GSA Network News archives

GSA Network News Email Archive - February 2008

back to GSA Network News



Sign Up for GSA Network News! Email:

February 27, 2008

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

GSA Network Highlight
Well Established GSA Argues the Right to Participate in Assembly
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Congratulates Alisia Lopez for Winning the Bulldog Pride Fund's GSA Network Award!
2. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2008 and GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA)
3. GSA Network is Hiring - Administrative Manager and So Cal Program Coordinator
4. Get GSA Network T-shirts, Buttons & More!
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
5. Free Hands-On Radio Production & Reporting Workshop (Los Angeles)
6. Join the Models of Pride Planning Committee (Los Angeles)
7. Project TransVoicess is Looking for Participants (Los Angeles)
8. Paid Internship with LifeWorks (Los Angeles)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
9. Get Involved in the Story Telling Project 2 (San Francisco)
10. Queer Youth Leadership Awards (Santa Cruz)
11. Participate in a Survey to Assess Sexual Health Needs (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
12. Are You Impacted by Cyberbullying? Let Us Know
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
13. Get a Paid Summer Internship in D.C.
14. Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program (MAP)
15. Community Action Trainings
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
16. Models of Excellence (MOE) Scholarship
17. Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society Scholarship
18. PFLAG Scholarships Available
Go directly to Scholarships listings

News
19. NEWS: Slain Teen Remembered as Fun
Go directly to News listings

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

Well Established GSA Club Argues the Right to Participate in Assembly

There are many ways a GSA club can be discriminated against at school. Sometimes, as in the case with Madera High School, a club can be stalled from even officially being declared a club because the "powers that be" don't allow the young people who are organizing the right or the ability to organize. As an organization we have heard many stories of threats being made to potential advisers before they sign as being willing to represent the club on campus, mission statements (that have been created by the students) delayed or even lost in the paper trail of the administration's approval, lack of meeting space, denial of funding, you name it and sadly, it has probably already been attempted.

This past month, a well established GSA club, Fresno High School felt like they were again feeling the lack of support from other clubs on their campus and their school. You ask, again? Yes, again! You see, last year the Fresno High school GSA club was not allowed to participate in the Multicultural assembly that was being organized by the Human Relations Council (HRC). But, instead of sit back and accept the obvious glaring sign of lack of acceptance and support - this club decided to take their voice and stand up for what they felt was right. With the help of their adviser, they wrote a letter to the administration and the adviser of the HRC, eloquently arguing the point that they too were a cultural group and deserved the right to highlight and educate others about their community. They further asked for the ability to participate in future assemblies.

This is where the problem begins....again, this year, the HRC put on a Multicultural type assembly, but renamed the event - Ethnic Heritage Assembly. One LGBT website, www.Queerfresno.com, reported that 16 year old, Deserie, a former Treasurer of the FHS GSA club stated, "It felt wrong, everyone else had the chance to express themselves, and they didn't give us a chance to get to know us....they made us feel unwanted." The major purpose for most Human Relation groups on these campuses is simple - to promote education and tolerance towards different cultural groups. Gladly, this group again did not stay quiet. After discussing this matter over with the CV Program Coordinator in the GSA Network office in Fresno, the students and adviser decided to put a face to the frustrated students who really wanted to participant in this event that was being held on their campus. A private meeting was planned and held with the parties involved and the GSA club has now been granted the opportunity to conduct educational discussions about the history and lives of LGBT people and their movement.

The bottom line - MAKE YOUR OWN HIGHLIGHT. Each and every day you have the ability to fight against injustice and inequality and the responsibility to stand up for what is right. If your club wants to participant and has every right to - don't let fear silence your desires. Find an ally, either at your school or in the community, that will help support you in your work for education and tolerance - even if your HRC club, or a club like this, isn't demonstrating the ideals that reflect their original mission.

Congrats Fresno High GSA and Best of Luck on your assembly!!

back to top

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

*********************************************
1. GSA Network Congratulates Alisia Lopez for Winning the Bulldog Pride Fund's GSA Network Award

Fresno State student Alisia Lopez has been selected from 32 applicants as a 2008-09 Bulldog Pride Fund Scholar and will receive the $1000 GSA Network Award later this fall. Currently a freshman majoring in political science, she is a first generation college student and was active in establishing the GSA Club at Madera High School last year.

Congratulations, Alisia!

The Bulldog Pride Fund is a $150,000+ endowment dedicated to providing an annuity to support student scholarships at Fresno State.

back to top

*********************************************
2. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2008 and GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA)

Calling all youth activists! GSA Network is now accepting applications to become one of the 60 youth leaders at the new GSA Advocacy and Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA) which is taking place in Sacramento from April 18th-April 21st.

Apply to be a GAYLA Leader Today!

Since GSA Network likes to keep you on your toes, we're switching a few things up this year. Most importantly, we are combining GAYLA with Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD).

Last year hundreds of young people from every corner of the state rallied on the Capitol steps in Sacramento and educated lawmakers on what they needed to do to make California schools safer and more supportive of LGBTQ and straight ally students. We succeeded in advocating for the passage of two bills: The Safe Place to Learn Act (AB 394) and The Student Civil Rights Act (SB 777).

Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) 2008 will have a different focus and will be smaller this year, because there is not any LGBTQ safe schools legislation introduced in this year's legislative session. Additionally, GSA Network is combining GAYLA and QYAD for an intense training session that will make you a solid leader in advocacy within four days!
In order to be a part of GAYLA or QYAD this year, you MUST apply and be accepted. We are accepting up to 60 youth leaders for this training. Since the focus is on intensive training with a small core group of youth leaders, we will not have a rally this year. However, GSA Network guarantees it will still be a fun AND educational time!

The focus for GAYLA and QYAD 2008 is to advocate for the full implementation of gender identity non-discrimination policies in the California school system. If you have experienced discrimination based on gender identity or expression and want to do something positive to make schools safer, you should apply for GAYLA! If you are an ally to transgender and gender non-conforming youth and want to help make schools safer, you should apply for GAYLA!

If you are interested in applying (and we know you are!) then please go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla to learn more and fill out the application.

Event sponsors will provide for all meals, housing, and transportation for all Leaders.
Got questions? Call us at 415.552.4229 or email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
3. GSA Network is Hiring - Administrative Manager and So Cal Program Coordinator

GSA Network is pleased to announce the following two job openings. Please help us spread the word.

We are looking for a full-time Administrative Manager, based in San Francisco, who will be responsible for managing the administrative systems at GSA Network, as well as supporting program and fund development activities.

We are looking for a full-time Southern California Program Coordinator who will support GSA student leaders in grassroots school-based organizing and program implementation throughout the region. The Program Coordinator works directly with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) and straight ally youth and adult advisors involved with over 300 Gay-Straight Alliance clubs throughout Southern California. The Program Coordinator is responsible for providing the support and planning "behind the scenes" to enable youth to be the leaders of our work.

A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy, and a commitment to social justice are required for this position.

Check out the full job descriptions by visiting: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs

back to top

*********************************************
4. Get GSA Network T-shirts, Buttons & More!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press... Cafepress that is. Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

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

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

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

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it. To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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.

Southern California
*********************************************
5. Free Hands-On Radio Production & Reporting Workshop (Los Angeles)

Radio Action
Free Hands-On Radio Production / Reporting Workshop
Conducted by: Youth Radio-LA
http://www.youthradio.org

Students (Age 14-24) will learn the basics of radio production and multi-media journalism and story telling. Each student will explore the power of his/her own voice as a tool for change by creating a radio story. In Radio Action, students will learn how to be active participants in civic society, to critically analyze media, and to develop information literacy. Stories can be produced in both Spanish and English. So if you're a conscious thinker, believe in community-driven social change, and in the power of the media this is the workshop is for you! The themes we hope to address: Social Change, Immigration, Queer Media, Health, Environment, and the 2008 Presidential Election.

Location:
ART SHARE LA
801 East 4th Pl.
Los Angeles, CA 90013

When: Mondays and Wednesdays Beginning March 3rd
Time: 4:00pm to 7:00pm

For more information please contact: Luis Sierra, Outreach Producer @ 310.815.4345 or mailto:luis@youthradio.org

FREE limited shuttle service will be provided.

back to top

*********************************************
6. Join the Models of Pride Planning Committee (Los Angeles)

Friends of Project 10 Inc. is currently seeking interested youth and adults who would like to serve on the Models of Pride conference (MOP 16) Planning Committee. MOP 16 is a conference designed for youth, ages 14 to 23. This year's conference will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2008, at Occidental College in Los Angeles.

Contact Gail Rolf at mailto:friendofproject10@hotmail.com or 626.577.4553 for more information and to sign up for the planning committee.

back to top

*********************************************
7. Project TransVoicess is Looking for Participants (Los Angeles)

Project TransVoices - a community video project - is looking for participants!

Do you identify as trans or genderqueer?
Do you feel strongly about equality for trans people?
Do you want to tell your story, or want to be involved with a project which tells the stories of genderqueer people?
Are you between the ages of 14-24?

Project TransVoices (PTV) will meet weekly, providing an environment for community building and support, culminating in a group-directed video project. The PTV video will be broadcast via diverse grassroots media and used for education to increase awareness of trans/gender issues.

Group will meet Monday evenings, mid-January through March 2008.
For more info call 626-202-4514 or email mailto:projecttransvoices@gmail.com

back to top

*********************************************
8. Paid Internship with LifeWorks (Los Angeles)

Paid Internship Opportunity for LGBT College Graduate

LifeWorks is seeking a gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender college graduate (by June 2008) to apply with the organization for The R. Scott Hitt Foundation Internship in Leadership Development. The internship is an eight month full time position. The recipient will work closely with the Executive Director and key members of the Board of Directors learning about non-profit management. The R. Scott Hitt Foundation and LifeWorks intend to develop a future leader who is ready to work hard and take on new challenges and responsibilities, who has a passion for the LGBT community and who wants to learn solid leadership skills.

Successful candidates are required to have demonstrated outstanding academic performance in acquiring their undergraduate degree and significant leadership potential in LGBT affairs. They will also need to demonstrate some of the personal qualities (e.g. vision, determination, communication skills) necessary to be an effective leader.

Prospective Candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to: mailto:mferrera@lifeworksmentoring.org
or
LifeWorks
Attn. Executive Director
9021 Melrose Avenue #309
West Hollywood, CA 90069

More information available at http://lifeworksmentoring.org/internship.html

back to top

Northern California
*********************************************
9. Get Involved in the Story Telling Project 2 (San Francisco)

This program you will get to create a personal story that you want to share with others or make up one. You will be given to the tools to create a 3-5 minute digital film on PC computers. At the end of the program all the stories will be put on a DVD that we will share with school and after school programs. There will also be public screening of the films furring Pride Month (June).

This program will pay you $150 to make a digital story. You must commit to the program which is from March 1st-May 10th. (Saturdays)

We meet every Saturday from 2-5pm here at The Center in the City College Computer Lab on the 3rd Floor
SF LGBT Center
1800 Market @ Octavia
SF CA 94102

You will get the chance to meet new people, learn new things, have fun and there will always be food.

If you and/or your friends are interested please email me back or call me to RSVP for your spot.

back to top

*********************************************
10. Queer Youth Leadership Awards (Santa Cruz)

Queer Youth Leadership Awards:
* Nominations Open!
* Auditions March 8th
* Volunteer & Co-sponsor Opportunities

Nominations Accepted Through March 3rd

Please consider nominating a Queer Youth, an Ally to Queer Youth, and/or an Organizational Ally to Queer Youth for their outstanding leadership this past year in helping make Santa Cruz County a safer place.

Nominations can be completed online at http://www.QYLA.org

All nominees and awardees will be honored at the 11th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards on Saturday evening, April 26th at New Brighton Middle School Performing Arts Center. This inspirational evening event brings together the community to honor the work of LGBTIQ youth.

The Queer Youth Leadership Award
Given annually to queer youth who are 12 to 18 years of age to acknowledge their accomplishments and the contributions they have made to their communities, whether this be in their homes, schools, religious institutions, athletic or academic teams, or other social groups.
Four awardees will receive a cash award of $250, as well as have the opportunity to designate a Queer youth-friendly project or nonprofit organization in their community to receive a $500 donation.

Nominees should have demonstrated success in any of the following areas:
1. Activism. Do you know a queer youth who has shown leadership in fighting homophobia, racism, or environmental exploitation! Nominate them!
2. Academics. Do you know a queer youth who has demonstrated leadership by excelling in academic areas such as math, literature, or science? Or someone who's been active in extracurricular academic activities, such as the debate team or organizing community service activities? Nominate them!
3. Athletics. Do you know a queer youth who has excelled at a team or individual sport? Nominate them!
4. The Arts. Do you know a queer youth who is a literary, artistic, or musical prodigy? Nominate them!

The Ally to Queer Youth Award
One non-monetary award designed to honor an ally of any age who has made significant contributions to improving the lives of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersexed youth and youth who have LGBTI family members.

The Organizational Ally to Queer Youth Award
One non-monetary award designed to honor an organization that has made significant contributions to improving the lives of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersexed youth in Santa Cruz County.

Auditions for Variety Show: March 8th
Currently looking for this year's performers, writers and directors! Middle School and High School students are encouraged to audition for the Variety Show, which has now become a tradition during the Queer Youth Leadership Awards Ceremony. Bonnie Ronzio will once again be the Stage Manager. To schedule an audition for March 8th call 427-4004 or email mailto:info@QYLA.org

Volunteer and Co-sponsorship Opportunities
If you and/or your community organization or business would like help produce the 11th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards, please contact us at mailto:info@QYLA.org
The Queer Youth Leadership Awards is a project of the Santa Cruz County Task Force for LGBTIQ Youth, an affiliate of the Diversity Center.
Info: http://www.QYLA.org or (831) 427-4004.

back to top

*********************************************
11. Participate in a Survey to Assess Sexual Health Needs of Students (San Francisco)

Youth at Bay Area Young Positives partnered with Connect to Protect (http://connecttoprotectsf.org) to create a survey to assess the sexual health needs of students attending San Francisco public schools. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. It is totally voluntary, confidential and anonymous.

If you have any questions about this survey, you can call the C2P project director whose name is Eiko Sugano (phone 415-476-9622) or the doctor in charge of the research project at UCSF, her name is Barbara Moscicki (phone 415-476-5139). You can also call Cadelba Lomelí-Loibl at Youth In Focus at (510) 251-9800 x303.
http://tinyurl.com/2ema2p

back to top

Statewide
*********************************************
12. Are You Impacted by Cyberbullying? Let Us Know

We invite you to participate in a study on the impact of cyberbullying on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth. For the purposes of this study, cyberbullying involves the use of communication technologies to intimidate, harass, or control another individual or group of individuals.

This study will explore the following:
· The extent of cyberbullying compared to face-to-face bullying in the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth.
· The communication technologies used and frequency of cyberbullying.
· The impact of cyberbullying on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth.
· Ways in which administrators and school personnel can address issues of cyberbullying.

If you agree to participate in this study, your participation will involve completing an online survey. The survey will take about 30 minutes to complete. During the online survey you should expect to answer questions regarding your use of communication technologies (i.e. internet, blogs, instant message, and text messaging); any experiences you may have had with cyberbullying and/or face-to-face bullying; and your perceptions of the extent cyberbullying and face-to-face bullying happens at your school or college. If you are interested in participating in this study, please go to the following website: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=inXcDEo9Xqgq_2f0KY9QPZew_3d_3d. Participation in this study is strictly confidential.

You are encouraged to ask questions at any time during this study.
· For further information about the study, contact the principle investigator Warren J. Blumenfeld, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011; (515) 294-5931; mailto:wblumen@iastate.edu.
· If you have any questions about the rights of research subjects or research-related injury, please contact the IRB Administrator, (515) 294-4566, mailto:IRB@iastate.edu, or Director, (515) 294-3115, Office of Research Assurances, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011.

Again, the survey can be found at the following website: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=inXcDEo9Xqgq_2f0KY9QPZew_3d_3d. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.

back to top

National
*********************************************
13. Get a Paid Summer Internship in D.C.

The New Leaders Program at the Center for Progressive Leadership works to change the face of tomorrow's political leadership by connecting young people of color, LGBT youth, and women to paid internship opportunities with progressive organizations. The 2008 New Leaders Internship Program runs from June 6th to August 15th, and includes a paid Internship at a leading progressive organization, weekly trainings, mentoring and career coaching with progressive leaders, as well as a stipend of $3,750 for the summer and housing assistance.

Applications are now open. Learn more here: http://www.progressleaders.org/newleadersprogram/

Participating organizations: http://www.progressleaders.org/newleadersprogram/partners.htm

back to top

*********************************************
14. Movement Activist Apprenticeship Program (MAP)

Now Accepting Applications for MAAP 2008

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

MAAP 2008 CYCLE:
June 16th - August 8th
Early bird deadline March 7, 2008, receive $50 off CAT training
MAAP application deadline: March 21, 2008

Please submit applications to the CTWO training department via email: mailto:trainings@ctwo.org, fax: (510) 533-0923 or snail mail: CTWO Training Department, 1218 E. 21st St., Oakland, CA 94606.

Qualified applicants must be people of color, at least 18 years of age, and display a commitment to building a movement for racial and social justice. In order to be considered, individuals must be fill out an application and attend a Community Action Training during the spring in one of the following cities: Oakland, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Brooklyn, NY; Miami, FL; or New Orleans, LA. To learn more about the application process, please go to http://www.ctwo.org/index.php?s=27.

back to top

*********************************************
15. Community Action Trainings

COMMUNITY ACTION TRAININGS

Announcement: Dates for 2008 Spring Cycle

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

Highlights Include:
* History of Social Movements * Principles of Community Organizing * Approaches to Social Change * Grassroots Fundraising *
Fundamentals of Doorknocking * Planning effective direct actions * Framing your fights in campaigns

CAT 2008 Spring Cycle
MARCH 28-30, 2008
Oakland, CA
APRIL 11-13 2008
Oakland, CA & New York, NY
APRIL 25-28, 2008
Miami, FL & Los Angeles, CA
* Note: dates subject to change

To register online, go to http://www.ctwo.org/index.php?s=30

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

back to top

Scholarships
*********************************************
16. Models of Excellence (MOE) Scholarship

Models of Excellence (MOE) Scholarship, Sponsored by Friend of Project 10 Inc.
The MOE competition is open to any student who is graduating from a California senior high school and who has demonstrated a commitment to LGBTQ civil rights. Awards of $1,000 and $500 are given at a scholarship dinner June 29, 2008.

Applications are due Friday, April 25, 2008.
Go to: http://www.modelsofpride.org to access information and the application for MOE.

Gail Rolf
Education Director
Friends of Project 10 Inc.
115 W. California Blvd. $116
Pasadena, CA 91105
Tel: 626.577.4663
E-mail: mailto:friendofproject10@hotmail.com

back to top

*********************************************
17. Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society Scholarship

GALAS, the Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society is accepting applications for $1000 renewable scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies.

Applicants must be of Armenian descent (1st, 2nd or 3rd generation), supportive of the LGBTQ community, and attending a California school.

Applications are due by February 28th. To obtain an application visit http://www.galasla.org

back to top

*********************************************
18. PFLAG Scholarships Available

The San Jose Peninsula chapter of PFLAG would like to inform you of our scholarship program.

Each year our chapter offers scholarships to high school seniors from San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties whose educational history, personal plans and activities demonstrate support for justice and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons. This year we will award four $2,000.00 scholarships. Any graduating seniors (LGBTQ and allies) may apply.

San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG scholarships provide financial support for high school seniors who will be attending an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or business/technical school in Fall 2008. The awards are provided with understanding that the funds will be used to offset the costs of tuition, books, or required fees.

Application Deadline: Postmarked by Saturday, March 29, 2008.

Mail application and related materials to:
PFLAG Scholarships
Attn: Maribeth Ament,
1795 Lexington St., Santa Clara, CA 95050.

(NOTE: If possible, e-mail your essay to mailto:pflag.scholarship@yahoo.com before March 29.) You may visit our web site at http://www.pflagsanjose.org to print applications and to read more about our organization.

back to top

News
********************************************
19. NEWS: Slain Teen Remembered as Fun

Slain teen remembered as fun, quirky at Rainbow Alliance candlelight vigil

February 16, 2008
Ventura County Star
By Anna Bakalis and Cheri Carlson

Blue was Larry King's favorite color eye shadow.

Along with his signature black, high-heeled boots and varying shades of lipstick, friends say he wore dramatic makeup and dressed more flamboyantly in the last two weeks before he was shot to death by a classmate at an Oxnard middle school.

The cosmetics added a quirkiness to his personality, friends said. But they didn't define the 15-year-old boy Melissa Castillo knew.

"He didn't know he had a lot of friends," Castillo said. "We all thought he was funny but not in a mocking way. We all really liked him. I wish he knew that."

Castillo was standing with four of her friends at a candlelight vigil to honor Larry King, held in Ventura Friday night.

The 15-year-old E.O. Green Junior High School eighth-grader was perceived by classmates as a gay or cross-dressing student who had been bullied.

"He didn't have to tell me; I saw it. We all saw it," Castillo said.

The shooting on Tuesday has brought scrutiny to how middle schools in Ventura County address and prevent discrimination that can lead to violence toward teens with different sexual orientations or gender identities.

In the days leading up to his death, King was helping Castillo get ready for the school Valentine's Day dance, she said. Castillo is the co-president of the Associated Student Body.

"He'd come up to me with different ideas for the dance," she said. "He thought about getting a photo booth."

Castillo said King had been transferred to her gym class - from eighth to sixth period - because he was getting picked on. In gym class, he would wear regular clothes with sneakers, she said.

'Wanted to respond'
The Ventura County Rainbow Alliance sponsored the vigil at the Art Barn where about a hundred people gathered, some with candles to remember King.

"Our community wanted to respond to express and honor him," said Alice Woods, a coordinator with the Rainbow Alliance.

"Any 15-year-old is finding out who they are. It's normal to experiment in any direction," she said.

King was shot Tuesday morning inside a computer lab at the school. He was declared brain dead on Wednesday and taken off life support Thursday night. Prosecutors have charged a classmate, Brandon McInerney, 14, with first-degree murder and committing a hate crime and want him tried as an adult.

Students have said King was teased because he was gay. Some classmates also reported a confrontation between the two boys in the days before the shooting.

Authorities have not released details on a motive, and prosecutors have declined to elaborate on the hate crime charge. A hate crime is defined as an illegal action taken toward a person based on any of several criteria, such as race, religion or sexual orientation.

School officials in Ventura County said Friday they have several programs designed to teach middle school students about tolerance and acceptance. But schools need to do more, said county Superintendent of Schools Charles Weis.

For example, he said, schools need to have more mentors and other adults who can help students find constructive ways to deal with their emotions.

"I wonder, if this kid had an outlet for his anger or his fear, whatever it was, whether this would have happened," Weis said of the shooting. "I really feel one of the reasons kids in large schools act in a variety of ways is they don't have caring adults to reach out to."

State Sen. Sheila Kuehl, D-Santa Monica, whose district includes the 1,168-student Oxnard school, wrote a bill that took effect Jan. 1 and prohibits discrimination in the classroom based on gender identity, sexual orientation or disability.

"The fact that he (King) was being harassed indicated to me there was a larger danger looming for him," Kuehl said. "Words can lead to violent actions. And very often, if no one says, This will not be tolerated,' then nothing stops it."

Middle school "is a difficult age to teach tolerance," said Jerry Dannenberg, superintendent of the Hueneme School District, which includes E.O. Green School.

An effective program works with kids beginning in kindergarten, he said, and follows them throughout school. Hueneme schools use such a program, called Second Step, which focuses on violence prevention and social and emotional learning.

Schools cannot work on this issue alone, however. Tolerance education has to come from all aspects of society, Dannenberg said.

Students have started gay-straight groups in 640 high schools throughout California, including a dozen in Ventura County, according to the Gay-Straight Alliance Network.

That's nearly 50 percent of high schools in the state, said network Executive Director Carolyn Laub, a statistic that speaks to growing support and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students in upper grades.

Only 14 middle schools in California have such clubs, and none are in Ventura County.
Laub said it has become clear that sexual orientation and harassment issues need to be addressed in middle schools. "Young people are coming out at earlier and earlier ages," she said.

Many tolerance programs in middle schools have traditionally focused on racial and religious discrimination. For the most part, Laub said, teachers, administrators and students haven't had as much training on how to create a safer school climate for students dealing with sexual identity issues.

Some surveys show students report higher rates of harassment in middle school than in high school, she said.

'Not died in vain'
According to the California Healthy Kids Survey by WestEd, a nonprofit research group, 10 percent of Ventura County seventh-graders, 9 percent of ninth-graders and 7 percent of 11th-graders reported harassment based on actual or perceived sexual orientation.

"Finding ways to talk about differences as part of the regular curriculum is very important," said Debra Chasnoff, a San Francisco-based documentary filmmaker working on creating tolerant and inclusive learning environments.

"There are students like Lawrence in every school. To be gender nonconforming, you don't do it lightly at that age," Chasnoff said. "There had to be something powerful going on inside of him."

Middle school is a harder time than high school for many students as they try on different roles and personalities, said Mary Galvin, operations director of the Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education, a K-8 public charter school. Galvin said there's also pressure to raise test scores, and the money is not there to hire more counselors.

Teachers, administrators and students all need more training to solve conflicts on campus, Laub said.

"I hope Larry has not died in vain," Laub said. "We need to grieve, and then we need to look at this so that this doesn't happen again."

February 13, 2008

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

GSA Network Highlight
Central Valley Youth Ready to Get Out There & Change the World!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2008 and GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA)
2. GSA Network is Hiring - Administrative Manager and So Cal Program Coordinator
3. Last Chance to Apply for eQuality Scholarships
4. Get GSA Network T-shirts, Buttons & More!
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
5. Gay Black History at the One Archives (Los Angeles)
6. Free Movie Screening at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)
7. Coming Out in Hollywood and the Asian American Community (Los Angeles)
8. Project TransVoicess is Looking for Participants (Los Angeles)
9. Gender-Bending "Broadway" Show at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)
10. Paid Internship with LifeWorks (Los Angeles)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
11. Project Voiceover Paid Internship (San Francisco)
12. Queer Youth Task Force Meeting & Awards (Aptos)
13. Join the CUAV LGBTQ Speakers Bureau (San Francisco)
14. Mills High School PFLAG Event (Millbrae)
Go directly to Northern California listings

National
15. Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards
16. Join COLAGE's National Board of Directors
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
17. Samuel Huntington Public Service Award Program
18. Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society Scholarship
19. PFLAG Scholarships Available
Go directly to Scholarships listings

Jobs
20. Join COLAGE's Staff Team
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
21. NEWS: Student Shot in Oxnard
Go directly to News listings

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

Central Valley Youth Ready to Get Out There & Change the World!

This year marked the 5th anniversary of the Expression NOT Suppression conference held in the Central Valley. It is a unique conference because it was created and is run by high school students, devoted to furthering the impact of the queer youth movement. This conference was produced for youth, by youth!!

ENS 2008 was planned and delivered with one objective and one message: NOW GET OUT THERE, AND CHANGE THE WORLD!!! On Saturday, February 9th, that message was heard loud and clear by nearly 200 Central Valley youth. The conference started with three keynote speakers, four workshop sessions and a day that ended with a youth inspired and delivered Drag Show.

And, here's what the youth had to say about it:

"Thank you so much for letting me know about ENS. I've been involved in multiple GSAs throughout Fresno high schools since i was in middle school, and still i've been scared to become an activist on my own and to come out to my friends, let alone my parents. After ENS and the workshops, I told all my close friends, and my mom that I liked girls as well as boys. None were very suprised to say the least, haha. All along, I've been scared, when they knew and were supportive the whole time. I also proceeded to help promote my high schools GSA. I feel much more in touch with who I am. This whole time i've been suppressed, and I didn't need to be. Thank you so much!"

"The Expression Not Suppression conference was fantastic."

"The workshops were very well organized, informative, and interactive. The workshops were scheduled for easy access and had very informed youth presenters available for questions."

"The conference from the beginning to the end was very enjoyable, from seeing the friendly faces at the check-in table to the seeing the GSA Network staff wave goodbye as we drive away."

"So far, every time I go to Expression Not Suppression it seems like the conference can't get any better, then I go to the next conference and it is. I can't wait till next year's ENS!"

"This year was my second year attending ENS. I've enjoyed it both years and I look forward to all upcoming ENS conferences. It is very educational and an excellent opportunity for youth to unite and take a step towards a future in activism as we, LGBTQIA people, still struggle for acceptance and rights."

"It's great! I love it!! Thank you to all who made this conference possible in the Central Valley."

back to top

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

*********************************************
1. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2008 and GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA)

Calling all youth activists! GSA Network is now accepting applications to become one of the 60 youth leaders at the new GSA Advocacy and Youth Leadership Academy (GAYLA) which is taking place in Sacramento from April 18th-April 21st.

Apply to be a GAYLA Leader Today!

Since GSA Network likes to keep you on your toes, we're switching a few things up this year. Most importantly, we are combining GAYLA with Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD).

Last year hundreds of young people from every corner of the state rallied on the Capitol steps in Sacramento and educated lawmakers on what they needed to do to make California schools safer and more supportive of LGBTQ and straight ally students. We succeeded in advocating for the passage of two bills: The Safe Place to Learn Act (AB 394) and The Student Civil Rights Act (SB 777).

Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) 2008 will have a different focus and will be smaller this year, because there is not any LGBTQ safe schools legislation introduced in this year's legislative session. Additionally, GSA Network is combining GAYLA and QYAD for an intense training session that will make you a solid leader in advocacy within four days!

In order to be a part of GAYLA or QYAD this year, you MUST apply and be accepted. We are accepting up to 60 youth leaders for this training. Since the focus is on intensive training with a small core group of youth leaders, we will not have a rally this year. However, GSA Network guarantees it will still be a fun AND educational time!

The focus for GAYLA and QYAD 2008 is to advocate for the full implementation of gender identity non-discrimination policies in the California school system. If you have experienced discrimination based on gender identity or expression and want to do something positive to make schools safer, you should apply for GAYLA! If you are an ally to transgender and gender non-conforming youth and want to help make schools safer, you should apply for GAYLA!

If you are interested in applying (and we know you are!) then please go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla to learn more and fill out the application.

Event sponsors will provide for all meals, housing, and transportation for all Leaders.

Got questions? Call us at 415.552.4229 or email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
2. GSA Network is Hiring - Administrative Manager and So Cal Program Coordinator

GSA Network is pleased to announce the following two job openings. Please help us spread the word.

We are looking for a full-time Administrative Manager, based in San Francisco, who will be responsible for managing the administrative systems at GSA Network, as well as supporting program and fund development activities.

We are looking for a full-time Southern California Program Coordinator who will support GSA student leaders in grassroots school-based organizing and program implementation throughout the region. The Program Coordinator works directly with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) and straight ally youth and adult advisors involved with over 300 Gay-Straight Alliance clubs throughout Southern California. The Program Coordinator is responsible for providing the support and planning "behind the scenes" to enable youth to be the leaders of our work.

A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy, and a commitment to social justice are required for this position.

Check out the full job descriptions by visiting: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs

back to top

*********************************************
3. Last Chance to Apply for eQuality Scholarships

The eQuality Scholarship Collaborative awards scholarships to graduating high-school seniors in northern and central California for their service to the LGBT community. In 2008, 10 or more $5000 scholarships will be awarded to assist with post-secondary educational expenses - tuition, books, and supplies.

Applications are available from high school guidance counselors throughout Northern and Central California.

Applicants must:
- be graduating from a high school in northern or central California;
- have applied to an accredited post-secondary institution - college, university, or trade school.

Completed applications, including transcripts and a letter of recommendation, must be postmarked no later than February 16, 2008.

The Collaborative is the joint effort of a group of individuals and organizations based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Organizational members include PG&E PrideNetwork, KP Pride, Genentech Out & Equal, Ally Action, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, and GSA Network.

For more information or to download an application, visit the Collaborative's web site at http://www.allyaction.org/scholarship.

back to top

*********************************************
4. Get GSA Network T-shirts, Buttons & More!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press - Cafepress that is. Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

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

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

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

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

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

back to top

back to top

*********************************************
6. Free Movie Screening at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)

As part of the queer film series at Crossroads, sponsored by FLAG (our gay/straight alliance), we will be having our next movie screening on Wednesday, Feb. 20th, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. We invite you to join us for a great event!

We'll be screening the wonderful short film, Pariah, as well as two funny, sexy episodes of the DL Chronicles. See more details below.

All students and faculty from Gay/Straight alliances and their friends are welcome. It's a great way to meet new friends, or see old ones. We've been getting a lot of students at our movie nights this year, and we expect students from many gsa's will be attending--come meet them!

The event is FREE and there will be free pizza, drinks, giveaways, and prizes! RSVP by replying and let us know if you are coming, so we have an idea of how much pizza to get.

**When you reply, make sure to include your name and the school (if any) you are from, as well as how many people you are bringing-this helps a great deal.

Directions are below. Please email us at mailto:flag2@xrds.org

If you have any more questions, please feel free to e-mail and ask. Hope to see you there.

Many thanks to the USC OutReach program for co-sponsoring this event.

The DL Chronicles
Here! TV, 2007

The "DL Chronicles" tells the stories of men of color who by consequence and by choice, live sexually secret lifestyles. In these episodes we enter into a provocative and intriguing world of sexual discovery, denial, betrayal, love and loss.
The "Down Low" is a slang term sometimes used to refer to African-American men who identify as being straight, but secretly engage in sexual activity with men. They may date women, have children, and often marry in an effort to appear heterosexual to the public. Most of these men do not identify as gay or bisexual and refuse to be associated with the gay identity or gay community.

Though guys on the "downlow" have always been around, it's only recently that a name has been put to their surreptitious activities and a variety of artistic endeavors created to portray them. This pair of funny, sexy, well-acted episodes from a new here! Networks TV will be sure to entertain you.

Episode: Robert
A closeted talent agent falls for a hot young health food store manager. What Robert fails to share is that there is a very special lady in his life. When Robert's new lover grows suspicious about his many secrets, a game of cat and mouse ensues.

Episode : Mark
Mark and Donte, a loving couple who have been living on the DL, are jolted by the unexpected arrival of Mark's thuggish cousin, Terrell, who shows up at their house needing a place to crash. Desperate to keep their relationship a secret, Mark asks his boyfriend to pretend he's straight. When Donte reluctantly agrees to play the part of Mark's "roommate" for their new houseguest, things start to get hilarious and way out of hand.

"The DL Chronicles," nominated for Outstanding TV Movie, Mini-Series, or Anthology, is the first Gay TV series of color to be nominated by GLAAD and is the first TV series nomination for a gay network.

Pariah
Director: Dee Rees, USA, 2007

In this empowering coming-of-age tale, a 17-year-old shy, black lesbian goes to great lengths discovering her butch/femme identity while hiding her lesbianism from her parents.

Pariah was the winner of the Audience Award for Best Short Film at both the San Francisco and Los Angeles LGBT film festivals in 2007.

**************

Directions:

Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and Olympic Blvd.

The screening room we're meeting in is on the 2nd floor of the Arts Building.

Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate right onto
a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our "quad" which looks like a parking lot
or an alley, and which we call (of course) the alley.

Walk to the end of the alley to the tall building on the left, enter and climb the stairs to the 2nd floor. You should see people..

Hope the directions aren't too confusing. It's not really that hard once you see it, and you can always ask people.

back to top

*********************************************
7. Coming Out in Hollywood and the Asian American Community (Los Angeles)

PFLAG LOS ANGELES Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
Invites you and your friends to an exciting event.

Special Guest Speaker GEORGE TAKEI discussing the topic:
"Where Few Have Gone Before: Coming Out in Hollywood and the Asian American Community"

Wednesday, February 20th - 7:30 p.m.
Westwood United Methodist Church
10497 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Located on the north east corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Warner Avenue (second floor in Fellowship Hall)

Mr. Takei is best known for his role as Lt. Sulu in the original Star Trek series, and has a recurring role on the television hit Heroes, playing Kaito Nakamura, father of main character Hiro Nakamura. He has played numerous roles in television, movies, and on stage in his acting career spanning five decades.

A member of the Human Rights Campaign, the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender political organization, George is a spokesman for HRC's Coming Out Project. In April 2006, he embarked on a nationwide speaking tour called "Equality Trek" in which he talked about the issues he faced as a gay Japanese American. Star Trek's Leonard Nimoy presented George with HRC's Equality Award at its San Francisco gala dinner in July 2007.

A community activist, George serves as chair of the council of governors of East West Players, the nation's foremost Asian Pacific American theater. He is chairman emeritus of the board of trustees of the Japanese American National Museum and a past member of the advisory committee of the California Civil Liberties Public Education Program.

back to top

*********************************************
8. Project TransVoicess is Looking for Participants (Los Angeles)

Project TransVoices - a community video project - is looking for participants!

Do you identify as trans or genderqueer?
Do you feel strongly about equality for trans people?
Do you want to tell your story, or want to be involved with a project which tells the stories of genderqueer people?
Are you between the ages of 14-24?

Project TransVoices (PTV) will meet weekly, providing an environment for community building and support, culminating in a group-directed video project. The PTV video will be broadcast via diverse grassroots media and used for education to increase awareness of trans/gender issues.

Group will meet Monday evenings, mid-January through March 2008.

For more info call 626-202-4514 or email mailto:projecttransvoices@gmail.com

back to top

*********************************************
9. Gender-Bending "Broadway" Show at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)

FLAG, the gay/straight alliance at Crossroads School, is producing an incredible evening on Saturday, Feb. 23rd, 8 - 9:30 p.m. Once every several years, FLAG puts on a special show. This one is called Crossing Broadway. The show will be a fundraiser for homeless lgbt youth, and is open to the entire community. We invite you to join us for a great event, and to help spread the word!

Crossing Broadway will be a collection of wonderful, gender-bending Broadway show tunes. Talented students and faculty will perform Broadway songs made famous by the other gender. In this show, for example, it will be a female, not a male, singing "Maria" from West Side Story.-and it will be a group of boys singing "Dreamgirls"! Any love duets will be sung between students of the same gender. There are fun songs as well as heartfelt songs during the evening.

Tickets are a suggested donation of $10 - 15. Proceeds are going to benefit the Jeff Griffith Youth Center, a program of the LA Gay & Lesbian Center which serves homeless lgbt youth. We're hoping to see lots of students from other GSA's as well as supportive LGBT/ally folks from the wider LA area. It's a great way to meet friends, or see old ones. If you can never make our movie nights during the week, this is a particularly good (and rare) time to be at an event on a Saturday night.

To reserve tickets: Call the box office at (310 829-7391, ext. 345-or email the Box office at: mailto:boxoffice@xrds.org
You'll need to give them your name, and how many tickets you want.

Directions are below. For any questions besides ordering tickets, you can email us at mailto:flag2@xrds.org

If you have any more questions, please feel free to e-mail and ask. Hope to see you there.

Directions:
Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and Olympic Blvd.
Crossing Broadway will be held in Roth Hall.

Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate right onto a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our "quad" which looks like a parking lot or an alley, and which we call (of course) the alley.

Follow the signs until you get to the tables set up in front of Roth Hall. You should see people.
Hope the directions aren't too confusing. It's not really that hard once you see it, and you can always ask people.

back to top

*********************************************
10. Paid Internship with LifeWorks (Los Angeles)

Paid Internship Opportunity for LGBT College Graduate

LifeWorks is seeking a gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender college graduate (by June 2008) to apply with the organization for The R. Scott Hitt Foundation Internship in Leadership Development. The internship is an eight month full time position. The recipient will work closely with the Executive Director and key members of the Board of Directors learning about non-profit management. The R. Scott Hitt Foundation and LifeWorks intend to develop a future leader who is ready to work hard and take on new challenges and responsibilities, who has a passion for the LGBT community and who wants to learn solid leadership skills.

Successful candidates are required to have demonstrated outstanding academic performance in acquiring their undergraduate degree and significant leadership potential in LGBT affairs. They will also need to demonstrate some of the personal qualities (e.g. vision, determination, communication skills) necessary to be an effective leader.

Prospective Candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to: mailto:mferrera@lifeworksmentoring.org
or
LifeWorks
Attn. Executive Director
9021 Melrose Avenue #309
West Hollywood, CA 90069

More information available at http://lifeworksmentoring.org/internship.html

back to top

Northern California
*********************************************
11. Project Voiceover Paid Internship (San Francisco)

Project Voiceover (formerly known as the Queer Young Women's Video Project) at LYRIC is offering a paid internship ($10/hour) for female bodied and/or female identified young folks 24 years old and under.

Participants explore issues of violence against women and media justice in workshops facilitated by LYRIC, San Francisco Women Against Rape, Community United Against Violence, and Third World Majority. They then create their own films - from scriptwriting and development to shooting and editing- and use their films to impact the community through screenings and workshop - last year's round was a success with all eight participants completing their own film and facilitating workshops on violence for their peers.

Spots are filling up fast! Project begins Feb. 25th!

To get involved contact: Tonilyn at 415-703-6150 x12 or mailto:tonilyn@lyric.org

back to top

*********************************************
12. Queer Youth Task Force Meeting & Awards (Aptos)

The Queer Youth Task Force is proud to announce the
11th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards
Saturday, April 26th
New Brighten Middle School, Capitola

* Additional information about QYLA below.

The next Queer Youth Task Force Networking Meeting:
Monday, February 25th
3:30 - 5:00 PM
Aptos Public Library, Aptos

Save the Date!
The Queer Youth Leadership Awards (QYLA) Announces their 2008 Date!

This year's QYLA will take place on the evening of Saturday April 26th at New Brighton Middle School. With a growing and changing group of new leaders, including a new team of youth involvement, the 11th annual QYLA is shaping up to be an inspirational and emotional night.

QYLA welcomes Jacob Breslow, a UCSC student, Point Foundation Scholar and previous QYLA Ally Nominee as a new coordinator for the project. Jacob recently concluded a six-month internship in London where he helped plan the prestigious Pre-Launch for LGBT History Month (UK). In his third year of involvement with QYLA, Jacob brings enthusiasm and experience to the organizing of this amazing event. If you are interested in taking part in the core production team, or if you would like to volunteer, please contact Jacob at mailto:info@QYLA.org

The Queer Youth Leadership Award is given annually to queer youth who are between 12 and 18 years of age to acknowledge their accomplishments and contributions to Santa Cruz County. These youth are role models for our communities, creating positive change within their home, school, religious institutions, sports, academics or social groups.

One of the goals of the QYLA is to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and questioning (LGBTIQ) youth from isolation to visibility and celebration. This year's event will take place the day after the National Day of Silence, a youth led one-day act of education and solidarity for all those who are silenced by the effects of homophobia.

The 11th annual QYLA will break that silence and replace it with acceptance, understanding and celebration. Join us for an inspiring and important event where we honor the activism, courage and leadership of Santa Cruz County's LGBTIQ youth!

For more information visit http://www.QYLA.org or call (831) 427-4004.

QYLA is sponsored by Queer Youth Task Force of the Santa Cruz County, an affiliate of The Diversity Center.

back to top

*********************************************
13. Join the CUAV LGBTQ Speakers Bureau (San Francisco)

Community United Against Violence (CUAV) speakers go into classrooms and community groups to speak out and educate about queer issues.

CUAV is currently accepting applications for our upcoming Speakers Bureau Training scheduled for
Sundays February 24th & March 2nd 10 AM - 6PM
Note: participation both days is required.

This will be a fun, free training-lunch provided!

If you are interested in being part of CUAV,
email mailto:connie@cuav.org
or call (415) 777-5500 ext. 303

Folks of color, gender queer & transgender folks, women, interns, and queer youth strongly encouraged to apply.

back to top

*********************************************
14. Mills High School PFLAG Event (Millbrae)

Mills High School Spectrum Club (Gay Straight Alliance) Presents:

An Evening with PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)
Wednesday, February 27th 7-8:30 PM
At Mills High School, 400 Murchison Drive, Millbrae

Speakers from PFLAG will address gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues, coming out and family acceptance followed by Q & A. GSA members from San Mateo County are welcome to come and bring their parents.

Students please RSVP to Chloe at mailto:headoverheels899@yahoo.com

back to top

National
*********************************************
15. Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards

The Colin Higgins Foundation is requesting nominations for its annual Youth Courage Awards. Each year the Colin Higgins Foundation salutes LGBTQ individuals who demonstrate courage in the face of adversity and discrimination based on gender and/or sexual orientation.

Many LGBTQ Youth grow up in family, school and community environments that threaten their well being. They find themselves ostracized, marginalized, in psychological or even physical danger. Colin Higgins Foundation Youth Courage Award winners rise above such circumstances to inspire others by taking action, rallying support, and working to transform the systems and institutions that impact their lives.

This year the Foundation will be awarding $10,000 grants to:

· Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirit, Queer and Questioning youth (through age 21) who have bravely stood up to hostility and intolerance based on their gender and/or sexual orientation and triumphed over bigotry through working for LGBTQ rights and social justice.
· Colin Higgins Foundation Youth Courage Award winners rise above adversity to inspire others by taking action, rallying support, and working to transform the systems and institutions that impact their lives.

In 2008, the honorees will receive a $10,000 grant which will be presented at the Trevor Project Benefit Gala in June: http://www.thetrevorproject.org

The deadline for all nominations is 9am PST, Monday, March 3rd 2008. Late nominations will not be accepted.

The Foundation encourages all nominations to be made via the online submission tool, which can be found at http://www.colinhiggins.org/courageawards/nomin_mat.cfm or http://www.colinhiggins.org.

back to top

Scholarships
*********************************************
17. Samuel Huntington Public Service Award Program

The Samuel Huntington Public Service Award provides a $10,000 stipend for a graduating college senior to pursue one year of public service anywhere in the world. The award allows recipients to engage in a meaningful public service activity for a year before proceeding on to graduate school or a career.

Deadline: February 15, 2008

All graduating students from accredited colleges in the United States are invited to apply. Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to apply but must be graduating from a U.S. college or university. For further information and an application form, visit the National Grid Web site at http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/10010216/nationalgridus

back to top

*********************************************
18. Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society Scholarship

GALAS, the Gay & Lesbian Armenian Society is accepting applications for $1000 renewable scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies.

Applicants must be of Armenian descent (1st, 2nd or 3rd generation), supportive of the LGBTQ community, and attending a California school.

Applications are due by February 28th. To obtain an application visit http://www.galasla.org

back to top

*********************************************
19. PFLAG Scholarships Available

The San Jose Peninsula chapter of PFLAG would like to inform you of our scholarship program.

Each year our chapter offers scholarships to high school seniors from San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties whose educational history, personal plans and activities demonstrate support for justice and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons. This year we will award four $2,000.00 scholarships. Any graduating seniors (LGBTQ and allies) may apply.

San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG scholarships provide financial support for high school seniors who will be attending an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or business/technical school in Fall 2008. The awards are provided with understanding that the funds will be used to offset the costs of tuition, books, or required fees.

Application Deadline: Postmarked by Saturday, March 29, 2008.

Mail application and related materials to:
PFLAG Scholarships
Attn: Maribeth Ament,
1795 Lexington St., Santa Clara, CA 95050.
(NOTE: If possible, e-mail your essay to mailto:pflag.scholarship@yahoo.com before March 29.)You may visit our web site at http://www.pflagsanjose.org to print applications and to read more about our organization.

back to top

Jobs
*********************************************
20. Join COLAGE's Staff Team

COLAGE's National Program Coordinator supports and oversees programs with and for diverse populations of children, youth, and adults who have one or more LGBTQ parents nationally. Primary responsibilities are planning and executing local and regional events often in partnership with other organizations; coordination of pen pal, scholarship and online community programs for constituents; and overall support of the Program Director and COLAGE national programs. The Coordinator is also responsible for targeted outreach, information gathering and organizing with and among youth of color in mixed race/ethnicity families and families of color, and related program development, volunteer recruitment and management, program evaluation, administration, reporting, media relations and fundraising support.

The range of tasks is varied and must be completed in a fast-paced, supportive and fun environment. This is a position for an energetic, motivated and highly organized candidate and is an outstanding opportunity to help grow a leading youth, LGBT, family organization working for social justice.

Click here for complete job announcement: http://www.colage.org/join/employment.htm

back to top

News
********************************************
21. NEWS: Student Shot in Oxnard

Student shot in Oxnard
The 15-year-old's condition, initially critical, is improving. A schoolmate is being held in the attack at E.O. Green Junior High School.

February 13, 2008
Los Angeles Times
By Catherine Saillant and Steve Chawkins

A student at an Oxnard junior high school shot another classmate Tuesday in front of two dozen other students who were settling into their first-period English class, police said.

The 15-year-old victim was rushed to St. John's Regional Medical Center, where he was initially listed in critical condition. By day's end, his condition was described as improving.

"He's gone from very critical to a little bit better," said Oxnard police spokesman David Keith. "He's actually communicating with personnel at the hospital."

The boy's alleged assailant ran from the E.O. Green Junior High School and was apprehended nearby a few minutes later by Oxnard and Port Hueneme police officers.

The shooting was not gang-related, said Keith, who added that the school had not been a particular trouble spot before.
"It looked like it was personal between the two of them," he said, declining to elaborate.

Some students said the victim, whose name was not disclosed, sometimes wore makeup and feminine jewelry and had declared himself gay. They said he was frequently taunted by other boys and had been involved in an argument with the alleged shooter, an eighth-grader who also was not named, and others Monday.

During the lunchtime argument, one of the boys shouted at Tuesday's victim, "You better watch your back," said one student who witnessed the encounter.

Police said they had not determined a motive for the crime.

Keith said investigators had also heard that the victim was gay but did not know whether that was true or whether it figured in the attack. They were sorting through several other possibilities as well, he said:

"Which are true and which are rumor, we're trying to figure out."

How a gun was sneaked into the classroom also was unclear, although the school has no metal detectors. Officers are assigned to some area high schools, but junior high and middle schools generally have no need for more than a part-time police presence, Keith said.

To view the full article, visit: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-oxnard13feb13,1,3727732,print.story

To read more about this story, visit: Student Wounded in Oxnard Dies, http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-oxnard14feb14,0,7204301.story

back to top

back to GSA Network News

HOME