Summary
This January 1975 issue of Pittsburgh Gay News covers a range of topics relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, both locally and nationally.A major local story reports the murder of Charles A. Bir, Jr., a gay man from Westmoreland County, with an acquaintance, Ronald L. Rhodes, charged in his death. Bir had reportedly expressed fear for his life to Gay Alternatives Pittsburgh (GAP) and had been experiencing harassment.Another significant local development is the apparent shift of “Burgundy U.,” a gay “resort” in Delmont, Pennsylvania, to a “straight massage parlor operation” called “Cleopatra’s Hideaway.” The owner, Rick Petrini, cited financial reasons and dissatisfaction with gay customers.The Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) is also taking steps to establish a ministry in Pittsburgh, forming a study group following meetings with MCC pastors from Washington D.C. and Akron, Ohio. The goal is to provide a spiritual base for the local gay community.In other news:
- The Pennsylvania Governor’s administration announced the appointment of liaison persons to the gay community for various state departments.
- Philadelphia held public hearings on Bill 1275, a proposed anti-discrimination bill to protect sexual minorities in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
- The Kinsey Institute for Sex Research released preliminary findings from a new study, challenging myths about older gay males and sexual promiscuity.
- Lesbian Feminist Liberation staged a protest and sit-in at NBC headquarters in New York City against a “Police Woman” episode depicting lesbians as murderers.
- Minnesota State Senator Allan Spear publicly announced that he is homosexual, aiming to speak freely on gay rights issues.
- Boston’s subway system is running a gay advertising campaign featuring a lavender rhinoceros.
The issue also includes a “1975 Pittsburgh Area Gay Guide” insert, detailing gay-friendly bars, baths, clubs, and book sales locations in Pittsburgh and surrounding states. The newspaper announced it would be forming a Reader’s Council to allow for more input from staff, readers, and advisors.