"What if the freedom to be yourself all came down to where you live?" That's what Oprah asked in her "Gay Around the World" episode on Oct. 24. She said gays and lesbians are in the midst of a "global civil rights revolution," citing Dumbledore's recent outing as an example of change for the better. She also provided a summary of global laws and severe punishments, such as stoning and beheading. And she touched on the state of U.S. issues, including gay marriage, adoption, workplace discrimination and "don't ask, don't tell."

The first segment of the show concerned an Indian prince, Manvendra Singh Gohil of Rajpipla. He faced family shame and public outrage when he came out. He still lives in a palace, but he has struggled with mental health issues — though he says he has no regrets. Hang in there, Prince Manvendra! Your turban is downright fabulous.

The second segment of the show focused on Staceyann Chin, who was born in Jamaica and now lives in New York City.

In Jamaica, gays and lesbians are targeted by mobs and fear for their safety daily. Staceyann described the homophobic culture of her childhood, including the brutal sexual assault she suffered. You can read more of Staceyann's story on Oprah's website. And here's her segment: … continue reading

No, this is not a lame Oprah/Gayle joke (even though those often make me giggle). On Wednesday, The Oprah Winfrey Show offers a very special live episode. Here's a press blurb:

Tune in LIVE on Wednesday, October 24 when The Oprah Winfrey Show travels the globe for a look into the lives of gays and lesbians in the U.S. and worldwide. Go behind the headlines to see the secret lives of gays in Iran. Meet an Indian prince whose coming out caused a controversy in his homeland. Plus, meet inspiring gay couples and families from around the world.

You can watch a preview on the show's official website. In that clip, you'll see that Staceyann Chin will be one of the guests. Sounds intriguing and definitely worth DVRing!

Check the blog tomorrow to see how it all plays out when Oprah says, "Thanks for the show idea, Ahmadinejad!"

She Said What? is a weekly online lesbian entertainment talk show featuring lesbian and bisexual women discussing the latest pop culture and entertainment news.

EPISODE 19 (May 17, 2007) The comedy episode with Kate McKinnon.

GUEST: The Big Gay Sketch Show's Kate McKinnon

She Said What? is a weekly online lesbian entertainment talk show featuring lesbian and bisexual women discussing the latest pop culture and entertainment news.

EPISODE 18 (May 10, 2007) Violence in Jamaica and New York, a lawsuit over a library book in Arkansas, and guest DJ Storm.

GUEST: DJ Storm

She Said What? is a weekly online lesbian entertainment talk show featuring lesbian and bisexual women discussing the latest pop culture and entertainment news.

EPISODE 17 (May 3, 2007) Rosie, Laura Dern, Work Out, and guest Toshi Reagon.

GUEST: Singer/songwriter Toshi Reagon. Find out more about Toshi at toshireagon.com.