GSA Network News archives

GSA Network News Email Archive - April 2006

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April 25, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
GSA Network Youth makes National and International Headlines as Prom King Candidate
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE!
2. AB 394 Passes Assembly Education Committee!
3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)
4. Date Changed! GSA Network Leadership Training (San Diego)
5. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!
6. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)
7. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
8. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
9. This Weekend-Inland Empire Pride! (San Bernardino)
10. LGBT Prom (San Bernardino)
11. The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria:: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"! (Los Angeles)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
12. Online Christian Gay Youth Alliance (Central Valley)
13. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
14. GSA Youth Leadership Workshop (Sacramento)
15. Apply for the Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program (Oakland)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
16. Straightlaced Seeks High School Students for Interviews!
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
17. Join The Jump-Start 2007-2008 National Student Leadership Team
18. Women Who Love Women Needed for Survey
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
19. Scholarship Available for the U.S. Social Forum Fund
20. Models of Excellence Scholarship
Go directly to Scholarships listings

News
21. NEWS: Area Students Join in Silent Protest
22. NEWS: Anti-gay shirts bring suspensions
23. NEWS: T-shirt message Suspension List Grows
24. NEWS: Class Act At Buckingham
25. NEWS: Duct Tape Amends T-shirts
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

GSA Network Youth makes National and International Headlines as Prom King Candidate

This past year Cinthia Covarrubias has been involved with much of her* high school’s GSA club activities. Her regular attendance at meetings led to attendance at the Expression Not Suppression conference as well as a trip to Sacramento for Queer Youth Advocacy Day. So, when the call came that she was nominated for Prom Queen – there was no question that Cinthia had to be honest with the school about what made her feel most comfortable – she wanted to run for Prom King, instead.

This story was covered by the Associated Press and broadcast by over 240 news agencies such as CNN.com, ABCnews.com, Yahoo.com and many other local newspapers and TV stations.

"I hope this opens up something new," Cinthia told the AP before Saturday's crowning. "I've been really excited about it and feeling a lot of hope.”

For the past two years, GSA Network has worked to help coordinate a proactive approach to help create a safer climate for all Fresno Unified School District (FUSD) students. During this work we have had the pleasure of meeting GSA club members and advisors through our FUSD site visits. Fresno High’s GSA club advisor, Tiffani Sanchez, worked hard to advocate for Cinthia to be able to run for the Prom Royalty title that felt most comfortable to her. In the same AP article, Ms. Sanchez stated, "Cinthia is still really learning who she is and we want her to know that there's a safe space for her here and we support her."

In a personal interview with the GSA Network, Ms. Sanchez gave some insight into how the nomination and run for Prom King became reality. She stated, “Cinthia finished her recent transition to dress and look how she felt most comfortable. She was so happy and comfortable with herself. She came out of her shell and just blossomed. I had never seen her so happy and outgoing before. I can think of no other word to describe it besides true liberation.” But, when Cinthia was nominated as Prom Royalty the school wanted to place her in the Queen category. Cinthia explained to her advisor that she did not want to run for anything if she had to wear a dress. Then, the advocacy to change the district’s policy began.

Ms. Sanchez continued, “We got the call on the morning of Day of Silence that Cinthia was going to be allowed to run for Prom King, when I got off the phone I told Cinthia what was said and we both let out screams as we jumped up and down. Yes, I admit that we did break our vow of silence, but under the circumstances we couldn’t help ourselves. We were walking on clouds the rest of the week. I’m not sure we really accepted or realized the gravity of what had really happened like we do now. I am very proud of Cinthia who decided to take a stand, not only for her, but also for the generations of students who will come after her. She made a very brave decision after only coming out to her parents less than a month earlier. It has not been an easy decision for her to follow through with. There have been positive and negative results for Cinthia as a result, however I know that she does not regret her decision. I know that within the Fresno Unified School District the change has been made, which is no small feat. Fresno Unified is one of the largest districts in the state. For all of the students in the Fresno Unified District, Cinthia has made an immediate change. The district will not stop any student from running for the position they feel comfortable. For other students in other districts she has set the precedent. Hopefully other districts will see that it is the right thing to do.”

Although Cinthia did not win the Prom King title, one Fresno High School student, Leanne Reyes, 16, told the AP that Covarrubias had her vote. "It's not like the stereotype where the king has to be a jock and he's there with the cheerleaders anymore," said Reyes, a senior. "We live in a generation now where dudes are chicks and chicks are dudes." Because of her work with the GSA Network and her groundbreaking actions to challenge the Prom Royalty system, no matter what the election results, Cinthia Covarrubias is definitely GSA Network’s PROM KING!!!

Here are just a few of the articles that ran about what we believe to be the country’s first-ever openly transgender student running for prom king:

Transgender candidate on prom king ballot
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/04/20/transgender.prom.king.ap/

Transgender candidate for prom king makes her mark
http://www.fresnobee.com/263/story/43091.html

Transgender student in running for Fresno prom king
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid44768.asp

Student Loses Prom King Contest, But Wins for Transgender Rights
http://www.247gay.com/article.cfm?section=66&id=14291

* Cinthia currently prefers to use female pronouns, so GSA Network is using female pronouns out of respect for Cinthia.

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE!

The GSA Activist Camps are youth-planned and youth-led intense 3-day events featuring hardcore community building, skill-building, political education, and leadership training for GSA members. All youth who will be involved in a high school or middle school GSA next year are strongly encouraged to apply.

Southern California Activist Camp - Date/location to be decided

Northern California Activist Camp - San Francisco
August 3rd - 5th, 2007

Central Valley Activist Camp - Fresno
June 14th - 16th, 2007

APPLY ONLINE! Click here to get more info and apply online!

http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp/camp2007.html

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2. AB 394 Passes Assembly Education Committee!

GSA Network is pleased to announce that AB 394 (Safe Place to Learn Act) passed the Assembly Education Committee on April 18, 2007. Hundreds of GSA members lobbied for AB 394 at Queer Youth Advocacy Day on March 26. During last week's hearing, Education Committee members listened to testimony from Lance Chih, a QYAD 2007 leader and 2006 graduate of Folsom High School.

AB 394 will now move to be considered by the Assembly Appropriations Committee where it must be voted on and passed before it can then be voted on by the entire Assembly. A list of the Assembly Appropriations Committee members can be found at http://www.assembly.ca.gov/acs/newcomframeset.asp?committee=43, If your Assemblymember is a member of this committee, we urge to please call his or her office during the next couple of weeks and voice your support for AB 394.

Safe Schools Measure Approved in Assembly Education Committee
Levine Bill, Co-Sponsored by EQCA and AACRE, Strengthens State's Anti-Bias Laws, Protects LGBT Students

The Assembly Education Committee on Wednesday passed a measure that would better enforce California's safe school laws to keep harassment and bullying out of the classroom. Lawmakers passed the Safe Place to Learn Act by a 7-3 vote.

AB 394, authored by Assemblymember Lloyd Levine, D-Van Nuys, clarifies the minimum steps school districts must take to protect students, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). Co-sponsored by Equality California and Asian Americans for Civil Rights and Equality, the bill also requires the state to monitor school compliance with an existing anti-bias law, the California Student Safety and Violence Protection Act of 2000, which banned all forms of unlawful discrimination in schools.

"Despite state laws designed to protect them, LGBT youth continue to feel unsafe at school," said EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors. "We want all students to thrive at school and achieve academic success, which is difficult, if not impossible, under the threat of harassment and violence. AB 394 will make sure every school in California is working toward the goal of keeping every student healthy and safe."

Existing state law protects students from bias based on their gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, race or ethnicity, nationality, religion and disability. However, recent research indicates that students continue to face discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race and ethnicity.

"Students, teachers, parents and researchers across California acknowledge that harassment continues to be a problem in our schools," said Assemblymember Levine. "By strengthening and clarifying current law, we will create an improved statewide response to incidents of bias and discrimination against youth, providing students the respect and protection we promised them years ago."

Bias-related harassment continues to be a pervasive problem in California schools. About 30 percent of all 7th, 9th and 11th graders have experienced harassment due to their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability, according to the 2004-05 California Student Survey. More than 90 percent of California youth also hear negative comments based on sexual orientation and gender identity, according to a 2004 report issued by the California Safe Schools Coalition and the 4-H Center for Youth Development at UC-Davis.

"AB 394 promotes an atmosphere of respect for students of all backgrounds by monitoring schools to ensure they adopt and publicize antidiscrimination and harassment policies," said Angela Chan, an attorney for the Juvenile Justice Project in the Asian Law Caucus.

Each year, the Asian Law Caucus of San Francisco receives numerous complaints of hate-based violence and harassment in schools, particularly targeted at Asian Pacific American youth. The Caucus surveyed 75 school districts across the state last month and found that one-third of them did not have antidiscrimination policies, which existing law requires. (http://www.eqca.org)

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3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It includes lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various middle schools in the Bay Area, come together for a FUN, interactive, training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA high school leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a GSA Club.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, building membership, and diversity
* Concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination in your school

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight on social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other youth in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: Middle School Students, GSA Members and Advisors, Community Members
WHEN: Saturday, May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: GSA Network Offices
1550 Bryant Street, 11th Floor (Penthouse)
San Francisco, CA 94103
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSOR: SFUSD School Health Programs Department

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org

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4. Date Changed! GSA Network Leadership Training (San Diego)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on May 19, 2007 from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, membership building, and diversity
* Understanding gender and sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment, and discrimination in your school.

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 2007, 11am-5pm
WHERE: The San Diego LGBT Center * The training will take place in Room 201*
3909 Centre Street
San Diego, CA 92103
619-692-2077
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Carlos Cabrera, GSA Network Southern California Program Coordinator, at 213-534-7162 or mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org

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5. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!

Another GSA Network T-shirts hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

Order one of our three New T-shirts and help support GSA Network
* GSA Power
* A is for Ally
* Activist
* Male, Female, Other / Neither / All of the above

Also in stock
* I heart GSA
* I HELLA Heart GSA
* and our classic GSA Organizing Shirt

These new designs can ONLY be purchased at our on-line store. For every item you buy GSA Network gets a small donation ($3-$5) to keep doing all the good work we do!!!

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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6. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)

Youth Speaks is celebrating our 10th year of programming our Queeriosity event, which highlights LGBTQ youth voice and the power of the word. This year we are especially excited because we won a Horizon's grant which will allow us to do our first full day of Queer Arts programming with our 1st Annual Q. Arts-in-Education Festival. On June 15th at the LGBTQ Center we will be hosting our Q. Arts-in-Education Festival from 9 am to 3 p.m., and our 10th Annual Queeriosity event from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Q. Arts-in-Education Festival brings communities together to create a unique educational experience positioned around queer issues and art making. The day consists of creative art making experiences fused with socio-political agenda items focused on the LGBTQ community. The Q. Arts-in-Education Festival brings people together working around youth and the significance of their voice, and the celebration of diversity and uniqueness in our world. This event provides a full day of workshops, a panel discussion and performance, inviting youth to explore and discuss issues around LGBTQ youth culture.

Queeriosity is a night of performance exploration, and a bonding of artists around issues concerning same sex relationships, questioning sexuality, queer culture, life style and conversations around society in general. This evening breaks down the barriers of differences and asks important questions about our common humanity and same-ness. Performances from the evening event will showcase youth from the Teen Poetry Slam, emerging spoken word artists such as Chinaka Hodge, Kirya Traber and Michelle 'Mush' Lee, as well as our featured performer, artistic director and LA based choreographer Christopher 'Eclipse' Brown. This evening will definitely continue the rich performance history that is Queeriosity!

Friday June 15, 2007
Q. Arts-in-Education Festival
Registration Opened to All youth ages 13-19
9-3pm
Free

To register email mailto:khalil@youthspeaks.org or call 415 255 9035 ext. 18
Friday June 15, 2007
Queeriosity: Celebrating 10 years!!!
7pm-10pm
Featuring Youth Speaks Teen Slam Poets, Susanna Myrseth, Chinaka Hodge, Michelle Lee, Kirya Traber, Terry Taplin, Khalil.Anthony, Artistic Director Eclipse and more.
Free

In collaboration with QCC, Horizons Foundation, GSA Network

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7. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student resource sheets, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future GSA Network or LGBT-related events. Please note that mailings will go out only to California GSAs in middle and high schools.

Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.html

For more info, email Tanya Mayo at mailto:tanya@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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8. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders from GSAs all over California. As a member of the Youth Council, you will learn skills to become a stronger activist and work toward creating a safer climate at your school for LGBTQ youth and straight allies. You will get support around mounting a campaign, planning events, and starting a GSA club on your campus. In addition, Youth Council members are responsible for giving input to GSA Network and helping to guide our programs. Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region, as well as plan events and lead peer-to-peer workshops, leadership trainings, advocacy trainings, and activist camps.

As a member of the Youth Council, you will have monthly opportunities to
* Network with youth from throughout your region
* Get peer and staff support and feedback on your ongoing campaign, action, or event
* Give input on GSA Network's programs, policies, and curriculum development.

In addition, you may have an opportunity to
* Help plan and run a youth-led conference
* Present workshops at local conferences
* Plan and participate in GSA Network social activities, like Pride
* Apply to become a paid peer-to-peer youth trainer
* Discuss emerging trends in the LGBTQ and greater social justice movements
* Provide occasional technical assistance to other GSAs.

Requirements
* Willingness to commit to serving on Youth Council for one year
* Commitment to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools
* Interest in developing GSA Network and suggesting ideas to strengthen it
* Must be a student in a public or private middle or high school in California.

Southern California
For more info, email mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162.

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

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2007 Path to Pride

Saturday April 28th, 2007

at the Lark's (on the Back Lot....)

917 Inland Center Drive
San Bernardino
10 am to 10 PM
$5 admission

proceeds to benefit:
The Arrowhead Pride Alliance
The Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance..

For more information:
http://www.inlandpride.com/
http://www.myspace.com/InlandPride

For more info call (909) 446-7312

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10. LGBT Prom (San Bernardino)

CSUSB Second Chance LGBT Prom:

You are cordially invited to the "Second Chance" LGBT Prom hosted by the Santos Manuel Student Union Pride Center.

Date: May 12, 2007
Time: 7pm
Where: California State University San Bernardino
Location: Upper Commons

Please note that this is a semi-formal event "dress to impress" (NO flip-flops, shorts, a-shirts, t-shirts, jeans, or sports wear).

To RSVP and for more info contact:
L. Thibodeaux at 909.537.5963 or mailto:pridectr@csusb.edu

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11. The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria:: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"! (Los Angeles)

La Joteria de UCLA

Presents...
The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"

When: Saturday, May 12th, 2007
Where: The UCLA Downtown Labor Center
675 S. Park View
West 1st Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Time: 9:0 AM- 5:00 PM

Contact us at: mailto:lajoteriadeucla@yahoo.com
Pre-Register at the following websites: http://www.geocities.com/lajoteriadeucla & http://www.myspace.com/uclajoteria

This year's conference centers around queer activism and will feature a panel of past and present queer activists.
Come and be part of a safe space where you can be Latina/o, Chicana/o, and LGBT!

Free Food!
Ay los vemos

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Central Valley
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12. Online Christian Gay Youth Alliance (Central Valley)

A new youth organization/group is in the preliminary stages in the central valley called the Christian Gay Youth Alliance or the CGYA; its based out of the central valley and currently is online only. We intend to turn it in to a face to face group as time goes on.

Please take a look at the websites;

http://www.myspace.com/gaychristianyouth

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/christianyouthalliance/

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13. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)

What: Youth Alliance-A group for GLBTQI Youth
When: Every Friday evening.
Time: 7:30pm
Where: Fresno Center for Non-violence, 1584 N Van Ness, corner of Van Ness and McKinley.

This group has been serving youth for 19 years. There is an hour between 6:30-7:30pm that is the TEEN Hour. This hour is reserved for high school age youth only. The hour or so after the TEEN Hour is open to teens and young adults!!! So check it out and meet some new people!!!

For info go to http://www.communitylinkfresno.com.

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Northern California
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14. GSA Youth Leadership Workshop (Sacramento)

Saturday, April 21
10 am - 3 pm
Burbank High School Library, Sacramento

Register Now!
Who: Current or potential Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) members, advisors, and their allies at school
When: Saturday, April 21, 2007 from 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Burbank High School Library, 3500 Florin Road, Sacramento 95823 (parking lot on west side of school)
Cost: FREE! Breakfast and lunch provided!

Please RSVP at http://www.respectsacramento.org or call 733-2135 and tell us the names of those coming and what school you're affiliated with.

-Meet others fighting homophobia & LGBT bias in schools!
-Learn about your rights and improve your GSA!
-Have fun with other student leaders!

RSVP Respect Sacramento at: http://www.respectsacramento.org/RSVP.html or call (916) 733-2135 or 505-3494 or send an email to mailto:admin@respectsacramento.org

Please provide your name, school, and the names of the people who are attending.

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15. Apply for the Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program (Oakland)

MAAP APPLICATION DEADLINE APPROACHING: APPLY TODAY!

The application deadline for the Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program is soon approaching. If you are interested in applying for the program, please submit applications to the CTWO training department by April 26, 2007 via email: mailto:trainings@ctwo.org, fax: (510) 533-0923 or snail mail: CTWO Training Department, Attention: Reem Assil, 1218 E. 21st St., Oakland, CA 94606.

The Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program (MAAP) is a paid 8-week intensive national organizer training program for people of color, who are committed to learning the theory and practice of building social justice movements through direct-action organizing. Participants learn the art and science of organizing through in-the-field training and skills development with a community or labor organization. Graduates of the program receive help finding employment as organizers with community and labor organizations fighting for social justice. Over the years, MAAP has produced hundreds of emerging organizers of color, who have continued to work for social justice and gone on to play key roles in the Movement.

Qualified applicants must be people of color, at least 18 years of age, and display a commitment to building a movement for racial and social justice. In order to be considered, individuals must be fill out an application and attend a Community Action Training during the spring in one of the following cities: Oakland, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Brooklyn, NY; or New Orleans, LA.

To learn more about the application process, please go to http://www.ctwo.org/index.php?s=27.

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Statewide
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16. Straightlaced Seeks High School Students for Interviews!

The Respect For All Project (producers of Its Elementary—Talking About Gay Issues in School, the family diversity film That’s a Family! and the anti-bullying film Let’s Get Real) is producing a documentary about gender roles and homophobia. Featuring high school students talking about their experiences, Straightlaced will be used with teenagers in educational settings around the country to open up dialogue about gender-based bias and homophobia.

We have filmed interviews with over 50 diverse youth—both LGBT and straight. We are still looking for a few more HIGH SCHOOL students to interview, including:

1. Transgender (Male to Female) students who can speak about their experiences and why they identify as transgender
2. Straight males who participate in activities that don’t fit the male gender stereotype (ie dance, yoga, chorus)
3. Native American students who identify as two spirited or LGBT
5. Lesbians who don’t look at all like the stereotype of how lesbians look.
6. Any stories of physical violence related to homophobia or gender non-conformity (ie students who were attacked because they were gay or someone thought they were gay). We are looking for students who have either witnessed or experienced the violence themselves. We are also looking for students who know someone who committed suicide or attempted suicide because they were gay or perceived to be gay and experienced harassment because of that.
7. Girls who participate in activities that don’t fit the female gender stereotype (ie wrestling, weight lifting, car repair, football etc.)

To suggest a student you know (or yourself) for Straightlaced, please call producer Sue Chen, at 415-641-4616 ext 304 or email mailto:schen@respectforall.org. For more information about Straightlaced and the Respect For All Project, visit http://www.respectforall.org.

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National
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17. Join The Jump-Start 2007-2008 National Student Leadership Team

GLSEN (Gay Straight Student Education Network) is searching for it next team of student leaders!

The application process for the Jump-Start 2007-2008 National Student Leadership team will be closing a week from today, on May 1, 2007.

The Jump-Start 2007-2008 National Student Leadership Team will be a group of middle and high school students who will support student-organizing efforts across the country - whether its starting gay straight alliances/student clubs, developing campaigns or training teachers- these students are dedicated to safe schools for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Jump Start students represent various regions across the country, and receive training on strategic action planning, coalition building, leadership skills, and up to date information on safe school policy and legislation.

We are currently accepting applications from students who have prior leadership experience or seek to develop these skills.

Students must fill out a brief application form and provide a recommendation form.

Students can access the application and more information at http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/news/record/2040.html and http://www.GLSEN.org/JSapplication.

Applications are due May 1st.

For further information please contact the Director of Student Organizing, Benny Vasquez at mailto:bvasquez@glsen.org

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18. Women Who Love Women Needed for Survey

I am a doctoral candidate at Texas Tech University, currently completing my dissertation in the Psychology Department. I am interested in studying relationship aspects in female couples. Through this study, I hope to expand understanding of the role of family in our lives and our relationships. I am asking for some of your time to complete my anonymous on-line survey. The questionnaire is easy to complete and should only take approximately 15 minutes.

Any female who is eighteen-years-old or older and has been in a romantic relationship with another woman for at least 3 months is eligible to participate.

The survey can be found at the following web address: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=216072120579

In order to gain a better understanding of the many factors that influence romantic relationships of women who love women, I also need your help in locating others who reflect the diversity of our community and are willing to participate. Examples: individuals in the various stages of the coming-out process (from completely out to completely closeted), with disabilities, from different social or financial class levels (such as individuals who do not have Internet access due to financial difficulties), etc.

If you are able to help, please forward this message and web-link to anyone you believe may be eligible to participate or who may know someone who is eligible to participate. We do ask that you consider sexual orientation as a sensitive and private matter by placing your recipients' email addresses in the "bcc" line to shield them from public view.

If you know of someone who would like to participate but who does not have Internet access, please have them contact my advisor or me using our contact information below. I would be glad to mail surveys (including postage-paid return envelopes) to anyone wanting to participate. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the Texas Tech University has determined that this research meets the criteria for human subjects according to Federal Guidelines (IRB Approval #500561).

Thank you for your time and help.
Krista L. Leubner, M.A. Supervising faculty: Doctoral Candidate Erin E. Hardin, Ph.D.
Psychology Department Assistant Professor
Texas Tech University Psychology Department
Box 42051 Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX 79409-2051 Box 42051
mailto:krista.l.leubner@ttu.edu Lubbock, TX 79409-2051
mailto:erin.hardin@ttu.edu
Phone: (806) 742-3711 ext. 250

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Scholarships
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19. Scholarship Available for the U.S. Social Forum Fund

Are you planning to go to the United States Social Forum? Would you like to go for free?

Third Wave will provide full scholarships (registration, travel, lodging and food) for young women and transgender activists ages 15 - 30 to attend the United States Social Forum this June. The United States Social Forum Fund (USSFF) reflects Third Wave's commitment to developing the leadership of youth activists, especially youth of color, within social justice movements, and we recognize this historic gathering as a key opportunity to build bridges, develop and share analyses, and learn and strategize.

The application form is brief and accessible. Download it here:

http://thirdwavefoundation.org/grant-making/ussff

Applications *must be received* by May 10!

Learn more about the United States Social forum here: http://www.ussf2007.org/

We look forward to your applications!

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20. Models of Excellence Scholarship

This is a reminder of the Models of Excellence Scholarship program that is offered by Friends of Project 10 http://www.project.org. We have extended
the application deadline to May 11, 2007, and we ask your help in finding appropriate candidates.

The program is open to any graduating senior high school student who plans to attend post secondary school, university, four-year college or community college. Students may apply regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We look for involvement in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. In the past, this has included, but not limited to, such activities as membership in the school‚s Gay-Straight Alliance, organizing the Day of Silence, participating in the AIDS walk, working at Project Angel Food, GLSEN or The Trevor Project.

Students can download an application from our Web site at http://www.modelsofpride.org. To speed the process, unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Questions can be directed to the Friends of Project 10 office at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or (626) 577-4553.

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NEWS
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21. NEWS: Area Students Join in Silent Protest

Area Students Join in Silent Protest
Event decries intolerance, hate

4.18.07
Pasadena Star News
By Cortney Fielding

SOUTH PASADENA - A typically chatty Alex Possner and 99 of his South Pasadena High School classmates kept their mouths clamped shut on Wednesday.

Throughout seven periods of class and during the minutes in between, the teens communicated only with pen and paper - admittingly slipping up with an occasional mumble or squeal along the way.

"There were a couple of mmmphhs here and there. And in the hall someone scared me and I screamed a little ," said a once-again chatty Possner after the talking ban had ended. "But that's it."

The South Pasadena students were among those participating in the "National Day of Silence," an annual student-led event protesting harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans gender, and asexual students.

Organized by the campus chapter of the Gay Straight Alliance club, the protest at South Pasadena High School drew both gay teens and their straight peers.

"You don't have to be gay to be a gay activist," said Hannah Ames, 17, a day of silence participant and member of the GSA. "I just have an intolerance for hate words of any kind."

Possner, a 17-year-old junior who said he's been "out" since he was a freshman, heads up the GSA club. A vocal gay youth Advertisement rights activist, he said the club gives gay youth as well as those who might be gay but are not ready not ready to come out, a safe place to be themselves.

"We don't ask anyone to declare their sexual orientation. If they want to tell us, we listen," he said.

But more members of the club are actually straight than gay.

"I have so many different friends and I love them all," said Ames, who said she was compelled to join because of gay friends.

After a day of silence, the GSA students met in an adviser's classroom to break the talking fast with pizza and soda.

Members talked about the many gay slurs made in and out of school every day by people who don't realize they are being offensive. Statements such as "that's so gay" have become synonymous with stupid, they said. And kids routinely make fun of other friends by using other slang words for gay men and women.

While the discussion was lively, a handful of students scheduled to participate were absent. The present members said others decided not to attend after learning a photographer would be on hand and they could be publicly identified as gay.

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_5700310

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22. NEWS: Anti-gay shirts bring suspensions

April 19, 2007
Sacramento Bee
By Laurel Rosenhall

A handful of students were suspended from Rio Linda High School on Wednesday for refusing to take off anti-gay T-shirts that administrators said were inappropriate.

The shirts, which the students wore in protest of the Day of Silence said "Sodomy is sin" and quoted a Bible passage about homosexuality.

Phil Spears, interim principal of Rio Linda, said the shirts violated the school's dress code. Students were asked to take them off, he said, and were suspended if they disobeyed the request.

"They're offensive to some people and disruptive to school," he said. "Kids are going to react to these."

And that they did.

Protests were not nearly as large or inflammatory Wednesday as at other schools last year. Some of the suspended students and their supporters staged an after-school protest outside Rio Linda High. They held signs saying, "School censors Bible," "School bans free speech" and "Don't silence Christians."

They were met by another group of students wearing shirts that said "Day of Silence." Some of them described themselves as lesbians, others said they wore the shirts in support of gay friends or family members.

"The Day of Silence is about stopping gay bashing," said Brittinnie McHenry, a Rio Linda freshman. "Imagine all those people who are silenced because they got bashed or killed."

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.sacbee.com/293/story/157513.html

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23. NEWS: T-shirt message Suspension List Grows

April 20, 2007
Sacramento Bee
by Lauren Rosenhall

CITRUS HEIGHTS -- More high school students were suspended Thursday after refusing to take off T-shirts with biblical and anti-gay messages.

About 15 students were suspended from San Juan High School, according to Sarah Grondin, director of high schools for the San Juan Unified School District. She said they were wearing shirts that are inappropriate for school because their message "targets a group of students."

"We don't allow anything to be done where you're addressing a particular student, whether it's (on the basis of) homosexuality, race or gender," Grondin said.

Students at Rio Linda High School also were suspended for wearing similar shirts, said interim Principal Phil Spears. He said he didn't know exactly how many students were suspended.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/158404.html

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24. NEWS: Class Act At Buckingham

Class Act At Buckingham
She advocates against discrimination

4/24/2007
The Reporter
By Julie Kay

Brooke Cartolano, a senior at Buckingham Charter Magnet High School, remembers vividly how her middle school friend got hassled because he didn't have a girlfriend.

"We told people that we were dating so that people would leave him alone," Cartolano said.

She remembers other classmates who got beat up, or switched to other schools.

And she still seethes every time she hears a classmate grumble, "That is so gay."

"I've always been noticing things like that," said the Vacaville 16-year-old this week. "I'm really big on people that get made fun of, or who don't feel safe at school."

That's why Cartolano helped start a Gay Straight Alliance at her school this year. Along with alliances at high schools and universities across the country, Buckingham's GSA works to provide a safe and supportive environment for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered youth and their straight allies.

Cartolano's concern is also why she took her views all the way to the state Senate Judiciary Committee last week.

"One of my best friends is a lesbian," said Cartolano, who is straight. "She has to deal with this stuff all the time."

When Cartolano first started Buckingham's GSA with a few friends, including co-president Lexi Bove, reaction was mixed.

"Since it's called the Gay Straight Alliance a lot of kids would say, 'Oh, the gay club,' " Cartolano recalled. Average attendance at those first meetings was about five students, Cartolano said.

But over time, things changed.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.thereporter.com/search/ci_5738887

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25. NEWS: Duct Tape Amends T-shirts

Duct Tape Amends T-shirts
Students who wore attire with an offensive word in gay rights debate allowed to tone it down.

April 24, 2007
Sacramento Bee
By Laurel Rosenhall

Turns out there's yet another use for duct tape.

Rio Linda High School students who were suspended last week for wearing offensive T-shirts to school can put them back on -- as long as they cover the word "sodomy" with duct tape.

Several students were suspended last week for wearing T-shirts that said "Sodomy is sin." The shirts were a response to the national Day of Silence, a day of activism when some students take a daylong vow of silence in support of gay friends and family members.

According to an agreement reached Monday morning between conservative religious leaders and school district administrators, students are now allowed to wear the shirts at school -- if they're altered.

"We're looking at what can sanitize the shirts," said Jacques Whitfield, an attorney for the Grant Joint Union High School District.

As school districts wrestle with the growth of both participation in and opposition to Day of Silence, districts are taking a variety of responses. San Juan Unified, for instance, suspended about 15 students for wearing the same "sodomy" T-shirts last week. Natomas Unified, on the other hand, said students could wear them without repercussion.

Grant's board policy prohibits students from wearing anything with messages that are "crude, vulgar, profane or sexually suggestive."

The word sodomy fit that bill, Whitfield said.

But the rest of the shirt was OK.

It said: "Hate is sin" and quoted two passages from the Bible.

"The district fully supports the right of students to express their religious views," Whitfield said.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/159964.html#more_images

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April 18, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
GSA Network Core Trainers Program a Success!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. SB 777 passes Senate Judiciary Committee!
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)
3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training (San Diego)
4. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!
5. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)
6. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
7. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)
8. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
9. Free Movie at Crossroads! (Santa Monica)
10. Community Convening on Crystal Meth (Los Angeles)
11. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
12. Today! "Break the Silence" Rally (Modesto)
13. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)
14. Hollywood Masquerade Ball for GLBTQI Youth! (Turlock)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
15. This Week at LYRIC (San Francisco)
16. Seeking Trans Youth for a Study (Bay Area)
Go directly to Northern California listings

National
17. Bridge the Gap: Gender Rights / Human Rights Leadership Summit
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
18. Models of Excellence Scholarship
Go directly to Scholarships listings

News
19. NEWS: Court Orders Florida School District to Allow Gay-Straight Club
20. NEWS: Bullying Persists at the South Shore
21. NEWS: South San Francisco High School Blanketed With Graffiti
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

GSA Network Core Trainers Program a Success!

During the fall of 2006, GSA Network implemented a new Core Trainers program, a division of the regional youth councils. We asked youth interested in training other youth on how to reduce homophobia and transphobia in their schools to step up and create change in their communities. Twenty-two youth from all over the state make up this group. They are responsible for leading peer-to-peer trainings throughout the year, such as 2-hour workshops, one-day leadership trainings and our three-day activist camp. They were given ongoing training to improve their own training skills and received a stipend for their time and commitment. Their passion for initiating social change is contagious--and they are ready to work!

The Core Trainers is a diverse group of young activists from California high schools that work toward ending apathy among their peers. Their trainings are youth-led and consist of encouraging networking, education, organizing, and having fun! So far, they are responsible for approximately 12 Leadership Trainings statewide, reaching about 170 youth and 30 adults in places like Santa Rosa, Fresno and Palm Springs. This translates into 100+ hours of hard work, presenting their workshops and countless hours of training, developing their skills and their political education. They also presented workshops at conferences like MOP (Models of Pride) in Los Angeles, ENS (Expression not Suppression) Conference in Central Valley and the YES (Youth Empowerment Summit) Conference in San Francisco.

The group is committed to fight for social justice in our school system and society at large by organizing and mobilizing GSAs, developing curriculum, and working with the school community. If you want to witness their greatness, keep an eye out for the GSA Network Activist Camps this summer!

Here is what the trainers have to say about the program:

“Working with other youth is something I feel very strongly about. Too many people feel that my generation is apathetic and I fear that belief to a great extent. Working with other youth proves that there's a chance we can make positive change now and in the future.” Phillip K. Knight, Southern California

“Educating LGBTQA youth has had a huge effect on me, it gives me the satisfaction of knowing that someone is learning from what I say and what I do at the GSA Network. Leading youth in events like QYAD (Queer Youth Advocacy Day) made me feel empowered, knowing that people are out there to make a difference and with the right leadership, they can succeed!” Chris Martinez, Central Valley

“I enjoy being a Core Trainer because I have the opportunity to participate in different workshops or visit different schools. I also like to better educate a society who is ill educated or has the wrong facts about the LGBT community and it's past and history. Thanks to this experience, I have learned how to present workshops and my speaking skills have improved greatly in school. Now, I also read a lot more. I am more interested on getting educated and often check my own biases and prejudices towards people.” Demond “D” Sladen, Northern California

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. SB 777 passes Senate Judiciary Committee!

GSA Network is pleased to announce that SB 777 (Student Civil Rights Act) passed the CA Senate's Judiciary Committee on April 17, 2007. Over 500 LGBTQQ and straight ally youth lobbied lawmakers in support of SB 777 at Queer Youth Advocacy Day on March 26 at the Capitol in Sacramento. In addition, many GSA members have also called the offices of their State Senators about this important legislation. During yesterday's hearing, Judiciary Committee members listened to testimony from Brooke Cartolano, a GSA Leader and student at Buckingham Charter Magnet High School in Vacaville.

SB 777 will need to be voted on and passed by the entire Senate before it moves to the Assembly for consideration. To email or call your Senator's office about SB 777, visit the CA Legislature website at http://www.legislature.ca.gov and go to the section that says "Find My District." Enter your home address and you will then be told who your Senator is. Click on his/her name and you will be taken directly to his/her website where you can contact him/her to voice your support for SB 777.

Senate Judiciary Committee Votes to Keep Discrimination Out of Publicly-Funded Schools
Student Civil Rights Act, Authored by Sen. Sheila Kuehl and Sponsored by EQCA, Protects Students Regardless of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity

Sacramento - Senate lawmakers on Tuesday approved a bill that would protect California students from discrimination in publicly-funded schools and programs regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB 777, authored by Sen. Sheila Kuehl, D-Santa Monica, and sponsored by Equality California, which creates uniform nondiscrimination standards within the state's education code so students, teachers and school administrators clearly understand the protections that are provided under state law. The bill passed the committee by a 3-1 vote.

"California's youth deserve safe schools where they will not be harassed or ridiculed based on their sexual orientation or gender identity," said EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors. "One of the best ways to give all students a fair opportunity to learn is by ensuring that all schools follow consistent anti-bias standards. This bill brings the state's education code up to date with California's evolving nondiscrimination policies so that schools have clear guidance regarding their obligations to provide a safe educational environment."

Named the Student Civil Rights Act, the measure strengthens existing nondiscrimination laws and clearly defines the protections a student has within publicly-funded schools and activities, including alternative and charter schools, postsecondary institutions, instructional materials and financial aid programs. It specifically prohibits discrimination based on a person's actual or perceived disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation - or association with a person who has any of these characteristics.

"I am very pleased that my colleagues in the Senate understand and support the state's responsibility to protect the safety of our youth and ensure fairness for all Californians," said Sen. Kuehl. "SB 777 is a comprehensive bill that will update California's education code so that all students in our publicly-funded schools and education programs know they are protected by uniform nondiscrimination policies that will be honored by school administrators and teachers across the state."

Brooke Cartolano, a student at Buckingham Charter Magnet High School in Vacaville, testified before the committee detailing bias she and other students faced after forming a Gay-Straight Alliance on their campus. A straight ally, Cartolano also expressed concerns about the safety of her peers who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT).

"Discrimination is a safety issue, and it affects everyone," Cartolano said. "Safety in schools should not only be for a select few students, but for all students. I urge your support on SB 777." (http://www.eqca.org)

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2. GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It includes lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various middle schools in the Bay Area, come together for a FUN, interactive, training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA high school leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a GSA Club.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, building membership, and diversity
* Concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination in your school

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight on social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other youth in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: Middle School Students, GSA Members and Advisors, Community Members
WHEN: Saturday, May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: GSA Network Offices
1550 Bryant Street, 11th Floor (Penthouse)
San Francisco, CA 94103
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSOR: SFUSD School Health Programs Department

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org

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3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training (San Diego)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on May 12, 2007 from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, membership building, and diversity
* Understanding gender and sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment, and discrimination in your school.

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 2007, 11am-5pm
WHERE: The San Diego LGBT Center * The training will take place in Room 201*
3909 Centre Street
San Diego, CA 92103
619-692-2077
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Carlos Cabrera, GSA Network Southern California Program Coordinator, at 213-534-7162 or mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org

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4. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!

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5. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)

Youth Speaks is celebrating our 10th year of programming our Queeriosity event, which highlights LGBTQ youth voice and the power of the word. This year we are especially excited because we won a Horizon's grant which will allow us to do our first full day of Queer Arts programming with our 1st Annual Q. Arts-in-Education Festival. On June 15th at the LGBTQ Center we will be hosting our Q. Arts-in-Education Festival from 9 am to 3 p.m., and our 10th Annual Queeriosity event from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Q. Arts-in-Education Festival brings communities together to create a unique educational experience positioned around queer issues and art making. The day consists of creative art making experiences fused with socio-political agenda items focused on the LGBTQ community. The Q. Arts-in-Education Festival brings people together working around youth and the significance of their voice, and the celebration of diversity and uniqueness in our world. This event provides a full day of workshops, a panel discussion and performance, inviting youth to explore and discuss issues around LGBTQ youth culture.

Queeriosity is a night of performance exploration, and a bonding of artists around issues concerning same sex relationships, questioning sexuality, queer culture, life style and conversations around society in general. This evening breaks down the barriers of differences and asks important questions about our common humanity and same-ness. Performances from the evening event will showcase youth from the Teen Poetry Slam, emerging spoken word artists such as Chinaka Hodge, Kirya Traber and Michelle 'Mush' Lee, as well as our featured performer, artistic director and LA based choreographer Christopher 'Eclipse' Brown. This evening will definitely continue the rich performance history that is Queeriosity!

Friday June 15, 2007
Q. Arts-in-Education Festival
Registration Opened to All youth ages 13-19
9-3pm
Free

To register email mailto:khalil@youthspeaks.org or call 415 255 9035 ext. 18
Friday June 15, 2007
Queeriosity: Celebrating 10 years!!!
7pm-10pm
Featuring Youth Speaks Teen Slam Poets, Susanna Myrseth, Chinaka Hodge, Michelle Lee, Kirya Traber, Terry Taplin, Khalil.Anthony, Artistic Director Eclipse and more.
Free

In collaboration with QCC, Horizons Foundation, GSA Network

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6. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student resource sheets, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future GSA Network or LGBT-related events. Please note that mailings will go out only to California GSAs in middle and high schools.

Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.html

For more info, email Tanya Mayo at mailto:tanya@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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7. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)

Intern call outs!

What's in it for you?
As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience working for California's most dynamic LGBTQ youth-led organization. You will gain invaluable insight about a mid-sized non-profit and GSA Network's particular organizational and organizing models. You will also learn a broad range of skills while providing program and/or administrative support.

Duties May Include
*Outreach and technical assistance to high school and middle school GSAs
*Curriculum, resource sheet, and program material development
*Media or press work
*Lobbying and policy
*Event planning
*Individual donor fundraising
*Organizational spin-off
*Database systems.

Interns also have the option of participating in staff meetings, thus ensuring that their voices will be heard and that their opinions are valued. Each intern will have a supervisor who will be responsible for providing support, an evaluation, and a letter of recommendation upon the conclusion of the internship.

Please note that this is a non-paid position and that the internship is for our San Francisco office.

Your Responsibilities
*If you are student, your school must take responsibility for setting the number of credits for the internship
*If you are coming from a considerable distance, you are responsible for your own housing, living expenses, and any other costs.

How to Apply
Please contact Kiely for an application. Thank you for applying!

Kiely Hosmon
Program Assistant
Phone - 415-552-4229
Fax - 415-552-4729
mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org

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8. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

Southern California
For more info, email mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162.

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

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++++++++++++++++ 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.

Southern California
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9. Free Movie at Crossroads! (Santa Monica)

As part of Crossroads School's queer film series, sponsored by FLAG (our gay/straight alliance), we will be having our next movie screening on Wednesday, Apr. 25th, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. We invite you to join us for a great event!

We'll be screening the wonderful, Sundance and GLAAD award-winning movie, Quinceñera, (See description below).

SPECIAL BONUS: We’ll also be starting the evening with a sweet and funny short film, called Blow.

Students and advisors from Gay/Straight alliances are welcome. It's a great way to meet new friends, or see old ones. We expect students from many gsa's will be attending--come meet them!

The movie is FREE and free pizza and drinks will be provided! But please reply and let us know if you might come, so we have an idea of how much pizza to get.
**When you reply, make sure to include your name and the school (if any) you are from, as well as how many people you are bringing—this helps a great deal.

Please email us to RSVP or if you have any questions! mailto:flag2@xrds.org

Quinceñera
DIR: Richard Glatzer Wash Westmoreland, 2006

As Magdalena's 15th birthday approaches, her simple life is complicated by the discovery that she's pregnant. Kicked out of her house, she finds a new family with her great-granduncle and gay cousin Carlos.
This film, made by the husband-and-husband(!) team of Glatzer and Westmoreland, won the prestigious Grand Jury and Audience Award prizes at the Sundance Film Festival. It has been a hit at queer festivals around the world, and recently won a Best Film award from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.

Blow
DIR: Marie Craven, 2002.
This glossy Aussie short has been called “the sweetest schoolgirl crush movie you’ve ever seen”.

Directions:
Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and Olympic Blvd.
-The screening room we're meeting in is on the 2nd floor of the Arts Building.
-Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate right onto a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our "quad" which looks like a parking lot or an alley, and which we call (of course) the alley.
-Walk to the end of the alley to the tall building on the left, enter and climb the stairs to the 2nd floor. You should see people.

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10. Community Convening on Crystal Meth (Los Angeles)

A community dialogue to review and discuss the County of Los Angeles, Department of Health Services' response to fighting the crystal meth epidemic. Moderated by Val Zavala, host of "Life and Times" and Vice President of KCET.

Tuesday April 17th, 2007
6:30 - 9:30pm

SEIU Local 721
500 South Virgil Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90020
(213) 368-8660

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Alejandro Menchaca at mailto:amenchaca@thewalllasmemorias.org or 323-257-1056 ext. 26

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11. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)

The Wall - Las Memorias Project invites you to:

“Noche De Colores y Culturas”

An evening for celebrating the Queer/LGBT community through art and entertainment. Join us for a fun night of live music, theatre skits, spoken word, poetry reading, an art exhibition.

Friday, April 20th, 2007
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
111 N. Avenue 56
Highland Park, CA 90042

For more information contact Alejandro Menchaca at:
323-257-1056 ext. 26 or mailto:amenchaca@thewalllasmemorias.org

Light refreshments and appetizers.

This is a free event open to all the community and all ages.

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Central Valley
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12. Today! "Break the Silence" Rally (Modesto)

Wednesday, April 18th

Student clubs at local high schools and Stanislaus PRIDE Center collaborate on post-National Day of Silence event

(Modesto, California) April 11, 2007: A "Break the Silence Rally" will be held in the McHenry Room (auditorium) at the downtown Modesto branch of the Stanislaus County Library (1500 I Street) on Wednesday, April 18, 2007 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM. Participating students will present a docu-drama, original poetry readings and music to promote respect and equality for all.

Refreshments will be served and admission is free.

The "Break the Silence Rally" formally closes the participation of many area high school students in the National Day of Silence (details of which are included below). The event is a collaboration of the Grace M. Davis High School Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), the Modesto High School Human Relations Club and the Stanislaus PRIDE Center, Inc (SPC).

For more information on the "Break the Silence Rally", please email Davis High School GSA advisor Debbie Adair at mailto:adair.d@monet.k12.ca.us or SPC volunteer Rob Boddy at mailto:volunteer@stanpride.org.

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13. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)

What: Youth Alliance-A group for GLBTQI Youth
When: Every Friday evening.
Time: 7:30pm
Where: Fresno Center for Non-violence, 1584 N Van Ness, corner of Van Ness and McKinley.

This group has been serving youth for 19 years. There is an hour between 6:30-7:30pm that is the TEEN Hour. This hour is reserved for high school age youth only. The hour or so after the TEEN Hour is open to teens and young adults!!! So check it out and meet some new people!!!

For info go to http://www.communitylinkfresno.com.

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14. Hollywood Masquerade Ball for GLBTQI Youth! (Turlock)

Hollywood Masquerade Ball presented by the CSU Stanislaus Rainbow Alliance!!!

This is a prom for GLBTQI Youth!!!

When: Saturday, April 28
Where: CSU Stanislaus Event Center, Turlock, Ca
Time: 8pm-Midnight
Cost: Pre-sale Tix $4 students/$6 general
At the door $6 students/ $8 general

Rainbow Alliance is the GSA type club at CSU Stanislaus and would like to invite all GSA Members to attend!!!

Attire is semi-dress, you don’t need a tux-but you can’t wear jeans either!!!!

To purchase advanced tickets, please contact mailto:csus_rainbowalliance@hotmail.com.

For more info go to: http://www.myspace.com/stansislausrainbowalliance or contact Sara at mailto:sara@gsanetwork.org.

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Northern California
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15. This Week at LYRIC (San Francisco)

Wednesday, April 18th

Mural Project
The LYRIC ASP community is creating a mural on the first floor. Whether you draw, paint or just have ideas, come and help us create a fabulous work of art! Become a muralist and make your mark at LYRIC.

Thursday, April 19th

Masturbation & G-Spot Stimulation
Whether you are a regular wanker or a once-in-a-blue-moon self-lover, join The Center for Sex and Culture and discover the power of masturbation in this fun and interactive workshop.

Friday, April 20th

Movie Night: http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1800021436/info
Earth
A fictionalized tale, based on the autobiographical novel "Cracking India" by Sidhwa Bapsi, which looks at the division of India in 1947 as told through the eyes of an innocent young girl. Lenny comes from an affluent Parsee family that includes all religions among its circle. However, when talk of partition begins, and a train full of Muslims are brutally murdered, the city of Lahore is set aflame, and friends are pitted against each other.

For more information, please contact Jaedon at 415.703.6150 x13

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16. Seeking Trans Youth for a Study (Bay Area)

Looking for trans youth to participate in a study about going through puberty!

Are you transgender, gender queer, gender variant, FTM? Share your experiences and earn $20!

Growing Up Outside the Lines is a research project through the UC Berkeley School of Public Health to understand what it's like to grow up trans. We want to hear your story.

If you are:
** 12-25 years old
** Live, go to school, hang out in San Francisco or the Bay Area
** Identify as trans… including gender queer, drag artist, FTM, transman, gender bender, androgynous…
**We're looking for biological females who do not identify as "female"

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
** Participate in a one-time 60 minute interview.
** We will arrange a safe and convenient time and location.
** All information will be completely confidential and private.
** All participants will be paid a $20 cash stipend for your time.

If you are interested contact: Lealah at 415.609.1654

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National
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17. Bridge the Gap: Gender Rights / Human Rights Leadership Summit

Please join us for Bridge the Gap: Gender Rights / Human Rights, the 2007 GenderYOUTH Leadership Summit. The Summit is an action-oriented, three-day educational gathering of youth and students working to get gender recognized as a fundamental human right.

The Summit will feature workshops and events such as the Gender Theory Institute, the 12th Annual National Gender Lobby Day, and screenings of exciting new documentaries. Join other academics and activists in discussions about gender stereotypes, gender and race in hip-hop, the emerging US human rights movements, and the love-hate relationship between feminism and queer theory.

Also, this Summit is an opportunity for youth to receive advanced training to start a GenderYOUTH chapter or affiliate an existing campus or community organization with the GenderYOUTH Network to end gender-based violence and discrimination.

The Summit scholarship application can be found at http://www.gpac.org/youth/summit/index.html. Scholarship deadlines are March 15st and April 2nd .

You can also apply for group rates at http://www.gpac.org/youth/summit/grouprates.html. The bigger the group, the bigger the discount!

Register here http://www.gpac.org/youth/summit/summitregister.html 2007 for the GenderYOUTH Leadership Summit and connect with other youth to share ideas, pool resources, and take action!

ALL are welcome!

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Scholarships
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18. Models of Excellence Scholarship

This is a reminder of the Models of Excellence Scholarship program that is offered by Friends of Project 10 http://www.project.org. We have extended
the application deadline to May 11, 2007, and we ask your help in finding appropriate candidates.

The program is open to any graduating senior high school student who plans to attend post secondary school, university, four-year college or community college. Students may apply regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We look for involvement in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. In the past, this has included, but not limited to, such activities as membership in the school‚s Gay-Straight Alliance, organizing the Day of Silence, participating in the AIDS walk, working at Project Angel Food, GLSEN or The Trevor Project.

Students can download an application from our Web site at http://www.modelsofpride.org. To speed the process, unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Questions can be directed to the Friends of Project 10 office at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or (626) 577-4553.

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NEWS
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19. NEWS: Court Orders Florida School District to Allow Gay-Straight Club

Court Orders Florida School District to Allow Gay-Straight Club
In issuing preliminary injunction,judge rules GSA is not a 'sex-based' club

Friday, April 13, 2007
Express Gay News
By Canute Knott-Malcolm

U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore issued a preliminary injunction on April 6 ordering the School Board of Okeechobee County, Fla., to allow the Okeechobee High School Gay-Straight Alliance to meet on campus and to grant it all the rights and privileges that other student groups have.

The injunction is the result of a lawsuit filed by Yasmin Gonzalez, an Okeechobee High School student and president of the school's gay-straight alliance, against the School Board of Okeechobee County. The injunction allows the student group to meet on campus while legal proceedings in the case continue.

It is now up to the school board to decide whether to drop the case and allow the GSA at the school or continue to try to block it, said Rob Ronsenwald, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Florida, which is representing Gonzalez and the other students involved with the GSA. Rosenwald said the ruling indicates that the case is likely to be decided in the students' favor.

Gonzalez and several other students formed the gay-straight alliance at Okeechobee High School in October 2006.

"We just wanted to meet like other groups," Gonzalez said.

The principal of Okeechobee High School and the school board refused to recognize the gay-straight alliance and denied the group access to school facilities. The school district argued that the gay-straight alliance is a "sex-based club," which violates the school's abstinence-only curricula and should, therefore, not be recognized or granted access to school facilities.

Ken Kenworthy, assistant superintendent of administration for the Okeechobee School District, declined to comment and referred questions about the case to Barbara J. Weller, an attorney with the Gibbs Law Firm, which is representing the school board in the case. Weller and her colleagues declined to comment.

The Gibbs Law Firm is affiliated with the Christian Law Association, which garnered national and international attention in 2005 when one of its attorneys represented the parents of Terry Schiavo, the woman on a feeding tube who was at the center of a "right-to-die" case. Rosenwald said the Gibbs Law Firm "represents interests that are opposed to gay rights."

In court documents obtained by the Express, Weller argue that the gay-straight alliance is a sex-based club and that allowing the school to recognize the club "would disrupt order and discipline on the school premise."

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.expressgaynews.com/2007/4-13/news/localnews/3612.cfm

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20. NEWS: Bullying Persists at the South Shore

April 16, 2007
Nevada Appeal
by William Ferchland

Dennis Peña is in seventh grade and a male cheerleader. Outside of his group of friends he's picked on, called names and pushed around.

"People call me gay. They call me a queer," he said one day during lunch break at South Tahoe Middle School.

Slender and a bit passive, Peña described how he has cried because of the torment. He didn't think he would like cheerleading at the midget level for Pop Warner football, but took to it after his grandmother suggested he try it.

"It's a very energetic activity," he said.

Peña says he plays other sports but is defined by being a male cheerleader. He often considers the words from his coach of not to give up and don't let anybody put you down.

Bullying at schools in the early 21st century ranges from the traditional physical and psychological harassment to rumor mongering among classmates and through social networking Web sites such as MySpace.

School districts in both Nevada and California are on the offensive to dissolve such tensions at school since, if unchecked, bullying can lead to depression, self-abuse, dropping out of school, or worse, violent behavior and suicide.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/TD/20070416/NEWS/104160029/-1/REGION

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21. NEWS: South San Francisco High School Blanketed With Graffiti

4-26-07
KCBS
by Holly Quan

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- South San Francisco High School students came back from spring break today to find racist and homophobic messages scrawled over nearly every wing of the school.

"There was Nazi symbols on some teachers' doors, there was the Star of David circled and then crossed out. There were a couple Bible versus which I found personally offensive. On the side of the gym there was a big hand spray painted with the middle finger sticking up saying 'Day of Silence This," one Junior told KCBS’ Holly Quan.

The school was set to celebrate Gay Straight Alliance Week this week, including a National Day of Silence on Wednesday. On the Day of Silence some students refrain from talking to illustrate how gay and lesbian students often have to keep their lives secret.

To read the full story, visit:
http://kcbs.com/pages/358004.php?contentType=4&contentId=414907

April 11, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
Southern California GSAs Take DAY OF SILENCE to the Streets!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. This Weekend! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Northern Central Valley)
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)
3. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!
4. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)
5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
6. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)
7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
8. Silent Rally for Day of Silence 2007 (Los Angeles)
9. Community Convening on Crystal Meth (Los Angeles)
10. See Coming Out Monologues with Gay Associated Youth (Riverside)
11. UCLA Queer College Day for LGBT High School Students! (Los Angeles)
12. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)
13. LGBTQ Youth Prom, Sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc. (Los Angeles)
14. The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria:: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"! (Los Angeles)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
15. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)
16. Second Annual Pride Day (Fresno)
17. Hollywood Masquerade Ball for GLBTQI Youth! (Stockton)
18. “A Villain’s Ball”-Fresno’s Lavender Prom! (Fresno)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
19. Breaking the Silence March and Rally (San Jose)
20. Day of Silence Event (Sacramento)
21. LYRIC After School Programs (San Francisco)
22. Queer Grrl Health Retreat: Let's Talk About Sex! (San Francisco)
23. Community Action Trainings (Oakland)
24. "Hella Gay" Prom (Santa Rosa)
25. "An Evening Of Hollywood Glamour" Prom (Hayward)
26. Hip Hop Circus & Dance Battle: Above The Clouds a Hip Hop Circus Family Event! (Oakland)
Go directly to Northern California listings

National
27. LGBTQ Essays Wanted for The Nation!
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
28. Models of Excellence Scholarship, Sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc.
29. PFLAG San Diego Scholarships Available!
30. COLAGE and Horizons Foundation Scholarships
Go directly to Scholarships listings

Jobs
31. (LGBTTQQHI) Youth Health Scan Researchers Needed! (Oakland)
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
32. NEWS: Federal Judge Rules Okeechobee, FL Students Can Form Gay-Straight Alliance Club
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

Southern California GSAs Take DAY OF SILENCE to the Streets!

Led under the aegis of the Southern California Youth Council (SCYC), the City of Angels will be overrun with the passion of young, dedicated activists on the Day of Silence. The SCYC, recognizing the need for a city-wide collaboration of GSAs on a day so important to the queer rights movement, organized two events to take place during the week of the Day of Silence, dubbed as the “Week of Tolerance.”*

The Week of Tolerance begins on the Day of Silence (April 18) itself. After meeting at the corner of Figueroa and Olympic Boulevards in the bustling heart of Downtown Los Angeles at 4:30 p.m., the youth – representing a cross-section of students from all across Los Angeles – will march across Downtown all the way to City Hall. Once they’ve arrived, a silent rally will be held on the steps of City Hall to commemorate those that have been silenced as a result of anti-LGBTQ sentiment. In the words of Luis, SCYC member and one of the key organizers, “We are tired of being hollow echoes! We will finally be united to make a statement, one that will be heard in full force! There is no longer any reason to live in fear or live in silence!”

After what will no doubt be a fantastic silent rally, the SCYC has also organized a celebratory event on the night of Friday, April 20, at Dockweiler State Beach, entitled the “Night of Noise.” This will be a chance for all of the GSAs in the greater Los Angeles area to get together for a fun night of “noise” celebrating what it means to be young, queer, and active in creating a better future for themselves and for generations to come.

Thousands of students across the country will be participating in the Day of Silence with singular ideas. But what if you’re school won’t let you or your GSA participate in Day of Silence? Does that mean that you have to miss out on such an historic event?

Absolutely not. If your school’s administration, for whatever reason, won’t allow you or your GSA to participate in the Day of Silence, consider holding some sort of event before or after school, or perhaps on the weekend. Plus, you can also join a larger celebration with a local community organization (such as PFLAG, GLSEN, your local LGBT center, etc.) and make the cause to honor this special day. Or, you can have some sort of remembrance ceremony or special meeting just after the official Day of Silence with your GSA. Remember, while the Day of Silence is the one official time set aside to remember those who have been silenced, it does not need to be the only day. We should struggle everyday to fight for those who cannot stand up for themselves.

Let’s make Day of Silence 2007 the beginning (or renewal) of our vow to fight for social justice!

[* The details for the Week of Tolerance are still being finalized. If you are interested in attending one of these events, please contact Carlos Cabrera, the Southern California Program Coordinator, at mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org]

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. GSA Network Leadership Training for Middle School Students! (San Francisco)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It includes lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various middle schools in the Bay Area, come together for a FUN, interactive, training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA high school leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a GSA Club.

Topics include
o How to run a GSA meeting
o Outreach, building membership, and diversity
o Concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
o Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
o How to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination in your school

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight on social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other youth in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: Middle School Students, GSA Members and Advisors, Community Members
WHEN: Saturday, May 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: GSA Network Offices
1550 Bryant Street, 11th Floor (Penthouse)
San Francisco, CA 94103
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSOR: SFUSD School Health Programs Department

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org

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2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Northern Central Valley)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2007 and will only be open to about 15 participants so you must sign up in advance. It includes breakfast
and lunch! We will also have GSA Network t-shirts and buttons available for purchase!!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, membership building, and diversity
* Understanding gender and sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment, and discrimination in your school.

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, April 14th.
WHERE: Location and time will be given when you inquire or register!!
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Sara Martinez, GSA Network Central Valley Program Associate, at 559-268-2780 or mailto:sara@gsanetwork.org.

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3. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!

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4. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)

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5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student resource sheets, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future GSA Network or LGBT-related events. Please note that mailings will go out only to California GSAs in middle and high schools.

Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.html

For more info, email Tanya Mayo at mailto:tanya@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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6. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)

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7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

Southern California
For more info, email mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162.

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

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Make your presence known! Join many Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Queer, Transsexual, and Straight Allies ready to make a difference. There is no need to hide in the shadows of humanity, no need to be scared of being who you are. We are tired of being hollow echoes. Join us in helping to diminish the cycle of silence, of fear, of torment! We will finally be united to make a statement, one that will be heard in full force! There is no longer any reason to live in fear or live in silence!

What: Silent Rally! =] Once we arrive in City Hall, we will have our Silent Countdown!

When: Day of Silence. Wednesday April 18, 2007.

Where: Meet Figueroa and Olympic at 4:30 p.m. We will march across Downtown LA to Los Angeles City Hall.

Only YOU can help make the difference for a better tomorrow....

For more information contact GSA Network Youth Council Luis Roman
http://www.myspace.com/lhrgarcia
mailto:lhrgarcia011@yahoo.com

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9. Community Convening on Crystal Meth (Los Angeles)

A community dialogue to review and discuss the County of Los Angeles, Department of Health Services' response to fighting the crystal meth epidemic. Moderated by Val Zavala, host of "Life and Times" and Vice President of KCET.

Tuesday April 17th, 2007
6:30 - 9:30pm

SEIU Local 721
500 South Virgil Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90020
(213) 368-8660

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Alejandro Menchaca at mailto:amenchaca@thewalllasmemorias.org or 323-257-1056 ext. 26

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10. See Coming Out Monologues with Gay Associated Youth (Riverside)

Gay Associated Youth would like to take 6 or 7 youth to see the performance of Coming Out Monologues in Riverside April 18.

If any youth are interested in going, please contact the Center at 760 328-8700.

Coming Out Monologues performance Wednesday, April 18

8:00-10:00PM @ Life Sciences 1500

In the first annual production of The Coming Out Monologues, a group of students, faculty, staff and community members are collaborating to present various aspects of the coming out process. We have included stories from numerous and unique backgrounds and perspectives, including coming out as an ally, as straight, or as just sexually different from the norm, from the perspectives of friends of people in the LGBTQIA community, as well as members of the LGBTQIA community itself. The monologues will be performed as a celebration of identity at the end of the Day of Silence.

Free, with a suggested donation of $5.

Donation proceeds to benefit the Kalyn Smith-Tranquil'son Memorial Fund, assisting UCR students who lose family support because of involvement in the LGBT community.

ASL sign language interpretation provided, courtesy of the LGBT Resource Center.

Sponsored by Queer Alliance and the LGBT Resource Center.

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11. UCLA Queer College Day for LGBT High School Students! (Los Angeles)

T he University of California Los Angeles, Office of the General Representative 1 is pleased to invite you to its first ever UCLA Queer College Day. Sponsored by the UCLA Undergraduate Students Association Council (USAC), the theme of this day is “Be U! UCLA Queer College Day.” In an effort to continue to represent on behalf of all students, we will bring together 30 LGBT high school students from around Los Angeles for a day of fun, learning, awareness and reflection at the UCLA campus.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in various workshops including sexual health, self respect workshops, small group discussions, tours of the UCLA campus and Westwood, as well as our LGBT resource center. Among other events during the day, high school participants will also have the chance to ask questions during a UCLA student panel session.

Many LGBT high school students face difficult challenges on a daily basis, the USAC Office of the General Representative 1 would like to bring these students to UCLA to encourage them to pursue a higher education and expose them to the life of LGBT college students. The theme of the Day, “Be U,” is intended to show students that it is ok to be who they are and still succeed.

The date of this event is Saturday, April 21, 2007 from 8:30AM – 5:00PM. A small continental breakfast will be provided as well as a free lunch. To receive the small questionnaire for students to complete if interested, please contact mailto:joe.iniguez@gmail.com. Due to the limited amount of spots available, not all interested students will be able to attend. A detailed agenda of the day will also be sent out once students have completed the brief questionnaire. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Joe at mailto:joe.iniguez@gmail.com.

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12. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)

The Wall - Las Memorias Project invites you to:

“Noche De Colores y Culturas”

An evening for celebrating the Queer/LGBT community through art and entertainment. Join us for a fun night of live music, theatre skits, spoken word, poetry reading, an art exhibition.

Friday, April 20th, 2007
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
111 N. Avenue 56
Highland Park, CA 90042

For more information contact Alejandro Menchaca at:
323-257-1056 ext. 26 or mailto:amenchaca@thewalllasmemorias.org

Light refreshments and appetizers.

This is a free event open to all the community and all ages.

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13. LGBTQ Youth Prom, Sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc. (Los Angeles)

This annual event is held in May of each year at the Friendship Auditorium in Los Angeles (near Griffith Park).

This year's prom will be held on Friday, May 18, 2007.

Prepaid tickets are $30 and tickets bought at the door at $40, which includes free parking, dinner, beverages, DJ, and live entertainment.

Visit http://www.modelsofpride.org for prom details and ticket application. Contact us at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or 626-577-4553 for more information.

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14. The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria:: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"! (Los Angeles)

La Joteria de UCLA

Presents...
The 2nd Annual Joteria Conference: "Somos Joteria: Ayer, Hoy, y Mañana"

When: Saturday, May 12th, 2007
Where: The UCLA Downtown Labor Center
675 S. Park View
West 1st Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Time: 9:0 AM- 5:00 PM

Contact us at: mailto:lajoteriadeucla@yahoo.com
Pre-Register at the following websites: http://www.geocities.com/lajoteriadeucla & http://www.myspace.com/uclajoteria

This year's conference centers around queer activism and will feature a panel of past and present queer activists.
Come and be part of a safe space where you can be Latina/o, Chicana/o, and LGBT!

Free Food!
Ay los vemos

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Central Valley
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15. Youth Alliance Meetings Every Friday (Fresno)

What: Youth Alliance-A group for GLBTQI Youth
When: Every Friday evening.
Time: 7:30pm
Where: Fresno Center for Non-violence, 1584 N Van Ness, corner of Van Ness and McKinley.

This group has been serving youth for 19 years. There is an hour between 6:30-7:30pm that is the TEEN Hour. This hour is reserved for high school age youth only. The hour or so after the TEEN Hour is open to teens and young adults!!! So check it out and meet some new people!!!

For info go to http://www.communitylinkfresno.com.

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16. Second Annual Pride Day (Fresno)

Diversity Club and Fresno City College are proud to be hosting its 2nd Annual Pride Day!!! This is a FREE event open to the public at large!!! So if you have time on your lunch break or can convince your GSA Advisor to make a Field Trip out of it-come out and join us!!! GSA Network will be there to represent!!!!

Where: Fresno City College, Free Speech Area
When: Tuesday, April 24
Time: 10am-2pm

It is a FREE event, but Diversity Club will be selling food to raise money for other events. There will be a panel discussion, music, and other community agencies and resources for you to check out!!! So come out and show your PRIDE!!!

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17. Hollywood Masquerade Ball for GLBTQI Youth! (Stockton)

Hollywood Masquerade Ball presented by the CSU Stanislaus Rainbow Alliance!!!

This is a prom for GLBTQI Youth!!!

When: Saturday, April 28
Where: CSU Stanislaus Event Center, Stockton, Ca
Time: 8pm-Midnight
Cost: Pre-sale Tix $4 students/$6 general
At the door $6 students/ $8 general

Rainbow Alliance is the GSA type club at CSU Stanislaus and would like to invite all GSA Members to attend!!!

Attire is semi-dress, you don’t need a tux-but you can’t wear jeans either!!!!

For more info go to: http://www.myspace.com/stansislausrainbowalliance or contact Sara at mailto:sara@gsanetwork.org.

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18. “A Villain’s Ball”-Fresno’s Lavender Prom! (Fresno)

Community Link’s Fresno GLBTQI Youth Alliance presents:
“A Villain’s Ball”-Fresno’s Lavender Prom!!!

This is an awesome alternative to your high school prom!
When: Saturday, May 12
Time: 8pm-11:30pm
Where: The Living Room, 601 E Belmont, Fresno, Ca 93706.

Go to http://www.communitylinkfresno.com for more info. Or contact Sara at mailto:sara@gsanetwork.org!!!

Happy Prom everyone!!!!!

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Northern California
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19. Breaking the Silence March and Rally (San Jose)

Wednesday, April 18
5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

The Day of Silence is held to protest anti-LGBT bullying, harassment and discrimination in schools. Come support your community to speak up and help break the silence.

The Breaking the Silence Rally will include an Open Mic along with Guest Speakers and Performers to give LGBTQ and allied youth the opportunity to finally Break the Silence!

This event includes:
5:00 p.m. March, starting at the DeFrank Center and leading to the Plaza de Cesar Chavez
6:00p.m.-7:30p.m. Rally at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Downtown San Jose

This event brought to you by:
ShOut @ The DeFrank Center
Youth advocates, ages 13-20, are welcome to join us!
Wednesdays 5:30-7pm at DeFrank

Contact Cassie with questions or to get involved: (408) 293-3040 x111 or mailto:cassieb@defrank.org.

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20. Day of Silence Event (Sacramento)

On Wednesday April 18th, the Day of Silence, we will be meeting at the Former Lambda Center (Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center, 1927 L Street Sacramento 95814) at 3:30 pm.

From 3:30~5:00 we will be making signs for our Night of Noise March to the Capitol Building.

From 5:15~TBD we will be on the sidewalk doing our thing. After walking back to the Center, we will have pizza and drinks waiting for us.

If you have any questions/concerns, please email Lance at mailto:Lance@RespectSacramento.org

Also, there is a high possibility that local news stations will be at the event!

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21. LYRIC After School Programs (San Francisco)

Wednesday, April 11th

Mural Project

The LYRIC ASP community is creating a mural on the first floor. Whether you draw, paint or just have ideas, come and help us create a fabulous work of art! Become a muralist and make your mark at LYRIC.

Thursday, April 12th

Trans 101 Training

What does it mean to be masculine? What does it mean to be feminine? Is there any in between? Challenge all of your ideas about men, women and everything in between in this introduction to gender in all its splendor. Discover the wonders of the gender identity spectrum for yourself.

Friday, April 13th

Movie Night: http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808429908/info

Saved

"Good girl" Mary and her domineering best friend, Hilary Faye, are starting their senior year at the top of the social food chain at American Eagle Christian High School--that is until Mary's boyfriend tells her that he thinks he may be gay. When Jesus appears to her in a vision, she heeds his message to "do everything she can to help her boyfriend" and, to her horror, she ends up pregnant. Suddenly, Mary begins to question everything she's believed in, and Hilary Faye and her devoted "disciples" soon turn against her. As an outcast, Mary finds herself alone until she's befriended by the school's other pariahs: Hilary Faye's cynical wheelchair-bound brother, Roland; the principal's skater heart-throb son, Patrick; and the high school's lone Jew, an exuberant rebel named Cassandra. The group of outsiders band together to navigate the treacherous halls of high school and make it to graduation--ultimately learning more about themselves, finding faith in unexpected places, and realizing what it truly means to be Saved!

For more information, please contact Jaedon at p 415.703.6150 x13

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22. Queer Grrl Health Retreat: Let's Talk About Sex! (San Francisco)

The 4th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat will be a chance for queer young women to come together to talk and learn about sex, our bodies, violence and pleasure.

The 4th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat Presents: Let's Talk About Sex!

A 2-Day Retreat for Lesbian, Bi, Trans, Queer & Questioning Grrls!

Why this retreat kicks azz:

Come Hungry
(Breakfast, lunch & snacks provided)

Phat Giveaways & Gift Certificates!
(Off the Hook Free Stuff!)

Good folks & good vibes!
(A safe place to talk, ask and learn!)

Prizes & Goodies & Toys!
(Oh, my…)

Learn about...
your body (anatomy and physiology)
women's health issues
image and identity
safer sex
sexual communication
relationships
violence against women
community and empowerment
SEX
and more!

2 weekends to choose from:
Saturday & Sunday
May 5th & 6th OR May 12th & 13th

Boo-Yow: The retreat is free to all woman-identified folks 24 & under -

Interested? Please RSVP ASAP: Mercedes Gibson 415.7036150 x21 or mailto:mercedes@lyric.org

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the Queer Grrl Health Retreat?
The Queer Grrl Health Retreat is a chance for queer young women to come together to talk and learn about sex, our bodies, violence and pleasure. It's two-days of socializing, meeting new folks, fun, sharing, talking, education, gifts - we can make the space whatever we want it to be!

Who puts on the Queer Grrl Health Retreat?
LYRIC - a community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer & questioning youth 24 and under. For more info on LYRIC, please visit us at http://www.lyric.org/.

Which weekend should I attend?
Both weekends cover the same material so please choose the weekend that best fits with your schedule. We would like for folks to stay both days, if possible.

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23. Community Action Trainings (Oakland)

The Community Action Training (CAT) is a weekend-long, intensive introduction to organizing. The three-day training provides entry-level organizer training to individuals, staff, and members of community-based organizations through fieldwork, role plays, and discussions. During this high-intensity three-day training, CAT participants learn how to door-knock as a tool for recruiting and mobilizing constituents, participate in campaign development and actions, and learn to appreciate the legacy of organizing in communities of color and its relevance in today's fight for social justice. Learn from experienced organizers, share skills and knowledge with other activists, and have fun meeting others dedicated to building a movement for social justice!

Highlights Include:
History of Social Movements Principles of Community Organizing
Approaches to Social Change
How to ask for money without guilt- Grassroots Fundraising
The fundamentals of doorknocking
The planning of effective direct actions
Framing your fights in campaigns

CAT 2007 SPRING CYCLE
NEW ORLEANS, LA: Co-hosted by Safe Streets-Strong Communities
April 20-22, 2007

OAKLAND, CA: Co-Hosted by Communities for a Better Environment (CBE)*
April 20-22, 2007 (filled)
June 1-3, 2007
*June Cat Just Added! Host Site: T.B.A

LOS ANGELES, CA: Co-hosted by SEIU Local 721
April 27-29, 2007

BROOKLYN, NY: Co-hosted by Families United for Racial and Economic Equality (FUREE)
May 18-20, 2007

To register online, go to http://www.ctwo.org/index.php?s=30. Scholarships are also available! To apply for a scholarship go to: http://www.ctwo.org/index.php?s=31.
Spaces fill quickly. Register today!

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24. "Hella Gay" Prom (Santa Rosa)

Positive Images Presents…
The P.I and G.S.A “Hella Gay” Prom

You are cordially invited to our Queer evening
“Over the Rainbow”

May 25th 2007
Disc Jockey spinning’ House, Funk, Hip-Hop and More
~Light Food, and Music 7:00-8:00pm~

Crowning of King and Queen Royal Court & Drag Show!
Those who choose to do so, may perform to a short piece of music, this will allow them to enter the Drag Show starting at 8:00pm
The Crowning of King and Queen to follow performances

Location: The Prom will be held at Club 509 in Santa Rosa Calif., at the Chop’s Demeo Center: 509 Adams Street, Santa Rosa California, 95401.

This Prom is a community based event in an attempt to influence “us” as a people to celebrate our diversities and to become a more understanding, stronger and united society…

Please RSVP by Friday May 10th, 2007 to mailto:posimage@sonic.net

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25. "An Evening Of Hollywood Glamour" Prom (Hayward)

Theme: "An Evening Of Hollywood Glamour"

Project Eden/Lambda Project's Bay Area Gay Prom is a drug/alcohol-free prom put on by youth and community people in support of LGBTQ youth and their
friends. It takes place the second Saturday in June at Centennial Hall, in Hayward. Over 450 LGBTQ youth and their friends (gay and straight) attend the event, from all around the bay area and as far as Mendocino, Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and other counties throughout California. For many LGBTQ youth, it is the only prom that they can attend
which guarantees them safety and support for being themselves. And it's PROM -- a time to dress to impress and enjoy a fancy evening!

When: Second Saturday in June
Where: Centennial Hall in Hayward
Contact: mailto:projecteden@horizonservices.org for more info!

LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning) youth are a high-risk population for depression, suicidality, alcohol and other drug abuse and hate violence due to hostility and intolerance from the community. Yet this population also tends, when supported, to get exceptionally involved in working in the community to build a better society for everyone. Because these youth must make some brave decisions about who they are and how they will conduct themselves, they tend to be a more conscientious and
community-oriented group of youth to be around.

One of the unique aspects of Gay Prom is the Carnival Room, a fun room full of various social, health, and mental health agencies that offer risk-prevention information to youth through creative and interactive games that youth can win prizes as well as increase their knowledge about safe sex practices, youth laws, and services available to them in the community. The
Carnival Room is a very popular part of the prom.

Gay Prom is an event that is designed, planned and implemented by a core group of Lambda youth themselves each year, along with the involvement of over adult volunteers, and donations from dozens of businesses, small and large. It is fun, rewarding and has an enduring impact for individuals and the entire Bay Area. Last year's Gay Prom hosted 5 British Youth and September Films from London, England. Because Project Eden/Lambda Project has the longest running Gay Prom in the US, our Gay Prom was chosen as the prom to be filmed as well as replicated in London, England.

To make a donation or to volunteer, please call 510/247-8200 or email mailto:projecteden@horizonservices.org

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26. Hip Hop Circus & Dance Battle: Above The Clouds a Hip Hop Circus Family Event! (Oakland)

Velocity Circus in Above The Clouds a Hip-Hop B-Boy/B-Girl Battle

Saturday, April 14th, 2007 4pm-10pm at CUE SPACE
1824 9th Street, Oakland CA

Velocity Circus & CUE will host and sponsor "The Style Renegades" as they present "Above The Clouds" a B-Boy/B-Girl dance battle, in which the winner will take home a cash prize, with live musical, circus acts & a graffiti art exhibition. Tickets will be $20.00/person. To purchase advance tickets, go to: http://www.myspace.com/atcbattle

For more info. contact Jeffrey Ferns @ 415-242-4196.

WHO: Above The Clouds B-Boy/B-Girl, DJ's, Circus Performers, Aerialists, Graffiti artists.
WHAT: Announcing Above the Clouds Dance Battle
WHEN: Saturday, April 14th, 2007 4pm-10pm
WHERE: 1824 9th Street Oakland, CA 94607
WHY: Benefit for CUE & performing platform for Bay Area Artists
Cost: $20.00 per person

To purchase tickets in advance, call Jeffrey Ferns
415-242-4196

ABOUT:
"Above the Clouds" is a three day, all ages family event, which encompasses all elements of hip hop. The kick off date is Friday, April 13, for the pre-event sponsored by Weekend Wake-Up, which is a series of free community events, combining an after school graffiti curriculum with dynamic multi-media hip hop parties lead by Sam Mulberry or Desi. The occasion will allow artists to meet and mingle in the midst of music, breakdancin, and an art show. The battle date is Saturday, April 14, @ Velocity Circus‚ CUE SPACE where five on five teams of b-boys and b-girls will battle for the grand prize of $2,000. Open cyphers will take place on Sunday, April 15th, where dancers will have the freedom to share and have fun with one another in a non-competitive environment. Another $1,000 will be awarded to many individuals who dance their hearts out. Saturday's Price: $20.00

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National
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27. LGBTQ Essays Wanted for The Nation!

We're looking for original, thoughtful, provocative student voices to tell us what is the most important issue for young people in the 2008 presidential campaign. Essays should not exceed 800 words and should be original, unpublished work that demonstrates fresh, clear thinking and superior quality of expression and craftsmanship.

We'll select five finalists and one winner, who will be awarded a $1,000 cash prize and a Nation subscription. The winning essay will be published in the magazine and featured on our website. The five finalists will be awarded $200 each and subscriptions, and their entries will be published online. Entries (only one per student) will be accepted through May 31. A winner will be announced by September 4.

Please send entries to mailto:studentprize@thenation.com.

More info at http://www.thenation.com/about/student_writing_contest.mhtml

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Scholarships
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28. Models of Excellence Scholarship, Sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc.

This competition is open to any senior high school student who is graduating from a California senior high school and who has demonstrated a commitment to LGBT civil rights.

The student needs to provide evidence that he/she is going on to some form of higher education. Awards of $1,000 and $500 are given at a scholarship dinner in June 2007.

Applications are on the http://www.modelsofpride.org Web site. Contact us at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or 626-577-4553 for more information.

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29. PFLAG San Diego Scholarships Available!

GLBT SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Attention GLBT high school seniors, undergraduate and graduate students :

Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) San Diego is offering scholarships for Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgendered (GLBT) students.

If you can use $1,000.00 to help pay school expenses and are a San Diego County resident, apply for one of our $1,000.00 scholarships!

Visit http://pflag.com for details and a downloadable application.

Application deadline is Monday, April 16, 2007.

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30. COLAGE and Horizons Foundation Scholarships

Scholarships for Undergraduate Students with one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender parent/s.

COLAGE is pleased to announce a new partnership with Horizons Foundation to offer four $1,000 scholarships to support the undergraduate studies of students with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender parents. The application deadline is April 20th, 2007.

COLAGE and Horizons Foundation will award four scholarships to children of LGBT parents through two funds honoring gay fathers Lee Dubin and Joseph Towner. Each scholarship will provide $1,000 to post-secondary students with one or more LGBT parent(s)/guardian(s) who have demonstrated ability and commitment to effecting change in the LGBT community and the community at large.

Lee Dubin Memorial Fund
Some of the most powerful members of the LGBT community are the children of LGBT parents who have grown up being nurtured and supported by this community and are now part of a whole generation of people who have the power to create dramatic change in the world. Through college scholarships, we aim to honor this power and celebrate the unique experiences and achievements of our families. Students who are actively working to combat homophobia and increase positive awareness of LGBT families are strongly encouraged to apply.

Joseph Towner Fund
Relationships among LGBT parents and their children that successfully overcome societal pressures are strong and vibrant role models for the LGBT community. Access to emotional and financial support can be a crucial factor in meeting such challenges. The purpose of the fund is to award scholarships to post-secondary students who have at least one LGBT parent residing in one of the nine Bay Area counties. Scholarships are awarded for tuition and/or cost of books. Students who feel they have overcome challenges in their life are strongly encouraged to apply.

Guidelines
The same guidelines and application process apply to both funds. Although only students with one LGBT parents residing in the nine-county Bay Area can qualify for the Joseph Towner awards.

· Four grants of $1,000 each will be awarded.
· Awards will be granted by the Scholarship Committee, which is made up of volunteers who are LGBT parents and adult children of LGBT parents.
· The sponsoring organizations would like to encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply. COLAGE and Horizons Foundation do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, physical ability, class, sexual orientation, age, gender, or type of LGBT family.
· People who are active community participants are encouraged to apply.
· Board or staff members, and their family members, are not eligible.
· Applicants must be willing to be named publicly in association with COLAGE, Horizons Foundation, and the Scholarship Program.
· Applicants with demonstrated economic need are encouraged to apply.

Requirements
Applicants must:
-Have one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender parent(s)/guardian(s).
-Be enrolled in an accredited postsecondary institution. No graduate level or higher applicants please.
-Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.

The application is available online at http://www.colage.org/scholarship.html extremely soon!

Questions?
Contact COLAGE at 415-861-KIDS (5437) or mailto:colage@colage.org.

COLAGE engages, connects, and empowers people to make the world a better place for children of LGBT parents and families. Through community building, youth empowerment, public education, and political advocacy at local, regional, and national levels, COLAGE plays an active role in creating a safe, just world for all children and families.

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Horizons Foundation serves the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community by making grants, strengthening LGBT organizations and leadership, and increasing philanthropic giving.

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Jobs:
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31. (LGBTTQQHI) Youth Health Scan Researchers Needed! (Oakland)

Youth in Focus is excited to announce our new project: Bay Area Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirited, Queer, Questioning, Heterosexual, Intersex (LGBTTQQHI) Youth Health Scan.

We are bringing together fifteen-plus years of youth-led needs assessment in health, and three years in LGBTQ-specific work to create one comprehensive youth-led assessment on the health needs of LGBTQQHI youth in the Bay Area. Our hope is to present findings and recommendations to build and strengthen services for LGBTQQHI youth; to bring together the organizations that serve them; and to strategize possibilities for future collaborations.

We are putting together a diverse team of youth between the age of 14 and 24, who identify as LGBTTQQI. We hope that you will share the attached flyer and application with youth that you work with. Youth-led action research helps young people become more effective communicators, and allows them to address their needs in a constructive way, while applying research tools to create social change.

For this project we may want to ask you and/ or your clients to fill out a survey, to participate in one of our focus groups, or give an interview in order to get the most thoughtful and accurate information. Please feel free to ask any questions in regards to the Bay Area LGBTTQQHI Youth Health Scan, and encourage your youth to fill out an application today!

To receive an application, please contact: mailto:tee@youthinfocus.net

Applications due April 18, 2007
1611 Telegraph Ave, #510, Oakland, CA94612 Fax:510.251.9810
E-mail: mailto:tee@youthinfocus.net

For more info e-mail or call Tee: 510.251.9800 ext.303

*** The Bay Area LGBTTQQHI Youth Health Scan is part of the Health Justice
Initiative (HJI) at Youth in Focus. The HJI conducts youth-led action research projects with LGBTTQQHI youth of color, young white allies, adult allies and organizations to improve the lives of young people affected by different forms of oppression such as racism, classism, homophobia, and transphobia.April 5, 2007

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NEWS
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32. NEWS: Federal Judge Rules Okeechobee, FL Students Can Form Gay-Straight Alliance Club

4.07.07
GayWired.com
GayWired.com Staff Writer

The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida today welcomed a district court decision ordering Okeechobee High School to officially recognize and allow equal access to the Okeechobee High School Gay Straight Alliance.

"This decision sends a clear message to other schools that they face a similar fate in federal court if they choose to discriminate by deliberately misrepresenting GSAs as something they're not," said lead attorney Rob Rosenwald, Director of the ACLU of Florida's LGBT Advocacy Project and John C. Graves Fellow. "Violence and harassment against gay students is a rampant problem in Florida."

"This is great news," added Yasmin Gonzalez, an ACLU plaintiff and president of the Okeechobee GSA. "I am so glad that we're going to be allowed to meet on campus just like kids in other clubs already do. Even though I am graduating this year, I now know that by standing up to intolerance today, future students at OHS will benefit from a more open environment and not have to endure the same treatment from our school in the future."

The ruling by U.S. District Court Judge K. Michael Moore is the first to find that GSAs are not by definition "sex-based" clubs, rejecting the school's argument that the club that would violate its abstinence-only education policy. The order was granted primarily on the basis that the Federal Equal Access Act requires schools that allow any extracurricular club to meet on campus to allow all clubs to meet on campus. The ACLU has won other recent GSA victories across the nation, from Madera, California to White County, Georgia. This was also the first time a federal court has heard an Equal Access Act challenge in Florida.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.gaywired.com/article.cfm?section=66&id=14042

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April 4, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
Something Special About the "S" in GSA
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Northern Central Valley)
2. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!
3. 10th Annual Queeriosity event (San Francisco)
4. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager
5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
6. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)
7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
8. Be A Part of the DREAM Dialogue (Los Angeles)
9. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
10. AQUA25A April Events (San Francisco)
11. Pajama Dance Party! (San Francisco)
12. YouthAware Educational Theatre Presents the World Premiere OutSpoken Tour! (Bay Area)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Scholarships
13. San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG Scholarship Program
14. Officer Jon C. Cook Scholarship Fund
Go directly to Scholarships listings

Jobs
15. LYRIC Case Manager (San Francisco)
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
16. NEWS: UC Riverside Offers Gender-Neutral Housing for Gay, Transgender Students
17. NEWS: "Safe Place to Learn Act" Will Protect Students from Harassment Based on Sexual Orientation
18. NEWS: Gay Youth Storm State Capitals as Movement's Newest Ambassadors
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

Something Special About the "S" in GSA

Often some of the most overlooked people involved in the LGBTQ youth rights and safer schools movements are straight allies. Gay-Straight Alliances are a great opportunity for LGBTQ and straight ally youth to come together in a school to support each other, spread awareness, and fight discrimination and harassment. Movements for equality and justice move forward and make significant progress when those most affected and allies work together.

Straight allies are well-represented in many of the GSAs all over California. As a matter of fact, one-third of the over 1000 youth who participated in Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2006 and 2007 self-identified as straight allies.

Don't fall for the easy assumption made by some people that anyone involved in a GSA has to be LGBTQ. Straight allies join and become leaders in GSAs for a variety of reasons, including being the friend or a family member of an LGBTQ individual, witnessing and wanting to put a stop to bullying or teasing based on sexual orientation or gender identity happening in his/her/hir school, recognizing the need to work for equality of LGBTQ individuals as part bringing about social justice for all people, etc.

" My family and my love for who they are and who I've become because of them is what encourages me to keep pursuing for the civil liberties of minorities like us." -- Straight ally and GSA leader who is the child of two lesbian parents

Because of anti-LGBTQ bias, it is sometimes straight allies who are the first folks to feel empowered enough to stand up and speak out for what's right. In such cases, it is important for straight allies to recognize the potential power they have to share. In a school in a conservative area with a hostile climate where LGBTQ youth feel it might be unsafe for them to come out, it might be up to the straight ally to take the first step in forming a GSA.

Another important thing to remember is that because of the stigma still attached to being LGBTQ, straight allies can sometimes find themselves becoming the victims of harassers or shunned by biased teachers and school administrators. Discrimination and intolerance can touch all of us who are involved in the LGBTQ youth and safer schools movements.

" In one of my classes, I am often harassed, even though I am straight. They harass me because I'm in the GSA." -- Straight ally participant at QYAD 2007

Here at GSA Network, we encourage LGBTQ and straight GSA members to continue organizing and uniting to create safer schools, enlightened communities, and a just and equal society. Below are links to some great resources for starting discussions in your clubs on how homophobia and transphobia affects all students and tips on how to strengthen alliances between all members of your GSA:

1. "What Every Super-Rad Straight Ally Should Know" -- a GSA Network resource sheet http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/straight.html
2. COLAGE (Children of Lesbians & Gays Everywhere) is an oganization that provides to and advocates on behalf of the children of LGBTQ parents. http://www.colage.org/
3. PFLAG (Parents, Families, & Friends of Lesbians & Gays) has many resources for straight allies of LGBTQ individuals. http://www.pflag.org/

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Northern Central Valley)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2007 and will only be open to about 15 participants so you must sign up in advance. It includes breakfast
and lunch! We will also have GSA Network t-shirts and buttons available for purchase!!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

Topics include
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, membership building, and diversity
* Understanding gender and sexual orientation
* Understanding laws that protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment, and discrimination in your school.

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, April 14th.
WHERE: Location and time will be given when you inquire or register!!
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Sara Martinez, GSA Network Central Valley Program Associate, at 559-268-2780 or mailto:sara@gsanetwork.org.

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2. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!

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4. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager

GSA Network is seeking a National Program Manager to oversee the development and management of its new national programs. Over the past two years, GSA Network has embarked on an exciting national expansion. In 2005, GSA Network founded the National Association of GSA Networks, which brings together youth and adult leaders from state and regional GSA networking groups in nearly 20 states to network and share best practices for GSA organizing.

Additionally, GSA Network has piloted a replication of its model for GSA organizing in New Mexico, helping the Santa Fe Mountain Center establish the New Mexico GSA Network. In 2006, GSA Network completed a national expansion strategic plan that formalizes its national training and replication activities. GSA Network's national program will further the organization's mission by expanding its unique youth-driven, state-based program model nationally - adding an important voice to the LGBT, safe schools, and social justice movements.

The National Program Manager is responsible for running GSA Network's national programs, including supporting the core current operations of the National Association of GSA Networks and the development and coordination of our National Training and Replication Program.

To view the entire job description and learn how to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about

For more info, email Tanya Mayo at mailto:tanya@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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6. GSA Network Seeking Spring Intern! (San Francisco)

Southern California
For more info, email mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162.

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

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++++++++++++++++ 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.

Southern California
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8. Be A Part of the DREAM Dialogue (Los Angeles)

What is DREAM Dialogue?
DREAM Dialogue is a program that brings together a diverse group of young people who demonstrate a belief in combating bias and discrimination. In six meetings per academic year, participants bond across ethnic groups, develop leadership skills, lead discussions in valuing diversity with their peers and initiate a community social action project of their choosing.

Over the past eight years, DREAM Dialogue ambassadors have created community social action projects such as "Stop the Hate," a video for junior and senior high school audiences; "What Would You Do?" a children's book for elementary school students; the mural that is displayed on the ADL building about breaking through the walls of hate and discrimination; "Faces of LA," a photography exhibit which documents Los Angeles' cultural diversity and social identities; and an anti-bias t-shirt campaign, featuring the slogan "Stop the Cycle."

What Do DREAM Dialogue Ambassadors Do?
-Participate in six meetings per academic school year to acquire techniques for combating prejudice and discrimination.
-Dispel myths and stereotypes through ADL's A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute anti-bias materials.
-Recognize their own and others' biases and take personal responsibility for combating prejudice and discrimination.
-Facilitate dialogue with other youth about inclusion and discrimination.
-Create and participate in a community social action project in order to promote inter-group understanding.

Why should students become part of DREAM Dialogue?
Community Service:
DREAM Dialogue gives students a chance to participate in community service, which is of ever increasing importance not only to create a better world, but also for college applications.

Improving School Environments:
DREAM Dialogue ambassadors learn ways to talk about difficult issues regarding bias, and in turn, they can bring their newly acquired knowledge/skills back to their schools to contribute to various school-based programs for promoting equity and inclusion.

Positive Interactions Between Schools:
DREAM Dialogue offers students a rare chance to interact in positive ways with students from other schools in the Los Angeles area.

Small Effort, Big Results:
DREAM Dialogue doesn't require an overwhelming amount of time, only a sincere commitment. However, the return can be rather substantial, in terms of college recommendations, community service opportunities, and a forum for building leadership skills and promoting positive human relations across Los Angeles and beyond.

It's FREE!!!!!
DREAM Dialogue doesn't cost a cent. We only ask that students commit to participate in the six meetings per year, as well as commit to complete a social action project.

We are looking for high school students who are truly concerned with combating bias and discrimination to join DREAM Dialogue for the 2007-2008 school year. Please contact us for an application. The deadline for the application is May 25th. To learn more about the Anti-Defamation League and/or DREAM Dialogue, please contact Assistant Project Director Shelley Reece at 310-446-8000 x. 232 or mailto:sreece@adl.org.

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9. “Noche De Colores y Culturas” (Highland Park)

The Wall - Las Memorias Project invites you to:

“Noche De Colores y Culturas”

An evening for celebrating the Queer/LGBT community through art and entertainment. Join us for a fun night of live music, theatre skits, spoken word, poetry reading, an art exhibition.

Friday, April 20th, 2007
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
111 N. Avenue 56
Highland Park, CA 90042

For more information contact Alejandro Menchaca at:
323-257-1056 ext. 26 or mailto:amenchaca@thewalllasmemorias.org

Light refreshments and appetizers.

This is a free event open to all the community and all ages.

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Northern California
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10. AQUA25A April Events (San Francisco)

Hip-Hop Dance Class
ASIA SF
201 9TH St.

Thursday, April 5th,
7:30 PM

AQU25A Retreat!
April 13-15

A FREE weekend getaway on the beautiful beaches of Santa Cruz. Good times. Fun Activities. Cool folks. New friends. Safe Queer space. Memories…

Could it get any sweeter?

Space is VERY limited! If you are interested please contact Lance ASAP!

We'll be leaving San Francisco around 8pm on Friday and getting back around 2pm on Sunday. Transportation, food, lodging, etc. are all FREE!

For more information, please contact: Lance Dwyer at mailto:LDwyer@apiwellness.org or 415.292.3420 ext.315

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11. Pajama Dance Party! (San Francisco)

Come join your Bay Area GSA’S and supporters to dance, have fun and meet new people!

CONTEST PRIZES FOR CUTEST, GAYEST AND BEST THEMED PJ’S!

Party is for youth18 yrs. & underSchool ID or State ID Required

Friday April 13th 7pm-11pm
1800 MARKET STREET @ OCTAVIA
For any other info contact:
Javier, JR, Damita Jo @ 415-865-5649

The MUNI METRO LINES -J,K,L,M,N, the F STREETCAR, or MUNI BUS LINES 6,7,9, 10, 14, 21, 26, 47, 49, 66 and 71. Please be considerate of our neighbors and do not block driveways if you drive

Sponsored by- The San Francisco LGBT Community Center

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12. YouthAware Educational Theatre Presents the World Premiere OutSpoken Tour! (Bay Area)

YouthAware Educational Theatre at the New Conservatory Theatre Center is still booking tour dates for OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas, our brand new play about diversity, differences and labeling for teens.

We're almost booked up, so email TODAY for more information, or to book a performance of this world premiere tour for your school or community.

***I'm also now trying to put together an in-house, pre-tour performance of OutSpoken at NCTC on Tuesday April 10th, time TBD. Email me if you'd be interested in bringing a class to our theatre facilities at 25 Van Ness (at Market St.) for that showing with your time preference (morning or afternoon) and please let me know how many seats you would need.***

Touring Northern California Schools and Communities from April 10th – 26th 2007

From the same company that produces The Other Side of the Closet tour in the fall, our newest YouthAware Educational Theatre touring program, OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas, will be Northern California from April 20th – 26th 2007.

OutSpoken is a play for teens grades 7-12 that educates about diversity and differences, and looks at the many reasons young people feel ostracized or labeled in school, at home and in their community including race, sexual orientation, body type, etc. OutSpoken takes a unique look at these issues from different perspectives, and helps teens think about labeling and diversity within their own community.

Through OutSpoken, we hope young people will find new ways to move past their differences to a real place of understanding and acceptance. Each performance is about 65-75 minutes in length including a facilitated discussion with the actor-educators following the play. OutSpoken may be performed in any theater, gym, or other multipurpose space. We travel with out own set and sound equipment and do not require any special lighting.

OutSpoken would be a great program to accompany or compliment any Day of Silence events at your school, and/or for your GSA club to sponsor. It is produced by the YouthAware Educational Theatre Program with the New Conservatory Theatre Center based in San Francisco.

For more information, or to book a performance, contact Sara Staley at (415) 694-6149 or email mailto:sara@nctcsf.org.

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Scholarships
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13. San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG Scholarship Program

Our PFLAG chapter is offering five $2,000.00 scholarships (four to graduating seniors and one to a community college student who will be transferring) to students currently enrolled in schools in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County who will be attending an accredited college, university or business/technical school during 2007.

These scholarships will be given to individuals (LGBTQ and allies) whose educational history, personal plans and activities demonstrate support for justice and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons. These awards are provided with the understanding that the funds will be used to offset the cost of tuition, books or required fees.

Application deadline extended: Postmarked by Saturday, April 14, 2007

Winners must attend a PFLAG Awards reception on Wednesday evening, May 9, 2007 from 7-9- PM at the First Congregational Church, 1980 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125.

For detailed instructions and the application, please see our web site at:
http://www.pflagsanjose.org

Questions, please contact Maribeth Ament 408-554-6852 or mailto:pflag.scholarship@yahoo.com

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14. Officer Jon C. Cook Scholarship Fund

The San Francisco Police Officers' Pride Alliance is proud to announce the Officer Jon C. Cook Scholarship Fund. This scholarship was founded as a way to honor the memory of Officer Jon C. Cook. Officer Cook was the first gay officer to die in the line of duty in the City of San Francisco. His memory will forever be in our hearts and the hearts of all who knew him.

The San Francisco Police Officers' Pride Alliance has helped to set up a scholarship fund in Officer Cook's memory. These annual scholarships will be given to selected candidates at the SFPO's Pride Alliance annual event in June of every year.

The deadline for the scholarship application is May 1, 2007.

The link for our scholarship is: http://www.sfpopridealliance.org/content/view/18/27/

Applicants must be:
1. High School Seniors
2. GPA of 3.0 or higher
3. LGBT youth or
4. Child of LGBT Parents or
5. Child of a San Francisco Police Officer

Application must include:
1. Copy of High School Transcripts
2. Letter from teacher in senior year

Qualified candidates will be notified, and asked to submit a written essay in a chosen topic. Winning candidates will be presented the scholarships at our annual event.

If you or any other qualified applicant is interested in applying for this scholarship, please contact the San Francisco Police Officer's Pride Alliance at: mailto:info@sfpopridealliance.org. This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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Jobs:
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15. LYRIC Case Manager (San Francisco)

Introduction
Welcome to LYRIC and thank you for your interest in applying for the Case Manager position. This is an opportunity to work in a fun, intergenerational, family-like atmosphere while gaining the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to support the youth movement. Here at LYRIC, we (the program staff) work closely with young folks to set the tone and direction of youth programming. We also make an effort to join together best practices and proven models with grassroots methods and community-led strategies. Our informal, energetic and youthful community values teamwork, honesty and professionalism. We are looking for someone who is excited about creating a fun space for youth while maintaining healthy boundaries, upholding Community Agreements and remaining flexible in a fast-paced environment.
Organization Description

Founded in 1988, the Lavender Youth Recreation & Information Center (LYRIC) provides supports and services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQQ) youth, 24 years of age and under. LYRIC's mission is to build community and inspire positive social change with LGBTQQ youth, their families, and allies of all races, classes, genders, and abilities. LYRIC facilitates community building, education and economic development, health and wellness, and leadership development programming reaching over 1200 youth and outreaching to another 5000 annually. The organization has a current budget of approximately $1 million and 10 full-time and 2 part-time employees.

Position Summary
One case manager is being hired to join a program team which currently includes a Program Director, 3 Program Coordinators, a Case Manager and a part-time licensed therapist. To help ensure access to and success in LYRIC's youth development and leadership programming, youth participants need a range of supports. When accessing LYRIC services for the first time, each youth meets with a LYRIC program staff one-on-one for a program orientation and to assess interest and need. Case managers are the primary staff members responsible for this initial meeting. Ongoing case management responsibilities will range from simple referrals on an as needed basis to intensive case management including development of an individualized service plan and ongoing individual sessions. Case managers are part of a neighborhood engagement team that is currently being developed as part of the Community Partnership for LGBTQQ Youth. Critical to the success of this position, is mastery of case management provision both on a one-to-one basis as well as within a community context. The Case Manager reports to LYRIC's Program Director and is accountable to working in collaboration with all members of LYRIC's program staff, as well as working as part of the whole LYRIC staff team.

Responsibilities
1.Using community resources and best practice research, develop and implement an innovative case management program that will succeed within a community context and meet the unique challenges of LGBTQQ youth.
2. Meet with LGBTQQ youth 24 and under to provide program orientation and to assess interests while evaluating strengths that can support and challenges that can create barriers to a youth's full engagement.
3. Present all new intakes to program team at weekly case management meeting where level of case management support will be decided.
4. Develop strength-based, anti-oppression-centered individualized service plan with youth in need of intensive case management support.
5. Ensure follow through on specific goals set by LYRIC and by youth as part of individualized service plan, including following agreed upon one-to-one session schedule. Work with youth in the context of their support networks as they define them - friends, parents/caregivers, boyfriends/girlfriends/partners.
6. Maintain record of daily contacts and activities with youth.
7. As needed, report to Program Director in between case management meetings to ensure up-to-date information is shared for the well being of individual participants and the community within and outside of LYRIC.
8. Partner with LYRIC Program Coordinators facilitating programming in LYRIC drop-in space to support meaningful engagement by individual participants.
9. Work in partnership with entire program team to ensure that Community Agreements are understood and followed.
10. Provide crisis intervention and conflict de-escalation support as needed.
11. Maintain relationships with community based service providers, and youth serving agencies such as the school district as well as the various agencies that work with youth in the foster care and juvenile justice systems.
12. Work as part of the program staff team to design and implement youth development programming for LGBTQQ youth 24 years and under, utilizing the resources of LYRIC and its community partners.
13. Develop workshops and other innovative outreach strategies.
14. Provide training and support to peer health educators.
15. Attend staff meetings as well as other organizational retreats and gatherings.
16. Commit to building strong community within and without LYRIC, that encourages respect for all and fosters effective communication.

Qualifications
1. Passion and commitment to fostering healthy queer youth.
2.  Understanding of case management model best practices.
3.  Experience working in a youth services, youth advocacy, family support or educational setting.
4.  Understanding of youth development, and knowledge of LGBTQQ youth issues.
5.  Understanding of social justice and anti-oppression.
6. Highly positive and enthusiastic style capable of motivating youth and supporting peers.
7.  Self-motivated and ability to take initiative, manage, and complete multiple projects within deadlines.
8. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment; highly organized.
9. Ability to hold yourself accountable for your own work.
10. Commitment to ongoing self-improvement.
11. Required to maintain a valid drivers license and maintain access to a registered and insured vehicle to use in carrying out job responsibilities.
12. Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.

Skills and Experience
1. At least two years experience in a case management or counseling capacity in an organization that provides direct services to youth.
2. Experience with diverse models of working with youth, i.e. understanding of principles of youth development, harm reduction, anti-oppression.
3. Experience working with trans youth, young women, youth of color, youth with disabilities and other historically marginalized groups.
4. Experience and competencies in working in a multiracial, multicultural environment.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication and facilitation skills.
6. Excellent problem-solving skills.
7. Experience with data collection and basic reporting.
8. Knowledge of San Francisco and Bay Area resources, especially for LGBTQQ youth and their families.
9. Experience developing effective collaborations with other agencies and communities.
10. Bi/Multi-lingual desirable.

Salary
Salary Range: $33,000 - $35,000 per annum and commensurate with experience. Position includes full benefits package.

LYRIC is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are strongly encouraged from women, people of color, immigrants, young people, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and genderqueer people, people living with HIV/AIDS, people who are differently-abled, and bilingual and bicultural people.

To apply please email your resume with full contact information and a cover letter to mailto:CMjob@lyric.org. Please put CM and your name in the subject line. Applicants may also submit resume and cover letter by mail to: LYRIC - Attn: Case Manager Search, 127 Collingwood Street, San Francisco, CA 94114. No phone calls or faxes, please. We will contact you directly if we wish to talk with you about the position. This position will remain open until filled, but please note that interviews are scheduled to begin as early as 04/20/07. Thank you in advance for your interest in the position.

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NEWS
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16. NEWS: UC Riverside Offers Gender-Neutral Housing for Gay, Transgender Students

March 10, 2007
The Press-Enterprise
By MARISA AGHA

UC Riverside is one of a growing number of universities nationwide that has begun allowing men and women to share a room on campus.

UCR is one of about 20 universities with gender-neutral housing. Verenice Quezada, left, and Erving Tu have known each other since high school and now room together. Some gay and transgender students told UCR they didn't want to live in same-sex rooms.

So-called gender-neutral housing was created in 2005 at UCR in response to concerns expressed by gay and transgender students, who told university housing officials that they were uncomfortable rooming with students of the same sex. Now, they can choose roommates regardless of biological sex or gender identity.

Gay and transgender students can benefit from a roommate of the opposite gender, particularly someone they know, because they have an instant support network regardless of where they are in the coming-out process, said Cynthia Hurd, a Fort Collins, Colo.-based psychotherapist who focuses on gender-identity issues.
" It would take the pressure off," Hurd said.

Typically, more freshmen live on campus at UCR than any other class. Of about 3,000 freshmen living on campus this school year, 24 opted to live in the suites. Each of the six suites accommodates up to eight students. So far, just one pair of roommates in the gender-neutral community are of the opposite sex.

"If living with someone of an opposite gender is going to make their transition to college easier, then we should have the option," said Emily Sandoval, resident director of UCR's North Pentland Hills, where the housing is located.

Currently, about 20 universities across the nation offer students the option. About a dozen other institutions, including the nation's oldest campus, Harvard University, are considering it, said Jeffrey Chang, associate director of the National Student Genderblind Campaign, which started in summer 2006 to encourage gender-neutral housing.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.pe.com/localnews/highereducation/stories/PE_News_Local_R_genderblind10.ad2dfa.html

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17. NEWS: "Safe Place to Learn Act" Will Protect Students from Harassment Based on Sexual Orientation

March 28, 2007
California Progress Report
By Assemblymember Lloyd Levine

On Monday at the California State Capitol hundreds of California students who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) turned out at a rally that was part of the Capitol's annual Queer Youth Advocacy Day.

In particular, these students made clear their desire to have safe schools in California. And as many of you know, last year I authored Assembly Bill 606, the Safe Place to Learn Act, which would have forced schools to act upon the laws protecting LGBT students - to put them into practice.

But Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the bill, saying it wasn't needed because on a piece of paper, and in the courtroom, LGBT students are protected and considered equal.

But as many of the students know firsthand, the law is not being followed. And in the eyes of too many of their teachers and school administrators, the discrimination and harassment and prejudice that they face at school is not being taken seriously.

That's why Monday's rally was so important. It's imperative that we tell the Governor and everyone else at the Capitol that words on a page alone are not good enough.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.californiaprogressreport.com/2007/03/safe_place_to_l.html

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18. NEWS: Gay Youth Storm State Capitals as Movement's Newest Ambassadors

March 31, 2007
ASSOCIATED PRESS
By Lisa Leff

SACRAMENTO - The half-dozen lobbyists who crowded into a lawmaker's office here didn't come bearing slick pitches, campaign cash or votes to swap, just tales of high school torment as fresh as their faces.

Maria Ramos, 18, discussed the academic toll daily doses of name-calling took on her gay and lesbian friends. Andrew Konke, 21, drew parallels between gay rights and earlier civil rights struggles. Ignacio Pitalua, 19, talked about having a trash can dumped on him by other boys who suspected he was gay.

" It's a big obstacle to learning," Pitalua said, pressing Assemblyman Curren Price to co-sponsor a bill that sets specific requirements for schools to protect students from anti-gay discrimination.

Young people, some barely in their teens, are becoming the gay rights movement's newest ambassadors at statehouses from Olympia, Wash. to Montpelier, Vt. Their advocacy, unheard of as recently as a decade ago, reflects the slowly growing acceptance that is emboldening gays and lesbians to come out of the closet while they are coming of age.

" The biggest change that has happened from 10 years or 20 years ago is there are more out people now, from openly gay teachers to openly gay classmates," said Candace Gingrich, youth outreach coordinator for the Human Rights Campaign, a national gay rights advocacy group. "That awareness and getting that kind of support from your peers makes you stronger, as an individual and as a group, being willing to fight for things and to stand up against harassment."

Veteran activists credit the political participation of gay youth, their straight friends and children of same-sex parents with a string of recent legislative victories, including last month's passage of an anti-bullying bill that provides specific protections gay and lesbian students in Iowa.

The law's adoption came after the Iowa Pride Network issued a report saying more than 83 percent of the state's gay, lesbian and transgender students said they had been verbally harassed because of their sexual orientation.

"We kept getting comments from legislators of 'There aren't gay kids in Iowa, this is an east and west coast problem,'" said Ryan Roemerman, the network's director.

The group also arranged a news conference attended by Iowa's lieutenant governor and three students who provided firsthand accounts of discrimination. They included a girl who was kicked out of her Catholic high school after she came out as a lesbian and another who said she wasn't allowed into the locker room to change with other girls.

Brad Anderson, spokesman for Iowa Gov. Chet Culver, said the organized lobbying effort, which also included a 1,000-person rally at Drake University, was "absolutely critical" in getting the legislation approved.

" They added a loud voice, just physically being in the Capitol, and you saw them working all hours of the day lobbying to get this stuff passed," Anderson said.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-gay-ambassadors,1,5260666.story?coll=sns-ap-nation-headlines

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