GSA Network News archives

GSA Network News Email Archive - August 2005

back to GSA Network News



Sign Up for GSA Network News! Email:

August 31, 2005

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

GSA Network Highlight
GSA Organizing Starts With the First Bell: Confronting Hate Trucks on the First Day of School

GSA Network Announcements
1. Welcome back GSAs! Register today - get new resources & keep informed!!
2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
3. FREE - SF screening of TransGenerations (San Francisco)
4. GSA Leadership Training (San Mateo County)
5. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
6. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
7. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!
8. JOB:GSA Network - Advocacy Coordinator
9. JOB:GSA Network and ACLU of Southern California Seek Applicants for Legal Fellowship

Other Announcements
10. SAVE THE DATE! - One-Day Conference on LGBTQ Issues in Schools (Santa Barbara)
11. Sacramento Regional Gay-Straight Alliance - Bowling day!! (Sacramento)
12. GSAs: A Handbook for Students, Educators, and Parents - LGBT students submit art, short stories etc.
13. A new youth chorus, launched by Men Alive - seeks LGBTQ singers between the ages of 13 and 18 (Orange County)
14. Open Mic for Youth (San Francisco)
15. 2 Tolerance-Based YouthAware Educational Plays for Your School this Fall (Northern California)
16. Asiatic Empire presents - K-TOWN 9-1-1
17. JOB: Health Initiatives for Youth - Health Educator Trainer
18. NEWS: School opens to struggle - Anti-gay message at Placer High leads to shouting and attacks
19 . NEWS: Lawsuit filed against Linden Unified for yearbook photo with the word "gay" plastered across it
20. NEWS: Author of Gay & Lesbian Teen Fiction Series ... to Give Away 100 Books to GLBTQ Youth

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

GSA Organizing Starts With the First Bell: Confronting Hate Trucks on the First Day of School

Students at several Northern California schools faced more than just new classes and textbooks on the first day of school this year. Protesters carryings signs proclaiming “God Hates Gays” and “Homosexuality Is A Sin” stood outside of Placer High School in Placer County on the morning of the first day of school exactly two weeks ago. After an angry confrontation with students, they then traveled to Roseville High School where they staged a protest on the sidewalk during lunch. Trucks bearing banners with similar messages rumbled past Folsom High in the Sacramento area on that campus’s first day during the same week upsetting many students. Lance Chih, president of the GSA at Folsom described his feelings when he saw the trucks: “The one feeling that always comes up when I see those trucks...is fear. I'm afraid of what can happen to me by these people… I also feel angry due to the fact that people in the 21st century can still be prejudiced and hateful towards another human being. People say that we've come so far from the civil rights movement in the 60's, but I don't think we have. Until I can walk down the street and feel safe and welcomed for being who I am, I shall always be afraid for my safety.”

Several GSAs were first confronted with protests and the “hatemobiles” last spring. The Alliance Defense Fund, a far right legal organization, and conservative student clubs united to stage Day of Truth, a direct rebuke to the increasing popularity of Day of Silence (www.dayofsilence.org/). “Truth” activists in CA responded to Day of Silence’s message of diversity and acceptance by staging protests and sending “hatemobiles” into several different CA communities including Rohnert Park in the northern Bay Area. Students at the Rancho Cotate GSA in Rohnert Park swiftly organized a large counter protest (200+ supporters!) in the same week and won the support of many local residents. Hatemobiles were also spotted at schools in Amador, Placer, and El Dorado counties where anti-LGBTQ protestors demonstrated against same-sex marriage in May.

Currently, GSA Network is collecting stories from GSAs that have been confronted with these tactics in order to develop resources to assist clubs who might face them in the coming year. But, we need your help! If your school was visited, please contact your local GSA Network Program Coordinator and share what happened:

Call or email Sandy in Southern California at 213.534.7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org
Call or email Robin in Central California at 559.453.9040 or robin@gsanetwork.org
Call or email Lai-San in Northern California at 415.552.4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org

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

*********************************************
1. Welcome back GSAs! Register today - get new resources & keep informed!!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student activism manuals, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future GSA Network or LGBT-related events. (Mailings will go out only to California GSAs in middle and high schools.)
Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php

If you have any questions or concerns contact:
Tanya Mayo, Program Director
tanya@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229

back to top

**********************************************
2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)

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

The Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the program activities of the GSA Network. They set goals and establish priorities for the work of our organization. Youth Council members also represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from the geographic region of California they represent.
The requirements for joining the Youth Council include:
1. Involved in a GSA or LGBTQ-youth related group in your school.
2. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSAs and the GSA Network.
4. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia in schools.

Northern California
Sunday, September 18, 1st Youth Council meeting of the year!
When: Sunday, September 18th, 12:00pm
Where: GSA Network office (160 14th Street, San Francisco)
Directions: The office is located on 14th between South Van Ness and Folsom.
If you're taking BART, get off at the 16th & Mission stop. Walk out of the station, turn right, and walk down 16th towards S. Van Ness (runs parallel with Mission). Turn right at the corner of 16th and S. Van Ness and walk two blocks to 14th and S. Van Ness. Turn right. GSA Network will be on the left halfway down the block. Our name is on the door. Press the buzzer, & we'll let you in.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Program Coordinator at 415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org

Central Valley
For more info contact Robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-453-9040

Southern California
For more info contact Sandy@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162

back to top

*********************************************
3. FREE - SF screening of TransGenerations (San Francisco)

Date: September 9th
Time: 6-9pm
Location: LGBT Community Center, Rainbow Room / 1800 market / S.F. (near the F train stop)

Short Synopsis
Sundance Channel's eight-part original documentary series "TransGeneration" goes inside the daily lives of four transgender college students at campuses across the United States. Directed by Jeremy Simmons of the award-winning production company World of Wonder (Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye), "TransGeneration" follows its subjects over the course of a school year, capturing their triumphs and struggles as they juggle the challenges of academia with their commitment to transitioning from their birth sex. Like college students everywhere, Gabbie and Raci (male-to-female) and Lucas and T.J. (female-to-male) are in the process of defining who they are, and taking control of their gender identity is a fundamental part of that process. The students are from different parts of the world as well as different social and economic backgrounds, and each is at a different stage of transition. As "TransGeneration" joins the students in class and at play, with their friends and with their families, in private and in their communities, we come to know Gabbie, Lucas, Raci and T.J. as individuals, with unique experiences and outlooks.

Co-sponsors
Community United Against Violence
Equality California
Female-to-Male International
Gay-Straight Alliance Network
Horizons Foundation
LYRIC
San Francisco Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, & Transgender Community Center
San Francisco Transgender Empowerment, Advocacy and Mentorship (SF TEAM)
Transgender Law Center

for more info contact: Lai-San at GSA Network (415)552-4229 lai-san@gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
4. GSA Leadership Training (San Mateo County)

WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, October 1st, 2005, 10:00-4:00 (Meals provided)
WHERE: Mills High School---400 Murchison Drive in Millbrae
COST: Free!

CO-SPONSORS: Mills H.S. GSA & PFLAG-Peninsula Chapter

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
5. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)

LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!

Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.

You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL!
* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit members.
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms.
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters.
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign.
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use while you're tabling.
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article or announcement about your GSA.
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign and give them posters to symbolize their support.
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place or fill a whole wall with posters in a grid.
* Use the posters in conjunction with Day of Silence (April), Transgender Day of Remembrance (November), LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), Coming Out Day (October 11), or Diversity Day or Week at your school.

Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.

back to top

**********************************************
6. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)

GSA Network's High Contrast photo exhibit is on the move again!
A photo-narrative exhibit by youth and for youth.

"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good conversations." - GSA Advisor
"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with it-letting students know that it is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA student president
"Many students responded well to the universality of human issues and emotions. The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were feelings we all have." - GSA Advisor

In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation. We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence. We don't want anyone to leave thinking, "this isn't my issue." Because all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough to learn.

High Contrast is available for circulation as of October 1. If you are a GSA in the Bay Area and are interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit to your school, email highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.

For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html

back to top

*********************************************
7. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!

For the 2005-2006 school year, kick-off your GSA with a Fall youth activist conference and dance. GSA Network's annual youth conferences are going to be held earlier in the year, so you can use all the skills and resources you get throughout the school year!!

Bay Area - Y.E.S. (Youth Empowerment Summit) December 3rd 2005
Central Valley - E.N.S. (Expression Not Suppression) October 29th 2005

back to top

*********************************************
8. JOBS: GSA Network - Advocacy Coordinator

Advocacy Coordinator: GSA Network is embarking on an exciting expansion of its policy advocacy and organizing efforts with youth and is looking to hire an Advocacy Coordinator. The Advocacy Coordinator is responsible for engaging LGBTQ and straight ally youth in policy advocacy work at the state level, training youth leaders in public policy and civic engagement, and organizing a Queer Youth Advocacy Day in Sacramento in March 2006 for 500-1000 youth. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy, and a commitment to social justice are required for this position. Visit www.gsanetwork.org for the complete job announcement.

back to top

**********************************************
9. JOBS: GSA Network and ACLU of Southern California Seek Applicants for Legal Fellowship

The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California (ACLU-SC), along with the Gay-Straight Alliance Network, is seeking to sponsor an applicant for the Pride Law Fund fellowship and other public interest fellowships to commence in the Fall of 2006. The fellow would specialize in advocacy on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, particularly in schools in rural areas. The fellowship would involve both direct advocacy and impact litigation on behalf of LGBT youth and their right to a safe and equal learning environment, their right to form gay straight alliance clubs, and their free expression rights. Visit www.gsanetwork.org for the complete job announcement.

back to top

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

*********************************************
10. SAVE THE DATE! - One-Day Conference on LGBTQ Issues in Schools (Santa Barbara)

SAVE THE DATE! SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9th.
One-Day Conference on LGBTQ Issues in Schools
The Central Coast Consortium of Gay-Straight Alliances and the UCSB Resource Center for Sexual & Gender Diversity are sponsoring this one-day conference on Sunday, October 9th from 9:30am-5pm. The event will be held on the campus of UCSB.

This conference is open to educators, teachers, school administrators, students, and interested community members.

This one-day conference will discuss how to address lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer issues in the schools, including expanding resources, advocacy, and organizing to eliminate prejudice and violence. Workshop topics include LGBTQ youth organizing & advocacy; LGBTQ issues across cultures; trans/genderqueer issues; bisexuality; and queer history.

The featured keynote speaker will be Janet Stanley, former CEO of Pacific Pride Foundation.

As part of the event, there will be a special screening of the film It's Elementary: Talking About Gay Issues in School, followed by a discussion. More information about the film can be found at their website: http://www.womedia.org/itselementary.htm

To register, contact Kyle Richards at kyle.richards@sa.ucsb.edu or (805) 893-5847 no later than Wednesday, October 5. Registration fee is $25 ($10 for students).

For more information about attending or volunteering for this event, please contact:
Kyle Richards (kyle.richards@sa.ucsb.edu) or
Patti Wilczek (Patti_Wilczek@cate.org)

back to top

**********************************************
11. Sacramento Regional Gay-Straight Alliance - Bowling day!! (Sacramento)

Hey all you chicos and chicas, The SRGSA is having it's *first* ever bowling day! It's going to be on Saturday, September 17th. It's going to be tons of fun. We do ask that you RSVP, perferably sooner rather than later because the bowling alley asks that we give them an estimate number of people that will be joining us. And I hope that you're one of them! It's going to be around $10 for all this jubilation, but we're still figuring out the price with the bowling alley. RSVP to sacregionalgsa@hotmail.com and give your name and which school you're from, and I'll hit you back with all the rest of the info you need for this fun-packed day. We ask that it's limited to high school aged students (after all, we kids always have more fun). Can't wait to see you there!

~Margee

back to top

*******************************************
12. GSAs: A Handbook for Students, Educators, and Parents - LGBT students submit art, short stories etc.

I am authoring a book titled, „Gay-Straight Alliances: A Handbook for Students, Educators, and Parents. I am seeking pieces of LGBT student work to be included in the book. Group photos of GSAs, photos taken at GSA events, artwork, quotes, doodles, very short stories (no more than 1 page), or anything artsy, fun and fabulous (that is related to GSAs and LGBT youth) to adorn the pages of this book would be appreciated. Electronic artwork, photos (in jpg, gif or tif formats), and word documents can be emailed to me at: macgilik@jmu.edu

Hand drawn art and black-and-white and color photographs can be sent in the mail to:
Dr. Ian K. Macgillivray
James Madison University
MSC 1908
Harrisonburg, VA 22807

If your submission is not accepted and you want it returned to you please enclose a self-addressed envelope.

Artwork that is accepted for publishing cannot be returned. Signed permission releases will be required for any artwork that is accepted for publishing. If your submission is accepted you will not receive monetary compensation. You will be credited (by having your name printed next to your artwork) unless you specify on the permission release form that you want to remain anonymous.

Please include contact information so I can send you the permission release forms in case your submission is accepted.

Thanks much!
Dr. Ian K. Macgillivray

back to top

*********************************************
13. A new youth chorus, launched by Men Alive - seeks LGBTQ singers between the ages of 13 and 18 (Orange County)

Gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and questioning teens have a new opportunity to make their voices heard in Orange County. A new youth chorus, launched by Men Alive: The Orange County Gay Men’s Chorus and The Center Orange County, seeks singers between the ages of 13 and 18 who value the opportunity to join together in song and in support of equality and harmony.

The new chorus--to be named later by its members--will rehearse on Saturday mornings at The Center, located in Garden Grove. The ensemble’s director, Eliza Rubenstein, is also the Artistic Director of the Orange County Women’s Chorus and the Long Beach Chorale & Chamber Orchestra.

Nationwide, there are more than 200 adult choruses for gay and lesbian singers and their straight colleagues, but Orange County becomes one of only a handful of places in North America with an ensemble specifically dedicated to youth.
“With the formation of this pioneering youth chorus, we're creating a community of youth who believe that both their commonalities and their differences will offer them lots to be proud of, lots to learn, and lots to sing about,” says Rubenstein. “This ensemble will be an environment that's safe and welcoming for all youth. We're affirming the power of a close community to create great music, and the power of great music to draw a community together---and the kids who make it happen locally will be doing their part to create more harmony globally.”

Interested singers are strongly encouraged to contact Eliza Rubenstein by calling (714) 662-5402 or e-mailing youthchorus@sbcglobal.net, and/or to attend an open informational meeting on Wednesday, September 7, at 7:00 p.m. at St. George’s Episcopal Church, 23802 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills.

back to top

*********************************************
14. Open Mic for Youth (San Francisco)

HEALTH FOCUS proudly presents... WORDS TO HELP/WORDS TO HEAL

DATE: Wednesday, September 13, 2005
TIME: 6 to 8 pm

WHERE: Health & Wellness Network of BCA
2800 Third Street, San Francisco, CA (entrance on 24th St.)

HEALTH FOCUS is a Free Event
2nd Wednesday of every month
Featuring Good Food, Good Company and Good Information

The Health & Wellness Network of the Black Coalition on AIDS
415.615.9945 | www.bcoa.org

back to top

*********************************************
15. 2 Tolerance-Based YouthAware Educational Plays for Your School this Fall (Northern California)

OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas Directed by Sara Staley
At NCTC October 5th - 21st at 10:15am October 22nd at 2pm
Join us for the world premiere of our newest YouthAware Educational Theatre program, OutSpoken. Based directly on the voices of today's young people, OutSpoken is a new drama for teens that looks at the many reasons young people feel ostracized in school, at home and in their community including race, religion, sexual orientation, body type & socio-economic background. Through OutSpoken, we hope young people will find new ways to move past these differences to a place of real tolerance and understanding. All performances will be held at the New Conservatory Theatre Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for youth and $5 for groups of ten or more. Ticket discounts may be available for low income schools. Call (415) 861-4914 or email sara@nctcsf.org>sara@nctcsf.org

The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy Directed by Sara Staley
On tour in Northern California October 25th - December 16th 2005
Thousands of students each year are targets of verbal and/or physical abuse based on actual or perceived sexual orientation. Touring to Northern California schools every fall since 2000, The Other Side of the Closet supports a safer school curriculum wherein 7th through 12th grade students, teachers and parents can learn about diversity and acceptance in an innovative and engaging format. Set in and around a high school, this hard-hitting play tells the story of five teens who are grappling with issues of peer pressure, youth violence, homophobia, behavior norms, expectations, discrimination and identity. Each performance is followed by a facilitated discussion session with the cast. The program is about 75 minutes in length and can be performed up to two times a day in any theatre, gymnasium, cafeteria or multi-purpose room. We can see between 100 and 300 students per performance. A donation is requested to cover production costs for schools outside the SFUSD, but some underwriting is available. Please call to reserve a date or discuss logistics (415) 861-4914 or email sara@nctcsf.org>sara@nctcsf.org.

back to top

*********************************************
16. Asiatic Empire presents - K-TOWN 9-1-1

Saturday, September 10, 2005
1PM-9PM
FREE & ALL AGES!!!!!
event flyer & schedule & directions: www.asiaticempire.com

@ Immanuel Presbyterian Church
3300 Wilshire Blvd (enter from Berendo St.)
Koreatown, LA 90010

political MCs & poets:
JEET KUNE FLOW / PHOENIX ORION / AZTLAN UNDERGROUND / PTERODACTO / SHIN-B / DUMBFOUNDEAD / PRACH LY / PHILISTINES / FURIS / PSYCHOSIZ / MIWA LYRIC / SOPHAY DUCH / J-ROZ & ETHOS / UNDERGROUND ECONOMY / KOVERT LIVE
/ KEENTOKERS / VIRUSS / SIR REAL & C-SPILLS / XPLICIT / REBELS TO THE GRAIN

speakers on 911 & Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan:
Seung Hye Suh (Nodutol), Mindullae/One Korea, Sonali Kolhatkur (Uprising KPFK), Fidel Rodriguez (Divine Forces KPFK), Ruben Guevara, Dan Kelly (Veterans For Peace/Military Families Speak Out), Committee For Justice To Defend The LA 8, Labor Community Strategy Center, Ami Motavelli, Pilipino Workers Center, ANSWER LA, Benji Chang (Chinatown Collective For Community Action), Hamid Khan (South Asian Network), Nizar Wattad (Philistines), Khmer Girls in Action, Chancee Martorell (Thai CDC), Anakbayan Los Angeles, Asian Pacific Student Association (UC Irvine)

media sponsor: KPFK 90.7FM Los Angeles
co-sponsor: International Action Center
for more info: www.asiaticempire.com or email: ahkwon@yahoo.com

back to top

*********************************************
17. JOB: Health Initiatives for Youth - Health Educator Trainer

Job posting for: Health Educator Trainer
Reports to: Training Department Manager
Salary: 40 hours/FT $36,000
Start date: October 2005
Application deadline: 8/19/05

About HIFY:
HIFY’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of young people through education, advocacy and leadership opportunities. We believe in providing complete, accurate health information to young people and supporting them in making their own decisions. Our work is grounded in harm reduction, positive sexuality, youth development and anti-oppression principles. HIFY does not require specific degrees for its positions. Experience requirements can be met through educational, professional or life experience.

Position Summary:
Under the general supervision of the Training Department Manager, the Health Educator/Trainer’s primary responsibility will be facilitating workshops for youth on a variety of health topics as well as participating in curricula development and evaluation with the training department. The heath educator/trainer will also facilitate inservices for health and social service providers.

How To Apply
Please send resumes to:
Health Initiatives For Youth (HIFY)
Attention: Health Educator Trainer Hiring Committee
235 Montgomery Street Suite #430
San Francisco CA 94104-2902
FAX (415) 274-1976 E-mail info@hify.org
No phone calls please

back to top

*********************************************
18. NEWS: School opens to struggle - Anti-gay message at Placer High leads to shouting and attacks

Thursday August 18, 2005
By: Ryan Sabalow
Auburn Journal

A group of students cross High Street in front of Placer High School on their way to lunch as anti-gay protesters hold signs behind them Wednesday on the first day of class. Photo by Ben Furtado/Auburn Journal

Authorities were called to Placer High School on the first day of class Wednesday when anti-gay protesters were confronted by angry students, said Capt. Valerie Harris of the Auburn Police Department.

Two anti-gay protesters, who carried signs reading "Homosexuality is a Sin" and "Gays Hate God," were verbally accosted by dozens of angry students and passers-by.

One student, whose name was not released because he is a minor, took it a step further and kicked a sign held by one of the anti-gay activists, knocking the protester on the head, Harris said.

The boy fled but was later identified and confronted by officers, she said.

The protester was not injured, and the alleged attack was referred to the probation department, Harris said.

It wasn't the only ugly incident in Wednesday's protest, the second such anti-gay rally at the school in five months.
Cars honked, drivers made obscene gestures, some cursed and one person threw a plastic cup of ice water on two members of the High School Conservative Club of America, whose self-stated mission is to get homosexuality and clubs that support the lifestyle out of schools.

A group of about two dozen counter-protesters quickly formed during the school's lunch period.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/articles/2005/08/18/news/top_stories/01protest.txt

back to top

*********************************************
19. NEWS: Lawsuit filed against Linden Unified for yearbook photo with the word "gay" plastered across it

San Jose Mercury News
August 23, 2005
STOCKTON, Calif. (AP)

The mother of a Linden High School student is fuming mad after the school's 2004 yearbook appeared with the word "gay" plastered on her on son's picture.

Kathy Yray has filed a lawsuit claiming negligence and libel against the Linden Unified School District and a former teacher. Linden is about 15 miles east of Stockton.

The suit, filed in San Joaquin County Superior Court, accuses the school district and former yearbook adviser, Michelle Bryson, of being careless when they allowed the yearbook to go to print without a careful edit.

The word printed faintly on then-freshman Darrick Yray's soccer photo in 250 copies of the yearbook made the boy vulnerable to "hatred, contempt and ridicule," according to the lawsuit. The suit claims Yray suffered a loss of reputation, shame and hurt feelings.

The case is set for trial next year.

Yray filed a claim with the school district in November, seeking compensation. The school district rejected it, triggering the lawsuit.

Administrators scrambled to collect hundreds of the yearbooks from students days after it was handed out in May 2004. School officials even tore pages from the books.

Still, some remain in circulation, Assistant Superintendent Jane Steinkamp said.

"A whole lot of individuals didn't feel the district had the right to take yearbooks," Steinkamp said.

School officials would not comment on the lawsuit.

"We've made changes to how the yearbook is made to make sure nothing like that happens again," District Superintendent Ron Estes said.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/states/california/northern_california/12454402.htm

back to top

*********************************************
20. NEWS: Author of Gay & Lesbian Teen Fiction Series ... to Give Away 100 Books to GLBTQ Youth

Author of Gay & Lesbian Teen Fiction Series, Erik & Isabelle at Foresthill High, to Give Away 100 Books to GLBTQ Youth

Sacramento, CA (PRWEB)
August 22, 2005

What’s most important to Kim Wallace, author of the highly-acclaimed book series about gay and lesbian youth, Erik & Isabelle at Foresthill High? “Getting books into the hands of as many kids as possible,” she answers. "My mission is to celebrate and support gay and lesbian young people through my writing and that includes giving to those who may not be able to get a book in any other way."

In July 2005, Wallace ran an “Each One, Reach One” promotional: for every book sold, the author promised to donate a book to a gay and lesbian youth organization. Generous readers and fans of the series rose to the challenge and orders began pouring in.

When the promotional ended on July 31, Wallace was charged with donating over 100 copies of Erik & Isabelle Freshman Year and Sophomore Year at Foresthill High. “There are more than 350 GLBTQ organizations that serve youth across North America,” Wallace comments. “The first 100 that request books will be sent copies free of charge to put in their libraries or for use in book study groups.”

When asked why she was willing to donate nearly $1500 worth of books, Wallace replied, “Being a contributor to my community is first and foremost. That’s why I wrote the series in the first place. I have met so many amazing and courageous gay and lesbian youth and to be able to put books in their hands that positively reflect their lives and give them hope is the greatest gift I can give.”

Individuals and organizations that serve gay and lesbian youth--such as gay-straight alliances, community groups, libraries, mental health providers, social workers, and educators--are encouraged to go to the Foglight Press website: http://www.foglightpress.com to request books for their youth programs.

About the Series:
Boys taking other boys to the prom? Girls holding hands as they walk through school hallways? Students working together in Gay-Straight Alliances to educate their communities or just enjoy a good queer flick together? This is not your parents’ closet anymore! All across America, a new breed of teenager is taking the world by storm.

The first two releases, Erik & Isabelle Freshman Year at Foresthill High (ISBN 0-9755848-0-4) and Erik & Isabelle Sophomore Year at Foresthill (ISBN 0-9755848-1-2) revolve around lifelong best friends who share the joy and agony of adolescence together. Conquering such issues as love relationships, personal trials, and the desire to make their world a better place, the protagonists sweep the reader up in their whirlwind journeys from their freshman to senior year over the course of four books. Ripe with the angst and comedy that embody high school life, the teens of Foresthill High triumph with an optimism and hope that resonates in young people everywhere.

Erik & Isabelle is available at any bookstore, www.Foglightpress.com, and www.Amazon.com. Kim Wallace is available for appearances and presentations to groups of all sizes.

back to top

August 17, 2005

Please note that during the months of July and August GSA Network News will be bi-monthly instead of weekly.

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

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network and ACLU of Southern California Seek Applicants for Legal Fellowship
2. SF screening of TransGenerations (San Francisco)
3. Still time to give us your feedback - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
4. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!

Other Announcements
5. DeFrank Youth Picnic (San Jose)
6. Walk for AIDS (Bay Area)
7. Save the date! - YOUTH ACTIVIST CONFERENCE at UCLA (Los Angeles)
8. Queer Youth Health Services Research Study (San Francisco)
9. Third Annual Girls For A Change Girl Summit (San Jose)
10. JOB: Latino Community Counselor & School Counselor
11. JOB: Billy DeFrank Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Community Center - Youth Services Coordinator
12. NEWS: Students suing to run stories on gays urge district to settle
13. NEWS: Bullied Teen Awarded $250,000

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

*********************************************
1. GSA Network and ACLU of Southern California Seek Applicants for Legal Fellowship

The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California (ACLU-SC), along with the Gay-Straight Alliance Network (the GSA Network), is seeking to sponsor an applicant for the Pride Law Fund fellowship and other public interest fellowships to commence in the Fall of 2006. The fellow would specialize in advocacy on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, particularly in schools in rural areas. The fellowship would involve both direct advocacy and impact litigation on behalf of LGBT youth and their right to a safe and equal learning environment, their right to form gay straight alliance clubs, and their free expression rights.

Gay-Straight Alliance Network is a youth-led organization whose mission is to empower youth activists fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools through the establishment and support of Gay-Straight Alliance clubs. With its network of nearly 500 GSA clubs in California, GSA Network works to ensure that LGBT students' rights are protected in school through grassroots organizing and policy advocacy. GSA Network has also been a plaintiff in several lawsuits against school districts in California that failed to protect LGBT students from discrimination and harassment. Additionally, GSA Network recently launched a National Association of GSA Networks to build the capacity of other statewide groups working to organize and support GSA clubs. More information is available at www.gsanetwork.org.

The ACLU of Southern California is the oldest and largest ACLU affiliate in the nation, and its founding, in 1923 by Upton Sinclair, created the uniquely powerful, regionally-driven structure of the family of organizations that comprise the American Civil Liberties Union. More information is available at www.aclu-sc.org.

The fellow would be based at the ACLU-SC's Los Angeles office, but would work on behalf of students throughout California and nationwide in collaboration with the GSA Network. Applicants must anticipate receipt of their juris doctorate degree by Spring/Summer 2006.

We will be accepting applications until September 30, 2005. Please send a resume, a cover letter explaining relevant experience and interest in student advocacy and organizing, a short writing sample, three references, and a law school transcript to Eva Reyes, c/o ACLU of Southern California, 1616 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026.

The ACLU of Southern California and the GSA Network, a project of the Tides Center, are affirmative action employers. People of color, women, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, people with disabilities, and people over 55 are encouraged to apply.

back to top

**********************************************
2. FREE - SF screening of TransGenerations (San Francisco)

Date: September 9th
Time: 6-9pm
Location: LGBT Community Center, Rainbow Room / 1800 market / S.F. (near the F train stop)

for more info contact: Lai-San at GSA Network (415)552-4229 lai-san@gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
3. Still time to give us your feedback - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation

How successful was your club fighting transphobia and homophobia in your school? Did GSA Network help or do you need more from us next year? Please fill out this evaluation and let us know what you need in order to have an even more successful club next year! (Please ensure that at least one advisor and one GSA student fills out the application).

For the on-line evaluation go to: www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/index.php

back to top

*********************************************
4. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!

Bay Area - Y.E.S. (Youth Empowerment Summit) December 3rd 2005

Central Valley - E.N.S. (Expression Not Suppression) October 29th 2005

back to top

*********************************************
5. DeFrank Youth Picnic (San Jose)

Summer is almost over so we are going to have an end of summer picnic
(potluck style) for DeFrank Youth. Come join us!! Info. below:

What: DeFrank Youth Picnic
When: Saturday, August 27, 2005
Time: 12pm-??
Where: Ryland Park (on the corner of San Pedro and Ryland St. near Downtown San Jose)
What to bring: Bring snacks, food or drinks & outdoor games to share
For more information: call (408) 293-3040x111. RSVP's preferred along with what food item you are willing to bring to share.

back to top

**********************************************
6. Walk for AIDS (Bay Area)

August 10, 2005

Walk for AIDS - October 16th 2005!!

Friends:

I am writing on behalf of the AIDS Coalition of Silicon Valley, the producers of the Walk For AIDS Silicon Valley. We are an organization dedicated to raising money and creating awareness for various local nonprofit and their AIDS programs. Our organizations serve the majority of people with AIDS in the Silicon Valley and we need your support. In an effort to boost and revitalize the event we are recruiting new walkers and teams. We need your support now more than ever. Please join us for the Walk For AIDS Silicon Valley.

Please go to our website, www.walkforaids.org to download pledge forms and to register.

back to top

*********************************************
7. Save the date! - YOUTH ACTIVIST CONFERENCE at UCLA (Los Angeles)

Saturday, October 29th, 2005
Help defeat AMENDMENTS that would put discrimination in the California Constitution!
Prevent same-sex marriage from being constitutionally banned!
Save Domestic Partner rights!
Right now, anti-gay extremist groups in the state are gathering signatures to amend our state’s constitution to permanently ban same-sex marriage and repeal our domestic partnership protections. We as students have tremendous power to fight this hateful amendment, and this conference will help teach you how to exercise that power. Come to get invaluable activist training and network with fellow youth activists.

Please RSVP to Joe Goldman at equalityjoe@gmail.com or Gabe Rose at gaberose18@gmail.com. Room location and time to be announced.

back to top

*********************************************
8. Queer Youth Health Services Research Study (San Francisco)

Participants Needed!!!
Dimensions Clinic, at the Castro-Mission Health Center on Thursday evenings, wants to hear what you’ve got to say! Dimensions Clinic was begun in 1998, a direct result of a survey filled out by people like you!

Participant Criteria:
Between 12 & 17 years of age
Identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, etc.
Lives in San Francisco
Get a free $25 gift card for an hour of your time—snacks will be provided!
If interested, please contact Dimensions at 415-487-7589, or email dimensionsYABresearch@hotmail.com

back to top

**********************************************
9. Third Annual Girls For A Change Girl Summit (San Jose)

Date: Thursday November 3, 2005
Time: Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., the program begins at 9:40 a.m. and ends at 3:40 p.m.
Location: San Jose Convention Center, downtown San Jose
Who: Middle School and High School Girls
Cost: The event is FREE! Girls are also provided with breakfast, lunch and a t-shirt.

What: The Girls For A Change Girl Summit empowers 1,200 girls with leadership and networking skills and introduces them to social issues their communities are facing. It also honors the intellect, energy and power of girls. The conference includes workshops and presentations by women leaders in our community and performances by women artists.

Deadline: Please register by October 1, 2005. Applications will be available online in August 2005.

Volunteers: We are looking for 100 women volunteers for the event as well

Questions? Contact: Patty Torres, 408-515-8147, carrie@girlsforachange.org, patty@girlsforachange.org or visit www.girlsforachange.org

Girls For A Change is entering its third year of empowering girls to be social change agents in their own neighborhoods. The Girl Summit is our kick off event for the year. The program partners 1,000 urban girls with 200 professional women in the Bay Area who break into teams of 10 girls and two women. With guidance from the women, over the course of a year, the girl teams identify an issue that needs to change in their community. The girls then come up with a solution to institute that change and design, lead, fund and implement a project that will solve the issue they identified. The program not only helps girls learn the skills they need to be successful decision makers of the future, but also allows them to network with professional women and politicians throughout the Bay Area. Girls For A Change provides the tools, resources and support girls need to move from being spectators to being leaders.

back to top

*********************************************
10. JOB: Latino Community Counselor & School Counselor

Latino Community Counselor
In the Multicultural Community Counseling ProgramThe Latino Community Counselor is generally responsible for providing school- and community-based counseling, intervention and prevention and case management services to Latino youth and their families in the Monument Corridor community.

The Latino Community Counselor is a part- or full-time (20 to 40 hours per week), non-exempt position. The position reports directly to the agency’s Director of School Counseling. Evening and weekend hours may be required for this position.
The starting salary range for the Monument Community Counselor is $34,000 to $42,000 FTE annually. Positions of 20 hours or more at New Connections are also eligible for a variety of benefits, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance coverage, professional development, and clinical supervision towards licensure.

*********

School Counselor
The School Counselor is responsible for providing counseling and related services to youth and their families in a school-based setting.

The School Counselor is a 15 hour/week, non-exempt position, reporting to the agency’s Director of School Counseling. Some evening or weekend hours may be required. The salary for the School Counselor position is $35,000 FTE ($13,125 for 15 hours per week.) A licensed MFT or LCSW, or person bilingual in Spanish, would receive additional compensation. New Connections provides medical and other benefits for staff positions of at least 20 hours/week. This position also receives clinical supervision per BBS requirements.

For more info:
Barbara Petterson, MFT
Director of School Based Services
New Connections
3024 Willow Pass Road
Concord, CA 94519-2588
(925) 363-5000, extension 139
Fax: (925) 363-5075
bpetterson@newconnections.org

back to top

**********************************************
11. JOB: Billy DeFrank Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Community Center - Youth Services Coordinator

Job Announcement

Youth Services Coordinator

Supervises: Volunteers and/or interns
Supervisor: Executive Director
Status: Half-time (20 hours/week) - Availability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends as needed for meetings and events. Compensation: $17 per hour plus pro-rated medical and vacation benefits
Start date: September 2005

This is a half-time staff position to coordinate services to teens and young adults, and to work on advocacy and anti-discrimination efforts in local schools.

The DeFrank Center has provided a safe place for LGBT people to meet in a healthy and supportive environment since 1981. Support groups, educational programs, and prevention programs are a very important part of the Center's service to the community.

How to apply: Fax, e-mail or mail resume and cover letter to:
Patrick Soricone
Executive Director
938 The Alameda
San Jose, CA. 95126
Fax: (408) 298-8986
e-mail: ed@defrank.org

back to top

*******************************************
12. NEWS: Students suing to run stories on gays urge district to settle

By JESSICA LOGAN

Bakersfield Californian
August 16th, 2005

Rudy Cachu has gone national.

The gay East Bakersfield High student thought he was signing up for a prime spot in the school newspaper last year. But when a package of stories about teenage sexual orientation was yanked by the school administration, he made CNN, The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, not to mention The Bakersfield Californian and a bunch of local television stations.

School administrators feared students like Cachu would be teased or even beat up if the student body read in the paper he was gay.
But Cachu and his attorneys at the ACLU reject this argument. He remains in one piece.

"If anything were going to happen, it would have already happened," said Cachu, who was featured in the articles.

The 17-year-old and four other students sued the school district with the help of the ACLU to get the stories in the paper. The administration refused.

The students and their attorney visited with The Bakersfield Californian editorial board Tuesday afternoon to garner support for their case, hoping to coax the school board back to negotiations.

The ACLU and the Kern County High School District have tried to negotiate a settlement this summer, ACLU attorney Peter Eliasberg said. But the district recently broke off talks, he said.

To read the full article, visit:
www.bakersfield.com/local/story/5593858p-5569415c.html

back to top

*********************************************
13. NEWS: Bullied Teen Awarded $250,000

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

August 12, 2005

www.365gay.com/newscon05/08/081205bully.htm

(Kansas City, Missouri) A Kansas teenager was awarded $250,000 Thursday in his federal lawsuit claiming that he was so badly bullied by classmates that he quit school.

Dylan Theno, now 18, claimed Tonganoxie school district officials knew about the homophobic taunting and did nothing to stop it.

The district said it dealt with all the incidents Theno reported, noting that the harassment stopped before Theno dropped out. He has since earned a GED and plans to enroll in community college this fall.

The lawsuit, heard in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Kan., sought $700,000. Theno claimed the harassment deprived him of an education.

Theno's attorney, Arthur Benson, said he is unaware of any other verdicts in same-sex, student-on-student harassment cases in federal court won by a student.

The lawsuit was filed under Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. The verdict is important, Benson said, in that the law has been used mainly to curb discrimination in athletics programs on the basis of gender.

"That is what this case is about," Benson said. "Dylan Theno was for years called very ugly terms based on what was the stereotypical expectations of the masculine student and Dylan Theno did not meet those expectations."

Theno testified that a rumor started in seventh grade by another student that he was gay continued into high school, where classmates called him derogatory names for gay men. Theno testified that he is not gay.

The school district's attorney, J. Stephen Pigg, of Topeka, said in closing arguments that name-calling and crude comments are something that boys and men, do all the time.

"Guys think things are funny that ladies don't think are funny," Pigg said.

"In the seventh grade that is enhanced. It just happens. It is just part of the joking and kidding of seventh-grade boys."

Pigg also said administrators addressed taunting that Theno told them about but didn't suspend the offenders as Theno and his parents wanted.

(C) 2005 365GAY.COM

back to top

August 3, 2005

Please note that during the months of July and August GSA Network News will be bi-monthly instead of weekly.

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

GSA Network Announcements
1. Still time to give us your feedback - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
2. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!

Other Announcements
3. ACTION ALERT: Hold Clear Channel accountable to people of color, young people, and others! (Oakland)
4. Friends of Outlet Special Event!! - Transgender Speaker Panel (Mountain View)
5. Ways to get involved at the Pacific Center's Loud Youth Program (Berkeley)
6. Lesbian Youth Life History Research Project!!!
7. Friends of Project 10 Inc. is announcing its upcoming MOP XIII conference (Los Angeles)
8 . "Resist the System" - The 3rd Annual Youth Empowerment Summit (San Francisco)
9 . Lesbian Visibility, 2005 in the City of West Hollywood presents the movie D.E.B.S. (Hollywood)
10. SF Public Library - Find OUT! Resources forLGBTQQ Teens (San Francisco)
11. Bike Out Trip August 5th-11th. (Los Angeles)
12. Free!! Fundraising Training (San Francisco)
13. Summer Beach BBQ for GSA youth (San Diego County)
14. Young activist training at the Young Democrats of America convention (San Francisco)
15. JOB: 1362 Special Assistant III – Youth Empowerment Coordinator (San Francisco)
16. JOB: Outlet Program Director (Mountain View)
17. Save the date! Changing the face of giving (San Francisco)
18. NEWS: A dad's transformation disturbs some at school

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

**********************************************
1. Still time to give us your feedback - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation

For the on-line evaluation go to: www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/index.php

back to top

*********************************************
2. SAVE THE DATES - GSA Network youth activist conferences coming this fall!

Bay Area - Y.E.S. (Youth Empowerment Summit) December 3rd 2005

Central Valley - E.N.S. (Expression Not Suppression) October 29th 2005

back to top

*********************************************
3. ACTION ALERT: Hold Clear Channel accountable to people of color, young people, and others! (Oakland)

Dear Friends and Allies of the Youth Media Council, We are asking people like you, who believe in community radio and corporate accountability to join us to knock on doors in communities of color on August 5th, from 1:30-4:30pm. Our goal is to collect 1,000
postcards to demand that the Federal Communications Commission hold Clear Channel accountable to people of color, young people, and others, or revoke their broadcast license. Will you help us protect radio?

Please call us back on (510) 444-0640 ext 381 and let us know if you can make it. Thank you for joining the fight for media justice!

back to top

**********************************************
4. Friends of Outlet Special Event!! - Transgender Speaker Panel (Mountain View)

We will have a few Transgender people, including a Transgender Police Officer from San Jose, come speak to us and answer questions.

All are welcome to attend this event!
*RSVP helpful, not mandatory*

Wednesday, August 17th 6:30-8:30pm
Mountain View Recreation Center, Room 3
201 S. Rengstorff Ave. Mt. View, CA
Food and Beverages will be provided.

For more information or to RSVP contact:
Eileen Ross
eross@chacmv.org
650-965-2020 x22

back to top

*********************************************
5. Ways to get involved at the Pacific Center's Loud Youth Program (Berkeley)

SPEAKER’S BUREAU TRAINING WITH THE PACIFIC CENTER
Saturday July 30th (The last Saturday of this month), 1-4pm!! We'll train you to go out to schools and other organizations to tell your story & give workshops to fight homophobia & transphobia. We will provide lunch at the training. It’s a great opportunity to be a part of an incredible team of youth that go out into the Bay Area communities to fight QueerPhobia.

**********

ASK A...DRAG KING
On August 3rd at 7pm-8:30pm
The "ASK A..." Series Presents ASK A DRAG KING with
Matt from the Nappy Grooves!
Come on by and ask him about his spectacular performances and more. We'll have Pizza too!

**********

CHERRY BOMB
EVERY THURSDAY AT 6pm- 7:30pm.
This group is for young women to talk, kick it with others & get out there in the community. It's a good space for you all to come together & do your things!! It's for everyone Identifying as Lesbian, Bisexual, Queer, Intersex, Questioning & their Allies.

**********

15& UNDER GROUP
The Queer, Questioning & Allies Group for Youth Under 16...
Bit is reforming this group for the new school year & would love your input. They’ve got plans to go to the movies as a big group, an art project, and more. They usually meet every Friday from 4:30-5:30 in the Attic.
Call or email Bit at <mailto:vampirebovine@hotmail.com>vampirebovine@hotmail.com if you're interested in planning the group or going!

**********

THERAPY
As always, therapy is available to youth who are involved in the LOUD program. If you’re interested email Bridgette & she can tell you more about it! We have new therapists starting this summer!

**********

DROP-IN-HOURS & SATURDAZE @ THE ATTIC
Come on by Monday-Saturday from 4-9:30pm…
Saturdays are Movie Nights at 7pm & Queer Youth Rap is at 5pm the 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month

Bridgette L. Bissonnette
Youth Program Director
Pacific Center for Human Growth
2712 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
(510) 548-8283 x514
bridgette@pacificcenter.org

back to top

*********************************************
6. Lesbian Youth Life History Research Project!!!

Participants Needed!!!

You have a story to tell- the story of your life- and I want to hear it!
This is an opportunity to be part of an exciting life history research project looking at the experiences of young lesbians in the Bay Area over a 25 year period (using a data set collected in 1980 by Dr. Susan Cahn, and my new data collected in 2005/06). The 25 years between these dates of data collection makes this an important research project as I examine what changes have impacted young lesbian lives in the past two and a half decades.

Participant Criteria:
Between 16 & 21 years of age (must have signed parental permission to participate if under 18)
Identifies as lesbian/queer
Female at birth and at time of interview
Lived in Bay Area for at least two years
Be willing to tell the story of your life!
Life history research explores a single person’s life through her own words and to “uncover how [that] life reflects cultural themes of the society, personal themes, institutional themes, and social histories” (Creswell, 1998, p.49).

Interviews will be conducted in San Francisco on several dates in the Fall and Spring and will last on average 2.5 hours.

The first date for interviews is Friday, August 12, 2005. Please contact me by e-mail, ecpayne@uga.edu, if you are interested in participating, or for more information.

Elizabethe Payne, Ph.D.
Qualitative Inquiry Program Area
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602
ecpayne@uga.edu

back to top

*********************************************
7. Friends of Project 10 Inc. is announcing its upcoming MOP XIII conference (Los Angeles)

Scheduled for Saturday, October 22, 2005, at Occidental College in Eagle Rock. We are soliciting workshop presenters and volunteers.

Please contact us at friendofproject10@hotmail.com, www.project10.org or 626.577.4553 if you have any questions.
Thank you, Gail Rolf

back to top

********************************************
8. "Resist the System" - The 3rd Annual Youth Empowerment Summit (San Francisco)

On August 9th, high school student organizers from Making Waves will bring together over 200 youth along with some of the leading Bay Area youth development agencies and artists to SF State. The Summit is FREE to youth and will provide workshops and panels in the areas of Social Justice and Youth Activism, followed by an Arts Festival featuring some of the hottest performers and artists celebrating culture and consciousness. Come through to experience:
*Workshops by leading organizations and activists
*Panels on Arts, Activism and Social Justice
*Networking opportunities with conscious community
*Hip-Hop Djs
*Music performances
*Spoken Word
*Vendors
*Artist Displays
*Free giveaways of CDs, t-shirts, artwork and special prizes

WHEN: August 9th, 2005
SF State University

FREE for participants who PRE-REGISTER. Download registration form at www.branson.org/makingwavessummit and send it back to Making Waves....space is limited...so register now!

back to top

********************************************
9. Lesbian Visibility, 2005 in the City of West Hollywood presents the movie D.E.B.S. (Hollywood)

Reel.com says: "D.E.B.S. is smart, sexy, original, campy, and hilarious. The key to D.E.B.S.'s success is that it balances high camp and hyper-vibrant design with a love story grounded in genuine emotion?" So bring a blanket or a lawn chair and a picnic dinner to enjoy under the stars!

Location: City of West Hollywood, West Hollywood Ball Field, 647 San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood,CA
When: Friday, August 5, 7:30pm
Admission is free. For more information, please call 323/848-6510. West Hollywood Park (softball field)

back to top

********************************************
10. SF Public Library - Find OUT! Resources forLGBTQQ Teens (San Francisco)

A Rainbow Celebration: Lesbians and Gays in Books for Children
TRANScending Identities: A Bibliography of Resources on Transgender and Intersex Topics

Our teen website has a number of bibliographies at http://sfpl4.sfpl.org/sfplonline/teen/recread.htm, including You Are Not Alone: Resources for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendeered Teens, and A Rainbow Celebration is also available online at http://sfpl4.sfpl.org/sfplonline/kids/booklists/rainbow.htm

If large quantities are needed of any of these, people can contact me.

Nancy Silverrod, Librarian
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-557-4400
mailto:nsilverrod@sfpl.org>nsilverrod@sfpl.org

back to top

********************************************
11. Bike Out Trip August 5th-11th. (Los Angeles)

The Mammoth 2005 Expedition is quickly approaching in just a week and a half. There are still a couple of spots left open for this trip. Join other LGBTQ youth aged 14-24 for a beautiful and challening Mtn Biking trip. While Biking we'l enjoy beautifu views of Mono Lake, Pyramid Lake and June Lake. Camp on the banks of clear creeks and get a lot of time to laugh, chat and hang out with other awesome youth. There will be a mandatory training ride on July 30th in beautiful Sycamore Canyon.

Bike Out promotes health and fosters self confidence in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth and their straight supporters through mountain bike expeditions.

For More information please contact Rob at (310)-453-5040 or Rob@bikeout.org

back to top

*********************************************
12. Free!! Fundraising Training (San Francisco)

Youth are invited to attend a free fund raising training

How to Raise More Than 50 Cents for Your Organization:
A Special Three-Part Training Series for Youth Fundraisers and Their Adult Partners Hosted by The Foundation Center on August 10th, 17th, and 24th From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Youth will:
• learn how to raise money successfully and confidently;
• understand how to use different fund raising methods; and,
• share and hear stories about past fund raising successes.

Location: Foundation Center – San Francisco (Sixth floor) 312 Sutter Street (between Grant and Stockton)

Registration: Please register by calling 415.397.0902. Class size will be limited to 40 people on a first come-first, served basis. Preference given to organizations or programs sending two staff members.

Public Transportation: Montgomery BART Station (five block walk) MUNI lines 2, 3, 4, 30

Trainers: Lorrie Johnson & Nancy Ogilvie
Lorrie Johnson is the founder of Global Philanthropy Consulting and has more than 16 years of experience working with non-profit organizations as a management, communications, and development consultant. For more information, please email lorriegj@earthlink.net or call 510.839.7140.

Nancy Ogilvie draws on 28 years of experience in partnering with clients on adventures in transformative change. Nancy has successfully facilitated cultural change, team building, retreats, strategic planning, and leadership development workshops. For more information on Nancy, please visit www.inspiring-results.com or call 510.690.0467.

back to top

**********************************************
13. Summer Beach BBQ for GSA youth (San Diego County)

Join GLSEN San Diego for Volleyball and free eats!
When: Saturday, August 6th, 5:00-9:00pm
Location: La Jolla Shores, North of the main Life Guard Tower
LOOK FOR THE GLSEN BANNER
Bring towel, suit, beach gear, fun stuff. We'll have a volleyball net up.
We're also providing the food. So come on by.
All LGBT allies and students are invited throughout SD County. Please RSVP to
let us know how many are coming.

Thanks,
Mick Rabin
GLSEN SD County
glsensd@glsensd.org

back to top

*********************************************
14. Young activist training at the Young Democrats of America convention (San Francisco)

Join us for this FREE young activist training at the Young Democrats of America convention in San Francisco, CA August 3-5.

Guarantee your reserved spot by visiting www.DemocraticGAIN.org

We are offering 3 tracks and some of the top trainers in the country will be leading sessions on:
* Growing Your Chapter
* Building Your Campaign Skills
* Running For Office As A Young Candidate

If you are interested in attending Growing Your Chapter or Building Your Campaign skills, you can mix and match between tracks, and may attend just one or all of the sessions. Those tracks run: Thurs 9:30-12:30 and 1:30-4:30; Fri 9:30-12:30 and 1:30-5:00. If you need to attend a caucus meeting, you should choose this option- If you are interested in the Running for Office As A Young Candidate track, attendance at all five sessions is required: Wed 3-7; Thurs 9:30-12:30 and 1:30-4:30; Fri 9:30-12:30 and 1:30-5:00.

Remember, this training is free, but interested participants should pre-register for these trainings online this week at the Democratic GAIN website (www.DemocraticGAIN.org)- click on the Trainings tab, sign up, and chose your training schedule!
Feel free to call our office with questions: 202-863-4246. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you next week!
Best,
Katie Fowler
Democratic GAIN
202-863-4246
www.democraticgain.org

back to top

*********************************************
15. JOB: 1362 Special Assistant III – Youth Empowerment Coordinator (San Francisco)

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Youth Commission is a Chartered Commission responsible for advising the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor on issues related to children and youth and advocating for the needs and priorities of San Francisco’s youth. The Commission is a diverse group of young people ranging in age from 12 to 23 years old. The 17-member commission works with young people, community organizations, and policy-makers to bring youth into the political process by engaging them as active participants in the City’s budget and policy decisions. The Commission bridges the gap between youth and government by ensuring that young people have real opportunities to influence the public policies that affect their lives. The Youth Empowerment Coordinator will work with the Commission to implement the Commission’s advocacy and community-outreach goals, train and help to develop the leadership skills and capacity of Youth Commissioners, partner and build coalitions with youth organizations and agencies, oversee Commission business, supervise and train interns, and coordinate projects and events.

Work Location: Youth Commission
Working Hours: 40 hrs. per week, Monday - Friday (Occasional evenings and weekends required)
Salary Range: $1,385-$1,678 Biweekly; $36,010-$43,628 Annual Filing Deadline: 08/12/05
Appointment Type: Permanent Exempt Date Issued: 07/28/05

HOW TO APPLY:
Submit a completed City and County of San Francisco Employment Application and resume to:
Ms. Eng Eng Chan
Personnel Officer
City Hall, Room 244
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
San Francisco, CA 94102-4689

back to top

*********************************************
16. JOB: Outlet Program Director (Mountain View)

The Outlet Program, a full service LGBTQQ youth organization based in Mountain View, CA, is currently accepting applications for a new Director. Former Director, Juan Barajas has accepted the Executive Director position for the Pacific Center in Berkeley, one of the three oldest LGBTQ community centers in the country. Outlet is seeking qualified and dedicated applicants for the Director position.

For the complete job description, please visit http://www.projectoutlet.org/DirectorJobDescription.htm

And, for more information about Outlet, visit http://www.projectoutlet.org/

back to top

********************************************
17. Save the date! Changing the face of giving (San Francisco)

A CONFERENCE FOR YOUTH GRANTMAKERS AND THEIR ALLIESSATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2005 10:00 AM TO 3:30 PM
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA (exact location to be announced shortly)

WHO'S INVITED
Young people 23 and under doing grantmaking across California
adult foundation professionals and trustees
Adult advisors to youth grantmaking programs

WHAT'S HAPPENING
At this conference, you will get an opportunity to:
NETWORK with other youth and adult grantmakers
LEARN about the exciting things that youth grantmakers are doing across California
STRENGTHEN skills and knowledge of your work as youth grantmakers and adult advisors
EXPLORE ways that young people can be more involved as grantmakers in local foundations and other grant giving organizations.

THE ORGANIZERS
This conference is hosted by the Philanthropy Learning Network, a project of the Youth Leadership Institute. The Philanthropy Learning Network (PLN) builds connections between adult philanthropists (grantmakers) and youth grantmakers across Northern California. PLN is made possible through the generous support of the San Francisco Foundation.

MORE INFO TO COME
In the next few weeks, you will be receiving more details about the conference, along with an application form. Feel free to contact Matt Rosen at mrosen@yli.org or 415-455-1676 with questions or comments.

back to top

********************************************
18. NEWS: A dad's transformation disturbs some at school

Riverside Press Enterprise, Saturday, July 30, 2005
By LINDA LOU and DOUGLAS QUAN / The Press-Enterprise

A dad's transformation disturbs some at school
SEX CHANGE: The Inland district must balance Alex Rivas' rights with some parents' unease.

Some Riverside County elementary school parents are threatening to enroll their children elsewhere if a father who wears makeup, skirts and high heels is allowed to volunteer in the classroom.

Alex Rivas, whose son is in first grade at Temescal Valley Elementary, south of Corona, volunteered last year dressed as a man and wants to help again this year. Some parents say the change in Rivas is unsettling to their children and inappropriate fodder for discussion with such young kids.

Rivas, 42, who has begun the first steps toward eventual sex-reassignment surgery, wants to reassure the other parents.

"I'm still the same person. ... I'm not going to harm their children," he said.

A school district assistant superintendent, Thomas Pike, said Rivas has a right to volunteer and cannot legally be barred on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

However, some parents say it's not fair to their children to have Rivas in the classroom.

Rivas, 42, who has begun the first steps toward eventual sex-reassignment surgery, wants to reassure the other parents.

"I'm still the same person. ... I'm not going to harm their children," he said.

A school district assistant superintendent, Thomas Pike, said Rivas has a right to volunteer and cannot legally be barred on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

However, some parents say it's not fair to their children to have Rivas in the classroom.

"Our main concern is how do we respond to our children when they ask, 'Why did he dress like a dad last year and why is he now dressed like a mom?'" said Dennis Santos, whose child attends class with Rivas' son. "They are six years old."

Rivas said this week that only a small group of parents has complained. The parents met with Pike and school Principal Nancy Moler on Wednesday to talk about Rivas, who they have seen dropping off and picking up his son.

Some parents said they have seen Rivas in the blouses, skirts, dresses, fake breasts, high heels, a blond wig and heavy makeup, including pink lipstick.

"I don't want our child to think this is an everyday occurrence, that males can become females," parent Getahun Assefa said.

Experts said the sight of a transgender person might not be as unsettling to a child as some parents think. Children generally will accept a simple explanation, they said.

A school psychologist will be available to parents who want to know how to explain the situation, Pike said.

Decision to Change

Rivas remembers feeling like a girl stuck in a boy's body at 7 or 8.

At 39, he decided to try becoming a woman.

"I was no longer feeling comfortable dressed like a man," Rivas said. "I was not showing my true self."

Rivas said he started dressing like a woman and did so for about two years. About a year ago, he started wearing male clothes again because he was going through a divorce and his lawyer advised him not to dress like a woman until the divorce was granted. The divorce was finalized in June.

Rivas' former wife could not be reached for comment this week.

About three months ago, while Rivas was still dressing as a man, he let school officials know about his plans to become a woman, he said. They gave him their full support, he said.

Rivas, a security guard who wears uniforms at work, said his therapist told him to wear feminine attire if he's committed to becoming a woman or else his children would be confused. He also has a son who is 2.

On Thursday, Rivas wore a bright-orange T-shirt with a white-and-orange floral skirt and flat, white sandals when he walked his first-grader to the front of the school. He also wore teardrop-shaped earrings and pink lipstick and carried a black purse. His 2-year-old trotted along next to him.

Rivas said he has started taking hormones, one of the stages before he undergoes surgery. It will take about five years to complete the physical transformation, Rivas said.

During the process, he plans to remain active in his children's schooling. He said other parents shouldn't judge him by his clothes.

"No one should be told how to dress or look," Rivas said. "This is a free country. You can be yourself."

'Our jaws dropped'

About 20 Temescal Valley parents were in the meeting with Moler and Pike this week.

Rivas has a right to wear what he wants on his own time but not when he's in class with their children, said Lisa Church and other parents.

Parents and students got to know Rivas last year as a man, they said.

Assefa and some other parents said they wished they could have been told earlier about Rivas' plans to become a female, instead of learning about it on the first day of school.

"Our jaws dropped," parent Patricia Martinez said. "He wears makeup like he's in a beauty contest. He has no concerns on how this affects our children."

In interviews Friday, some of the parents said they don't object to seeing Rivas dressed as woman when he drops off or picks up his son. Children don't really see or interact with Rivas then because of the crowds and the hubbub, they said.

If Rivas is in the classroom, their attention will be focused on him, Santos said. Whenever the first-graders see Rivas talk to the teacher before class, they can't take their eyes off him, he added.

"We have seen the children just stare at him," Santos said. "Kids have asked, 'Is it Halloween today? Why is he dressed like that?' "

First-graders shouldn't have to learn about transgender people, Church said. "Why should I take the innocence out of my child at six years old?"

Some parents said they will give the administrators some time to defuse the situation. They said Moler agreed to talk to Rivas and make him aware of their feelings and their wish to protect their children.

Some parents said if Rivas volunteers in the classroom dressed in feminine attire, they would transfer their children to a different school or consider private school.

"A school is not a grocery store where you can turn your child away from someone," parent Rizza Heskett said.

Rivas said children might be curious at first.

"After a while, they will get used to it and think it's normal," he said. "But if (the parents) make a big deal out of it, they will make them prejudiced."

A Long Process

The course of action leading up to sex-reassignment surgery can takes years and can be emotionally challenging.

Experts recommend that people who want to undergo surgery start by dressing in the attire of their targeted gender for at least a month so they feel comfortable, said Dr. Vernon Rosario, an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA's Neuropsychiatric Institute.

After passing a mental evaluation, they usually spend a year taking hormones. For a man wanting to become a woman, the hormones will cause the breasts to enlarge and make him feel more womanly.

Following hormone treatments, another mental evaluation is required to make sure they're ready for surgery, Rosario said.

The decision to undergo the transformation can be tough on middle-age people, especially those who have spouses or children, Rosario said. Some wait until their children are out of the house before committing to the surgery. Then, they have to cope with how their extended family, friends and co-workers will react.

"Having an accepting family and social network makes a big difference," he said.

Teaching Respect

Lisa Mottet, a transgender-rights attorney in Washington, D.C., said parents at Temescal Valley school could be sending the wrong message to their children.

"It's an important lesson for kids to learn there are different types of people and they should be treated with respect," she said by phone. If the parents continue their quest to keep Rivas from the classroom, their children "are going to get a different message -- that we need to shield ourselves from differences."

California has been one of the more progressive states in protections for transgender people, said Chris Daley, director of the Transgender Law Center in San Francisco, who applauded the school district's response.

The Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000 prohibits discrimination and harassment based on gender or gender identity on a school campus. The act is not limited to students. An amendment in 2003 to the Fair Housing and Employment Act also covers transgender people.

A child who interacts with a transgender person might have questions, but the encounter might not be as unsettling as some parents fear, said Scott Coltrane, associate director of the Center for Family Studies at UC Riverside.

"Children have a wide latitude of acceptance for presentation of self," he said.

Children are more inclined to classify people according to their outward appearance, by the clothes they wear or whether they have long or short hair, he said.

Children's Reactions

Jim Koeppel, a Corona-Norco pupil-services coordinator and school psychologist, said parents should keep their explanations simple and direct when talking to young children about complicated topics.

Don't offer more information than what they're asking, Koeppel said. Give one-line answers and most children will be satisfied, he said.

When asked about why a man dresses like a woman, it's enough to say that he chooses to dress like that, Koeppel said.

The reaction of the parent also is very important when they are answering questions about sensitive issues, Pike said.

"Children tend to mirror their parents' reactions," he said.

Rivas said he has explained to his children what he is going through and that some people won't like it. He said his 2-year-old knows who he is.

"Who am I?" Rivas asked his son Thursday.

"Daddy," he replied.
"What else am I?" Rivas asked.

"Mama."

Reach Linda Lou at (951 )893-2109 or llou@pe.com or Douglas Quan at (951) 368-9479 or dquan@pe.com

back to top

back to GSA Network News

HOME