Nonheterosexual Awareness?
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
ALBANY — Manhattan paralegal Christopher Barton Benecke describes himself as gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender, which to his way of thinking all adds up to "queer."
But the state of New York doesn't much like the word "queer," and while it apparently could care less how Mr. Benecke characterizes himself, it will not allow him to incorporate his not-for-profit advocacy group under the name "Queer Awareness."
New York state claims the title is indecent and degrading and barred under §301 of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law, which restricts language deemed by the government to be obscene or intended to ridicule. Mr. Benecke insists the term is neither indecent nor obscene, nor is it intended to mock the very people he yearns to help. Rather, he says, the word is merely a self-descriptive term, and a uniquely accurate one at that.
John Caher, New York Lawyer: NY Paralegal Raises First Amendment In Battle for 'Queer' Name