Last week we printed a story about a transphobic slur made by WGCI announcer UB Rodriquez about Transgender actor and Emmy nominee Laverne Cox. As I do not tolerate ANY form of industry intolerance against LBGT people, women or any kind of racism I surmised from the story that UB was being homophobic and transphobic with his slur. I was completely unaware that Rodriquez had come out a year earlier as a gay man. This would make him the very first urban radio announcer to come out in the history of urban radio. (Correct me if I am wrong). I know MANY gay and lesbian PDs, DJs, record label people, publihope that other urban radio and industry people feel the freedom to finally come forward and be who they really are because I’ve seen industry people DIE from the pain of hiding… some of which you know.I have reached out to UB to discuss the term “Tranny” and there was obviously a misunderstanding. In addition, at the bottom of Rodriquez’s twitter post is a more precise statement which I did not see the first time (see below). I applaud people like Laverne Cox and I apologize for any problems this may have caused WGCI or Rodriquez. I have a very good relationship with the Radio Station and many staff members over the years and it’s one of the Radio Stations I respect most in the industry. My best…
Urban Radio Announcer Comes Out
