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GSA Network News Email Archive - July 2006
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In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
ACTION ALERT: Support SB 1437: Get involved & participate in a free media
training for youth interested in making statewide change.
Go directly to GSA Network
highlight
GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE NOW - SPOTS GOING FAST!
2. GSA Network is Hiring! - Development Coordinator (San Francisco)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements
Other Announcements
Southern California
3. G.W.E.N. Project
Go directly to Southern California listings
Northern California
4. Community United Against Violence (CUAV) is hosting our annual LGBTQ Speakers
Bureau Training (San Francisco)
5. AQU25A's 6-Week Peer Leadership Training is about to DROP! (San Francisco)
6. "Building Bridges Through Pride" (Solano County)
7. Frameline at The Center: Free Screenings for the Community (San Francisco)
8. 'Weapons of Miseducation" - The 4th Annual Youth Empowerment Summit
(San Francisco)
9. Girls for Change (San Jose)
10. September 2006 Community Programs at JFCS (Marin)
Go directly to Northern California listings
Statewide
11. The National Hispanic Environmental Council Youth Institute
Go directly to Statewide listings
Jobs
12. JOB: STRANGE Program Coordinator (Santa Cruz)
Go directly to Jobs listings
News
13. NEWS: Inland voices divided over mentioning gays in textbooks
14. NEWS: Fired gay teacher sues Lake Tahoe district
15. NEWS: Gay group gets green light at Kentucky high school
Go directly to News listings
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
ACTION ALERT: Support SB 1437: Get involved & participate in a free media
training for youth interested in making statewide change.
UPDATE ON THE LEGISLATION
A lot has been happening with the statewide efforts to mobilize youth activists
to support SB 1437 (The Bias-Free Curriculum Act), authored by State Senator
Sheila Kuehl. During the spring and early summer, youth have been working hard
to ensure that this bill passes and anti-LGBTQ bias is kept out of school textbooks
and classroom instruction. Unfortunately, we suffered a setback in late May
when Governor Schwarzenegger announced his intention to veto SB 1437.
Despite emails, phone calls, and letters from all over the state, the Governor
has not budged from his initial opposition to the bill’s language specifically
requiring that the roles and contributions of LGBTQ people be a part of history
classes. In an effort to move forward the bill, continue our momentum, and actually
get a bill signed, Senator Kuehl—after talking with lawmakers and several
LGBTQ organizations—has decided to amend the bill’s language. Thus, the
bill will again consist of three sections prohibiting discrimination on the
bases of sexual orientation and gender identity in textbooks, instructional
materials, and classroom instruction. The two sections of the bill mandating
curricular inclusion of the roles and contributions of LGBT people will be amended
out of the bill for this year.
Senator Kuehl remains committed to the goal of LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum, and
believes that the incremental change that could be won from passing a segment
of the current bill would be more beneficial to that goal than would be a flat-out
veto.
NEXT STEPS
The Governor’s office has not yet made it clear whether or not he will
support the amended bill. Plus, we still need to change the hearts and minds
of many Californians and convince folks that supportive curriculum is a key
way to ensure both academic excellence and safer schools for LGBTQ youth. GSAs
and youth activists can get a whole lot done to bring more and more positive
attention to the legislation and curriculum issues during the next couple of
months. We’ll be keeping you updated on a weekly basis about upcoming
Weeks of Action that will held throughout the months of August and September.
You and your GSA members can take easy steps to make sure your voices are heard
loud and clear during this campaign!
A key step is to get more friendly media coverage and reach out to the Governor’s
office. People need to hear from youth why SB 1437 and curriculum are very,
very important for students in schools. GSA Network, the CA Safe Schools Coalition,
EQCA, Ally Action, and GLAAD are working together to present a fantastic opportunity
for youth activists interested in learning more skills.
FREE MEDIA TRAINING FOR YOUTH!!!
Find out how you can use your personal story as LGBTQ or straight ally youth
to talk with reporters and people from your communities. A free media training
will be held via telephone conference call tomorrow that will provide all participants
with tips on how to become effective media spokespeople. This training has been
designed specifically for youth activists.
When: Thursday, July 27, 3:30-4:45 pm
How: Call the toll-free number (866-476-8702) and punch in passcode #537537.
You will also have the opportunity to follow along with the training materials
online.
Who: Media experts from EQCA & GLAAD will be sharing tips on how to talk
to the media.
What else?: Immediately after the training, we’ll update you on upcoming
Days/Weeks of Action to Support SB 1437.
Spread the word to your friends, classmates, fellow GSA members, and any other
youth activists who should be involved.
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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE NOW - SPOTS GOING FAST!
The GSA Activist Camps are youth-planned and youth-led
intense 3-day events featuring hardcore community building, skill-building,
political education, and leadership training for GSA members. All youth who
will be involved in a high school or middle school GSA next year are strongly
encouraged to apply.
Central Valley Activist Camp - Fresno
August 11th - 13th, 2006
NEW DATE and LOCATION
Northern California Activist Camp - Fresno
August 11th - 13th, 2006
Exciting News!! We have decided to join the Northern California and Central Valley Camps this year to make one large, super fun, networking extravaganza!! This year the Northern California Camp will take place in sunny Fresno, California where we will house you at Fresno State University for three days of trainings, networking and FUN!! Lots of great activities including swimming, ping pong and pool.
TRANSPORTATION WILL BE PROVIDED FROM SAN FRANCISCO TO FRESNO!!
APPLY ONLINE! Click
here to get more info and apply online!
*********************************************
2. GSA Network is Hiring! - Development Coordinator
(San Francisco)
GSA Network seeks a part-time (20 hours per week) Development Coordinator to
coordinate and support all aspects of the organization's growing individual
donor program and development department systems. The Development Coordinator
will be the first development staff member at GSA Network, and will work closely
with the Executive Director, and development and special events consultants,
to implement the annual fundraising plan ($86,250 from individuals in 2006,
which is 9% of GSA Network's total budget). GSA Network now has 600 individual
donors who contribute through personal solicitations of the Board and Executive
Director, direct mail, a monthly pledge program, one annual fundraising event,
and occasional house parties. The Development Coordinator will play an important
role in helping GSA Network expand all of these activities and build stronger
relationships with all individual donors. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth
leadership and empowerment, an understanding of youth culture, and commitment
to social change is required for all positions at GSA Network.
To get more information about the job and how to apply, visit: www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
Equal Opportunity Employer:
GSA Network, a project of the Tides Center, is an equal opportunity employer
and encourages applications from youth, people of color, people of all sexual
orientations and gender identities, and people with disabilities.
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++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
Southern California
*********************************************
3. G.W.E.N. Project (Los Angeles)
July 29th - August 26th 10am-3pm
We invite one and all queer and trans youth of color, 25 and under, to this
year's fabulous one-of-a-kind G.W.E.N. (Gaining Wellness through Education and
Nurturing) Project. This is the space to learn more about our history
as people of color, queer and trans, and dissect the systems of oppression to
learn what WE can do to radically change it to a just and truly equal society.
Topics will include: Identity, Systems of Oppression, Human Rights, Health Justice,
Foster Care and Homelessness, Queer and Trans Youth in the Juvenile Justice
System, and the How-To on Organizing and Mobilizing the Community for Social
Change.
Only 5 Saturdays, starting July 29th.
We will be providing FOOD, RIDES for those who need them, and a STIPEND. Register
soon!!! 25 spots are available and they'll go fast.
Contact us at: qteam@hotmail.com or visit
our website: qteamla.org
Northern California
*********************************************
4. Community United Against Violence (CUAV) is hosting its annual LGBTQ
Speakers Bureau Training (San Francisco)
Fall 2006 Training Dates - SAT/SUN September 9th & 10th 10 am- 6 pm
CUAV speakers go into schools and community groups to speak out on queer issues--you
can, too.
To register call (415) 777-5500 ext 303
or email connie@cuav.org
This is training fun, informative and free!
Meet cool people, have fun and make a difference. Help stamp out homophobia,
transphobia, and all oppressions!!!
Community United Against Violence
170 A Capp Street, San Francisco CA 94110
Queer youth, folks of color, trans/gender queer/2 spirit folks, women, and interns
strongly encouraged to apply. Stipends offered for bilingual speakers.
Join our LGBTQ Speakers Bureau!
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*********************************************
5. AQU25A's 6-Week Peer Leadership Training is about to DROP!
(San Francsico)
AQU25A stands for Asians & Pacific Islanders, Queer & Questioning, Under
25, All Together and is the youth program of the Asian & Pacific Islander
Wellness Center
Learn about queer A&PI issues like social justice, identity, oppression,
activism, HIV/STIs and positive sexuality!
August 31st-October 6th (Thurs & Fri evenings, 5-8pm)
Did I mention we PAY? AND, if you complete the training, you'll have an opportunity
to be hired as AQUA Peer Leaders - which means YOU will be shaping what AQUA's
about this year.
Application deadline is Friday, AUGUST 18th.
To apply or for any questions, contact Yas Ahmed at yasmin@apiwellness.org
or 415-292-3420 ext 315
**Check us out at myspace.com/aqu25a**
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*********************************************
6. "Building Bridges Through Pride" (Solano
County)
How would you like to be part of building bridges within our community?
How would you like to help the Solano Pride Center continue to provide a safe
space for our youth?
How would you like to help the Center expand its services?
You can do it all by joining us for a training session for volunteers
to help with our 2006 Fund Drive. The training session will be held Saturday,
July 29, 2006 at 11:00 AM at the Solano Pride Center, 1125 Missouri St., Suite
203D in Fairfield. The session will last about an hour.
We need volunteers to help us call, write and e-mail contacts to ask for
donations to invest in the Pride Center's future. We all know how important
it is to have a viable center in Solano County to serve the LGBTIQ community.
Please join us and bring your friends!
For those of you who can't participate as volunteers, be prepared for the Fund
Drive to start August 1, 2006 and last through October 21, 2006. Have
your checkbook ready when you receive those letters, calls and e-mails
to invest in the future of the Solano Pride Center!
Douglas Gibson, Jr.
2006 Fund Drive Coordinator
Board Member
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*********************************************
7. Frameline at The Center: Free Screenings for the Community (San Francisco)
Frameline presents
DIY: New Youth Films from the Wells Fargo/Frameline Youth Filmmaker Workshop
Thursday, August 10, 2006 at 7:30pm
San Francisco LGBT Community Center
1800 Market Street @ Octavia
Please arrive early as seating is limited!
Co-presented by TILT (Teaching Intermedia Literacy Tools) and the Film Arts
Foundation.
Over the last year, 8 short films have been produced by Bay Area youth participating
in the Wells Fargo/Frameline Youth Filmmaker Workshop working in collaboration
with TILT and the Film Arts Foundation. This collection of shorts made by youth
throughout the Bay Area range from fiction to documentary and presents the refreshingly
candid, surprisingly mature viewpoints of LGBT young people and children of
queer parents. The works include All the Difference, Radio Roulette, Picture
Perfect, Oh Really, Lindsey's Movie, Stainless, Where Have You Been All This
Time? and Do You Get It Yet?
Don't miss this special FREE screening of these fantastic films followed by
post-screening discussion with the filmmakers!
Thanks to The San Francisco Foundation and the Community Technology Foundation
of California for supporting the Wells Fargo/Frameline Youth Filmmaker Workshop.
With generous support from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,
Frameline proudly presents admission-free screenings at the San Francisco Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center at 7:30pm on the second Thursday
of every month throughout 2006.
Please join us for the second season of Frameline at The Center, a provocative
series of films and discussions focusing on social issues of particular relevance
to the LGBT community. For more info please visit: www.frameline.org
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*********************************************
8. 'Weapons of Miseducation" - The 4th Annual Youth Empowerment
Summit (San Francisco)
Greetings...our annual Youth Empowerment Summit is coming up in a few weeks.
We would love you to come back again as a workshop provider, youth chaperone,
attendee or to table the event. If you have other ways you would like to be
involved, let me know. Please pass this on; hope to see you there!
August 3rd, 2006
SF State University
Schedule of Activities:
10am-12pm- Registration & Panel Discussion in Towers Conference Center
12:30pm-3:30pm - Workshops in Burk Hall
4pm-8pm - Arts Festival in Towers Conference Center
On August 3rd, student organizers from Making Waves and Youth Speaks will bring
together hundreds of young people, community organizers and artists to SF State.
The Summit is FREE to youth and provides panels and workshops, followed by an
Arts Festival featuring some of the hottest performers, DJs and artists bringing
conscious flavor and culture to the stage.
Last year's Summit was a success! Over 400 high school and college students
came through to experience workshops by Books Not Bars, Youth Uprising, and
others. The Arts Festival featured the Bay Area's own Goapele, DJs Sake One
and Fuze and performers Ise Lyfe and Mark Bamuthi Joseph.
You can check us out at www.myspace.com/youthempowermentsummit
This year, the Summit will be back stronger than ever! Come to experience:
* Workshops & Panels on Arts, Activism and Social Justice
* Networking opportunities with conscious community
* Music & Spoken Word performances
* Hip-Hop DJs
* Vendors & Artist Displays
* Free giveaways of CDs, t-shirts and special prizes
* Special Guests to be announced!
Youth Empowerment Summit is hosted by Making Waves at Branson and Youth Speaks,
with collaboration and support from Hard Knock
Radio and SF State University, Department of Education
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*********************************************
9. Girls for Change (San Jose)
Save The Date!
The 4th Annual Girl Summit will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2006 at the
San Jose Convention Center.
The key to a successful summit is the Volunteers. We are recruiting 100 volunteers
and would be thrilled if you could contribute your time for the event! For more
information or to sign on please email: olivia@girlsforachange.org
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*********************************************
10. September 2006 Community Programs at JFCS (Marin)
Unless otherwise noted, these programs will be held at Jewish Family and Children’s
Services at 600 Fifth Avenue in San Rafael.
Support for Caregivers - You and Your Aging Parent
If you are helping to care for a parent, partner or other loved one, you may
be interested in this informative six-week group. Caregivers coping with issues
related to the aging process will learn about juggling conflicting responsibilities
and needs, finding and coordinating services, long-distance caregiving, and
much more. Wednesdays, October 18 through November 22, 7:00 to 8:30 pm. $100
per person or $150 per couple. Sliding fee scale available. Pre-registration
required. For further information or to pre-register, contact Nikki Andrews
at 415/419-3601 or NikkiA@jfcs.org.
Free Program for Holocaust Survivors - Café
By The Bay
Café By The Bay is a monthly event for Holocaust Survivors in Marin.
On Tuesday, September 12, 3:00 to 5:00 pm, Rabbi Alan Lew, Rabbi Emeritus of
Congregation Beth Sholom and renowned author, will be our guest speaker. For
more information, contact Lorraine Harris at 415/419-3635 or LorraineH@jfcs.org.
FREE/Sliding-Fee, Nonsectarian Programs Open to All
Remembering How to Talk – A reunion and refresher for “graduates”
of Julie King’s Workshops
Do you find yourself falling back into your old patterns more than you’d
like? Are you interested in reconnecting with like-minded parents? Bring questions,
issues and challenges to a one-evening reunion and refresher with Julie King.
Monday, September 18, 6:30 to 8:30 pm. $30 per person. Sliding fee scale available.
Pre-registration required. Contact Bonni Schiff at 415/419-3632 or BonniS@jfcs.org
or register online at www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.
Juggling Two: The New Baby and the Older Sibling
Gain greater insight and practical tips to ease the transition of a new arrival
in the family – for yourself and your child – before and after the
birth. Thursday, September 21, 6:30 to 8:30 pm. With Bonnie Romanow. $30 per
person. Sliding fee scale available. Pre-registration required. Contact Bonni
Schiff at 415/419-3632 or BonniS@jfcs.org
or register online at www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.
Volunteers Needed!
Rosh Hashanah is coming: Decorate, Assemble and Deliver Holiday Gift
Bags!
Help bring holiday cheer to Marin County seniors. This is a wonderful opportunity
for families to perform the mitzvah of holiday outreach to those who can use
a friendly visit. We will assemble and decorate bags on Thursday, September
14, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at 600 Fifth Avenue. Delivery of bags is at your convenience
any time before Rosh Hashanah. Come join us! Contact Lorraine Harris at 415/419-3635
or LorraineH@jfcs.org.
Team Tzadek
If you have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah age child, you’ll want to know about Team
Tzadek. Team Tzadek is a community service volunteer program specifically designed
for b’nai mitzvah age students. Over the past couple of years, Team Tzadek
teens have assembled and delivered Chanukah baskets to frail seniors, bowled
with adults with disabilities, prepared and served lunch for a homeless group,
and more. They’ve learned what it means to do a mitzvah, and they’ve
had a great time doing it! This year’s Team Tzadek program starts on Tuesday,
September 19. For more information or to sign up, contact Lorraine Harris at
LorraineH@jfcs.org or 415/419-3635.
Brighten A Senior’s Life
The JFCS Senior Companionship Program matches up volunteers with homebound seniors.
As a companion, you’ll build a relationship with a senior through weekly
visits, and JFCS will provide training and educational support. A little heart
goes a long way. Please consider becoming a Senior Companion. Contact Lorraine
Harris at 415/419-3634 or LorraineH@jfcs.org.
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*********************************************
11. The National Hispanic Environmental Council Youth Institute
FYI, Please note: NHEC is still accepting applications for the Youth Institute!
The National Hispanic Environmental Council (NHEC) is pleased to announce that
we are still accepting applications from students to attend our upcoming 6th
annual "Minority Youth Environmental Training Institute", to be held
August 4-13, 2006, in Glorieta, New Mexico.
The Institute is an intensive, hands-on, science-based, 10 day residential program
for talented teens, aged 16-18, selected competitively from across the country.
Through a full scholarship, NHEC will pay all costs for students accepted into
the Institute.
All the materials are posted on the NHEC website at www.nheec.org. As with our
past Institutes, the 2006 Institute is being funded by various sponsors, including
several federal environmental agencies.
Please forward this email on to those you think might be interested in the Institute,
including other educators, community organizations, and of
course potential student applicants. We are also seeking volunteer role models
to help our instructors train and inspire the students. We
appreciate your help in forwarding on these materials to interested parties.
Feel free to contact NHEC-- either our Programs Coordinator, Juan Rodriguez,
at jrodriguez@nheec.org if you have
further questions or need an application. Thank
you!
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Jobs
*********************************************
12. JOB: STRANGE Program Coordinator (Santa Cruz)
Counselor II
STRANGE Program Coordinator
Posted: 7/6/06 Applications Due: Open Until Filled
POSITION DESCRIPTION: Mature, energetic and positive person is needed
part-time to coordinate the STRANGE Program. The STRANGE Program of Youth Services
is a youth-driven, countywide program for transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay,
intersex, queer, and questioning (TBLGIQQ) youth ages 12-18 and their allies.
The Coordinator of the STRANGE Program is the adult liaison to Gay Straight
Alliances (GSAs) in local High Schools and Middle Schools throughout Santa Cruz
County. This position provides intra-community communication and social support
for GLBT youth and their allies. The coordinator maintains an interactive collaboration
with other GLBT community groups and organizations to foster STRANGE program
growth and development. This is a part-time 8 hours per week position.
DUTIES INCLUDE:
(1) Maintain and monitor existing program activities (GSAs, peer support
groups, leadership training) and encourage changes as needed; (2) Implement
program goals; (3) Support broad-based youth involvement in Santa Cruz County;
(3) Provide access to materials and information for transgender, bisexual, lesbian,
gay, intersex, queer, and questioning (TBLGIQQ) youth in a bilingual and bicultural
milieu; (4) Input program information to database and write evaluations after
events and activities; (5) Participate in weekly supervision with direct supervisor;
(6) Commit to a work environment that encourages and promotes the personal growth
and professional development of staff; (7) Represent the agency in a professional
manner; (8) Abide by all Youth Services policies and procedures.
REQUIREMENTS: (1) Bachelors level or equivalent life experience;
(2) Two years work experience in community organizing; (3) Experience with or
knowledge of local community resources; (4) Experience working with parents;
(5) Experience or knowledge of drug and alcohol recovery and prevention; (6)
Experience organizing events with adolescents and volunteers; (7) Ability to
maintain program records and documentation; (8) Ability to work effectively
with a team; (9) Bilingual required.
SALARY: Based on skills, experience, ability, education and bilingual
ability. If you are interested please email or fax to mari sanchez maria.sanchez@scccc.org
or 728.3629.
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News
*********************************************
13. NEWS: Inland voices divided over mentioning gays
in textbooks
July 20, 2006
By ALEXA VAUGHN
Press-Enterprise
Cathedral City resident Jose Sarria, the first openly gay candidate for public
office and a legendary San Francisco drag queen, might be mentioned someday
in California's school textbooks.
Next month, the Democrat-controlled Legislature will give final consideration
to a bill requiring California's K-12 textbooks to mention lesbian, gay, bisexual
and transgender people and their contributions to state history.
The measure, authored by state Sen. Sheila Kuehl, D-Santa Monica, passed the
Senate with only Democratic votes this year. It is pending in the Assembly,
where it has the support of Speaker Fabian Nunez, D-Los Angeles.
"Right now, there's an effort to exclude (gays and lesbians) in textbooks,
so their reputation to children is that gay and lesbians never did anything
good," said Kuehl, who in 1994 became the first openly gay legislator elected
in California.In 1961, Sarria ran for a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors
but did not win.
Opponents of the bill do not think discussion of sexual orientation has any
place in the classroom.
"We've received over 15,000 letters opposing this bill, more letters by
far than on any other bill or issue in my life," said state Sen. Dennis
Hollingsworth, R-Murrieta, who voted against the bill in May.
Sarria, 83, who challenged sodomy laws in the 1950s, called the bill a civil-rights
issue whose time has come.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_H_textbook21.1dcbea4.html
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14. NEWS: Fired gay teacher sues Lake Tahoe
district
by Ann Rostow
PlanetOut Network
July 17, 2006
A popular math teacher has sued the Lake Tahoe Unified School District,
alleging that her contract was discontinued as result of her sexual orientation.
Torril Purvis, 34, went to work for the district during the 2004-2005 school
year under a probationary contract after teaching for nearly a decade at other
schools. Under California law, probationary teachers have the right to continue
for a second year unless district officials vote to terminate the contract before
March 15 of the second year.
Indeed, Purvis was handed a "notice of non-reelection" Feb. 24, 2005,
and told by her middle school principal, Jackie Nelson, that she was "not
a good match" for the district. The district's board of governors had voted
her out at a meeting two days earlier.
Until that day in February, Purvis had no idea that there was anything amiss
at work. According to the lawsuit, Nelson had been quite friendly until a staff
birthday party in January, when Purvis brought her partner of 10 years, Stacy
Smith, and introduced her to Nelson. After that, the complaint reports, Nelson
became distant.
Purvis asked the district to reconsider, to no avail. Once word got around,
the district in South Lake Tahoe, Calif., was flooded with letters and calls
from parents and co-workers advocating for Purvis.
California law has no tolerance for sexual-orientation discrimination in the
educational arena, or anywhere else for that matter. Purvis, who had just built
a house with Smith at the time of her firing, is charging the district with
sexual-orientation discrimination and harassment and requesting a jury trial.
At trial, she will seek damages for loss of income, emotional distress, and
attorney fees and costs.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.gay.com/news/election/article.html?2006/07/17/4
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*********************************************
15. NEWS: Gay group gets green light at Kentucky high
school
by 365Gay.com
Newscenter Staff
July 20, 2006
(Covington, Kentucky) Boone County High School has ended more than a year of
stonewalling and avoided a federal lawsuit by finally approving the formation
of a Gay-Straight Alliance.
The school's Site-Based Council unanimously approved the formation of the club
at a meeting Wednesday night.
In June, the Kentucky Equality Association said in a letter to school administrators
that LGBT students at Boone County High School were the victims of discrimination.
The organization also said that the school's action may be illegal under the
Kentucky Education Reform Act and threatened to go to court.
In its letter to the school the Equality Association reminded it that the Federal
Equal Access Act requires schools to treat GSA's as they would any other school
group.
While the school delayed making a decision on whether it would allow a GSA to
organize it approved 16 other clubs including one dedicated to the animated
cartoon, Anime.
"It was both remarkable and wonderful to see various groups and organizations
from two states in the same room to support such a wonderful cause; to make
sure our gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and questioning teenagers have
a school club were they are accepted, and can talk freely in a non-threatening
environment," said Jordan Palmer, President of the Kentucky Equality Association
in a statement following Wednesday night's vote.
GSAs are in schools across the country. In areas where school boards have attempted
to block them Federal courts have repeatedly ruled in favor of the students.
Recent cases were in Utah, California and Indiana.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/Newscon06/07/072006kyhi.htm
Please note that during the months of July and August GSA Network News will be bi-weekly instead of weekly.
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Warped Tour
Go directly to GSA Network
highlight
GSA Network Announcements
1. Urgent Request from Senator Sheila Kuehl
2. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE NOW - SPOTS GOING FAST!
3. Join GSA Network at the SF AIDS WALK (San Francisco)
4. GSA Network is Hiring! - Development Coordinator (San Francisco)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements
Other Announcements
Northern California
5. Hate Crimes: Combating Gay & Transgender "Panic" Strategies
6. Two youth groups meet at Lambda Community Center
7. Be part of building a new Youth Center in Richmond!
8. August 2006 Community Programs at JFCS in Marin
Go directly to Northern California listings
National
9. Let your voice be heard! Contribute to COLAGE's one-of-a-kind publication,
Just For Us!
10. Logo needs you on TV!
Go directly to National listings
Jobs
11. JOBS: Looking for a job? - Come to Youthline!
12. JOBS: Prevention Program Coordinator - Marin Prevention Department
13. JOBS: Path 2 Case Manager - New Connections
14. JOBS: Safety Network Community Organizer - Sunset Neighborhood Beacon Center
Go directly to Jobs listings
News
15. NEWS: Girls suspected of being lesbians can sue school
16. NEWS: Mother of murdered trans teen pleads with Calif. Senate to pass 'Gay
Panic' bill
17. NEWS: Hostile debate on same-sex marriage harmful to children
18. NEWS: Gays, ex-gays square off at NEA convention
Go directly to News listings
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
GSA Network does the "Warped Tour"
GSA Network was able to hold a table for the first time at Warped Tour in Fresno!
With much support from youth and adult allies we were able to get many youth
to sign up to help out at events and receive more information regarding Youth
Council meetings and GSA Network's mission. It was satisfying just to get our
name out to a community that is often left out and overlooked. The event was
huge! One youth who was able to come and man the table stated that she had "never
seen so many people and everyone is so different." Another youth said,
"I'm not being stared at for being different, because everyone is different".
It was so gratifying to see the faces of the youth while they were talking to
people about GSA Network. Everyone was excited to be in a space of diversity.
Surprisingly, we didn't hear any slurs while we were out there. Fresno is in
the Central Valley, where it is very conservative, and we frequently hear slurs
and experience confrontations regarding lgbt issues. For once, we didn't hear
anything hateful.
We were able to share a tent with other organization who shared the same message
as we did, equality. All the youth seemed extremely aware of who they were and
what they needed from the different organizations. I was impressed with how
organized the event was. We can't wait until next year, and hope to see more
youth out there supporting us. Thank you to all who helped man the table.
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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
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1. Urgent Request from Senator Sheila Kuehl
Please take a few minutes of your time to read Senator Sheila Kuehl's
message below re: SB 1437. Call the Governor's office to add your
support for this critical bill.
********************************
Dear Everybody:
A few weeks ago, I asked you to write and call the Governor in support of SB
1437, the fair curriculum bill. As the opponents of the bill continue to barrage
his office and held a rally at the Capitol, I believe it is useful to continue
to call and write as the bill goes through the Assembly. As you know, the Governor
has set up an automated system for this bill, pro and con and it takes about
15 seconds to record your support. Please continue to do this from each of your
phones and also please circulate it widely. The original message is also reproduced
below, in case you want to forward it.
here's how to call:
CALL the governor's office: 916-445-2841
press 1 for English
press 2 for legislation
press 1 for SB1437- Bias Free Curriculum Act
press 1 to support it!
thanx!
here's my original message:
Dear Friends who are getting this for the first time: The Governor, in an unprecedented
move, since the bill is only now making its way through the Assembly and is
nowhere near his desk, threatened to veto my bill, SB 1437, which would simply
help make our schools safe for ALL students. Currently, the law requires that
the historical roles and contributions of traditionally underrepresented groups
be included in the curriculum, while prohibiting discrimination against these
groups in instructional materials. SB 1437 would add the role and contributions
of LGBT people, and expand the prohibition of curricular discrimination to include
sexual orientation and gender identity. I need every possible person to let
the Governor know the bill has support out here in the real California. Calling
the Governor's office to leave your feedback will take less than a minute of
your time(see above for how). The Christian Right is mobilizing phone calls
to the Governor's office (encouraging people to phone multiple times from their
home, cell, and office phones). Research shows that violence and discrimination
against students who are or are preceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender
(LGBT) is still rampant in our schools, but an inclusive and bias-free curriculum
that talks about the contributions of LGBT people to our society (SB 1437) and
strong policies against discrimination (AB 606)can stem the tide of that violence
and harassment.
If there is to be any chance of reversing the Governor's announced plans to
veto SB 1437, everyone needs to phone the Governor's office in support, now,
and continue to call and vote over the next months. The vast majority of Californians
want our schools to be safe for all our children regardless of their actual
or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Don't let a small hateful
minority dominate the discussion .
More Information on the Bill:
SB 1437(Kuehl) - the Bias Free Curriculum Act updates existing protections against
biased curriculum to include sexual orientation and gender identiy bias.
The bill also expands the law that requires our history text books to include
the contributions of under-represented minorities (women, African Americans,
Asian Americans, etc) to include LGBT people. For further information, click
here.
*********************************************
2. GSA Network Activist Camps! APPLY ONLINE NOW -
SPOTS GOING FAST!
The GSA Activist Camps are youth-planned and youth-led
intense 3-day events featuring hardcore community building, skill-building,
political education, and leadership training for GSA members. All youth who
will be involved in a high school or middle school GSA next year are strongly
encouraged to apply.
Central Valley Activist Camp - Fresno
August 11th - 13th, 2006
NEW DATE and LOCATION
Northern California Activist Camp - Fresno
August 11th - 13th, 2006
Exciting News!! We have decided to join the Northern California and Central Valley Camps this year to make one large, super fun, networking extravaganza!! This year the Northern California Camp will take place in sunny Fresno, California where we will house you at Fresno State University for three days of trainings, networking and FUN!! Lots of great activities including swimming, ping pong and pool.
TRANSPORTATION WILL BE PROVIDED FROM SAN FRANCISCO TO FRESNO!!
APPLY ONLINE! Click
here to get more info and apply online!
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3. Join GSA Network at the SF AIDS WALK (San Francisco)
One easy way to give back this summer is by joining the LGBTQ youth walking
contingent that will be participating in the San Francisco AIDS Walk on Sunday,
July 16, in Golden Gate Park. GSA Network and the Lavender Youth Recreation
and Information Center (LYRIC) are teaming up to make sure LGBTQ and straight
ally youth have a huge presence at this year's AIDS Walk.
Get MOVING: AIDS Walk San Francisco - July 16, 2006
Get REGISTERED: For more information, contact Jaedon at LYRIC (jaedon@lyric.org)
or 415.703.6150 x13
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4. GSA Network is Hiring! - Development Coordinator (San Francisco)
GSA Network seeks a part-time (20 hours per week) Development Coordinator to
coordinate and support all aspects of the organization's growing individual
donor program and development department systems. The Development Coordinator
will be the first development staff member at GSA Network, and will work closely
with the Executive Director, and development and special events consultants,
to implement the annual fundraising plan ($86,250 from individuals in 2006,
which is 9% of GSA Network's total budget). GSA Network now has 600 individual
donors who contribute through personal solicitations of the Board and Executive
Director, direct mail, a monthly pledge program, one annual fundraising event,
and occasional house parties. The Development Coordinator will play an important
role in helping GSA Network expand all of these activities and build stronger
relationships with all individual donors. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth
leadership and empowerment, an understanding of youth culture, and commitment
to social change is required for all positions at GSA Network.
To get more information about the job and how to apply, visit: www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
Equal Opportunity Employer:
GSA Network, a project of the Tides Center, is an equal opportunity employer
and encourages applications from youth, people of color, people of all sexual
orientations and gender identities, and people with disabilities.
++++++++++++++++ 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.
Northern California
*********************************************
5. Hate Crimes: Combating Gay & Transgender "Panic"
Strategies
'Panic' strategies have been used by criminal defendants to claim that their
culpability for committing homicide or violent assault is mitigated when the
victim is a lesbian, gay or transgender person.
San Francisco District Attorney Kamala D. Harris and Co-Sponsors The California
District Attorneys Association, The National District Attorneys Association,
Hastings College of the Law, Transgender Law Center, and The National Center
for Lesbian Rights invite you to join us in San Francisco for Hate Crimes: Combating
Gay & Transgender "Panic" Strategies.
This multitrack conference will instruct prosecutors, peace officers, investigators
and victim/witness advocates on: countering "panic" strategies from
the investigatory phase through trial; seeking hate crime enhancements and addressing
the problems often encountered; victim services; and restitution.
There is no charge for this event.
Conference:
Thursday, July 20 & Friday, July 21 at Hastings
College of the Law 198 McAllister Street (free of charge, please register)
Town Hall Meeting & Reception: Thursday evening, July 20 at The Center 1800
Market Street (free & open to the public)
Reception: 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Town Hall Meeting: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Guest Speakers:
Sylvia Guerrero, mother of Gwen Araujo
Dave O'Malley, former Police Chief of Laramie, Wyoming and Chief Investigator
in the Matthew Shepard murder case
Fiscal Sponsor:
The Transgender Law Center
Conference Partners:
National Black Prosecutors Association; The Charles R. Williams Institute, UCLA
School of Law; Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area;
Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund; National Center for Lesbian Rights;
National Lesbian and Gay Law Association; Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom;
Triangle Foundation; Community United Against Violence; Transgender Law Center.
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6. Two youth groups meet at Lambda Community Center
The Lambda Community Center is located at 1927 L Street in midtown Sacramento.
Wednesday Youth Group
For Youth, By Youth Support Group, 6-8 pm
For LGBTI youth ages 13 - 19, this is a partnership with Sacramento County Mental
Health Association. Values that are cultivated and reinforced include positive
mental health, techniques that enable self-help, promote positive social networking
and healthy recreational activities, reinforce strong positive messages about
gender and sexual orientation, promote positive values, self-worth, and personal
dignity. Facilitators Elsa Lyon and Margie Wells. (916) 442-0185.
Friday Youth Group
Come and join us Friday nights. The meeting starts at 8:00 p.m., but get there
at 7:30 to meet up with friends new and old. You can meet the leadership team,
too! Participate in our fun, educational, and thought-provoking discussions
as we tackle topics facing queer youth. The last Friday of every month is your
time to shine! That's right, it's youth slam. Show off your talent. Bring in
some poetry, an essay, a CD to sing, an instrument to play, or show us some
art! It's your time in the spotlight, so share your talent with us. fridayyouth@lambdasac.org
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7. Be part of building a new Youth Center in Richmond!
Dear Community Member,
Greetings! We invite you to participate in an information session to learn more
about the planning for a youth center opening in Richmond in the Fall of 2007.
As part of this planning process, we are seeking program partners to develop
the programming for the center as envisioned by the Youth Council, an advisory
board of 15 youth and young adults representing various constituent groups that
is instrumental in making key decisions for the Center. This session is intended
for adult staff of youth serving and organizing to learn more about the center’s
vision and planning process.
Please join us to find out how your agency can get involved in program design
and development.
Background: The concept for a youth center in Richmond emerged out of Youth
Together’s “Youth Speak Out Against Violence” Forum, attended
by over 300 youth and community members from Richmond and San Pablo, in response
to the tragic death of four high school youth from Richmond in December 2000.
In the months to follow, Youth Together conducted a community-wide survey to
get information about resources needed in the community that would reduce violence
experienced by and acted out by youth. The surveys indicated that youth needed
a supportive and safe “place to hang out” that was outside of school
and which offered cultural and art activities, educational and career support
services, and opportunities. Since then, Supervisor John Gioia’s
office has spearheaded the planning and the securing of resources for the Center.
The planning process is being led by a Launch Committee with representatives
from diverse communities, youth-serving organizations and the public sector
(city, county and school district).
Program Committee: The Program Committee will be comprised of diverse youth-serving
organizations that reflect the program priorities set by the Youth Council and
the Launch Committee. The organizations will span from Richmond, North Richmond,
San Pablo, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Montalvin Manor and East Richmond Heights
and will also include model programs for other Bay Area communities. We will
invite agencies interested in participating to submit a form that provides an
overview of their work, their vision for the collaboration and other background
information. In collaboration with the Youth Council, the Program Committee
will review the forms and invite selected agencies to participate in the initial
program design for the Center. There will then be opportunities for those not
initially selected or unable to commit the level of time requested to provide
input and build collaborations later in the planning process. Participation
on the Program Committee does not guarantee that an agency will provide services
at the Center and not participating does not eliminate the possibility of providing
services. The Committee will identify programming and agencies to partner on
or off-site as well as support fundraising and community outreach.
The Information Session: The Program Committee will play a significant role
in the planning of this Center and requires a significant commitment of time
and level of participation. We will distribute application packets including
details on the role and responsibilities of Program Committee members, an interest
form, and a timeline for the work ahead.
For more information and to RSVP, please email Sara Kershnar, lead planning
consultant, at (510) 685-5347 or skershna@earthlink.net. If you are interested
in being involved in the planning process but unable to attend the informational
session, please contact us by phone or email. Attached is a fact sheet that
gives more information on the history of and planning process for this youth
center.
We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, July 12 from 6 to 7:30pm!
Thank you!
The Richmond Youth Center Launch Committee
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8. August 2006 Community Programs at JFCS in Marin
Unless otherwise noted, these programs will be held at Jewish Family and Children’s
Services at 600 Fifth Avenue in San Rafael.
Sliding-Fee, Nonsectarian Programs Open to All Back-to-School To-Dos (for parents
of 6- to 10-year olds)
The school year is about to begin. Want to make sure this year is one of your
child’s best? Winnie Fink of GreatParents will share a back-to-school
guide and shopping list with you. She’ll cover everything from how to
use report cards and test scores to set goals to what to discuss with your child’s
teacher, and more. Wednesday, August 30, 7:00 to 8:30 pm. $20 per person. Sliding
fee scale available. Pre-registration required. Contact Bonni Schiff at 415/419-3632
or BonniS@jfcs.org or register online at www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.
Good Sleep Habits, Happy Children (for parents of 18-month to 6
year-olds)
Not only is lack of sleep a major cause of behavior challenges in young children,
but it is a major contributor to the parents’ fatigue as well. Learn how
to best set the stage for healthy sleep habits along with strategies to help
with challenges. Tuesday, August 8, 6:30 to 9:30 pm. With Bonnie Romanow. $25
per person. Pre-registration required. Contact Bonni Schiff at 415/419-3632
or BonniS@jfcs.org or register online at www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.
Volunteers Needed!
Wanted: A Receptionist for JFCS in Marin
If you’d like to spend some time sitting in our lovely front office, greeting
people, answering the phone, and helping JFCS to help others, we have just the
job for you! JFCS needs a volunteer who can cover for our receptionist from
time to time. It’s not a hard job, but it’s a very important one.
Think you might be interested? Contact Bonni Schiff at 415/419-3632 or BonniS@jfcs.org.
Brighten A Senior’s Life
The JFCS Senior Companionship Program matches up volunteers with homebound seniors.
As a companion, you’ll build a relationship with a senior through weekly
visits, and JFCS will provide training and educational support. A little heart
goes a long way. Please consider becoming a Senior Companion. Contact Lorraine
Harris at 415/419-3634 or LorraineH@jfcs.org.
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National
*********************************************
9. Let your voice be heard! Contribute to COLAGE's one-of-a-kind publication,
Just For Us!
JFU is the only publication dedicated to the words, thoughts, opinions, and
experiences of people with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender parents
- and we want to hear from YOU.
Our next issue of Just For Us will be focused on school! We want to hear about
your hallways, classrooms, teachers, extra-curricular activities, and more.
Whether you're still in school, already graduated, getting home schooled, attending
public or private school, you have a story to tell the world about what it's
like for kids with LGBTQ parents.
Some questions to consider:
Are you able to be open about your family in school?
Do you ever hear about LGBT families in the classroom? What gets said, and what
do you think about it?
What's going on at your school to make it a welcoming place for everyone? Why
did you decide to get involved?
If you are already out of school, do you have any stories or memories related
to having LGBT parents?
How does your experience of school change as you grow? Do you think there are
differences between elementary, middle, high school, and college when it comes
to our families?
Submissions may take almost any format - share your personal stories, essays,
interviews, poems, artwork, reviews, or send us pictures of yourself or your
family. We will work with you to make sure your story is told in your own words,
the way you want it - you, the contributor, have final approval of your piece
before it goes to print. You can submit a finished piece or let us interview
you - it's up to you.
Please limit your pieces to two-dimensional and 500-750 words or less.
Each submission should include a brief bio, and a picture (digital images are
preferred!).
Deadline for submissions is August 11th so get your thoughts down on paper and
let your voice be heard! To contribute to JFU, or if you have questions about
being a contributor, contact us at jfu@colage.org.
Looking forward to hearing from you all!
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10. Logo needs you on TV!
RECONNECT with loved ones. Did you have a falling-out when you came out? Are
you estranged from important people in your life because they do not approve
of your sexual orientation? Do you have a significant life-changing event
coming up like a wedding, a childbirth, a serious illness or surgical procedure,
that is compelling you to reunite with people who have written you off? Would
you like to reconnect with your former loved ones and share your story on national
television? The Logo network is interested in you.
Please email the casting directors: casting@grbtv.com or call (818)728-7679
or (818) 728-4109$$$
The selected applicant will be compensated - $$$
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Jobs:
*********************************************
11. Looking for a job? - Come to Youthline!
COME TO YOUTHLINE! COME TO CHALK!
Communities in Harmony Advocating for Learning and Kids (CHALK)
We are hiring 17 youth for 2 part-time positions:
CHALK Outreach Worker
* Give out information about CHALK and other youth services throughout SF neighborhoods
* Speak publicly on youth issues
* Conduct presentations in schools and youth programs
Youthline Listener
* Provide peer support, crisis intervention, and information on youth services
to youth in SF through Youthline’s phone based service.
And guess what?
No prior experience necessary. We will train you.
Must be 14-17 years old. Must live in San Francisco.
Pay rate $9.00/per hour.
We are looking to fill about 17 positions
Want more info? Want an application?
Call Mara at 415-977-6949 ext. 303
Call Monday-Friday between 12:00-6:00pm
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12. Prevention Program Coordinator - Marin Prevention Department
Position Title: Prevention Program Coordinator
Department: Marin Prevention Department
FTE/Classification: Full-Time – non exempt
Reports to: Director of Prevention - Marin
Location: Marin County
The Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) builds communities where young people and
their adult allies come together to create positive social change. We design
and implement community-based programs that provide youth with leadership skills
in the areas of prevention, philanthropy, and policy and civic engagement. Building
on these real-world program experiences, YLI creates evidence-based curricula
and training programs that enable us to engage in social change efforts across
the nation, all while promoting best practices in the field of youth development.
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
The prevention program will assist with the coordination of two multifaceted
initiatives, which are both designed to prevent problems associated with underage
drinking: (1) the Communities Mobilizing for Change on Alcohol (CMCA) model,
a nationally recognized model designed to reduce access to alcohol and (2) the
Breaking the Link model, a local model designed to address alcohol-related sexual
assault among youth and young adults in Marin County. YLI and its partners will
train and support Youth Councils to create school and community environments
that promote health and support youth development by implementing environmental
prevention strategies to address the issues of underage drinking. The Prevention
Coordinator is responsible for coordinating all of the logistics and functional
tasks necessary for meeting the goals and objectives of the Youth Councils and
other program elements, and for ensuring that the young people in the program
are having high quality personal experiences. The Prevention Coordinator will
maintain all day-to-day operations of the initiative, collaborate with partners
and lead the implementation of the social norms campaign and policy change campaigns
throughout Marin County.
To apply, please email cover letter, resume and writing sample to: careers@yli.org
Subject: Marin County Prevention Coordinator Application
The Youth Leadership Institute does not discriminate against its employees
or applicants based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age,
medical condition, ability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation,
or any other impermissible basis.
This job description subject to revision.
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13. Path 2 Case Manager - New Connections
In the Multicultural Community Counseling Program
The mission of New Connections is to empower individuals and their families
to lead lives which are healthy, productive, satisfying and free of substance
abuse.
The Case Manager works within New Connections and the Children and Family Services
Differential Response System of Care. The Path 2 Case Manager is responsible
for providing home-and office-based case management services to families in
the Monument Corridor Community of Concord. Responsibilities include direct
services to families, maintenance of case records, work as part of a multi-agency
team and flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
The Path 2 Case Manager is a full-time (40 hours per week), non-exempt position.
The position reports directly to the agency’s Director of School Counseling.
The starting salary range for the Path 2 Case Manager is $36,000 to $40,000
annually. Positions of 20 hours or more at New Connections are also eligible
for a variety of benefits, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance
coverage, professional development, and clinical supervision towards licensure.
Applications for available positions should include a cover
letter and résumé, and may be emailed to Barbara Petterson, MFT
at bpatterson@newconnections.org or faxed to her attention at 925.363.5075.
New Connections is an equal opportunity employer, and
does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity,
culture, age, disability, gender or sexual orientation. Recovering people and
people of color are encouraged to apply.
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14. Safety Network Community Organizer - Sunset
Neighborhood Beacon Center
Title: Safety Network Community Organizer
Organization: Sunset Neighborhood Beacon Center
Reports to: SNBC Director of Community Programs
Location: SNBC Administrative Office/ Outer Sunset District
Salary: $32,000 - $34,000 DOE and full benefits
FT, Exempt, 40 hours per week - Many evenings and some weekends required
Looking to hire as soon as possible. To apply, please send cover letter and
resume to:
Safety Network Community Organizer
Sunset Neighborhood Beacon Center
3925 Noriega Street
San Francisco, CA 94122
magee@snbc.org
Fax: 415-759-0883
No phone calls please.
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News
*********************************************
15. NEWS: Girls suspected of being lesbians can sue
school
by Bob Egelko
San Francisco Chronicle
June 28, 2006
SAN FRANCISCO -- The California Supreme Court today allowed two Riverside County
girls to sue a Christian high school that expelled them because the principal
believed they were lesbians.
The court unanimously denied review of an appeal by the California Lutheran
High School Association, which argued that a religious school has the right
to exclude gays and lesbians, regardless of California's anti-discrimination
law. Today's action did not resolve that issue but allowed the suit to proceed
toward a possible trial.
The girls, both juniors at the school in the town of Wildomar, were expelled
in September. According to their lawsuit, which was filed in December, school
principal Gregory Bork said he had learned that the students might be involved
in a relationship, and coerced one of them into saying she loved the other one.
In a letter to the girls' parents, Bork said the students had violated the school's
code of conduct, which prohibits actions "contrary to Christian decency.''
The school is owned by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, which considers
homosexuality sinful.
To read the full story, visit:
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/06/28/MNGG4JLVOM4.DTL&hw=lesbian&sn=002&sc=947
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16. NEWS: Mother Of Murdered Trans Teen Pleads With
Calif. Senate To Pass 'Gay Panic' Bill
365Gay.com
June 28, 2006
(Sacramento, California) The mother of Gwen Araujo made a passionate plea Tuesday
before a California Senate committee for support of legislation curbing the
so-called gay panic defense.
"Since my daughter was killed, my family and I have spent literally thousands
of hours working hard to make sure that California is a state where everyone
is respected and treated fairly," Sylvia Guerrero. told the Senate Committee
on Public Safety.
The Gwen Araujo Justice for Victims Act would place restrictions on the way
the defense tactic is presented to juries.
If a defense attorney attempted to use the argument that a client committed
a crime out of panic because the victim were gay or trans a judge would be required
to instruct the jury that the use of societal bias, including so-called "panic
strategies," to influence the proceedings of a criminal trial is inconsistent
with the public policy of the State of California.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/Newscon06/06/062806araujo.htm
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17. NEWS: Hostile debate on same-sex marriage harmful
to children
By Susan Reimer
San Jose Mercury News
Jul. 05, 2006
The recent attempt in Congress to pass an amendment that would prohibit same-sex
marriages went down to defeat, despite the support of President Bush.
The defeat came just as an ABC News poll showed that support for such an amendment
had dropped again, in part, pollsters suggested, because socially inclusive
suburbanites are uncomfortable about writing discrimination into the Constitution.
So the revival of the marriage amendment died, but not before delivering fresh
harm to gay couples. And to their children.
One can only imagine what it is like for those children to overhear a negative
national conversation that says their parents are undermining the moral fabric
of this country.
Aside from the assault on Social Security benefits or employment benefits or
parental rights and what that can mean to the children of gay parents, this
debate is no good for the kids.
Scholars say that two decades of research has found no noticeable harm to children
growing up with gay or lesbian parents, except when they are subjected to bias
in the community or the unpleasant judgments of significant adults around them.
Seth Sanders, professor of economics at the University of Maryland, said that
although the studies tend to be small, "most of the literature finds no
difference in outcomes for the children, especially in areas like academic achievement."
In a recent survey of 20 years of the professional literature, Charlotte Patterson,
a psychology professor at the University of Virginia, found that household and
family issues are typical, whether the parents are gay or not.
"You cannot prove that one group of kids is identical to the other," she
said. "But over 20-plus years of research, has anyone found any noticeable
harm?
"The answer is, no," said Patterson, who is raising three children in a
lesbian partnership.
Judith Stacey, a New York University professor of gender and sexuality issues
and a visiting scholar at the Russell Sage Foundation, said a new generation
of studies that focuses on white, middle-class lesbians who choose to have kids
by artificial insemination shows very minor differences from heterosexual families."
"And a few of those differences actually favor the kids with lesbian moms,
she said. "They are generally both very involved parents."
That doesn't mean that the children are without problems, Patterson said.
"What we are saying is that the overall distribution of problems is similar
in the two groups," meaning the children of heterosexual parents and the children
of same-sex parents.
What you don't find, Patterson explained, is any more or fewer diagnosable disorders
or behavioral problems. Big things.
"What is clearer," said Patterson, "is that some of the big problems that
people in this community face come from outside their families. Bias in the
community or from school or from institutions. And these are really important."
It appears that the children of gay and lesbian couples are not the only children
who are profoundly affected by the tenor of this discussion.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/opinion/14968664.htm
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18. NEWS: Gays, Ex-Gays Square Off At NEA Convention
365Gay.com
July 2, 2006
(Orlando, Florida) Gays and others opposed to the so-called ex-gay movement
are protesting the inclusion of the controversial Ex-Gay Educators Caucus at
the National Education Association convention in Orlando this week.
Ex-Gay Educators Caucus, which believes homosexuality is "learned behavior"
and can be "cured" has been allowed to set up a booth at a trade fair
section of the convention, not far from a similar booth for LGBT educators.
Gay education groups have participated in NEA conventions for a number of years
but this is the first time the Ex-Gay Educators Caucus has been given formal
recognition.
"This is part of a new national strategy by right wing groups to peddle
a dangerous brand of "therapy" that the American Psychiatric Association
says leads to "anxiety, depression and self-destructive behavior,"
said Wayne Besen, the Executive Director of Truth WinsOut an LGBT group that
opposes the ex-gay movement.
Truth WinsOut and other LGBT groups have been protesting the inclusion the the
Caucus at the convention.
"This is the equivalent of advocating for smoking or junk food clubs in
our public schools," said Beson.
To read the full story, visit:
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