest statewide LGBT advocacy organization in California, is working to secure long-lasting equality for LGBT people. The new executive director, John O’Connor, is pusing for the equality of all LGBT persons. Equality California has successfully passed more than 90 pieces of civil rights legislation for the LGBT community and six bills in 2012. Proudtobeout.org releases the first issue of Proud to be Out: The Magazine on Jan. 2, 2013. The magazine, founded by Theresa Goss, will speak to the happiness and equality of the LGBT community, especially those sometimes forgotten even by many within the LGBT community. The goal is communicating that finding truth in oneself can bring happiness and self-esteem. Speaking the truth will indeed set you free and put you on a course that leads to happiness and freedom. The Trans People of Color Coalition (TPOCC), led by transgender attorney and activist Kylar Broadus, seeks to break the cycle of discrimination “and empower our community by building a pipeline of activists and advocates to engage and connect with one another to create a holistic movement of support, resources, and education by and for transpeople of color.” The Trans People of Color Coalition is the only national social justice organization that promotes the interests of trans people of color. The National Black Justice Coaltion (NBJC), led by Executive Director Sharon J. Lettman-Hicks, is a civil rights organization “dedicated to empowering black lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.” NBJC’s mission is to end racism and homophobia. NBJC is focused on federal public policy and striving for racial justice and LGBT equality. As 2013 approaches, we must all accept each other’s differences and learn from one another. Hate and discrimination eat away at human rights and equality and hurt our society. Education and knowledge always fight discrimination and homophobia. I firmly believe that if we continue to educate and inform each other, we can achieve equality and human rights for all persons regardless of economic status, race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. God has made us all equal beings, each with our own will, so let’s end discrimination, homophobia and transphobia by choosing to love, not hate. Happy holidays, and God bless you all in 2013. This Blogger’s Books from I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman by toni newman Follow Toni Newman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonidnewman ”
— 2012: State of Equality and Human Rights for All LGBT Americans
“ Bestselling LGBT Author Lee Hayes Talks About His New Novel by ToniNewman Listen to internet radio with ToniNewman on Blog Talk Radio Lee Hayes is the bestselling LGBT author of the novels Passion Marks, A Deeper Blue: Passion Marks II, The Messiah, The Bad Seed and editor of the erotic anthology, Flesh to Flesh. His latest novel, The First Male, was released in September 2012 and is available wherever books are sold. The first male born of the first born Thibodeaux male has been prophesied to become the destroyer of worlds. Adelaide Thibodeaux, the Priestess Supreme of the Sister-Clan, has a sworn duty to protect the world, even against her own flesh and blood. Her powerful magic has kept the first male—her grandchild—hidden from everyone, including herself. Lee is a southern native, born and raised in Texas. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and received his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from The Bernard M. Baruch College, City University of New York in 2005. Lee currently resides in the Washington, DC metro area. He can be reached via his website at www.leehayes.info”
— Bestselling LGBT Author Lee Hayes Talks About His New Novel
“ 23 Inspiring Women Who Are Blazing Trails for the LGBT Community I’m inspired almost daily, either by a song that I hear, an article that I read, a film that I see or even a tweet that I stumble upon. No matter the medium, it’s always refreshing to see people hone their crafts, especially while living openly and authentically. With March being Women’s History Month, I wanted to pay homage to a myriad of women whom I’ve been inspired by, some in more ways than one. From Liz Carmouche to Laverne Cox to Cynthia Nixton to Wanda Sykes, there are countless visible queer women who are painting the world with their bravery, boldness and tenacity. Obviously this list doesn’t nearly cover every woman who is making strides, but these are some of the ones who have been the most inspiring for me. Who’s your favorite? Sound off in the comments section below. Women Who Are Blazing Trails For The LGBT Community http://www.huffingtonpost.com/glennisha-morgan/23-inspiring-women-who-are-blazing-trails-for-the-lgbt-community_b_2776651.html?utm_hp_ref=tw ” – glennisha-morgan
“Get It Straight, Heteros Millenials are championing distinctions in the LGBT community, but heterosexuals are confused over how everyone should be labeled. It’s time to set the record straight.”
“Setting The Record ‘Straight’ Over Distinctions And Language Within The LGBTQ Community LGBTQ. The letters stand for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer. While many millenials are championing distinctions within the LGBT community, for many heterosexuals, these letters only spell “confusion. HuffPost Live’s Alicia Menendez asked LGBT members whether it was time to unify under a common term in hopes of a double-pronged solution that would rally power and clear up misconceptions. The labeling is strategic. It’s not static. Yes, it may be overwhelming. And, yes, you may not understand it. But, you have to understand that this could be because you may be coming from a place of privilege. You may not have had to understand,” University of New Hampire Associate Professor of Spanish Linguistics Holly Cashman said. HuffPost Live Producer Mitchell Williams agreed. I don’t think we should oversimplfy the term. I think there is strength in idenifying as different groups,” he said. “We need to ask: Does looping someone like Toni in help or hinder the cause? Is it easier to simplify now and then explain later. Toni Newman, a transgender woman and Executive Producer of the comedy webisode “Douche Bros” claimed, “There is power in numbers. The ‘T’ is a part of the LGBT. It gives us more political power to stand with this group. If you take the ‘T’ out of the LGB, then we would be poorly received because there are fewer of us. We would have little political power. Noah Michelson reminded the group that there are people whose gender identity and sexual orientation are not so clear-cut and even within parts of the community that may seem well-defined there are gray areas. There are some transgender people who do not feel like they were born in the wrong body,” he said. “They just don’t identify with either gender on the spectrum. That’s where the ‘Q’ comes in. Cornell University Law School Student Ash McGovern identifies as ‘gender queer’ and explained that the word queer is a non-binary term with infinite possibilities for inclusion. Genderqueer is both outside and a combination of categories and queer is the same thing for sexual orientation. Watch the discussion above and let us know what you think about terms used to identify the LGBTQ community in the comments section below. ”
“Former Transgender Escort Outs More Celebrities In part two of our interview with former transgender escort and author Toni Newman we not only get more juicy details about big name celebrities who are living life on the down low but also we get Toni’s view on the racial and sociology-economic issues that leads transsexuals into the world of prostitution. Tony reveals that Will Smith is indeed in an open bi-sexual relationship with wife Jada Pinkett and the boom of all is that the celebrity that she and her escort counterpart, Miss Carmine was having an affair with that she couldn’t mention at the time of the interview due to contractual reasons was Mauricio Umansky husband of Beverly Hills Housewives fame, Kyle Richards. Check out more details to Toni’s affair with reality star via the latest issue of Star. Anyhow, peep the interview in the player above. It’s honestly a bit touchy at one point learning that most minority transgender are forced to prostitute themselves as they have no other way to survive. Toni is currently in Los Angeles working for Equality California and as Community Editor for Proud To Be Out digital magazine and will be also turning her book I Rise into a film called Heart of a Woman, later this year. I wonder who is going to play LL? You can stay in contact with Toni Newman and learn more about her projects via the link below. Peep out more magazine covers from Toni’s feature in Star. www.heartofawomanmovie.com www.douchebros.com www.tonidnewman.com”
“Real Housewives star Kyle Richards hit by claims her husband cheated with a female prostitute and transsexual escort Kyle Richards nearly quit The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills over allegations that her husband Mauricio Umansky cheated on her and now faces new claims he was involved in a kinky threesome. The 44-year-old reality TV star was talked out of leaving last month by the show’s producers, but new revelations of an alleged threesome involving her husband, a female escort and a transsexual prostitute have surfaced. Kyle and 42-year-old Mauricio have been married for 17 years and have three daughters together, Alexia, Sophia and Portia. Cheating allegations: Mauricio Umansky, shown in March with wife Kyle Richards in Las Vegas, has been dogged with another allegation of philandering Mauricio has been the subject of philandering rumours and Star magazine this week added fuel with its report of a wild sex threesome. The magazine interviewed a transgender former prostitute who claimed that her female escort partner brought Mauricio back to their home after picking him up at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. More… Paris Jackson rushed to hospital after ‘suicide attempt’ First Look! Evangeline Lilly as elf warrior Tauriel in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Is THIS the ideal woman? Beyonce’s figure, Katherine Jenkins’ hair, Jessica Ennis’ flat stomach and… Samantha Cameron’s nose Toni Newman, a transsexual known as Mistress Terri, said she and her escort partner Mistress Carmen, 29, ran their sex business out of their apartment in the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles. Longtime marriage: Kyle and Mauricio, shown last month in Beverly Hills, California, have been married for 17 years and have three daughters together ‘We had many high-end clients between 2003 and 2005, Mauricio being one of them,’ said the 50-year-old Newman, who recently released the memoir I Rise detailing her life as a prostitute, Newman said the duo worked by having Mistress Carmen take men into her room where she would offer them the option of having her transsexual partner come in. ‘Mauricio went for the threesome option and in a kinky twist asked both of them to dress up as police officers, Newman said. Season four: Kyle recently dealt with allegations that Mauricio was cheating on her from her reality show cast mates Mauricio has denied the claims by Newman and Mistress Carmen, calling them ‘false’ and ‘utterly ridiculous.’ Kyle, who is the aunt of Paris Hilton, was confronted last month by co-stars Brandi Glanville and Lisa Vanderpump over Mauricio’s alleged infidelities. She reportedly refused to listen to them and was so upset she called producers to quit the show, but was talked out of it. Kyle also has a daughter Farrah, 24, from her first marriage to Guraish Aldjufrie in 1988. The fourth season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is set to premiere in the fall.”
“108: Trans Voices August 24, 2015 Listen here http://www.boomboxpodcast.com/episodes/2015/8/24/108-trans-voices It’s August 2015, and transgender people are finally winning recognition in pop culture and government. But at the same time, transphobic violence is reaching alarming levels, and trans voices continue to be shouted down. Are we making progress? This week, we hear reflections on gender identity, love, and power from people who identify as trans. The episode includes poetry from Darkmatter and interviews with author-activist Toni Newman and tech employee Brook Shelley. Guest notes: You can learn more about Toni and Brook’s experiences through their writing. Toni’s memoir is entitled “I Rise,” and Brook was recently published in the essay collection “Lean Out.” For more Darkmatter poetry, visit their website or Facebook page. You can also donate to support Alok and Janani’s work. Fact-checking: We said that seventeen trans women had been killed in the U.S. so far this year. Here are the names of the first sixteen. Here is an early report on the death of Tamara Dominguez, who is the seventeenth. Toni said that trans people of color were twice as likely to suffer violence as other LGBT people. The real number is probably higher. A report from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs found that two-thirds of all LGBT and HIV-affected homicide victims in 2013 were trans women of color, despite making up a small fraction of the overall LGBT population. Toni also said that many people charged with murdering trans victims pleaded out to lesser crimes such as manslaughter. We could not find any data to indicate such a trend, but we did uncover two examples of such plea bargains being offered. Lastly, Toni mentioned that trans people are likely to be unemployed or employed as sex workers. The National Center for Transgender Equality reports that due to “extreme levels of unemployment and poverty,” a disproportionate number of trans people – one in eight – resort to “underground economies” such as sex and drug work to make ends meet. Music and audio clips: In order of appearance, this episode featured “Stars are Out” by Podington Bear; “Candlepower,” “Undercover Vampire Policeman,” and “What, True Self? Feels Bogus, Let’s Watch Jason X” by Chris Zabriskie; “Good Times” and “Guestlist” by Podington Bear; “Summer Days” by Kai Engel; “Prelude No. 21” by Chris Zabriskie; and “Afterglow” and “Starling” by Podington Bear. The news clips in the introduction came from Katie Couric, The Golden Globes, ABC News, ABC7 WJLA, and The Wall Street Journal. The credits featured an original cover of “Sunday Candy” by Donnie Trumpet and the Social Experiment. Our theme song is Fireworks by Jahzzar. ”
“Radar Productions Presents Transgender Author Toni Newman Reading Memoir “I Rise” at The San Francisco Public Library on Tuesday, December 8 at 6pm Radar Productions Presents Transgender Author Toni Newman reading from her memoir “I Rise – The Transformation of Toni Newman” at the San Francisco Public Library (Latino/Hispanic Room – basement level) on Tuesday, December 8, at 6pm and Hosted by Juliana Delgado Lopera. SAN FRANCISCO – Nov. 13, 2015 – Amzeal — Radar Productions presents Transgender Author Toni Newman reading from her memoir “I Rise – The Transformation of Toni Newman” on Tuesday, December 8, at 6pm at the San Francisco Public Library (Latino/Hispanic room – basement level), 100 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102. The host for the evening is Juliana Delgado Lopera. There will be 3 other artists on the panel and they are Mahader Tesfai, Molly McCoy, and Celeste Chan.The memoir “I Rise – The Transformation of Toni Newman” details her 25-year transition from M2F and her ability to survive and overcome. She graduated from Wake Forest University in 1985 with a BA in Sociology, has completed her MBA and is now a 2nd year law-student in a JD program. The late Dr. Maya Angelou inspired Toni while a student at Wake Forest University. Her memoir was nominated for 2 Lambda Literary awards and celebrated by the Maynard Institute of Journalism. She was honored in 2012 as one of Wake Forest University Faces of Courage. In 2015, Toni was one of the Trans 100. More on Amzeal News Alchemy Rises At Frontier Ranch This Spring Professional Growth Made Easy For Teachers – Ashland University and Teach n’ Kids (TKL) Learn Forge Exciting New Partnership Cradles to Crayons Names Bernard Cherkasov as Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons®-Chicago Hydro Power Plant Project in Ecuador Obtains $11.5M Funding Agreement from Capital Corp Merchant Banking “Cockroach Races 2016” – Simple and Fun Political Satire Game Toni is currently the Development Manager for Maitri Compassionate Care in San Francisco. Maitri is the only AIDS-specific residential care facility in California focusing on the underserved community of those dying of or severely debilitated by AIDS. She works with Executive Director Michael Smithmick for the development and marketing of Maitri.Her publicist is Kayo Anderson of Kayo Anderson Media. Her website ishttps://www.tonidnewman.com. To find out more about Radar Productions and the reading series, go to http://www.radarproductions.org/reading-series. ”
“The Fight in 2016 for Those with HIV/AIDS Maitri Compassionate Care in San Francisco is celebrating its 29th year of service to the underpriviledged with advanced AIDS. Maitri is the only AIDS-specific residential care facility in California focusing on the underserved community of those dying of or severely debilitated by AIDS. Fourteen of the 15 beds are reserved for HUD-defined low-income people and represent 90% of San Francisco’s non-institutional hospice beds. Since opening in 1987, Maitri has been the final home for more than 1000 people who lived with AIDS. According to aids.gov, It has been more than 30 years since the first cases of AIDS were reported in the U.S. HIV is still a reality for more than a million Americans in 2016. The stigma associated with HIV remains extremely high and fear of discrimination causes some Americans to avoid learning their HIV status, disclosing their status, or accessing medical care. Here are some facts about HIV/AIDS in 2016 according to cdc.gov: 1) African Americans are the racial/ethnic group most affected by HIV in the United States.2) Gay and bisexual men account for more than half of estimated new HIV diagnoses among African Americans.3) The number of HIV diagnoses among African American women has declined, though it is still high compared to women of other races/ethnicities.4) African Americans have the most severe burden of HIV of all racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Compared with other races and ethnicities, African Americans account for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses, those living with HIV, and those ever diagnosed with AIDS. HIV/AIDS is still very relevant in 2016 and the fight for those with HIV/AIDS is absolute necessary. Until there is a cure for HIV/AIDS, there must be continued support for those with HIV/AIDS. The Executive Director at Maitri, Michael Smithwick, truly believes in the Maitri mission statement that no one should have to suffer or die alone. On Sunday, May 1, at the Mission Bay Conference Center-UCSF in San Francisco, Maitri will be having their Bliss 2016 Gala and Auction hosted by the Emmy-award winning comedian/actor Leslie Jordan with performances by Oakland Jazz Vocalist Branice McKenzie, Man Dance Ballet Company and Guitarist Andre Morgan. Follow Toni Newman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonidnewman” – tonid
“An Interview With Author And Activist Toni Newman Toni Newman is an organizer for the fundraiser Maitri’s Bliss and the author of the book, I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman; here is a link to her website: https://www.tonidnewman.com/ Q: What is Maitri’s Bliss A: Maitri is the only AIDS-specific residential care facility in California since 1987 focusing on the underserved community of those dying of or severely debilitated by AIDS. Each year Maitri holds annual fundraiser called Bliss Gala and Auction. This year Maitri is celebrating 29 years of service to the underserved with AIDS in San Francisco. The proceeds from the Bliss gala goes to the direct medical care of the residents of Maitri. For more information about Bliss 2016, please go to www.maitrisf.org. MAITRI COMPASSIONATE CARE www.maitrisf.org “Maitri is like sitting on a lotus flower, which to me, is very warm, beautiful and compassionate.” Before arriving at Maitri, Sorrita had been living in San … Q: How did you become involved with the event? A: In July 2015, Executive Director Michael Smithwick hired me as the new Development Manager of Maitri. As the Development Manager, I am working with the Development Chair and Development Committee to oversee the details for Bliss 2016 on May 1 at the Mission Bay Conference Center-UCSF. Q: How did you get Leslie Jordan to host? A: I attended one of Leslie Jordan’s comedy shows in San Francisco and he was just hilarious. We thought he would make an excellent MC/Host for Bliss 2016. We reached out to his management team, Reactions Productions, and they were very gracious in assisting us to get Leslie Jordan to host the event. Leslie has had lots of friends to succomb to this disease and he was very open to helping us make this event a success. Q: How has the life of the average AIDS patient changed over the years? A: Black Americans have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS since the epidemic’s beginning, and that disparity has deepened over time. Blacks account for more new HIV infections, people estimated to be living with HIV disease, and HIV-related deaths than any other racial/ethnic group in the U.S. The epidemic has also had a disproportionate impact on Black women, youth, and gay and bisexual men, and its impact varies across the country. Moreover, a number of challenges contribute to the epidemic among Blacks, including poverty, lack of access to health care, higher rates of some sexually transmitted infections, lack of awareness of HIV status, and stigma. Despite this impact, recent data indicate some encouraging trends, including declining new HIV infections among Black women. However, given the epidemic’s continued and disproportionate impact among Blacks, a continued focus is critical to addressing HIV in the United States. These are facts obtained from the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Q: What are some common misconceptions about AIDS? A: 1)I am HIV positive, my life is over. In the early years of the disease epidemic, the death rate from AIDS was extremely high. But today, antiretroviral drugs allow HIV-positive people — and even those with AIDS — to live much longer, normal, and productive lives. 2) I could tell if my partner is HIV positive. You can be HIV-positive and not have any symptoms for years. The only way for you or your partner to know if you’re HIV-positive is to get tested. In the early years of the disease epidemic, the death rate from AIDS was extremely high. But today, antiretroviral drugs allow HIV-positive people — and even those with AIDS — to live much longer, normal, and productive lives. 3) I can get HIV from being around people who are HIV positive. The evidence shows that HIV is not spread through touch, tears, sweat, or saliva. You cannot catch HIV by: Breathing the same air as someone who is HIV-positive Touching a toilet seat or doorknob handle after an HIV-positive person Drinking from a water fountain Hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with someone who is HIV-positive Sharing eating utensils with an HIV-positive person Using exercise equipmentat a gym 4)My partner and I are both HIV positive — there’s no reason for us to practice safer sex. Practicing safer sex — wearing condoms or using dental dams — can protect you both from becoming exposed to other (potentially drug resistant) strains of HIV. Q: What is, I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman about? A: The Memoir I Rise is about my 20 year transformation from M2F and the hardships I endured making that transistion with no friends, family or assistance. I wrote the memoir to give insight and educate others what it takes to transistion when there was very little help. I had not read a transgender memoir like mine when the memoir came out in April 2011. My partner and best friend, Alton Demore, encouraged me to write the book since he had not heard of any book like this. I discuss very openly and candidly my life from the beginning in rural North Carolina up to my days as a transgender mistress and escort. My whole purpose was/is to enlighten and educate others about transgenders and their life especially the minority transgender (most live below the poverty level even today). www.tonidnewman.com Toni D. Newman | Transgender Author Toni Newman | Home www.tonidnewman.com I RISE-THE TRANSFORMATION OF TONI NEWMAN BY TRANSGENDER TONI NEWMAN. A MEMOIR. I’ve always found it interesting … Q: How is it different from other books about transitioning? A: The memoir I Rise is very candid and open. I discuss my thoughts, my fears and my actions about transistioning and what it took for me to survive and exist and to be who I am today. The most relevant theme in the book is being your authentic self against all odds. I knew the only way for me to be complete and whole was to be my authentic transgender self. The journey for me was not a pretty one but a journey full of stumbles, heartaches, agony and pain. But the goal is to show others I made it over and you can make it too. Do not give up but strive each and every day to be your authentic self. Q: What has been the most effective thing you have done to promote your work? A: I have been asked to speak to many minority groups about transistioning and why I did it. To enlighten and educate others even if I only reach 1 person is fulfulling and rewarding for me. Changing one mind at a time. Q: What is the least effective thing you have done? A: Being more active with transgender activist groups. And the reason for that is I do not see a lot of groups reaching out to the people of color. Transgenders of color are more likely to be homeless, living below the poverty level and unable to obtain gainful employment. My goal and desire is to help and assist the transgender of color since I know first hand the hardships they face daily and what it takes to overcome those obstacles and succeed. Q: What is your opinion of Caitlyn Jenner? A: I believe Caitlyn has good intentions and is very fortunate to be financially able to make the transistion smoothly. But the reality is that most transgenders especially those of color are unemployed, homeless and living below the poverty level. I think Caitlyn has brought awareness to the transgender community and that is a wonderful thing. But the reality is that more than 75% of transgenders of color dont know how they are going to survive and exist on a day to day basis. So I applaud Caitlyn for standing in her truth, but most of my sisters are struggling daily to survive and stand in their truth. Please note; Eliza’s interviews are done by email. All answers are unedited and come right from the lovely fingertips of her subjects.” – tonid
“Best Selling Author, Toni Newman Organizes AIDS Fundraiser With Maitri Toni Newman is the best selling author of I Rise — The Transformation of Toni Newman. The book is her memoir where she discusses her 25-year difficult transition. It was nominated in 2012 in two categories for the Lambda Literary Awards, honored in 2012 by Wake Forest University for Faces of Courage, and has been featured in the Advocate, Huffington Post and Ebony Magazine. Most recently the memoir has been adapted into a screenplay called Heart of a Woman; to be directed by Keith Holland. With a strong sense of compassion and advocacy, Toni serves as the Development Manager of Maitri Compassionate Carewhere they provide residential care to men and women in need of hospice or 24-hour care; in addition, cultivates the deepest respect and love for life among its residents and caregivers. Maitri is the only AIDS-specific residential care facility in California focusing on the underserved community of those dying of or severely debilitated by AIDS. Throughout 2016 Maitri will be celebrating 29 years of service to the San Francisco community. On May 1st, 2016, Maitri, along with Toni Newman, will be hosting Bliss 2016 Signature Gala and Auction; an evening of celebration, fundraising, and AIDS awareness. The event will take place at the Mission Bay Conference Center-UCSF in San Francisco California, and will be presided over by Emmy award winning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan from the hit television show Will & Grace and Oscar nominated film, The Help. For more information on Maitri and Toni Newman, please visit their website here. ”
“Memoir I Rise by Trans Author Toni Newman turned into short film called Heart of a Woman Memoir I Rise by trans author Toni Newman has been turned into short film called Heart of a Woman filming next week and directed by Keith Holland featuring Angelica Ross, Justin Berti and Rachel Sterling as the 3 lead actors. The film highlights the discrimination, violence and inequality transwoman of color face each day in the United States and abroad. I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Aug. 17, 2016 – PRLog — The Memoir I Rise-The Transformation of Toni Newman was published in 2011 and Dr. Marc Weiss Ph.D., Former Associate Professor of Urban Development, Planning, and Preservation at Columbia University wrote the foreword to this memoir, is a best-selling author, and a former member of the Clinton administration. I Rise is the true story of Toni Newman’s transformation from an internally conflicted male to a proud transgender woman of color. She tells a story about the trans community of color so stricken by drug abuse, sexual exploitation, explosive suicide rates, and lack of education,https://www.tonidnewman.com The Heart of a Woman short film shoots August 24, 25 and 26 in Burbank California. The original writer and executive producer are Alton Demore. The director is Keith Holland joined by cinematagrapher LT Chang. The 3 lead actors are Angelica Ross, Justin Berti and Rachel Sterling joined by Jason Stuart with possible appearance by Isis King. The theme of the short film is Discrimination and Inequality are wrong regardless of race, sex and gender. We are all equal.http://www.heartofawomanfilm.com If you believe in equality for all please support Heart of a Woman short film campaign by going to:http://www.gofundme.com/heartofawoman.” – tonid
“Toni Newman will be one of the authors at the 2017 Literary Soul Symposium in Houston Texas on Sept. 22 – 24 ”