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In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Organizing Behind the Orange Curtain
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Youth Councils Meet and Greet
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Contra Costa County, Alameda)
3. Bring Sylvia Guerrero to your school (Bay Area)
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
Other Announcements
5. San Mateo Union High Schools' GSA Conference (Burlingame)
6. The LGBT Youth Prom - Location Changed!! (Southern California)
7. Calling LGBTQ Youth - Become a conference planner (Bay Area)
8. Mardi Glow - FREE YOUTH Hip Hop DANCE (San Rafael)
9. Rainbow Rollers - GLBT Bowling Teams (Hayward)
10. NCCJ is currently recruiting for the youth institute (Southern California)
11. NEWS: Pickets against tolerance event spark anger
12. NEWS: Harassment lawsuit... Poway Unified School District goes to trial
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Organizing Behind the Orange Curtain
"The energy in the room was truly radical for such an early Saturday morning. The student trainers came prepared to amp up the GSA members and by the end of the day, I could tell that the students were ready to head back to their schools and make their GSAs stronger than ever." -David Hart, Program Manager, The Center Orange County
Presidents and members from several Orange County GSAs came together at the Center OC this past Saturday to participate in GSA Network's Leadership Training. Youth Trainers, Darcy Zoller and Daniel McIntyre, provided information and lead the participants through a series of exercises and activities aimed at helping them learn how to facilitate GSA meetings, outreach to students on campus, how to work with other campus clubs, fundraising tips, and the importance of encouraging diversity in GSAs.
While known as one of the more conservative areas in California there are over 50 GSA's in Orange County and the surrounding area. With both queer youth and straight allies present the students talked about the struggles of organizing in a hostile school environment where same sex couples are not allowed to buy prom tickets, slurs like "Fag" "Lezi" and "That's so Gay" are the everyday norm and the teachers rarely intervene.
Ravenous to find out about their rights participants grilled the peer facilitators on the historic law AB 537 that protects LGBT students in California, shared stories, participated in role-plays about "good facilitation skills" and learned new skills to challenge oppression. With campaign manuals in hand, a knowledge of their rights and a new network of local GSA contacts they walked away emboldened and determined to return to school ready to address the inequalities on their campus.
The Leadership Training was co-sponsored by GSA Network, The Center OC, GLSEN OC and Orange County HRC.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. GSA Network Youth Councils Meet and Greet
OPEN MEETINGS - GSA NETWORK Youth Council - Meet and Greet!
!!CENTRAL VALLEY, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!!
Calling all High School freshman, sophomores, and juniors! Get involved with GSA Network Youth Council. Meet and network with Youth Council members and find out what's being planned for summer 2005 / Fall 2006. Learn about how you can join the Youth Council! Come check out the next meeting for more information and to meet this year's Youth Council in your region. Attend monthly Youth Council meetings, lead peer to peer trainings, plan conferences, organize pride, have fun.Sunday April 24th - Open
Saturday April 30th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Central Valley)
When: Saturday April 30th, 2:00
Where: GSA Network office (4403 E. Tulare St., Fresno)
Directions: Take 99 South, exit #133 towards Airport/Kings Canyon onto 180 East.
take 41 South towards Paso Robles and then exit at Divisadero st/Tulare. Turn
left on Divisadero and then continue on to E. Tulare street. office is across
the street from Roosevelt High School.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Robin McGehee, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 559-453-9040 or robin@gsanetwork.org.
Saturday April 30th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Southern California)
When: Saturday April 30th, 11:00am
Where: GSA Network office (605 Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los Angeles)
Directions: Take I-10 East to CA-110 North exit toward Pasedena. Take
exit #22A/6TH ST/9TH ST onto James M Wood blvd toward downtown, Bear left on
W 9TH ST, Turn right on S HOPE ST, Turn right on W OLYMPIC BLVD. Go to the sixth
floor.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Sandy Williams, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org.
**********************************************
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Contra Costa County, Alameda County)
GSA Leadership Training (West Contra Costa County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: April 30th 2005, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
(Meals provided)
WHERE: Familias Unidas---West Contra Costa County/3607 MacDonald Ave. Richmond,
CA
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: Familias Unidas, GLSEN/SF-EBay, Center for Human Development
GSA Network Leadership Trainings are aimed towards helping students in GSAs
build their skills.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org
GSA Leadership Training (Alameda County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: May 14th 2005, 10:00-4:00 (Meals provided)
WHERE: Pacific Center---Alameda County/2712 Telegraph Avenue (Berkeley)
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: GLSEN SF-EB & Pacific Center
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or mailto:lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
3. Bring Sylvia Guerrero to your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network is honored to introduce a new program, Educating for Transgender Student Safety, which brings Sylvia Guerrero to speak with students, teachers, and staff at schools throughout the Bay Area about the experiences she and her family have endured over the last two years after the death of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. In the fall of 2002, Sylvia Guerrero was forced into the Bay Area's media spotlight by the murder of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. Even though it had only been a short time since Ms. Guerrero began accepting Gwen as her daughter, instead of the son she had thought she was raising, she suddenly found herself labeled a spokeswoman for respect and dignity for transgender people.
If you would like to bring Ms. Guerrero to your school, please email info@gsanetwork.org.
Sylvia Guerrero's speaking tour is done in collaboration with GLSEN-San Francisco/East Bay and CUAV, and is supported by a grant from the Horizons Foundation - Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
*********************************************
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
5. San Mateo Union High Schools' GSA Conference (Burlingame)
Saturday, April 30th Conference for San Mateo Union High School District GSA's
WHERE: Burlingame High School in the Art Room / 1 Mangini Way, Burlingame
WHAT: GSA Conference - hear speakers, share progress, plan goals, eat lunch
in the park and socialize.
WHEN: Conference starts at 10 am. Lunch and socializing at 12:30 in the adjacent
park. Lunch generously provided by PFLAG.
WHO: Peninsula, Capuchino, Mills, Burlingame, San Mateo, Aragon and Hillsdale
High School GSAs are all welcome to attend.
RSVP by GSA to Ellen Press - epress@smuhsd.k12.ca.us
*********************************************
6. The LGBT Youth Prom - Location Changed!! (Southern California)
ALERT! THE LGBT Youth Prom has been relocated from the Sheraton Universal Hotel
to the Friendship Auditorium near Griffith Park on Riverside Dr. due to the
hotel workers' boycott.
*Prepurchase tickets are a MUST for guaranteed entry to the prom as we are
very limited to the number of tickets that can be sold at the door.
WHO:youth ages 14 to 23,
WHEN: The prom will be held on Friday, May 20, 2005, from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight.
Go to: www.modelsofpride.org for
prom and ticket purchase information.
Please contact Friends of Project 10 Inc. at 626.577.4553 or project10@hotmail.com
if you have any questions.
Please spread the word to as many people as you can.
*********************************************
7. Calling LGBTQ Youth - Become a conference planner (Bay Area)
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force "Creating Change" Conference is coming to Oakland November 10-14.
Be a part of the youth planing committee (youth 22 and under). Help recruit youth workshop presenters, organize a youth dance, and volunteer for the youth hospitality room.
WHEN: Monthly meetings in Oakland
WHO: LGBTQ Youth and straight allies 13-22
WHY: Because youth are a powerful force in the LGBTQ movement and youth need
to represent!
To attend the next meeting contact Tanya at GSA Network 415-552-4229 /tanya@gsanetwork.org
or Danny at Creating Change 415-572-1659
For more information go to: www.creatingchange.org
*********************************************
8. Mardi Glow - FREE YOUTH Hip Hop DANCE (San Rafael)
WHEN: Friday, May 13th, 8-11pm
WHERE: San Rafael Community Center - 618 B Street in San Rafael
Celebrate the end of the school year with all your friends at this annual event.
Last year we had 600 youth from all over Marin County and the Bay Area show
up. Come and meet new people. Get prizes. Dance!
This dance is sponsored by REACH of Marin.
Music brought to you by KMEL 106.1 FM.
Free food, free prizes
Grand Prize: Ipod Shuffle
This project was made possible by a grant from the Youth Grants Board, a program
of the Youth Leadership Institute. The Youth Leadership Institute receives its
funding from the Marin Community Foundation.
*********************************************
9. Rainbow Rollers - GLBT Bowling Teams (Hayward)
WHEN: Sunday nights at 6:30
WHERE: Holiday Bowl - 29827 Mission Blvd. Hayward, CA 94544
COST: $13 per week (per person)
STARTS: May 22nd (Meet & Greet) / June 5th (team bowling starts)
*********************************************
10. NCCJ is currently recruiting for the youth institute (Southern California)
Subject: CommUnity Leadership Institute for High School Students in Santa Barbara, Ventura & San Luis Obispo Counties
The National Conference of Community and Justice is now accepting applications for its week long CommUnity Leadership Institute this summer for 9th, 10th and 11th grade youth from Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo Counties.
The goal of the CommUnity Leadership Institute (CLI) is to empower high school-aged youth to become more effective leaders in their schools and communities. Over the course of the week, participants engage in experiential exercises and honest dialogue about key human relations issues affecting them and our communities: racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, and more. Through leadership development and skill-building sessions focusing on communication, conflict management, action planning and community building, participants develop the skills necessary to bring what they have learned back to their schools to build more inclusive relationships and foster a school climate based on respect and inclusion.
This summer's program will be held from July 30th through August 6th, 2005. Our goal is to recruit a diverse team of students from each school/organization to attend the program. In selecting a diverse team we consider the following:
*cultural diversity - race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic
class, religion/spirituality, etc.
*academic diversity - a mix of students of various academic backgrounds from
the student who may be at risk of dropping out to the straight A student and
everything in between
*grade level/age - because the goal of the program is to prepare students to
return to their schools to make a positive impact on intergroup relations, inclusion
and equity in the school, we encourage participants from several grade levels
*leadership diversity - we look for a mix of formal/traditional leaders (student
government, student organizations, sports team captains, etc), informal leaders
(the leaders of various cliques on campus, students who the other students look
to for their positive or negative social cues, etc.), and students who have
not yet tapped into their leadership potential.
After CLI, participants are connected to NCCJ's CLI Change Agent Network for Dismantling Oppression (CLI CAN DO!), where CLI students from various summers gather on a monthly basis to continue learning skills and receive support in their efforts to positively affect their schools.
As in the past, the cost of the program is $750 per student. Some schools/organizations pay for a team to come, others pay a portion of each student's registration fee and others simply recruit students without making a financial contribution. Please check with your school to see if they have any payment agreements with NCCJ that applicants may qualify for. NCCJ has scholarship assistance available for students who are unable to pay the full fee, so please do not allow financial challenges to be an obstacle. We work hard to ensure that no one is turned down for financial reasons.
In addition to scholarships, this year, NCCJ is again offering another way
to receive a discount:
*There is a $50/student discount for students who apply as part of a team of
6 or more from the same school or youth group.
If you would like more information about the program or would like to schedule a presentation with your group, please feel free to call me at 805.879.5225 x 3. I am available to answer questions in Spanish and English. Previous CLI participants and staff are also available. Space at CLI is limited to 50 students each summer and acceptance to the program is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Past participants have said: "It broke down stereotypes, built up relationships, and taught me so much about myself."
For more information on NCCJ visit our website at www.nccj-cc.org
*********************************************
11. NEWS: Pickets against tolerance event spark anger
By JESSI MARTIN
Staff writer
The Mountain Democrat
April 11, 2005
Picture: www.mtdemocrat.com/content/articles/2005/04/18/news_stories/v1104_n.jpg>http://www.mtdemocrat.com/content/articles/2005/04/18/news_stories/v1104_n.jpg
Dressed in a devil suit, anti-gay activist Dick Otterstad and five other protesters
stood outside the El Dorado County Office of Education and Indian Creek Elementary
School Friday morning to oppose a "Teaching Tolerance/Safe Schools Workshop"
put on for teachers by the Office of Education. Their protest drew anger from
many parents.
The workshop was intended to address hate, intolerance, bullying and other issues related to the promotion of school safety, according to an Office of Education press release.
When asked about his choice of wardrobe, Dick Otterstad told the Mountain Democrat,
"I figure it's appropriate. This school is promoting perversity. I figure
that's something the devil would do."
However, he wasn't the only one that morning to voice an opinion.
As cars backed up along Green Valley Road in their regular school drop-off routine, only this time next to signs reading "Homosexuality is sin," and sarcastic signs reading "Transgender is OK" and "Tolerate perversity workshop" with an arrow pointed toward the Office of Education's administrative buildings, upset parents began to roll down vehicle windows.
Many asked the on-hand El Dorado County sheriff's deputies whether it is legal for the group to be out in front of the school.
" We may find it personally distasteful, but as long as they are obeying the law, there's nothing we can do," said Undersheriff Fred Kollar in a phone interview.
While some parents asked questions, others shouted out their car windows at the protesters to go somewhere else.
To read the full article, visit:
www.mtdemocrat.com/articles/2005/04/18/news_stories/v1104_n.txt>http://www.mtdemocrat.com/articles/2005/04/18/news_stories/v1104_n.txt
back to top
*********************************************
12. NEWS: Harassment lawsuit... Poway Unified School District
goes to trial
Harassment lawsuit against Poway Unified School District goes to trial
North County Times
April 22, 2005
SAN DIEGO ---- Poway school administrators failed to protect two gay students when they complained about being harassed, their attorney said Thursday, but the school district's lawyer said the evidence would show otherwise.
Megan Donovan and Joseph "Joey" Ramelli are seeking unspecified damages on claims of lost time in high school, emotional distress and loss of basic dignity, said their attorney, Bridget J. Wilson.
The trial of their lawsuit against the Poway Unified School district, Poway High School Principal Scott Fisher and Assistant Principal Ed Giles began Thursday in Superior Court Judge Steven Denton's courtroom. It is expected to last four or five weeks.
To read the full article, visit:
www.nctimes.com/articles/2005/04/22/news/inland/0_36_584_22_05.txt
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
The Day of Silence is Heard Wide and Far
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Youth Councils Meet and Greet
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Orange County, Contra Costa County)
3. Bring Sylvia Guerrero to your school (Bay Area)
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
Other Announcements
5. ACTION ALERT: Protest www.4PARENTS.GOV - inaccurate info for LGBT
youth
6. (MTV) is looking for "genderqueer" folks to profile for a documentary.
7. PFLAG Event on April 29, 2005 at the Center (San Diego)
8. Queer youth Prom - OUT in Fantasy Land (Fullerton)
9. Unchained Conference (Bay Area)
10. Youth Commission is now accepting applications (Contra Costa Countywide)
11. NEWS: Hundreds of Placer High students counter protest anti-gay activists
12. NEWS: 'Day of Truth' event peaceful in county
13. NEWS: Georgia Board rejects parental OK for after-school activities
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
The Day of Silence is Heard Wide and Far
2-4-6-8 !
We are here to stop the hate!
3-5-7-9!
Equal rights are past their time!
Sacramento-area GSAs broke the silence in a huge
way last Wednesday evening when over 150 GSA members and allies came together
to break the Day of Silence with a Night of Noise march that traveled from the
Lambda Community Center to the state capitol building. Hooting, hollering, and
chanting their way up the sidewalk, the youth tore open the quiet Sacramento
evening. Many of them had remained silent all through the day, and lots of folks
seemed relieved to finally get a chance to scream. Several people took turns
carrying a Day of Silence banner signed by many members of local GSAs and members
of Lambda's youth groups. The evening ended with a group photo on the steps
of the community center. Kudos to Folsom High's Lance Chih for spearheading
this awesome event!
The march was sponsored by the Sacramento Regional GSA, Lambda Community Center,
GLSEN Greater Sacramento, and GSA Network.
Gilroy High School
"Gilroy High School participated in the Day of Silence for
the second year. I am the GSA Advisor. Several Staff members (about 5) also
observed the silence while they taught their classes. The day for the students
was a success. The problem came with the parents and their opposition to the
teachers also being silent. In my classroom I completed the exact same lessons
as I had the day before, however yesterday I wrote out all instructions. Other
teachers did the same. We are now being bombarded by parents and community members.
Many of them are asking for the School Board to take action to prevent this
from happening next year. They will of coarse not prevent the students, but
they are trying to prevent the teachers." - Sally Enriquez, Gilroy High
GSA Advisor
Rocklin High School
"Our Day of Silence, given the community involved, was a
smash success, we had over three hundred students participate. With over 2700
students, that's over ten percent, I've never been more proud! We had teachers
participating, which again, in this community is a very "controversial"
thing.
This was definitely a growing experience for the school, I think that it sparked
a lot of awareness on the issues the GSA stands to represent, which is exciting
for us here in one of the most Christian conservative communities in the state.
We ourselves had "truth trucks" pull up just outside our campus and
picket. The general public was more shocked by this than anything. Where the
students were concerned the day of silence was a mildly controversial protest,
but they walked out to see those trucks, and guards were raised.
As the founder and president of the Rocklin GSA, I went up and talked with
these protesters, and let them know that I respected them for being there and
standing for their values, and that I respected their right to protest. They
seemed to be a little confused, but I think they got it into their heads (at
least some) that the GSA was doing just what they were doing, and gave them
the sense that maybe the two groups weren't so different after all. By the end
of the conversation, the leader and I shook hands." ~Justin, Rocklin High
GSA Founder and President
For more stories go to www.dayofsilence.org/testimonials/testimonials.php
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. GSA Network Youth Councils Meet and Greet
OPEN MEETINGS - GSA NETWORK Youth Council - Meet and Greet!
!!NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, CENTRAL VALLEY, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!!
Calling all High School freshman, sophomores, and juniors! Get involved with GSA Network Youth Council. Meet and network with Youth Council members and find out what's being planned for summer 2005 / Fall 2006. Learn about how you can join the Youth Council! Come check out the next meeting for more information and to meet this year's Youth Council in your region. Attend monthly Youth Council meetings, lead peer to peer trainings, plan conferences, organize pride, have fun.Sunday April 24th - Open
Youth Council Meeting! (Northern California)
When: Sunday, April 24, 12:00-4:00 pm
Where: GSA Network office (160 14th Street, San Francisco)
Directions: The office is located on 14th between South Van Ness and Folsom.
If you're taking BART, get off at the 16th & Mission stop. Walk out of the
station, turn right, and walk down 16th towards S. Van Ness (runs parallel with
Mission). Turn right at the corner of 16th and S. Van Ness and walk two blocks
to 14th and S. Van Ness. Turn right. GSA Network will be on the left halfway
down the block. Our name is on the door. Press the buzzer, and we'll let you
in.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org.
Saturday April 30th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Central Valley)
When: Saturday April 30th, 2:00
Where: GSA Network office (4403 E. Tulare St., Fresno)
Directions: Take 99 South, exit #133 towards Airport/Kings Canyon onto 180 East.
take 41 South towards Paso Robles and then exit at Divisadero st/Tulare. Turn
left on Divisadero and then continue on to E. Tulare street. office is across
the street from Roosevelt High School.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Robin McGehee, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 559-453-9040 or robin@gsanetwork.org.
Saturday April 30th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Southern California)
When: Saturday April 30th, 11:00am
Where: GSA Network office (605 Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los Angeles)
Directions: Take I-10 East to CA-110 North exit toward Pasedena. Take
exit #22A/6TH ST/9TH ST onto James M Wood blvd toward downtown, Bear left on
W 9TH ST, Turn right on S HOPE ST, Turn right on W OLYMPIC BLVD. Go to the sixth
floor.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Sandy Williams, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org.
**********************************************
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Orange County, Contra Costa County)
GSA Leadership Training (Orange County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: April 23rd 2005, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
(Meals provided)
WHERE: The Center OC, 12800 Garden Grove Blvd, Suite F, Garden Grove, CA
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: The Center OC, GLSEN OC, Orange County HRC
GSA Network Leadership Trainings are aimed towards helping students in GSAs
build their skills.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Sandy Williams, GSA Network Southern CA Program Coordinator, at
213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org
or
Dave Hart, The Center OC, (714) 534-0862
GSA Leadership Training (West Contra Costa County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: April 30th 2005, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
(Meals provided)
WHERE: Familias Unidas---West Contra Costa County/3607 MacDonald Ave. Richmond,
CA
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: Familias Unidas, GLSEN/SF-EBay, Center for Human Development
GSA Network Leadership Trainings are aimed towards helping students in GSAs
build their skills.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
3. Bring Sylvia Guerrero to your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network is honored to introduce a new program, Educating for Transgender
Student Safety, which brings Sylvia Guerrero to speak with students, teachers,
and staff at schools throughout the Bay Area about the experiences she and her
family have endured over the last two years after the death of her transgender
daughter, Gwen Araujo. In the fall of 2002, Sylvia Guerrero was forced into
the Bay Area's media spotlight by the murder of her transgender daughter, Gwen
Araujo. Even though it had only been a short time since Ms. Guerrero began accepting
Gwen as her daughter, instead of the son she had thought she was raising, she
suddenly found herself labeled a spokeswoman for respect and dignity for transgender
people.
If you would like to bring Ms. Guerrero to your school, please email info@gsanetwork.org.
Sylvia Guerrero's speaking tour is done in collaboration with GLSEN-San Francisco/East Bay and CUAV, and is supported by a grant from the Horizons Foundation - Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
*********************************************
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals
to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and
youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all
kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school.
You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals
we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters,
and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
5. ACTION ALERT: Protest www.4PARENTS.GOV - inaccurate info for LGBT
youth
Recently the US Department of Health and Human Service launched 4PARENTS.GOV.
Despite protests from a wide range of education, youth and sexuality organizations,
the web site continues to encourage parents to pass on incorrect, misleading
and stigmatizing information regarding LGBT health and LGBT families to their
kids. Let Secretary Leavitt know that this is wrong and demand that his Department
change the web site to include accurate information.
Please respond to this action alert by clicking on the following link and sending
a letter to Secretary Leavitt. It is important that he hear from people across
America.
teachrespect.org/proactive/actions/alertsglsen.tool/display?actionid=5961&userid=100065011&org=&-thispage=explination_html
*********************************************
6. (MTV) is looking for "genderqueer" folks to profile for
a documentary.
Viacom (MTV) is launching their own LGBT network, and they're looking for "genderqueer"
folks to profile for a documentary.
It's not actually about genderqueer as an identity -- it's going to follow a
few people who identify as genderqueer, gender fluid, gender non-conforming
and have interesting stuff going on in their lives. They will be telling their
own
stories.
Katy Beekman, LOGO Momentum
770 Broadway, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10003
Office: 212.654.9143
Fax: 212.654.9035
*********************************************
7. PFLAG Event on April 29, 2005 at the Center (San Diego)
Time and Place: 6-10pm at The Center 3909 Centre Street, San Diego, CA 92103
Free Food, Movie, Social time, and Discussions.
Open to all youth and their families.
RSVP to Jennifer DeFeo at mailto:brainsurgeon75@aol.com
The Center OC is pleased to announce the particulars for this years' annual
QUEER YOUTH PROM themed *OUT in Fantasy Land* on Saturday, May 14th from 7p-Midnight...
This is your chance to get out to a prom in a completely accepting
environment with youth up to 29 years old.
Where: Cal State Fullerton, Alumni House
800 N. State College Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92831-3599
We will be having DJ 4 PLAY spinning ALL night... Live Bands and Drag Performances
will be performing on our outside Stage form 8PM-10PM. We will have food with
options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Additionally we will have a Professional Photographer ready to take your pictures
if you so choose!!! Please bring extra money for the photographer ($6-$30 for
a package). All other items mentioned are included in the price of the entry
ticket.
Pre-Sale Tickets: $15 single, $25 per couple
At the Door: $20 per person
If you are interested in purchasing PRE-SALE or for any further information,
questions, etc.... please contact Vanessa at mailto:vlatorre@thecenteroc.org,
call at 714-534-0862 x207 or Brian at mailto:bstires@thecenteroc.org
or 714-534-0862 X 206
This is a not-for-profit event with any proceeds benefiting The Center OC's
Youth Program.
Saturday, April 23rd in San Francisco
Pre-register online at http://www.lyric.org/Unchained05.html
and enter to win an iPod-mini!
Unchained is a hot opportunity for queer youth and their allies of all backgrounds
to connect with their peers in an inclusive and safe space, to build relationships
with other youth, and to gain skills/tools to affect positive change in oneself
and one‚s community. This conference seeks to prioritize youth of color
by developing content that reflects the experiences of their communities.
WHO: Hundreds of LGBTQQ youth 25 & under and their allies (teachers, that
includes you!)
WHAT: 37 workshops, performances by LGBTQ musicians, dancers, poets and
a bangin' after-party with a live band!
WHEN: Saturday, April 23rd, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (conference). 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
(dance, 20 & under)
WHERE: Everett Middle School, 450 Church St., San Francisco, CA 94114
COST: FREE! FREE! FREE! Breakfast and lunch will be provided, featuring everything
from fried chicken to vegetarian fare.
Co-sponsored by GLSEN San Francisco-East Bay, Spectrum, and Billy DeFrank LGBT
Community Center, LYRIC is thrilled to introduce Unchained, a new conference
for 2005! Contact Denny at LYRIC for more information about the conference.
Phone: 415.703.6150 x28 Email: denny@lyric.org
*********************************************
10. Youth Commission is now accepting applications (Contra Costa Countywide)
The Contra Costa Countywide Youth Commission is now accepting applications for
next year. The purpose of the commission is:
to give the youth of Contra Costa County a voice and the power to change their
world and to be contributing citizens; to provide a link between youth and the
Board of Supervisors on issues relating to young people; and to form partnerships
with schools, community-based organizations, government and businesses to cooperatively
address the concerns of young people county wide.
Youth from West and Central county (specifically the north part of central county)
are very under-represented on the commission. Please distribute the application
below to any youth who you feel would be interested.
Their website, http://cyc.typepad.com,
also has the application available and provides more information about the work
that the commission does.
*********************************************
11. NEWS: Hundreds of Placer High students counter protest anti-gay
activists
Hundreds of Placer High students counterprotest anti-gay activists
AUBURN, Calif. (AP) - Hundreds of Placer High School students staged a lunchtime
counterprotest to anti-gay activists who demonstrated with signs proclaiming
homosexuality is a sin.
"I came to school today and saw them with the signs," Torie Stoicich,
15, a sophomore, said Thursday. "It made me upset. It's disgusting."
Anti-gay demonstrator Robert O'Conner from Georgetown said his group is spreading
the word of God. "Basically, we are providing the fundamental word of God,"
he said. "Homosexuality is a sin even though it may be in vogue to support
it."
O'Conner said he and others demonstrated near the school Thursday to counter
Wednesday's "Day of Silence" at the high school, where students said
nothing or taped their mouths as a sign of support for gay and lesbian lifestyles.
Many students Thursday chanted, "Don't hate, tolerate," and "Jesus
loves everyone." Many others watched from afar. Auburn and campus police
stood watch during the demonstrations.
To read the full article:
www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/states/california/northern_california/11404248.htm
*********************************************
12. NEWS: 'Day of Truth' event peaceful in county
'Day of Truth' event peaceful in county
By Leonel Sanchez
SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE
April 15, 2005
Students from Poway and Westview high schools were among those to participate
in an event yesterday designed to counter the annual "Day of Silence"
event held by gay and straight students at many high schools and colleges across
the nation Wednesday.
To read the full article, visit:
www.signonsandiego.com/news/northcounty/20050415-9999-6m15rally.html
*********************************************
13. NEWS: Georgia Board rejects parental OK for after-school activities
Georgia Board rejects requiring parental OK for after-school activities
By MARY MacDONALD
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/14/05
The state Board of Education scuttled the idea Wednesday of requiring parental
permission for high school students to participate in after-school activities.
Some critics had contended the requirement was designed to discourage participation
in gay groups. But, as drafted, it would have affected a wide range of student
activities.
After hearing impassioned arguments for and against the proposal, board members
voted 11-1 to send the proposal back to committee, a procedure that kills the
rule in its current form. Some board members cited logistical problems with
tracking parent permission for the scores of activities at many schools. Others
said the state Department of Education should not be involved in a matter best
handled by local school boards and principals.
Even with parental notification, board member James Bostic Jr. said, parents
might not know what their children are doing.
"As much as I would want to know who my kids' peers are, I'm not going
to know that," he said. "For all the clubs the kids have, I don't
need to know he's in the history club, he's in the Latin club, he's in Future
Farmers of America. When he comes home, I can ask him."
State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox had introduced the policy at the
request of state legislators, who were considering a similar disclosure bill
this session. At Wednesday's meeting, she said the idea was not to squelch student
activities but to make sure parents understood the mission of after-school clubs
and knew whether their children were participating. "It's about parent
participation," she said.
But several state organizations representing teachers, principals, school boards
and superintendents opposed the rule, citing the logistical problems of collecting
written permission slips.
Student athletes are already required to get parent permission, because of
the possibility of injuries. But large high schools often have as many as 100
clubs, critics of the rule said, and it is common for half or more of all students
to be involved in several clubs and organizations.
"Do the math," said Jim Puckett, head of the Georgia Association
of Educational Leaders, a group that represents principals and superintendents.
Neither Cox nor supporters of the notification rule who spoke at the hearing
directly addressed the issue of gay clubs. Those groups are granted the same
status as any other group that meets on school grounds under the federal Equal
Access Act.
Sadie Fields, chairwoman of the Georgia Christian Coalition, said she supported
the proposed rule because it would "uphold the parents' rights to guide
their own children's destiny, according to their values and beliefs."
Parents and students who support Gay-Straight Alliance clubs argued, however,
that parental notification would hurt gay students who have unsupportive families.
The gay support clubs are in more than a dozen public and private schools in
Georgia.
"Not all parents are good, as much as we want to believe that," said
Patti Ellis, a Fayette County mother who said her gay son was bullied by other
students through high school. "Students depend on teachers to be their
advocates."
Micah Weiss, 17, a junior at Grady High School in Atlanta, was among a half-dozen
students at the hearing who wore tape over his mouth as part of the national
"Day of Silence," an event coordinated by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight
Education Network, an advocacy group.
Weiss pulled off the tape and cited the experiences of a gay friend who is
frequently bullied.
"If he had to go home and tell his mother or his father that he was coming
out, I don't think he'd have a place to sleep the night," Weiss said.
Let's make some noise!! Earlier today, hundreds of GSAs in California participated in the Day of Silence. Congrats to everyone who kept their vow of silence all day! Email us with your success stories about the day! info@gsanetwork.org
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Rancho Cotati GSA Defends Day of Silence Against Conservative Club's "Day
of Truth"
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network welcomes NEW Program Coordinators in LA and Fresno
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Orange County, Contra Costa County)
3. FREE SCREENING - The Life of a Gay High School in Texas (San Francisco)
4. BREAK THE SILENCE - Candlelight March (Sacramento)
5. School Safety Grants Available - Proposals Due April 25, 2005
Other Announcements
6. Queer Movie Night for GSAs (Los Angeles)
7. Manual Arts High's Queer Youth of Color Conference (Los Angeles)
8. San Mateo Union High Schools' GSA Conference (Burlingame)
9. Sacramento Regional GSA Dance
10. Queer Alliance at SFSU "7 Inch Heels and a Microphone" Event (SF)
11. "Mouthing Off" LGBT book drive for Fremont High School (Oakland)
12. NEWS: Students protest gay rights in Rohnert Park
13. NEWS: Parental notification rule set for vote in Georgia
14. JOBS: Two positions open with CA Safe Schools Coalition
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Rancho Cotati GSA Defends Day of Silence Against Conservative Club's
"Day of Truth"
Students at Rancho Cotati High School and their allies throughout the Santa
Rosa area have successful countered an effort by the Conservative Club to protest
the Day of Silence. On Wednesday and Thursday last week, the "Conservative
Club" of Rancho Cotati High School put on the "Day of Truth"
in response to the GSA's planned "Day of Silence" on Friday.
The "Day of Truth" protestors wore t-shirts featured slogans such
as "Homosexuality is a sin" and the word "gay" with a big
slash through it. Off-campus, "truth trucks" drove around campus with
hateful anti-gay slogans on them. But the GSA club mobilized to take action!
On Friday, allies from neighboring GSAs and over 300 students from Sonoma State
University showed up to rally behind the GSA and support their Day of Silence.
Danielle Pitt of the Rancho Cotati High School GSA wrote in to tell us about
their successful organizing efforts:
"Because of the conservatives' actions we were able to have the biggest
celebration of Day of Silence ever! (Why we celebrate it early is because we
have always celebrated it on a Friday, due to the fact that more people are
able to participate.)"
GSA Network has been supporting the GSA at Rancho Cotati and is extremely proud
of their organizing efforts. In some ways, the controversy has opened up great
dialogue about LGBT issues on campus. GSA members have observed that students
who were otherwise quiet or non-committal on LGBT issues are now voicing their
support for the GSA.
Congrats to the Rancho Cotati GSA!
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. GSA Network welcomes NEW Program Coordinators in LA and Fresno
GSA Network is thrilled to welcome our 2 newest staff! Sandy Williams joins
our staff as our Southern California Program Coordinator. Robin McGehee joins
our staff as our Central Valley Program Coordinator.
Sandra Williams, the mother of a seventeen year old daughter and a nineteen year old stepson, is an activist, writer and filmmaker, who has an extensive background addressing issues of discrimination, oppression, social justice and multi-culturalism, including five years experience as a Community Organizer and AIDS Prevention Educator in Washington State. Sandra founded and managed the Eastern Washington office of POCAAN (People of Color Against AIDS Network), where she was responsible for providing AIDS prevention and outreach programs to People of Color and the GLTB community. Sandra acted as a grassroots organizer and advocate, building coalitions between social service agencies, People of Color and the GLTB community; developed and conducted workshops, seminars and in-service trainings; created and facilitated support groups; designed publicity campaigns; and served on numerous boards, coalitions, task forces and advisory panels at the local, state and national level. Sandra received her bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology from Washington State University, and moved to Los Angeles to attend The University of California School of Cinema/Television where she received her Master's Degree in Film/Television Production. Her intention was, and continues to be, utilizing the mediums of Film and Television as a tool for activism and social justice. Sandra's advanced student project was a documentary film about the issues facing children of gay/lesbian parents, entitled CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE. The film has screened at schools, churches, community organizations and film festivals around the world. While in Los Angeles, Sandra has volunteered in outreach efforts for Unity Fellowship Church, targeting People of Color and the GLTB community, and for the past three years has been a public speaker with GLIDE (Gays and Lesbians Initiating Dialogue for Equality), in an effort to combat homophobia. She is committed to the work of empowering youth and young adults in an effort bring about both individual and social transformation.
Robin McGehee, a transplant from Jackson, Mississippi, has focused her activism
around issues of religious persecution. Ms. McGehee received her M.A. in Speech
Communication from California State University, Fresno. She is an instructor
at College of the Sequoias and believes strongly that "When we Speak, We
Shape the World!" At COS, one of her duties include, serving as Pride Club
advisor for a student group which focuses on mentoring students to "Speak
Out" and shape the world in a positive way. In 2001, McGehee was honored
with the Martin Luther King, Jr. award for her work with Youth Empowerment.
She has served as Outreach Director for Fresno REEL Pride for two years and
now works as their Development Director handling sponsorships and grant proposals.
As Outreach Director she helped raise funds for community outreach projects,
including REEL Pride in the Arts -- a student film contest. She is the chair
of the Committee on Reconciliation at Wesley United Methodist Church and is
currently working on a community activist project, "Love Welcomes All"
to address the debate around sexuality and spirituality. In her free time she
enjoys traveling and spending time with her partner and 2 year old son, Sebastian.
**********************************************
2. Upcoming GSA Leadership Trainings (Orange County, Contra Costa County)
GSA Leadership Training (Orange County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: April 23rd 2005, 10:00-4:00
(Meals provided)
WHERE: The Center OC, 12800 Garden Grove Blvd, Suite F, Garden Grove, CA
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: The Center OC, GLSEN OC, Orange County HRC
GSA Network Leadership Trainings are aimed towards helping students in GSAs
build their skills.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Sandy Williams, GSA Network Southern CA Program Coordinator, at
213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org
or
Dave Hart, The Center OC, (714) 534-0862
GSA Leadership Training (West Contra Costa County)
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: April 30th 2005, 10:00-4:00
(Meals provided)
WHERE: Familias Unidas---West Contra Costa County/3607 MacDonald Ave. Richmond,
CA
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: Familias Unidas, GLSEN/SF-EBay, Center for Human Development
GSA Network Leadership Trainings are aimed towards helping students in GSAs
build their skills.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
3. FREE SCREENING - The Life of a Gay High School in Texas (San Francisco)
Frameline at The Center Presents
School's Out: The Life of a Gay High School in Texas
(Free Screenings for the Community)
WHEN: Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 7:30pm
WHERE: San Francisco LGBT Community Center
1800 Market Street @ Octavia
Please arrive early as seating is limited.
Co-presented by A&PI Wellness Center, AQU25A, Dimensions Clinic, GSA Network,
Larkin Street Youth Services, LYRIC and Youth Gender Project.
If being gay and closeted in high school seems tough enough, try being a 17-year-old
pre-operative transsexual junior. As one of only three schools in the country
with curricula specifically designed for LGBT students, Walt Whitman Community
School in Dallas truly places its students' welfare first. Confronting great
odds, these young queers step up to the plate for themselves and each other.
School's Out (Jeremy Simmons, 2002) is intense and ultimately inspiring.
Don't miss this special FREE screening of this poignant film followed by panel
discussion!
With generous support from the National Endowment for the Arts, Frameline proudly
presents admission-free screenings at the San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
and Transgender Community Center at 7:30pm on the second Thursday of every month
throughout 2005. Please join us for the inaugural season of Frameline at The
Center, a provocative series of films and discussions focusing on social issues
of particular relevance to the LGBT community.
*********************************************
4. BREAK THE SILENCE - Candlelight March (Sacramento)
Day of Silence Vigil / March to the Capitol TONIGHT!
Please join the Sacramento Regional Gay Straight Alliance along with the Lambda
Community Center, GLSEN Greater Sacramento, Sacramento Stonewall Democrats,
and the GSA Network tomorrow, Wednesday, April 13 at 6:30 pm at the Lambda Community
Center, 1927 L Street for a candlelight vigil / March to the Capitol on the
Day of Silence. Please come and show your support for all those who have experienced
or been affected by a hate crime as members of the LGBT community and who were
unable to speak out in their own defense. On our way to the Capitol We will
be making a quick stop at the Department of Education to honor those in K-12
schools who may never be able to speak for themselves, to bring about awareness
to the ongoing problem of discrimination and harassment of LGBT persons in our
schools.
The Day of Silence, a project of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network
(GLSEN) in collaboration with the United States Student Association (USSA),
is a student-led day of action where those who support making anti-LGBT bias
unacceptable in schools take a day-long vow of silence to recognize and protest
the discrimination and harassment -- in effect, the silencing -- experienced
by LGBT students and their allies.
*********************************************
5. School Safety Grants Available - Proposals Due April 25, 2005
The California Safe Schools Coalition (CSSC), a partnership of organizations
and individuals dedicated to eliminating discrimination and harassment against
students who are or are perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender,
is offering monetary grants up to $2,500 to local individuals and organizations
that are working to protect California students from harassment and discrimination
based on sexual orientation and gender identity in K-12 schools. GSA Network
is a co-founder and co-leader of the California Safe Schools Coalition.
The Coalition invites and seeks diverse applicants. Individuals or organizations
that are located in rural areas or that address the needs of students of color
and/or transgender or gender non-conforming youth are encouraged to apply.
The simple application is available at www.casafeschools.org. Proposals must
be mailed or e-mailed by April 25, 2005.
If you have any questions, please contact Bob Kim (mailto:bob@pluribusconsulting.com)
or Molly O'Shaughnessy, Director, CSSC, (mailto:molly@casafeschools.org).
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
6. Queer Movie Night for GSAs (Los Angeles)
Queer Movie Night!
As part of the queer film series at Crossroads, sponsored by FLAG (our gay/straight
alliance), we will be having our next movie screening on Wednesday, April 20th,
from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. We invite you to join us!
We'll be screening the great feature film All Over Me, and the hilarious short
film Boy Next Door. This is a special screening since the director of one of
the films will be there with us!
All students and faculty from Gay/Straight alliances and their friends are
welcome. It's a great way to meet new friends, or see old ones.
The movie is free and free pizza and drinks will be provided! RSVP's are required.
For more info, you can reach us at flag2@xrds.org
*********************************************
7. Manual Arts High's Queer Youth of Color Conference (Los Angeles)
Manual Arts High School's Project 10 &
qycca (queer youth of color for community action)
invite you to...It's All About Love
Youth Conference
"bringing 'da' fourth to you"
a day for
lesbian gay bisexual transgender same gender loving queer questioning
youth of color & allies to come together
& let the world have it...
When: Saturday, April 23, 2005
Where: Manual Arts High School, 4131 South Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90037
Time: 9:00a - 5:30p
Cost: Free to all Participants
Breakfast & Lunch Provided
Workshops for Youth, Parents, Teachers and Community Organizers
TO REGISTER (Provide name, organization, and number of people) OR ASK QUESTIONS:
Contact us @: 323/823-1257 or email: mailto:qyccaorg@yahoo.com
*********************************************
8. San Mateo Union High Schools' GSA Conference (Burlingame)
Saturday, April 30th Conference for San Mateo Union High School District GSA's
Peninsula
Capuchino
Mills
Burlingame
San Mateo
Hillsdale
and
Aragon High Schools...
...are meeting at Burlingame High School in the Art Room to hear speakers,
share progress, plan goals, eat lunch in the park and socialize. Conference
starts at 10 am. Lunch and socializing at 12:30 in the adjacent park. Lunch
generously provided by PFLAG.
*********************************************
9. Sacramento Regional GSA Dance
Dance, Dance, Dance!
Save This Date for a Sacramento Regional GSA Dance: May 7 at Hiram Johnson High
School! The Sacramento Regional GSA is sponsoring a GSA Dance on Saturday, May
7 from 7 to 11 pm. Last year’s dance was a huge success, and we look forward
to another great evening. This will be a dance for high school students. Stay
tuned for more information on tickets and details from Sac Regional GSA.
Sac City College’s Spring Fling Dance is scheduled for Friday April 22
from 9 to midnight in the Student Center at Sac City College, 3835 Freeport
Boulevard. Cost: $10 single, $15 couple (ADVANCE); $20 single, $25 couple (AT
THE DOOR). This event it for EVERYONE! Radio station 107.9 FM will provide the
DJ and there will also be food and a photographer. Sponsored by the Sac City
College Associated Student Alliance (ASA) and the Queer Straight Alliance (QSA).
Please contact Eddie, QSA Vice President, at mailto:tomsawyer3000@yahoo.com
if you need tickets or more information.
The Queer Alliance at San Francisco State University presents their
fifth annual "7 Inch Heels and a Microphone" event, a cabaret and
art show benefiting the Cindy Kolb AIDS Fund and the Queer
Alliance, on Tuesday, April 26 at 6:00pm in Jack Adams Hall at
SFSU. Performers include Juanita MORE!, Donna Sachet, Suppositori
Spelling, Transition, Harlem Shake Burlesque, and MC Mistress
Morgana. For information call (415) 999-1356 or email
cour34@hotmail.com
back to top
*********************************************
11. "Mouthing Off" LGBT book drive for Fremont High School
(Oakland)
Hi All,
You are receiving this e-mail because we would like to work with you. We are
Mouthing Off, the queer
alliance on campus at Mills College, and we are holding a book drive to enhance
Fremont
High's library resources. This project was borne of a desire to do
outreach to queer students at Fremont (a gsa had been formed there in
the past, and has since disbanded). Unfortunately, due to time and
money constraints we had to be creative with our method of outreach.
So, after a former alum (who helped to establish the gsa) informed us
that their library was lacking in terms of books dealing with queer
issues we decided on a book drive.
We would like to extend an invitation to you all to participate in this
project with us. We realize that too often clubs fail to work together
towards common goals so we are very interested in collaborating with
all who are willing. Of course this opens the book drive up to
incorporating books dealing with any and all identity-based issues and
would thus serve to enhance the library in many more ways than we
initially imagined.
If you are interested in participating here is what we need:
word-of-mouth publicity- tell your friends, your teachers, those in your
club(s). Tell them that we want books. Books that they feel were
especially helpful to them, books that address issues or concerns
important to them, or books that they loved or that still resonate with
them in some way are all useful. We need fiction, non-fiction,
academic, biography, art books, etc. If they don't want to get rid of
their books encourage them to buy used copies to give. Remind them
that the end of the semester is upon us and instead of selling their
used books they can donate them.
If you are interested in helping please let me know. If you aren't then
please pass this information along to others who may be. Thank you so
much for your time and consideration.
Tiffany Bennett
Mouthing Off
sweetcaroiine@hotmail.com
*********************************************
12. NEWS: Students protest gay rights in Rohnert Park
Students protest gay rights
2 counterprotesters arrested during lunchtime rally outside Rohnert Park high
school
Thursday, April 7, 2005
By ROBERT DIGITALE
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT
Under the watchful eye of police officers and media cameras, the student leader
of Rancho Cotate High School's controversial Conservative Club led an off-campus
protest Wednesday against gay rights.
Tim Bueler, 18, president of the club and the related High School Conservative
Clubs of America, joined about a dozen protesters in a lunchtime demonstration
across the street from the Rohnert Park school.
Bueler, who last year drew nationwide attention after starting the Conservative
Club and claiming liberal bias in the classroom, called the demonstration "a
day to stand up for God's truth." He said it was organized to protest a
planned event Friday by the school's Gay-Straight Alliance Club.
Senior Christina Morey, president of the Gay-Straight Alliance, said Wednesday's
anti-gay demonstration is proof that efforts to promote tolerance of alternative
lifestyles are needed.
To read the full article, visit:
www1.pressdemocrat.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050407/NEWS/504070334/1033/NEWS01
*********************************************
13. NEWS: Parental notification rule set for vote in Georgia
Parental notification rule set for vote
Critics say broad measure harmful to gay students
Southern Voice
By DYANA BAGBY
Friday, April 08, 2005The Georgia Department of Education is poised to approve
a sweeping statewide policy that may be the first in the nation mandating that
parents sign permission slips before students can join school-sponsored clubs.
Critics assail the proposal as an effort to discriminate against students seeking
to join gay-straight alliances, an effort that has gained widespread attention
recently at high schools in Gwinnett and White counties.
But supporters of the proposal argue that a parental notification rule ensures
that parents or guardians are involved in the education of their children.
The state Board of Education will hold a public hearing April 13 on the parental
notification proposal, with a vote scheduled for April 14. If approved, the
policy would take effect with the start of the 2005-06 school year.
“You can call it other things, but this is simply bowing to political pressure to stop their child from participating in a GSA,” said Edward Gray, executive director of YouthPride, a gay youth organization.
To read the full article, visit:
www.southernvoice.com/2005/4-8/news/localnews/critics.cfm
*********************************************
14. JOBS: Two positions open with CA Safe Schools Coalition
Job Description
Director, California Safe Schools Coalition
Full time position, based in San Francisco
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is seeking
an experienced leader to provide financial management, fundraising, personnel
management, media relations, public policy advocacy, and coalition building
with a broad community of groups and advocates engaged in creating safer school
environments for LGBT youth. The Director will report to the Executive Committee
of the Coalition's Steering Committee.
Responsibilities will include:
- Directly managing one staff person as well as consultants, interns etc.
- Providing leadership to Coalition's Steering Committee: recruiting and orienting
new members; managing membership, meetings and subcommittees; developing agenda
for monthly teleconferences and semi-annual meetings
- Working with the Coalition's Executive Committee on vision and strategic planning
for the Coalition
- Providing leadership, organization, direction, motivation and staff support
to Coalition sub-committees on training, curriculum, research, state advocacy,
gender identity, and resource development
- Managing organizational finances, together with fiscal sponsor organization;
budget management and financial reporting
- Managing the office and all administrative functions for the organization
- Fundraising, developing grant proposals and preparing grant reports
- Managing the Coalition web site and overseeing all written materials, publications
and communications
- Conducting statewide media outreach: develop messages, write press releases,
pitch stories, help Coalition members to effectively use media
- Leading Coalition's policy advocacy efforts by building relationships with
key policymakers, staff and stakeholders; representing Coalition in education
policy conversations, support and coordinate advocacy efforts of Coalition members
- Representing the Coalition as a spokesperson in the media, at conferences
and at public events
- Providing leadership to research team, including survey design and administration,
report writing, and follow up outreach in order to improve understanding of
harassment and discrimination in school and effective ways to improve school
safety
Desired skills and experience:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience managing people, money and systems
- Skills in relationship building and outreach
- Experience with state-level public policy advocacy
- Experience with foundation fundraising and grant reporting
- Ability to work with diverse constituencies and interests
- Solid knowledge of basic office technology, web skills a plus
- Bilingual English/Spanish a plus
Other information:
- Some travel within CA will be required
- This is a full-time exempt position, based in San Francisco
- Salary range: $48,000-$50,000 per year plus excellent benefits
- The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is an
equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications from
women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals, and
people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
- To apply, email resume and cover letter to search@casafeschools.org no later
than Friday, April 29.
- No calls, please.
****************
Job Description
Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
Full time position, based in San Francisco
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is seeking
an experienced professional to conduct statewide outreach, organizing, technical
assistance and communications with a broad community of groups and advocates
engaged in creating safer school environments for LGBT youth. The Outreach and
Communications Coordinator will report to the Director and will provide support
for organizing and managing the Coalition.
Responsibilities will include:
- Building on existing networks to increase the membership base of the Coalition
statewide: targeting and reaching out to potential new members, following up
with new members to orient them to the Coalition
- Connecting members to the Coalition and to each other through regular e-mail
and web communications; facilitating the sharing of resources and information;
helping produce monthly - - Coalition newsletter; updating and maintaining web
site; organizing topical statewide conference calls for members
- Helping to develop tools for local activists, like training resources, a campaign
guide, a media kit; work with local members to tailor Coalition tools to their
needs
- Managing and facilitating work of Coalition committees responsible for training,
mini-grants program, and resource development; scheduling meetings, organizing
follow-up work, coordinating among committees and staff
- Providing ongoing technical assistance to local safe schools efforts across
California: supporting the development of regional Coalitions; assisting advocates
with strategy, organizing, communications needs; connecting local advocates
to resources and expertise of statewide Coalition
- Managing database of members and tracking local school safety efforts across
the state
- Representing the Coalition at meetings, conferences, and trainings statewide
- Performing any other tasks or projects as required
Desired skills and experience:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Detail-oriented
- Outreach or community organizing experience
- Training experience a plus
- Ability to work with diverse constituencies and interests
- Solid knowledge of basic office technology, web skills a plus
- Bilingual English/Spanish a plus
- Should have access to a car and be covered by name on the insurance policy
Other information:
- Some travel within CA will be required
- This is a full-time exempt position, based in San Francisco
- Salary range: $36,000-$38,000 per year plus benefits
- The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is an
equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications from
women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals, and
people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
- To apply, email resume and cover letter to search@casafeschools.org no later
than Friday, April 29.
- No calls, please.
********
About the California Safe Schools Coalition
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is a statewide
partnership of organizations and individuals dedicated to eliminating discrimination
and harassment on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender
identity in California schools. Our chief goal is to ensure the effective and
comprehensive implementation of the California Student Safety and Violence Prevention
Act of 2000 by:
- Gaining a comprehensive understanding of discrimination and harassment in
California schools and evaluating efforts to prevent and remedy this discrimination
and harassment.
- Holding the State of California accountable for providing a safe school environment
for all students and for implementing the California Student Safety and Violence
Prevention Act of 2000 in every school.
- Spreading quality training and education to more local school districts and
empowering local activists to advocate more effectively for change.
Members of the California Safe Schools Coalition include the American Civil
Liberties Union of Northern California, the American Civil Liberties Union of
Southern California, the Anti-Defamation League, the California Teachers Association,
Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere, Equality California, the Gay, Lesbian
and Straight Education Network, Gay-Straight Alliance Network, the L.A. Gay
& Lesbian Center, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Parents, Families
and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), the Respect for All Project, the San
Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center, the Transgender
Law Center, and many more.
For more information, see www.casafeschools.org
--
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Another Year of Bold Expression
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network welcomes NEW Operations Director Justin Probert
2. FREE SCREENING - The Life of a Gay High School in Texas (San Francisco)
3. DAY OF SILENCE - One week Away!
4. Ensuring the Safety of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students"
5. School Safety Grants Available - Proposals Due April 25, 2005
Other Announcements
6. 8th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards (Santa Cruz County)
7. Trans and Queer Youth Workers' Rights Training (San Francisco)
8. OUTSPOKEN - YouthAware Educational Theatre (San Francisco)
9. Love Welcomes All - Reconciling Conference (Fresno)
10. Youthaction's 4th annual National Gathering for Youth Organizing (Seattle)
11. "Spring Fling Dance" (Sacramento)
12. Scholarship: Queer Asian & Pacific Islander Pride Scholarship (Bay Area)
13. Scholarship: New Scholarship Fund for Deaf Queer Youth!
14. Scholarship: PFLAG offers its $1000 Follansbee Scholarship (Sacramento)
15. Scholarship: Sisterhood Fund - $1000
16. NEWS: H.S. Conservative Club "Day of Truth" to protest "Day
of Silence
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Another Year of Bold Expression
Our third Expression Not Suppression Conference was a huge success. With less
than 3 months of planning we had a turn out of 75+ people for this years Central
Valley LGBTQ youth conference. With eight dynamic youth-led workshops including
"Gay Marriage," "Transgender 101," "How to Do Drag,"
and "The Joys of Queer Sex" the day was a smash hit.
Starting with "Stonewall" students learned the history of drag, famous influences in the drag community and the legends of Fresno drag while workshop participant Alan, a 13 year old straight ally, was chosen to get an on the spot make-over. After getting the "works" which included foundation, eyelashes, lip gloss and a blonde wig to top it off, Alan replied "I really liked it. I thought it would be scary but it wasn't".
The night ended with pizza, poetry, and a hot drag show. Honored with performances by reigning Empress #31 Tawny Towers and Empress #30 Heaven Nicole many of the planning committee members also performed and were then joined on the floor to dance the night away.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++\
1. GSA Network welcomes NEW Operations Director Justin
Probert
Previously, he was Director of Operations at A Home Away From Homelessness,
an organization serving homeless and formerly homeless youth. Justin has over
ten years of experience in the nonprofit sector focused on fundraising and organizational
capacity-building efforts. He concluded an eight-year tenure at the Tides Center
in 2003 as their Senior Coordinator for New Projects, administering their intake
functions. Justin serves as board member and advisor for a variety of community-based
organizations working with the homeless, immigrants and youth populations. He
is currently the Treasurer and Chair of the Fundraising Committee of Justice
for New Americans Foundation, which advocates for the civil rights of immigrant
citizens.
During his high school years, Justin was influenced by the underground dance music scene, and began to wear makeup and earrings (which were not very popular things to do in the early 1980s suburban community where he was raised). As a result, he faced threats of violence at school and was often labeled as gay, weak, and other supposedly derogative terms. This only reinforced his own beliefs about how restrictive traditional gender roles are and it prodded him to continue to push the boundaries of what it means to be a straight male that does not conform to society's expectations. He remains highly committed to supporting the LGBTQQ community and is very excited about his new role at GSA Network. Justin received his Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences from California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo in 1993.
**********************************************
2. FREE SCREENING - The Life of a Gay High School in Texas (San Francisco)
Frameline at The Center Presents
School's Out: The Life of a Gay High School in Texas
(Free Screenings for the Community)
WHEN: Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 7:30pm
WHERE: San Francisco LGBT Community Center
1800 Market Street @ Octavia
Please arrive early as seating is limited.
Co-presented by A&PI Wellness Center, AQU25A, Dimensions Clinic, GSA Network,
Larkin Street Youth Services, LYRIC and Youth Gender Project.
If being gay and closeted in high school seems tough enough, try being a 17-year-old
pre-operative transsexual junior. As one of only three schools in the country
with curricula specifically designed for LGBT students, Walt Whitman Community
School in Dallas truly places its students' welfare first. Confronting great
odds, these young queers step up to the plate for themselves and each other.
School's Out (Jeremy Simmons, 2002) is intense and ultimately inspiring.
Don't miss this special FREE screening of this poignant film followed
by panel discussion!
With generous support from the National Endowment for the Arts, Frameline proudly
presents admission-free screenings at the San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
and Transgender Community Center at 7:30pm on the second Thursday of every month
throughout 2005. Please join us for the inaugural season of Frameline at The
Center, a provocative series of films and discussions focusing on social issues
of particular relevance to the LGBT community.
*********************************************
3. DAY OF SILENCE - One week Away!
Over 200,000 students across the country participated last year. Join the movement! Send us your stories. What's happening on your campus for Day of Silence?
Candlelight march in Sacramento--Day of Silence
On Wednesday, April 13 at 6:30 pm, the Lambda Community Center, GLSEN Greater
Sacramento, the Sacramento Regional GSA, and the GSA Network are hosting a candlelight
vigil / March to the Capitol on the Day of Silence. Please come and show your
support for all those who have experienced or been affected by a hate crime
as members of the LGBT community and who were unable to speak out in their own
defense. Join us at the Lambda Community Center, 1927 L St. in midtown Sacramento,
and walk with us to the Capitol. We will be making a quick stop at the Department
of Education to honor those in K-12 schools who may never be able to speak for
themselves, to bring about awareness to the ongoing problem of discrimination
and harassment of LGBT persons in our schools. For more info, please call the
Lambda Community Center at 916-442-0185.
This year, the Day of Silence takes place on April 13, 2005. To register, please visit the Day of Silence website at www.dayofsilence.org
Also, check out GSA Network's organizing guide for Day of Silence at www.gsanetwork.org/resources/dos.html
Let us know what you're doing for the Day of Silence and your GSA could get
highlighted in an upcoming issue of GSA Network News!!
*********************************************
4. "Ensuring the Safety of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming
Students"
Please join us for our first Virtual Safe Schools Workshop: "TRANSFORMING YOUR SCHOOL: Ensuring the Safety of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students"
Monday, April 11, 4:00-5:30pm
Hey GSA leaders, advisors, and youth service providers. Interested is doing gender Idenity activism in your school? This virtual workshop will be a great companion to GSA Networks "Beyond the Binary" manual. See manual on line. www.gsanetwork.org/BeyondtheBinary/toolkit.html.
The California Safe Schools Coalition is introducing a regular series of topic-specific statewide conference calls, open to all Coalition members, educators, safe schools advocates and allies. Please join us for these opportunities to hear about the latest safe schools victories, legal developments, new resources, and successful strategies for improving school safety for LGBT students. Each conference call will include presentations by Coalition members experienced in the topic at hand as well as ample time for questions, discussion, and sharing of information.
This interactive conference call workshop will include presentations from Chris Daley of the Transgender Law Center, Jody Marksamer of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and Carolyn Laub of GSA Network. Discussion will cover safety concerns for transgender and gender non-conforming students, legal requirements for schools, new school district policies addressing practical safety concerns, and strategies for making change in your community. Use this workshop to develop your ideas for a school safety project focusing on gender identity, and apply for the Coalition's 2005-2006 Mini-Grants! For more info, visit: www.casafeschools.org
For dial-in information, please RSVP to Molly O'Shaughnessy atmailto:molly@casafeschools.org.
*********************************************
5. School Safety Grants Available - Proposals Due April 25, 2005
The California Safe Schools Coalition (CSSC), a partnership of organizations and individuals dedicated to eliminating discrimination and harassment against students who are or are perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, is offering monetary grants up to $2,500 to local individuals and organizations that are working to protect California students from harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in K-12 schools. GSA Network is a co-founder and co-leader of the California Safe Schools Coalition.
The Coalition invites and seeks diverse applicants. Individuals or organizations
that are located in rural areas or that address the needs of students of color
and/or transgender or gender non-conforming youth are encouraged to apply.
The simple application is available at www.casafeschools.org. Proposals must
be mailed or e-mailed by April 25, 2005.
If you have any questions, please contact Bob Kim (mailto:bob@pluribusconsulting.com) or Molly O'Shaughnessy, Director, CSSC, (mailto:molly@casafeschools.org).
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
6. 8th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards (Santa Cruz County)
Sunday, April 17th
4:00 pm - 6:30 pm Variety Show and Awards Ceremony
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Buffet / Refreshments / Social
Santa Cruz High School Auditorium
415 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Please join the queer & queer-friendly community of Santa Cruz County
as they honor Queer Youth Leaders And Their Allies in these categories: The
Queer Youth Leadership Award; The Allies to Queer Youth Award; and The Organizational
Alliance to Queer Youth Award.
FREE tickets to GSA members in the Bay Area!
If your GSA would like to travel to Santa Cruz and attend this community
event, you and your friends would be honored guest and we are offering
them FREE tickets to off-set the gas/travel expenses.
Please contact us in advance for arrangements at qytf@diversitycenter.org
or (831) 427-4004.
Info: www.diversitycenter.org/qytf/2005qyla
Produced by the Santa Cruz County Task Force for LGBTIQ Youth, affiliated with the Diversity Center, a community center serving the LGBTIQ community of Santa Cruz county.
*********************************************
7. Trans and Queer Youth Workers' Rights Training (San Francisco)
Come to a free workshop
by Shelley Gregory of the
Transgender Workers' Rights Project
Wednesday April 6th 4:30-6:00pm
LYRIC 127 Collingwood Street at 18th (One block off Castro near 18th, MUNI
lines 24, 33, F, K, L and M)
Learn about your right… not to be discriminated against or harassed
*to be addressed by your preferred name and pronoun
*to dress in a manner consistent with your gender identity
*to safe restrooms
*not to be retaliated against
Open to all trans, queer, and questioning young people 25 and under.
There will be PIZZA too!!!
*********************************************
8. OUTSPOKEN - YouthAware Educational Theatre (San Francisco)
Paid Workshop for Youth in San Francisco
Saturday April 16th from 1:30 - 5:30pm
The New Conservatory Theatre Center is looking for young people
ages 13 - 18 to participate in a special workshop to help us create our newest
YouthAware Educational Theatre Program, OutSpoken. It's a spin-off
of our tolerance program for teens, The Other Side of the Closet,
which will further explore the different reasons young people feel ostracized
today by society and their peers. The afternoon will include theatre games,
improvisation, and focused writing exercises designed to generate new material
about the issues that teens face daily, including race, religion, sexual orientation,
body image, violence and peer pressure. Award winning playwright Prince Gomovilas
and theatre educator Jade Raybin will facilitate.
OutSpoken Workshop Saturday April 16th 1:30pm - 5:30pm
The New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness Avenue at Market St.
We are easily accessible by BART and MUNI.
All workshop participants will be compensated with lunch, a $25 stipend and
an opportunity to join a FREE 4 week theatre group this summer which will culminate
in preview performances of Outspoken. No prior theatre experience is necessary,
just a strong opinion and a willingness to be heard.
If you are interested, please send an email with the following
information to <mailto:sara@nctcsf.org>sara@nctcsf.org
, and please type "OutSpoken Spring Workshop" in the subject line:
*Name
*Address
*Home Phone
*Age
*School Name & Your Grade
Also please take a moment to answer these questions:
1) Has there ever been a time when you were treated badly only because of who
you are?
2) How did this make you feel and how did you react?
3) What is the main issue concerning you at school or at home right now and
WHY?
www.nctcsf.org/YouthAware.html
l*********************************************
9. Love Welcomes All - Reconciling Conference (Fresno)
Wesley United Methodist Church
1343 East Barstow Avenue, Fresno, 93710
phone: 559-224-1947
http://wesleyfresno.org/reconciling.html
www.lovewelcomesall.com
speechadvice@yahoo.com
Come and join the Love Welcomes All committee in welcoming Dr. Mary Tolbert, Mary Lou and Bob Wallner and Dr. Karen Oliveto to an exciting opportunity to understand the debate between sexuality and spirituality.
These and many more questions will be addressed during this three-day celebration
of "Love Welcomes All"...
"Does God really hate gay people?"
"Is there such a thing as a Gay Christian?"
"Isn't God's grace available to everyone?"
"What would Jesus do?"
Friday, April 22, 6:45-9pm - FREE to ALL - This event will begin with a keynote
speaker discussing the ethical responsiblity of interpreting The Bible.
Saturday, April 23, 830am-4pm - $15-20 fee, BUT scholarships are available
We will offer workshops throughout the day that address how to offer support
for the LGBTQ community, examine the issue of gay marriage, focus on sexuality,
as well as offer the opportunity to build connectionand coalition.
Workshop topics include,
*Someone I love is Gay
*Straight thinking about Gay marriage
*Understanding the underlying gender issues of homophobia and responding to
anti-gay marriage
*Getting it Straight; what the research states about the LGBT community and
outreach tips thatteachers/counselors/pastors/family members or friends should
know
*The voice; the pain and the scream of the ex-gay movement
*Why is what they're teaching so dangerous? How should we respond? How can we
stop the suffering?
Sunday, April 24 with Rev. Dr. Karen Oliveto - FREE TO ALL
8:30am-9:30am - service
9:45am-10:30 - question and answer
11:00am-12:00pm - service
*********************************************
10. Youthaction's 4th annual National Gathering for Youth Organizing
(Seattle)
WHEN: May 26-29, 2005 - Seattle Wa (Applications must be received by April 15th)
WHO: Youth ages 13-19, Youth organizers, Intermeddiaries, Allies, Funders &
anyone who wants to learn about youth organizing.
Questions or to apply call 505-873-3345 or email: roberto@youthaction.net
*********************************************
11. "Spring Fling Dance" (Sacramento)
Presented by Sacramento City College
WHERE: Sac City College - Student Center
WHEN: April 22, 2005 / 9:00 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Cost in Advance: $10 single / $15 Couple
Cost at the door: $20 single / $25 Couple
Who: This event is for everyone
DJ provided by Connections and there will be food and a photographer. This event is sponsored by The Queer Straight Alliance an The Sac City Associated Student Government
*********************************************
12. Scholarship: Queer Asian & Pacific Islander Pride Scholarship
(Bay Area)
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center presents
THE 2005 QUEER ASIAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP
Are you...
- In need of money to help pay for your education?
- Asian or Pacific Islander (including South Asians & West Asians)?
- Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQQ)?
- 22 years old or younger?
- Living in the San Francisco Bay Area (Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa,
Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, San Francisco or San Mateo county)?
- A high school senior, high school graduate, have your GED or attending college?
If you answered "YES" to all of the above, this Scholarship is for YOU!
Edward Cheng Ming Tang, a generous and conscientious Chinese gay man, wishes to help you to achieve educational pursuits and dreams, proudly and without shame. In partnership with Peninsula Community Foundation, this fund awards scholarships totaling $16,000 to deserving applicants, with the goal of eradicating the isolation, invisibility, homophobia and heterosexism faced by thousands of A&PI queer and questioning youth in the Bay Area and beyond.
To obtain the application, go to: www.apiwellness.org/v20/youth/application.html
The application is due MAY 31, 2005 @ 5PM via mail or in person.
If you have any questions or need help with the application, please contact:
Bryant Tan, AQU25A Program Coordinator
bryant@apiwellness.org
(415) 292-3420 x315
730 Polk Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
*********************************************
13. Scholarship: New Scholarship Fund for Deaf Queer Youth!
The Deaf Queer Resource Center Announces New Scholarship Fund for Deaf Queer Youth!
The Deaf Queer Resource Center is proud to announce the establishment of the
Deaf Queer Youth Scholarship Fund, a new fund that awards monetary scholarships
to deserving self-identified Deaf Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex
college-bound youth.
www.deafqueer.org/communities/youth/scholarships/index.html
"The main purpose of the fund is to identify, support and empower the
next
generation of Deaf Queer youth by recognizing and celebrating their achievements,"
said Dragonsani Renteria, Director of the Deaf Queer Resource Center. "We
are especially interested in supporting Deaf Queer youth who have shown a commitment
to creating social change."
The initial scholarships will be offered in the amounts of $250 to $500 each. In order to be considered for a scholarship, applicants must be under 25 years of age, be enrolled in high school or college, have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or better, and submit a written or video essay and other supporting documentation.
The deadline to apply is July 15, 2005.
Deaf Queer youth of color are especially encouraged to apply.
*********************************************
14. Scholarship: PFLAG offers its $1000 Follansbee Scholarship (Sacramento)
Sacramento PFLAG offers its $1000 Follansbee Scholarship to a graduating senior
from the Sacramento area who self-identifies as LGBT, who has applied to an
accredited 2- or 4-year institution of higher education, and who has demonstrated
an interest in service to the LGBT community. Go to GLSEN-GSAC's home page at
www.geocities.com/sacglsen and click on a link for
an application. Applications must be postmarked no later than May 2.
*********************************************
15. Scholarship: Sisterhood Fund - $1000
The Women's Foundation of California partnered with the Women's Network Employee
Association at PG&E offers educational scholarships to young women in our
Sisterhood Fund, in the amount of $1000 each. This year, we are partnering again
and are opening the applicant pool to all young women (up to the age of 22)
who are affiliated with the Foundation through our grant partner organizations.
Attached is the application form -- applications are due, Friday, April
29th. Answers to the questions should be limited to 2 pages, and completed
applications must be mailed to me at: 340 Pine Street, Suite 302, San Francisco,
CA 94104.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Ten (10) scholarships will be awarded on June 2, 2005.
*********************************************
16. NEWS: H.S. Conservative Club "Day of Truth" to protest
"Day of Silence"
High School Conservative Club and GayMarriageNo.org schedule "Day of Truth" to protest school-sanctioned special privileges for homosexual activists
Rohnert Park, CA -- On April 6 & 7, High School Conservative Clubs of America (HSCCA) will join with GayMarriageNo.org for their first annual "Day of Truth."
The event is in response to the annual school-approved, pro-homosexual "Day of Silence" (April 13), a project of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and United States Student Association (USSA).
During the "Day of Silence" students take a day-long vow of silence to recognize and protest perceived discrimination and alleged harassment of homosexual, bisexual and transgender students. "Day of Silence" is approved by school administrators, and was reportedly observed by an estimated 200,000 students at 2,000 schools in 2004.
"Day of Truth" will begin with student activists from the Rancho Cotate High School Conservative Club -- HSCCA's first chartered club -- wearing sweatshirts which read, "No Gay" in front, and "Homosexuality is Sin" on the back, with scriptural references which reflect biblical admonitions against homosexuality.
Conservative Club members will distribute literature about the dangers of the homosexual lifestyle choice -- a choice which some students are misled into thinking is glamorous. Club members are instructed not to remove their sweatshirts during the two days of protest, no matter what school authorities say, even if this means threatened suspension or other attacks by school officials.
The two day long rally is scheduled for an hour beginning at noon on both days. Christian students, parents and teachers will meet across the street from Rancho Cotate High School with pro-family, pro-marriage signs. GayMarriageNo.org will be driving "truth trucks," which reference biblical scripture on the issue of homosexuality.
Conservative students believe that the "Day of Silence" must be vigorously and publicly opposed because the radical homosexual agenda is spreading rapidly throughout our schools.
According to HSCCA President Tim Bueler, "Today's sex-education curriculum, which used to instruct about the normal, heterosexual family, has been twisted to promote and celebrate homosexuality. Innocent first-graders are taught that to have homosexual parents is a normal arrangement. Gay-straight alliances are receiving school resources and funding in high schools, and the 'Day of Silence' has become a key tool of the activist, homosexual movement for promoting its radical agenda. We decided it is high time for us to take a stand for Truth, even if that makes us unpopular with the secular humanists who run our schools and infest our legislatures."
