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GSA Network News Email Archive - December 2005
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Note: GSA Network News will resume on January 4th. Happy Holidays!
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
A Great Year for GSA Network and Youth Activism
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Leadership Training (Santa Cruz)
2. Sylvia Guerrero is Back!- Apply for Winter/Spring Speaking Engagement (Bay
Area)
3. Queer Youth Advocacy Day--Less than 100 days away!!!
4. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
5. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
6. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay
Area)
Other Announcements
7. REV. 101 an exploration of revolutionary politics (Bay Area)
8. We have a great opportunity for high school girls in the Bay Area! (Bay
Area)
9. Rainbow Community Center's (RCC) Winter Ball is near...
(Bay Area)
10. NEWS: Georgia school expels lesbian teen over kiss
11. NEWS: Defendant in Gwen Araujo case pleads no contest to voluntary manslaughter
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
A Great Year for GSA Network and Youth Activism
Congratulations to all of the new GSAs that have gotten started in 2005 and
the incredible youth activism that has been growing throughout the year!
California student activists have been busy with campaigns, actions, and activities
including gender identity activism and anti-slur campaigns, school climate surveys,
teacher trainings, peer panels and the continued work around strengthening implementation
of the California Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000 (AB 537).
Three of the activism highlights from the past year, include:
• In February, building off the exciting precedent set the year before by San Francisco Mayor, Gavin Newsom, GSA students and youth activists led assemblies and campus actions supporting the freedom to marry for the LGBTQ community and highlighted the homophobia as well as the historical analogies of the struggles of interracial couples less then 30 years ago mounting a similar battle.
• Two months later students all over the state joined youth activists nationally to participate in the largest ever Day of Silence with over 100,000 students participating in the 9th annual day of direct action. And, for the first time, GSA Network received reports of counter protests led by religious right-wing groups who drove “Truth Trucks” around schools declaring that “Homosexuality is a Sin.” GSAs fought back and showed their strength when hundreds of LGBT people and allies were mobilized to outnumber the small groups of people participating in the so-called “Day of Truth.”
• Similarly, in Tracy, in June, GSA Network joined Tracy High and West High students and a tremendous outpouring of community support at a Peace Rally to respond to the hateful actions of the Reverend Fred Phelps, who protested the Tracy high graduation ceremonies because both of the schools in that district have GSA clubs.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
1. GSA Leadership Training (Santa Cruz)
CREATE CHANGE IN YOUR SCHOOL
A GSA Leadership Training brought to you by STRANGE* and the GSA Network
This FREE event will be held from 11 am - 5 pm and includes breakfast and lunch.
So what is a GSA Leadership Training?
Where youth from GSAs around Santa Cruz County come together for a FUN, interactive
peer to peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia
and transphobia in schools.
Youth will leave this training knowing how to lead an educational workshop they
can take back to their schools to increase awareness of queer issues.
This training is co-led by GSA leaders. At this training students will also
become experts in starting and running a Kick-Ass GSA.
Topics of the day include:
*understanding laws to protect LGBTQ youth in schools
*how to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination in your school
*concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
*how to set up and facilitate anti-homophobia workshops at your schools
*how to run a meeting
*outreach, building membership, and diversity
This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area, while
learning some new skills to strengthen your school you're your club.
The GSA Network and STRANGE values the participation of adult allies in our
fight against oppression & injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors
and adult allies to the leadership training but ask that you help us to maintain
the youth focus of this training.
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, January 7th. 2006, 11:00-5:00 (Free food!)
WHERE: Diversity Center. 1117 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95061
Free!!
For more information, to RSVP or to get a ride, please contact:
Marco Castro-Bojorquez - GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator
415-552-4229 or email marco@gsanetwork.org
Jacob Lee Breslow - STRANGE Intern, training coordinator
925-788-8462 or jbreslow@ucsc.edu
Sharon Papo - STRANGE program coordinator
831- 469-1700 x 151 or Sharon.papo@scccc.org
CO-SPONSORS: GSA Network, STRANGE a program of Youth Services
*********************************************
2. Sylvia Guerrero is Back!- Apply for Winter/Spring Speaking Engagement
(Bay Area)
GSA Network is excited to announce that we will be once again co-sponsoring
the Sylvia Guerrero speaking tour during the 2006 school year.
This program brings Sylvia Guerrero to speak with students, teachers, and staff
at schools throughout the Bay Area about the experiences she and her family
have endured over the last three years after the death of her transgender daughter,
Gwen Araujo and is a great opportunity for schools to do education on campus
for Transgender Student Safety.
In the fall of 2002, Sylvia Guerrero was forced into the Bay Area's media spotlight
by the murder of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. Even though it had only
been a short time since Ms. Guerrero began accepting Gwen as her daughter, instead
of the son she had thought she was raising, she suddenly found herself labeled
a spokeswoman for respect and dignity for transgender people.
If you would like to bring Ms. Guerrero to your school, please contact Marco
@ marco@gsanetwork.org.
Book NOW! Slots are limited.
Sylvia Guerrero's speaking tour is done in collaboration with GLSEN-San Francisco/East Bay, and is supported by a grant from the Horizons Foundation - Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
*********************************************
3. Queer Youth Advocacy Day--Less than 100 days away!!!
Final exams are coming, papers are due, and this semester is almost
over. What is your
GSA dreaming of doing in the spring?
Make plans to join GSA Network, Equality California, and hundreds of LGBTQ youth
activists for Queer Youth Advocacy Day in Sacramento on March 6, 2006 to talk
to lawmakers about what it's like for LGBTQ students in CA schools. Lobby for
safer schools legislation & help to end discrimination and harassment for
all students in California.
More information about how to get involved is coming soon to your school! GSA
Network has mailed Queer Youth Advocacy Day information packets to over 500
GSAs registered with us all over the state. Packets are being mailed to GSA
advisors just in time for the beginning of the next semester.
Please watch your mailboxes!
Each GSA will receive glossy save-the-date postcards which you can use to start
spreading the word at your school and in your community. So, tell your club
members, friends, classmates, and your teachers:Queer Youth Advocacy Day is
on the way!
For more information or to make sure your GSA is on the list to receive a packet,
please contact Lai-San @ 415-552-4229 or email advocacy@gsanetwork.org.
*********************************************
4. Re-Register your GSA 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
*********************************************
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.
**********************************************
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
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
7. REV. 101 an exploration of revolutionary politics (Bay Area)
10 week program / once a week (dates will be decided according to participants'
schedules)
FEBRUARY- APRIL 2006
Revolution 101 is a 10-session class, one session a week, designed to introduce
young working class, people of color, LGBTIQQ and women organizers and activists
to some of the building blocks of revolutionary theory and practice.
Revolution 101 is broken down into three major components:Structures of Oppression
Helping to build your understanding of the oppressive structures that face our
people, we will discuss intersections of oppressions, origins, economic and
community impacts as well as the role of the state and public institutions.
Histories of Resistance & Tools for Revolution To be inspired by victories
and to critically analyze mistakes we will focus on histories within the u.s.
and around the world. We will explore theories and tools developed by revolutionary
movements around the world and break down difficult theoretical concepts. This
class will focus heavily on South Africa and the anti-apartheid struggle.
APPLICATIONS DUE BY JANUARY 13th!
This is a free* class.
Childcare and Translation available upon request. SOUL is BART and wheelchair
accessible.
SOUL: THE SCHOOL OF UNITY AND LIBERATION
287 17th Street, Suite #225 Oakland, CA 94612
malachi@schoolofunityandliberation.org
(510) 451-5466 x. 307
*A class reader/manual will be sold sliding scale $10-20 dollars, to cover the
cost of production.
Feel free to Forward this message"Everything is melodramatic
in the lives of the humble. Because the poor don't invent sorrow, they bear
it." E. Peron
*********************************************
8. We have a great opportunity for high school girls in the Bay Area! (Bay
Area)
TSSG is an innovative youth development program that combines a strong academic
curriculum with experiential learning. The semester-long program breaks into
three six week phases: first, students attend land-based training on the San
Francisco State University campus. Second, students sail aboard a traditional
sailing vessel and visit foreign countries and third, students participate in
internships in Bay Area businesses and organizations. In our graduates, we recognize
positive changes, greater self-knowledge and a greater awareness of the world
around them. They return with the confidence to try new experiences, the awareness
that learning can come in many forms and the maturity to take on adult responsibilities.
There is more information about the program on our website, www.tallshipacademy.org
If your organization works with this age youth and would be interested in having
us come to your site and talk to youth and/or their parents/guardians, please
contact our program coordinator, Marcos Cortez, at the number below or by email.
Tuition cost is always a concern. We have a sliding scale tuition program for
students/families that can demonstrate financial need. Students who qualify
for the sliding scale program pay the amount they are able. The published
tuition this year is $8,500. To date, we have been able to meet the demonstrated
financial need of every student accepted.
Marcos Cortez
Program Coordinator
Tall Ship Education Academy
415-405-3703
marcos@tallshipsemester.org
www.tallshipacademy.org
*********************************************
9. Rainbow Community Center's (RCC) Winter Ball is near...
(Bay Area)
Join us Friday, Janurary 6th for our third Annual Winter Ball.
Winter Wonderland: A semi-formal (optional) dance for lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, queer, questioning youth and their allies 21 and under.
FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE
Date: Jan. 6th 2005
Time: 7:30PM - 11PM
Location: United Methodist Church of Walnut Creek
Address: 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Attire: DRESS to IMPRESS!
Questions? Contact: Ken Levin (925) 692-0090 KenLevin_RCC@yahoo.com
*********************************************
10. NEWS: Georgia school expels lesbian teen over kiss
Student lawsuit states off-campus kiss not sexually immoral
By DYANA BAGBY
Friday, December 16, 2005A former student at a private Christian school in Loganville,
Ga., has sued the school for $1 million, alleging invasion of privacy and breach
of contract after she was expelled for kissing a girl at a slumber party and
also being involved with another female student off- campus.
In the lawsuit, filed Dec. 2 in Gwinnett County Superior Court, Jessica Bradley
and her father, Ronald Bradley, allege that Emmaline M. McKinnon, principal
of Covenant Christian Academy, wrongfully expelled Jessica in April 2005 for
violating the school's "sexual immorality" criteria.
The expulsion caused the teen to suffer public humiliation and embarrassment
at the school and within the community, forcing her father to ask for a job
transfer to Pennsylvania where the family now resides, the lawsuit claims. It
asks for a tuition refund, $1 million in damages for invasion of privacy and
emotional distress, and a restraining order prohibiting Covenant from relying
on the sexual immorality clause to expel other students in the future.
McKinnon did not return calls by press time.
Jessica Bradley, 15, acknowledges in the lawsuit that a fellow female Covenant
Academy student kissed her at a private sleepover party away from school property
on April 22, and also that she had been in a relationship with a different girl.
But Bradley denies that her behavior violated the school‚s discipline
code because the rules do not specifically state same-sex kissing is grounds
for expulsion, according to her attorney, Dave Clark of Lawrenceville, Ga.
The school's prohibition against sexual immorality is too vague to be enforced,
Clark said, explaining the breach of contract complaint.
By making only general references to the Bible and scripture and what kind of
behavior is expected of students, the school failed to make clear what actions
it required of students to avoid expulsion, he said.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.southernvoice.com/2005/12-16/news/localnews/localnews_kiss.cfm
*********************************************
11. NEWS: Defendant in Gwen Araujo case pleads no contest to voluntary
manslaughter
Henry K. Lee
San Francisco Chronicle
Friday, December 16, 2005
In a dramatic turn, the fourth and final defendant charged with killing Newark
transgender teen Gwen Araujo three years ago pleaded no contest today to voluntary
manslaughter and will be sentenced to six years in prison.
Jason Cazares, 25, whose two trials in the slaying led to deadlocked juries
and mistrials, entered his plea this morning at the Hayward Hall of Justice.
He will return to court Jan. 27 for formal sentencing.
In September, a jury convicted Jose Merel and Michael Magidson, both 25, of
murdering Araujo in October 2002 by beating and strangling her after learning
that Araujo, with whom they'd had sex, was biologically male.
Merel and Magidson face sentences of 15 years to life in prison in the slaying,
which occurred during a party at Merel's house. The defendants buried Araujo
in a shallow grave in the Sierra foothills.
Jurors spent weeks deliberating during the second trial in Araujo's slaying
before revealing that they were deadlocked 9-3 in favor of a second-degree murder
conviction for Cazares. But they rejected allegations that the slaying was a
hate crime stemming from Araujo's gender orientation. Some jurors believed the
defendants killed Araujo simply to "cover up a situation that had gotten
out of control," Juror Max Stern told The Chronicle in September.
To read the full article, visit:
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2005/12/16/MNGL2G965T15.DTL
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
"On the Low" - Director Screens New Film For GSA Members
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Leadership Training (Santa Cruz)
2. Sylvia Guerrero is Back!- Apply for Winter/Spring Speaking Engagement
3. Queer Youth Advocacy Day--Less than 100 days away!!!
4. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
5. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
6. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
7. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
Other Announcements
8. DeFrank Youth Winter Wonderland Dance - FRDAY (San Jose)
9. $1,000 College Scholarships
10. C.I.T.Y. X1 Host a Youth Social ( Los Angeles)
11. Training Day: Eye on the Media (Los Angeles)
12. Communities United Against Violence - Speaker's Bureau Trainings (Bay Area)
13. Lifeworks Mentoring Upcoming Events (Los Angeles)
14. SBC Giants Ballpark now hiring - Juma Ventures wants you!!! (Bay Area)
15. Influence Others - Pen a Piece for 7theses.com
16. Do you or does someone you know qualify for a 2005-2006 eQuality Scholarship
Award?
17. PFLAG National Scholarships Program
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
"On the Low" - Director Screens New Film For GSA Members
GSA Members and their Advisors had the opportunity to meet film director Luther
Mace when he screened his short film, ON THE LOW, as a part of GSA Network’s
South Los Angeles Leadership Training held at Washington Prep High School last
weekend.
ON THE LOW explores the emotional consequences of a secret relationship between
two African-American high school boys, Ty and Kevin, and what happens when one
of them realizes that he has fallen in love and wants to move the relationship
to a deeper level.
Following the screening, Luther stuck around for a lively question and answer
session with GSA members where he talked about himself, his experiences and
his process of making the film. The feedback and comments were one hundred percent
positive. “I really enjoyed the movie,” said Darci an 11th grade
student at Gabrielino High School. It was exactly how life is for most people
of different ethnic groups.” Kevin, a GSA member at Grant High School
agreed, “the story wasn’t sugar coated at all. It was very realistic.”
Rodney Gentry, Belmont High School’s GSA Advisor added, “On the
Low depicts the angst of many gay young males, who too often act out in hopes
of not being outed. It shows the love, frustration, lust, anger, and tears that
is universal to all young love, gay or straight.”
The film, which took a year to complete, was based on an actual relationship
that Luther had as a teenager, and reaching teenagers is a large part of his
motivation for making the film. “Screening the film for GSA members was
exhilarating for me,” Luther said, ” because that’s the demographic
I made the film for; young men and women who are coming into themselves as self-identified,
same-gender loving individuals.” The most memorable moments for Luther
were when one of the GSA members ran up to him during the screening to say how
much he loved the film, and when the students started talking back to the screen
in support of what they were seeing. “For the students to respond as enthusiastically
as they did reaffirms for me that this story needed to be told.”
“It is unusual for people of color to see images of themselves on the
screen,” Sandy Williams, GSA Network’s Southern California Regional
Coordinator commented, “and then when you add to that looking for images
of LGTBQ youth of color that are positive, it is hard to find.” She added,
“what is powerful about this film is that it explores relationships and
sexuality in a way that is healthy and honest without the need to be sensational
or stereotypical. I think that is what the youth responded to.”
The next step, Luther says, is to adapt ON THE LOW into a feature film, making
the story available to a broader audience. “I think the characters are
interesting, unique and come from a very interesting world, and to maintain
such a heartfelt relationship under covert circumstances makes for compelling
drama.” However, until ON THE LOW is available on the big screen, Luther
is busy screening the film for audiences around Los Angeles.
Information about the movie can be found on his website at www.onthelowmovie.com.
back to top
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
1. GSA Leadership Training (Santa Cruz)
This FREE event will be held from 11am - 5pm and includes breakfast and lunch.
So what is a GSA Leadership Training?
Where youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive,
peer 2 peer training that provides students with
the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in the schools. Led by other
GSA leaders in the area the training will teach students to start and run a
Kick-Ass GSA as well as mount a fierce campaign on your campus.
Topics include:
*how to run a meeting
*outreach, building membership, and diversity
*concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
*understanding laws to protect LGBTQ youth in schools and
*how to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination
in your school
This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area, while learning
some new skills to strengthen your club.
GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression
& injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and adult allies
to the leadership training but ask that you help us to maintain the youth focus
of this training.
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, January 7th. 2005, 11:00-5:00 (Free food!)
WHERE: Diversity Center. 117 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95061
Free!!
For more information or to RSVP, please contact: Marco Castro-Bojorquez,
GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or email marco@gsanetwork.org.
Also, Jacob Lee Breslow at 925-788-8462 or Sharon Papo at 831- 469-1700 x 151
CO-SPONSORS: GSA Network, STRANGE a program of Youth Services
*********************************************
2. Sylvia Guerrero is Back!- Apply for Winter/Spring Speaking Engagement
GSA Network is excited to announce that we will be once again co-sponsoring
the Sylvia Guerrero speaking tour during the 2006 school year.
This program brings Sylvia Guerrero to speak with students, teachers, and staff
at schools throughout the Bay Area about the experiences she and her family
have endured over the last three years after the death of her transgender daughter,
Gwen Araujo and is a great opportunity for schools to do education on campus
for Transgender Student Safety.
In the fall of 2002, Sylvia Guerrero was forced into the Bay Area's media spotlight
by the murder of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. Even though it had only
been a short time since Ms. Guerrero began accepting Gwen as her daughter, instead
of the son she had thought she was raising, she suddenly found herself labeled
a spokeswoman for respect and dignity for transgender people.
If you would like to bring Ms. Guerrero to your school, please contact Marco
@ marco@gsanetwork.org.
Book NOW! Slots are limited.
Sylvia Guerrero's speaking tour is done in collaboration with GLSEN-San Francisco/East Bay, and is supported by a grant from the Horizons Foundation - Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
*********************************************
3. Queer Youth Advocacy Day--Less than 100 days away!!!
Final exams are coming, papers are due, and this semester is almost
over. What is your
GSA dreaming of doing in the spring?
Make plans to join GSA Network, EQCA, and hundreds of LGBTQ youth activists
for Queer Youth Advocacy Day Sacramento on March 6, 2006 talk to lawmakers about
what it's like for LGBTQ students in CA schools. Lobby for safer schools legislation
& help to end discrimination and harassment for all students in California.
More information about how to get involved is coming soon to your school! GSA
Network is gearing up to mail Queer Youth Advocacy Day information packets to
over 500 GSAs registered with us all over the state. Packets are being mailed
to GSA advisors just in time for the beginning of the next semester.
Please watch your mailboxes!
Each GSA will receive glossy save-the-date postcards which you can use to start
spreading the word at your school and in your community.
Tell your club members, friends, classmates, and your teachers:Queer Youth Advocacy
Day is on the way!
For more information or to make sure your GSA is on the list to receive a packet,
please contact Lai-San @ 415-552-4229 or email advocacy@gsanetwork.org.
*********************************************
4. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
Please take five minutes to participate in an important survey!
As you know, the right of same-sex couples to marry has been a hotly contested
topic over the past few years. On one side, President Bush has proposed a constitutional
ban on marriage for same-sex couples and many states have created their own
laws banning marriage for same-sex couples or defining marriage as between one
man and one woman only. On the other side, same-sex couples gained full marriage
rights in Massachusetts and temporarily gained marriage rights in San Francisco
and other cities. Most recently, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill
that would have extended full marriage rights to same-sex couples in California.
This flurry of activity combined with what we know will be a continued state-by-state
struggle around marriage rights in the upcoming years raises an important question
about how students are affected by the discussion around the issue at school
and the media coverage on the political fight. The California Safe Schools Coalition,
in partnership with GSA Network, has created this short survey in order to learn
more about how students are affected by the fight over marriage for same-sex
couples.
Please help us by clicking on the link below to take our survey.
http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB224NVM7JWBM
*********************************************
5. Re-Register your GSA 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
*********************************************
6. 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.
**********************************************
7. 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
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
8. DeFrank Youth Winter Wonderland Dance - FRDAY (San Jose)
THIS FRIDAY 12/16 from 7:00pm to 12:00pm!
Semi Formal Youth Winter Wonderland Dance For LGBTQ youth and their allies
Ages 13-20
Friday December 16th
7pm to 12pm at the DeFrank Center
$2 at the door
Dance-Off, Message Boards, and Prizes for best dressed!
This is a drug, smoking, and alcohol free event.
No in and out privileges.
No bags, purses, or backpacks allowed.
Must have a school or state issued ID to enter – NO EXCEPTIONS!
Semi Formal attire is encouraged
Creativity is welcome, lewdness and lack of attire is not
For more information contact Julianne at youthprog@defrank.org,
408 293 3040 x111
Billy DeFrank Community Center
938 the Alameda
San Jose CA, 95126
*********************************************
9. $1,000 College Scholarships
Queer Foundation announces $1,000 College Scholarships for 2006–07
To the winners of the 2006 high school English essay contest, $1,000 scholarships
are available for studies in queer theory or a related field at the college
or university of their choice.
As Queer Scholars, these young writers can positively affect the conditions
of their fellow LGBT students and other queer youth. Collected, their writings
can become queer-the-curriculum materials that schools and teachers can use
for positive change.
For more information about these scholarships, the essay contest, or the Queer
Foundation's Effective Writing and Scholarships Program, visit http://home.comcast.net/~threepennynovel/queerfoundation.
Application deadline: April 1
The Queer Foundation is a Washington nonprofit corporation and a 501(c)(3) public
charity. Find us on GuideStar.org (search for "queer scholars"). Donations
help promote the best and brightest young queer writers of today.
For more information go to jdial@post.harvard.edu
*********************************************
10. C.I.T.Y. X1 Host a Youth Social ( Los Angeles)
The Youth OF C.I.T.Y. x1 are hosting an "Egg Nogg Youth Social".
It will take place on Saturday, December 17th, 2005 at Plummer Park in West
Hollywood.
The event will start at 5:00pm and end at 9:00pm.
Plummer Park is located at 7377 Santa Monica Blvd.
This free event is for LGBTQ youth (14-24) and their allies. We will have free
holiday treats, 2 live youth performances, a raffle, special surprises, and
more!
For more information be sure to also check out our event web site! www.cityx1.com/eggnogg
*********************************************
11. Training Day: Eye on the Media (Los Angeles)
ULOAH (United Lesbians of African Heritage) and GLAAD (The Gay & Lesbian
Alliance Against Defamation) present a Media Workshop for Black LGBTQ youth.
Tired of not seeing people who look like you on TV? What would you like to see
more of? How do current images affect our ability to come out at home, at school
and in our churches?
If you're ready to get the tools you need to stand up for yourself within your
community, join us on Saturday, December 17th. You'll learn how to recognize
defamation, how to respond to biased news or images about Black LGBTs, the history
of Black LGBTQ images in media and how to use the media to share your views.
There will be refreshments, cool people and lots of interactive fun.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
1:00pm-4:00pm
The Village
1125 N. McCadden Place
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(1 block east of Highland Ave. and 1 block north of Santa Monica Blvd. in Hollywood.)
To RSVP please contact Katina Parker, GLAAD POC Media Manager for Communities
of African Descent at 323-634-2023 or parker@glaad.org
Hope to see you there!
*********************************************
12. Communities United Against Violence - Speaker's Bureau Trainings
(Bay Area)
The Speakers Bureau is currently accepting applications for new volunteers.
Our next training is an all-ages training for LGBTQQ community members who want
to speak their minds and help educate young folks. The training will be held
over 2 full days, Saturday and Sunday, January 14th and 15th, 10am to 6pm.
For information on how to apply, please contact Connie at connie@cuav.org.
or 415-777-5500 ext. 303
*********************************************
13. Lifeworks Mentoring Upcoming Events (Los Angeles)
Weho Green Room Workshop - "Merry Chris-Kwan-Hanukkah Solstice"
Thursday December 15, 2005 @ 7pm at LifeWorks Mentoring Office
People from all over our community will be coming to share about how they celebrate
the holidays.
9021 Melrose Ave, Suite 309 West Hollywood, Ca 90069
LifeWorks Mentoring "Holiday Party"
Thursday December 22, 2005 @ 7pm at the LifeWorks Mentoring Office
Join us for a movie, food, fun, and prizes. 9021 Melrose Ave Suite 309 West
Hollywood, Ca 90069
If you are a youth 14-24 years old, or know someone who is, and would like more
information on Lifeworks Mentoring
please visit our website - http://www.lifeworksmentoring.org
or call our office at 310-724-6300.
*********************************************
14. SBC Giants Ballpark now hiring - Juma Ventures wants you!!!
(Bay Area)
Want to know more about education and how to get into college? Need a bank account
or money skills? Interested in Job Training? Interested in exploring a career?
What about learning more about your health and acquiring new life skills?
If you answered ‘YES’ to the above questions and it sounds like
something you are interested in and you are between the ages of 15 and 19, then
you could be hired for a job at Juma Ventures!
As well, Juma provides extra support around Career Exploration, Financial Literacy,
Health and Life Skills and College Exploration that all employees are required
to participate in.
We provide opportunities for College and Career tours, Recreational Outings,
Homework Help,,A fun youth space to hang out in, New skills around resume building
and interview skills, The ability to make your money work for you, How to take
excellent care of yourself, On the job training and experience!
We are recruiting youth now for employment at the SBC Giants Ballpark.
You could be hired as an ice cream scooper, a coffee barista, or a vendor.
If you are interested then please contact either Christy Saxton 415.371.0727x313
or Jasmine Najera 415.371.0727x312 at your earliest convenience.
We will begin interviews at the beginning of January.
*********************************************
15. Influence Others - Pen a Piece for 7theses.com
7theses.com has one main goal: to groom a new generation of social commentators.
We were spurred on by the widespread
misconception that our generation is mostly comprised of self-centered, superficial
airheads who don't bother looking beyond our own insular worlds.
To the contrary, we are very aware that we are in the process of inheriting
a larger, interconnected global community from our elders. But in order to prove
our capability, we must engage in discourse concerning the pressing political
and social issues of the day. Thus, every week on 7theses.com, seven of our
peers wax philosophic, optimistic, pessimistic, realistic, left-wing, right-wing,
conservative, liberal, and everything in between. Every day, young adults across
the country and abroad vote off the weakest argument or least pertinent issue.
At each week's end we have a read on the young conscience. And your organization
has a better idea about the angle and vibe that resonate most with our age demographic.
We would like to extend an invitation to youth, to pen an essay or opinion piece
(of at least 600 words) that examines an issue, or riffs on a number of issues,
which are central to the mission of GSAs. This is an opportunity for your message
to be viewed by a wide-cross section of the youth, with a chance to influence
viewers you might normally not have access to.
Our generation is not only ready to be heard now. We're ready to act. But we
must first be armed with knowledge- and that's where your passion and voice
come in.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your submissions.Best, Adam Coughlin
Co-creator, 7theses.com
For more submission information, visit www.7theses.com/submission.htm.
*********************************************
16. Do you or does someone you know qualify for a 2005-2006 eQuality
Scholarship Award?
GLSEN San Francisco-East Bay is a sponsoring member of the eQuality Scholarship
Collaborative, a joint effort of a group of Bay Area-based organizations that
annually award scholarships to graduating high school students in Northern
and Central California who have promoted understanding of and equality
for LGBTQ people.
Applications, including transcripts and letter of recommendation, must be postmarked
no later than February 28, 2006. Scholarship applicants will be notified of
their application status by April 15.
To learn more about the Collaborative and current scholarship opportunities,
visit: www.glsen-sfeb.org/scholarship/index.htm.
*********************************************
17. PFLAG National Scholarships Program
This is an exciting program offering both $2,500 and $1,000 scholarships to
LGBT students and their supporters. Students may apply for both a $2,500 scholarship
and a $1,000 scholarship or either scholarship alone, but the Scholarship Advisory
Committee will only award either a $2,500 or a $1,000 to successful students,
i.e. scholarships will not be combined in a single award for $3,500.
The Scholarship Advisory Committee has decided that students awarded a scholarship
by a local PFLAG scholarship program will still be eligible for a national award.
Consequently, there should not be any conflict of interest between the National
Scholarships Program and local PFLAG scholarship programs. Students who are
related to your chapter members or who have been closely involved with your
chapter are welcome to apply for one of the National Scholarships.
Application materials can be downloaded by students and financial aid administrators
from our website, www.pflag.org. Application packets
should be mailed to the following address postmarked no later than February
14th, 2006:
Judy Hoff
PFLAG National Scholarships Program
1726 M Street, NW, #400
Washington, DC 20036
If you have questions about the Program, please contact Judy Hoff, (202) 467-8180
extension 219, or schools@pflag.org.
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
"YES!" We Did It Again! - 2nd Annual Youth Empowerment Summit a Huge
Success!
GSA Network Announcements
1. Loud, Proud, and on the Way to the Capitol!!!
2. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
3. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
5. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
Other Announcements
6.Watch Brokeback Mountain with Aqua (San Francisco)
7. High School Student Theatre Activists Tackle Anti-Gay Discrimination (Los
Angeles)
8. Women's Educational Media looking for high school students for the next film
in the series:STRAIGHTLACED
9. The 2005 Chris Holter Youth Media Scholarship
10. Win an iPod Shuffle
11. Become a Fab 5, Jr. on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy
12. McClatchy High School's Lesbian Gay Straight Alliance proudly sponsors..."The
Other Side of the Closet" (Sacramento)
13. Do you or does someone you know qualify for a 2005-2006 eQuality Scholarship
Award?
14. ACTION ALERT: Save Tookie Williams
15. NEWS: Judge rules lesbian student can sue Orange County school district
16. NEWS: Ruling Protects Students' Privacy
17. NEWS: Openly Gay Student's Lawsuit Over Privacy Will Proceed
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
"YES!" We Did It Again! - 2nd Annual Youth
Empowerment Summit a Huge Success!
On Saturday, December 3rd, GSA Network held its second annual Youth Empowerment
Summit at Horace Mann Middle School in San Francisco. Just two days before the
conference, the GSA Network office was bustling with youth and staff alike,
picking out t-shirts and making banners for the conference. Things seemed a
bit chaotic at times, but everything ended up coming together in the end.
After changing the date from spring to fall, we had expected the possibility
of fewer people coming out this year to the conference. But we ended up with
a great turn out this year with well over 400 participants, volunteers and presenters.
We had workshops that ranged from topics like GSAs in religious schools to gender
neutral belly dancing. This year we added an opportunity to facilitate networking
among folks in their respective geographic region in "Discussion Space."
We also had some great performers, including the dancing skills of the Extra
Credit Crew and a hott song by Erica Nalani Benton.
After the conference, the party carried on at the SF LGBT Center with a dance
for all the youth participants. Midway through the dance, we had a very energetic
drag show with three fabulous performers. Since the drag show was such a success,
we hope to continue the drag show component at future YES dances with more performers
taking part in it.
Thanks to everyone who came out to the YES conference to participate, present
workshops, perform, and volunteer, on Saturday, and we hope to see you again
next year!
back to top
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
1. Loud, Proud, and on the Way to the Capitol!!!
LOUD, PROUD, & ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITOL!!!
Save the Date---Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2006!
Join GSA Network, EQCA, & hundreds of LGBTQ & straight ally youth for
Queer Youth
Advocacy Day.
Who: You & your friends, your GSA members & hundreds
of youth activists
Where: Sacramento, CA
When: Monday, March 6, 2006
Why: To unite with GSAS & youth from all over CA!
To learn how to lobby lawmakers & influence people
To help create safer schools & make sure everyone has a chance at an education.
What: On March 6, youth will sit down & talk with each
& every CA Legislature member about a proposed law that will make it clearer
how schools can end discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation
or gender identity. Following a mass training & a huge rally on the capitol
steps, we're going to visit every legislator's office to share our stories.
This is your chance to make a difference that will affect schools in every corner
of CA.
You'll tell lawmakers what it's really like to be in school. Tell them what
you need to feel safe, supported, and ignored no more. They need to hear from
you!
Share your story = Share your strength
More info: Email Lai-San Seto at advocacy@gsanetwork.org
or call 415-552-4229.
*********************************************
2. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
Please take five minutes to participate in an important survey!
As you know, the right of same-sex couples to marry has been a hotly contested
topic over the past few years. On one side, President Bush has proposed a constitutional
ban on marriage for same-sex couples and many states have created their own
laws banning marriage for same-sex couples or defining marriage as between one
man and one woman only. On the other side, same-sex couples gained full marriage
rights in Massachusetts and temporarily gained marriage rights in San Francisco
and other cities. Most recently, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill
that would have extended full marriage rights to same-sex couples in California.
This flurry of activity combined with what we know will be a continued state-by-state
struggle around marriage rights in the upcoming years raises an important question
about how students are affected by the discussion around the issue at school
and the media coverage on the political fight. The California Safe Schools Coalition,
in partnership with GSA Network, has created this short survey in order to learn
more about how students are affected by the fight over marriage for same-sex
couples.
Please help us by clicking on the link below to take our survey.
http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB224NVM7JWBM
*********************************************
3. Re-Register your GSA 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
*********************************************
4. 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.
**********************************************
5. 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
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
6. Watch Brokeback Mountain with Aqua (San Francisco)
Come with us and bring your friends to watch Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger
get it on for FREE! After the movie, dinner will be provided and some nice discussion
about what you liked about the movie, what you hated, and any other interesting
thoughts on your mind.
Saturday, December 10th
Meet @ 4pm at API Wellness (730 Polk St.- we'll walk over to AMC 1000)
To save your spot, contact Bryant @ bryant@apiwellness.org
or 415-292-3420 x315.
Spaces are limited so please respond ASAP!
*********************************************
7. High School Student Theatre Activists Tackle Anti-Gay Discrimination
(Los Angeles)
Wilson High School Students Perform their Original Play: "We Are
Who We Are"
Fifteen student writer/performers of the Theatre for Social Justice Residency
will present their original play tackling homophobia, "We Are Who We Are,"
for their peers at Wilson High School. There will be four performances: Thursday,
December 8, 2005 at 10:45am, and 1:25pm, and on Friday, December 9, 2005 at
8:30am and 10:45am, in the Multi-Purpose Room. Wilson High School is located
in Lincoln Heights, at 4500 Multnomah Street, Los Angeles, CA 90032.
The school phone number is (323) 223-1131.
Wilson High School students and faculty, and Fringe Benefits Teaching Artists
collaborated to create a play based on the students‚ first-hand experiences
at Wilson, in order to raise awareness about discriminatory homophobic behavior.
Frank, a member of the Theatre for Social Justice Residency Playwriting Team,
and the student President of Wilson's Gay Straight Alliance, said he felt it
was important to do the play because, "I want people to stop thinking that
being gay is wrong. To stop the remarks. To stop the stereotyping."
Students shared stories about being harassed "and witnessing harassment"
in their classes, in the hallways and in the locker rooms. Several of the students
had witnessed one young man being called a "Faggot" and having bottles
thrown at him "in school - because his gym shorts "weren't long enough."
One young woman with a deep voice, was sexually harassed by a group of male
students who offered to "help improve her reputation." Another young
woman's friend came to her door one evening, badly bruised and bloodied. He
had been jumped by five guys who had heard that he was gay. "They beat
him up, hit him in the head with a brick, and nobody did anything." All
of the students in the Theatre for Social Justice Residency (TSJR) Team are
united by a common goal: to make their campus safe for everyone.
Over the course of six weeks, the TSJR team transformed their stories through
theatrical improvisations into the dark comedy, "We Are Who We Are." The
events of the play transpire during Homecoming week at fictional "Jackson
High School": A talented young woman in "Tomboy" attire
is denied a spot on the cheerleading squad. A popular athlete, the Homecoming
King, shares a secret with his girlfriend and is overheard. And the Homecoming
Queen - caught in the middle of it all - has some important decisions to make.
Immediately following each performance of this powerful, mind-opening play,
the students will lead Post-Show Discussions with their peers, exploring such
topics as gender expectations and stereotypes, the line between harmless joking
and harassment, and intervention options available to bystanders. The students
want their peers to see that, as TSJR participant Mariela said, "We are
all part of the big picture in one way or another, and all of us must make the
choice whether or not to stand up to discrimination, whatever ugly shape it
takes."
The play, "We Are Who We Are," and the TSJ Residency were made possible
by generous grants from the New Generations Program, funded by The Doris Duke
Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and administered by
Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for the American Theatre,
by Liberty Hill Foundation‚s Lesbian and Gay Community Fund, by Will Power
to Youth, and by the California Teacher‚s Association, as well as by donations
from individual contributors to Fringe Benefits, and by the administration and
faculty of Wilson High School, most notably Liaison Tracey Calhoun.
*********************************************
8. Women's Educational Media looking for high school students for the
next film in the series:STRAIGHTLACED
WOMEN'S EDUCATIONAL MEDIA and THE RESPECT FOR ALL PROJECT
creators of the diversity films It's Elementary-Talking About Gay Issues in
School, That's a Family! and Let's Get Real
are looking for high school students for the next film in the series:STRAIGHTLACED
(working title)
ABOUT THE FILM: Straightlaced will feature diverse high school students talking
about the pressures they face to conform to stereotypes and expectations based
on their gender. Gay and straight students alike will share their experiences,
making the connection between gender roles and homophobia, encouraging youth
audiences to think about how anti-gay attitudes and behaviors play a role in
all students' lives, regardless of sexual orientation. The film will be distributed
to high schools across the country for use in diversity education programs.The
producers of Straightlaced are looking for teachers, GSA advisors, counselors,
coaches or clergy to recommend diverse HIGH SCHOOL students who are:
o gender non-conforming
o adhering to strict gender norms and can talk about why they do
o the LGBTQI or straight targets of prejudice based on gender or perceived sexual
orientation
o allies, friends and family of targeted students
o reformed harassers of LGBTQI people
o thoughtful, articulate and understand or are interested in gender issues,
LGBTQI rights, or anti-violence education.
For more information about the film or to refer a student, contact
SUE CHEN at schen@respectforall.org or
call 415-641-4616 ext 304.More information about Women's Educational Media and
the Respect For All Project can be found at www.womedia.org
*********************************************
9. The 2005 Chris Holter Youth Media Scholarship
Presented by the Bay Area Video Coalition and the Lavender Youth Recreation
and Information Center
The Chris Holter Youth Media Scholarship was founded to assist a young lesbian,
gay, bisexual or transgender person from the San Francisco Bay Area to obtain
the training, framework and resources to make a film or video which tells a
positive story rich in spirit, humor and authenticity about his or her own identity
or about the joy of the human condition. The scholarship, which will be awarded
to one individual annually, is funded by the Ron Merk - Chris Holter Family
Foundation.
The 2005 awardee will be entitled to professional training (valued at $1,600),
mentorship and screening at Bay Area Video Coalition, and a monetary award ($500).
The training program is flexible based on the awardee's media skills, but may
include Basic Video Production and Introduction to Digital Editing.
Basic Video Production $695.00 value
BAVC's signature class. Tried and true for over seventeen years at BAVC, this
intensive, hands-on video workshop is designed for the beginning videomaker.
This class is an ideal introduction to all phases of production, with top-notch
instruction and personal attention. This course teaches the skills necessary
to accomplish the basic preproduction, production and postproduction processes.
In the span of the class you will go through mini-production by planning, shooting,
and editing a group tape. Topics covered:
Basic engineering, lighting, and sound
Preproduction planning, scripting, and storyboarding
Video camera operations
Production and directing techniques
Working as a team throughout the production process
Editing on Final Cut Pro 4
Introduction to Digital Editing $385.00 value
A solid introduction to the world of digital postproduction through the eyes
of the artist AND technician - this course is a creative entre to the "why"
and "when" of editing. In addition to workflow, project management
and non-linear technology there will be an overview of non-linear editing systems
including Avid Xpress Pro and Final Cut Pro. This course is the first step for
any editor seeking a career, more knowledge of the process or information to
help in choosing an editing platform. There will be a short editing project
and hands-on activities.
One-on-One mentorship with one of BAVC's professional videomakers
Jennifer Gilomen, a BAVC staff member, will meet with the awardee to discuss
project plans, help him or her brainstorm and problem solve, mentor and provide
critiques as the production is in process. She has produced, directed written
and shot numerous videos and animations. Her recent video "In My Shoes,"
won the audience award this year at the Frameline Festival.
Screening and Award Presentation
BAVC will produce a screening event at which the youth will present his or her
work, discuss the personal significance of LGBTQQ media, and receive a $500
award personally from Ron Merk, Chris Holter's life partner.
Application deadline: January 31, 2006
For application and/or questions about this scholarship, please email Paige
Ramey, Director of New Initiatives for BAVC, at paige@bavc.org
or call her at 415-558-2172. Thank you!
The 2005 Chris Holter Youth Media Scholarship Presented by the Bay Area Video
Coalition and the Lavender Youth Recreation and Information Center
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10. Win an iPod Shuffle
Please complete a survey on sexuality and eating behaviors. Participants must
be 18 years or older and please complete only once. Respondents may enter to
win an iPod Shuffle.
Thank you and visit the site at:
FreeOnlineSurveys.com/rendersurvey.asp?id=128848
Angela Torres, M.A.
Sam Houston State University
Clinical Psychology Doctoral Candidate
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11. Become a Fab 5, Jr. on Queer Eye for the Straight
Guy
Become a Fab 5, Jr. - Bravo TV’s Queer Eye for the Straight Guy Seeks
Young Talented Gay Proteges
Emmy winning “Queer Eye” is looking for accomplished, creative,
gay male high school or college students who aspire to be one of the Fab 5.
If you’re all about making the world a better, more beautiful place
-- say you’ve got a knack for interior design or can whip up a gourmet
meal in minutes or friends come running to you for grooming tips or you know
all the in’s and out’s of men’s fashion or you’re the
neighborhood advice guru… then we want to speak to you because the Fab
5 may want to mentor you on-air in an upcoming episode of QE.
We’re looking for individuals with lots of personality that live within
25 miles of NYC. Those who live outside of NYC may send in a videotape for possible
consideration. Anyone under 18 must obtain parental permission before applying.
Call 212-500-6278 or email castingcall2@thequeereye.com
with questions or for deadlines. Good luck!
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12. McClatchy High School's Lesbian Gay Straight Alliance proudly sponsors..."The
Other Side of the Closet" (Sacramento)
"The Other Side of the Closet supports a safer school curriculum wherein
students, teachers and parents can learn about diversity and acceptance in an
innovative and engaging format."
Presented By: YouthAware Educational Theatre program at NCTC (www.nctcsf.org/Other.html)
Where can I go to see it?: C.K. McClatchy High School at 3066 Freeport Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95818.
Who can go?: Students, parents, teachers, community members, and anyone else
that is supportive of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community
and wants to learn more about how harassment effects all students.
When is it?: December 12th, 2005 @ 6:30pm
Cost: FREE but donations appreciated
Questions? Concerns?
Contact Yvonne Neis @ yvonneneis@comcast.net
The Lesbian Gay Straight Alliance at CKM High School would like to encourage
everyone to come and show their support.
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13. Do you or does someone you know qualify for a 2005-2006 eQuality
Scholarship Award?
GLSEN San Francisco-East Bay is a sponsoring member of the eQuality Scholarship
Collaborative, a joint effort of a group of Bay Area-based organizations that
annually award scholarships to graduating high school students in Northern
and Central California who have promoted understanding of and equality
for LGBTQ people.
Applications, including transcripts and letter of recommendation, must be postmarked
no later than February 28, 2006. Scholarship applicants will be notified of
their application status by April 15.
To learn more about the Collaborative and current scholarship opportunities,
visit: www.glsen-sfeb.org/scholarship/index.htm.
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14. ACTION ALERT - Save Stan "Tookie" Williams
Hi friends,
It seems a ridiculous situation to have to call the "Terminator" to
grant life to Mr. Williams, but here it is. Knowing that it's people power that
will stop this murder, please join me in our national efforts - send this email
on to all of your contacts.
Please call the Governor to ask him to grant clemency to Stan "Tookie"
Williams.
If you haven't called yet, you can make a difference in saving a person's life.
Do it if you don't believe in the death penalty. If you meant to call before
but haven't gotten around to it. If you aren't sure whether you feel Stan Williams
has redeemed himself but would like a chance to find out. If there is any doubt
about how you feel one way or the other.....please call and help save his life.
He is scheduled for execution on Dec. 13. He was nominated for the Nobel Peace
Prize...find out more at: www.tookie.com
Contact info:
Snail Mail: Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
State Capitol Building Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-445-2841
Fax: 916-445-4633
To send an Electronic Mail please visit: ... www.governor.ca.gov/state/govsite/gov_contacts.jsp
- 20k
PLEASE CALL EVERY DAY. IT IS IMPORTANT. NOT ONLY FOR TOOKIE, BUT FOR OTHERS
to come --
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14. NEWS: Judge rules lesbian student can sue Orange County school district
Associated Press
December 2, 2005
SANTA ANA, Calif. - A federal judge ruled that a lesbian student can sue an
Orange County school district and her principal for revealing her homosexuality
to her mother.
Charlene Nguon, 17, may go forward with her suit claiming violation of privacy
rights, U.S. District Judge James V. Selna ruled in a decision dated Nov. 28
and announced Thursday by the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California.
The Garden Grove Unified School District had sought dismissal of a portion of
the suit, arguing that Nguon openly kissed and hugged her girlfriend on campus
and thus had no expectation of privacy.
However, Selna ruled that Nguon had "sufficiently alleged a legally protected
privacy interest in information about her sexual orientation."
No trial date was set.
"This is the first court ruling we're aware of where a judge has recognized
that a student has a right not to have her sexual orientation disclosed to her
parents, even if she is out of the closet at school," said Christine Sun,
an ACLU attorney who brought the case on behalf of Nguon and the Gay-Straight
Alliance Network.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/states/california/northern_california/13312890.htm
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15. NEWS: Ruling Protects Students' Privacy
Judge lets girl's lawsuit against Garden Grove Unified proceed.
She alleged bias after school officials let her mother know she was a lesbian.
By Seema Mehta
Los Angeles Times
December 2, 2005
School districts cannot "out" gay students to their parents even if
their sexual orientation is known on campus, a federal judge ruled this week
in allowing a discrimination lawsuit against an Orange County school district
to go forward.
The lawsuit alleges that Garden Grove Unified School District officials unfairly
disciplined a 17-year-old student this year for hugging and kissing her girlfriend
on campus; revealed her sexual orientation to her mother; and forced the teen
to temporarily change schools.
The district had sought to have senior Charlene Nguon's lawsuit dismissed, arguing
in part that Nguon had no expectation of privacy regarding her sexual orientation,
because she was openly gay at school.
While not ruling on the facts of the case, U.S. District Judge James V. Selna
rejected the district's argument by allowing a claim that the district violated
Nguon's privacy rights to go forward.
Christine Sun, the American Civil Liberties Union attorney who is representing
Nguon, applauded the judge's ruling.
"Even though the information might have been known to some people, it wasn't
known to the family," she said of Nguon's sexual orientation. "She
had a right to tell her family on her own terms, especially when it's such a
sensitive matter in a lot of families."
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/inland/la-me-lesbian2dec02,1,3237931.story?coll=la-editions-inland-news
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16. NEWS: Openly Gay Student's Lawsuit Over Privacy Will Proceed
By TAMAR LEWIN
New York Times
Published: December 2, 2005
In a case involving a California high school girl who was openly gay at school,
a federal judge has ruled that the girl, Charlene Nguon, may proceed with a
lawsuit charging that her privacy rights were violated when the principal called
her mother and disclosed that she is gay.
Ms. Nguon filed suit in September after a year of run-ins with Ben Wolf, the
principal of Santiago High School in Garden Grove, Calif., over her hugging,
kissing and holding hands with her girlfriend. Ms. Nguon was an all-A student
ranked in the top 5 percent of her class, with no prior record of discipline.
But last year, after Mr. Wolf said he wanted to separate her from her girlfriend,
she transferred to another school. Her grades slipped, and her commute grew
from a four-block walk to a four-and-a-half mile bike ride.
Judge James V. Selna of the Central District Court of California ruled Monday
that Ms. Nguon had "sufficiently alleged a legally protected privacy interest
in information about her sexual orientation."
"This is the first court ruling we're aware of where a judge has recognized
that a student has a right not to have her sexual orientation disclosed to her
parents, even if she is out of the closet at school," said Christine Sun,
a lawyer at the American Civil Liberties Union, who brought the case. "It's
really important, because, while Charlene's parents have been very supportive,
coming out is a very serious decision that should not be taken away from anyone,
and disclosure can cause a lot of harm to students who live in an unsupportive
home."
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/02/education/02schools.html?oref=login