Arts & Entertainment
Hallmark kicks off Christmas early with ad starring gay couple
two men get excited to create memories in their new home

(Screenshot via Facebook.)
Hallmark got into the holiday spirit a couple months early with its new commercial featuring a same-sex couple.
In the commercial, the couple has just moved into their new home together and reminisce about old memories while they unpack.
One man finds “their first” Christmas tree in a box and his partner says “You know what it needs? An accessory”  before hanging a “New Home 2016” ornament.
“Mi casa es su casa,” he tells his partner as they admire the tree.
This isn’t the first time Hallmark has featured a same-sex couple in their advertising. They also included gay couples in their Valentine’s Day #CareEnough campaign.
Watch below.
The DC Black Pride Opening Reception was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Friday, May 22. Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr was the headline performer. Comedian Anthony Oakes was the host. Speakers included Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson and Center For Black Equity President Kenya Hutton, as well as speakers from health organizations and sponsors. The event featured performances from Billy the Goat, Jay Columbus, Akeem Woods, Rue Pratt, Be Steadwell and Bennu Byrd.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
















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PHOTOS: Black Pride Pageant and Unity Ball
Back-to-back events held on first night of D.C. Black Pride
The Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. Following the pageant, Black Pride events continued with the 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
























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PHOTOS: Helen Hayes Awards
D.C.-area productions honored at Theatre Washington’s annual ceremony
Theatre Washington’s 42nd Helen Hayes Awards were held at The Anthem on Monday, May 18.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)


































