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GSA Network Highlight
Activists' Guide to Staying Active in the Summer
GSA Network Announcements
1. Join the GSA Network Youth Council!
2. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
3. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Other Announcements
4. Bay Area Gay Prom this month!! (Bay Area)
5. Silicon Valley Girls Coalition Meeting & Presentation
(South Bay/Peninsula)
6. Wipe Your Feet (Los Angeles)
7. The Chorizo Show (Los Angeles)
8. SAY What?! (San Jose)
9. Anytown Youth Leadership Institute (Northern California)
10. Student Organizing Yearbook: Submit Today!
11. Hands In (Alameda)
12. Graduation Call-In Days! (California)
13. "Operation: Frozen Freedom" (San Francisco)
14. GLSEN National Conference Scholarship
15. NEWS: Theater Co. and Parents Favor Novato School District's Diversity
Education Program
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT +++++++++++++++
Activists' Guide To Staying Active In the Summer
There's nothing like a well-deserved summer break from school to rest
your
mind, relax and replenish your energy supply. But don't turn into a
couch potato! Stay in shape! Exercise your activism during the summer months
ahead.
Try some of these cool ideas:
* Gather up your friends and pile into the car for a Pride Parade Tour!
Fresno- June 7th (contact Diana at mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org),
San Francisco- June 29th (contact John at mailto:john@gsanetwork.org).
Visit http://www.interpride.net/global_calendar.htm
to find the Pride event in your area.
* Go to GSA Activist Camp! Activist Camp is fun, fabulous, youth-led activist training for youth in GSAs. Visit http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp for information about Southern and Northern CA Activist Camp.
* Have a 4th of July INTERdependence Day Celebration! Celebrate activist values like cooperation, solidarity, unity, and global justice for all people.
* Take a field trip! Meet and support new student activists in their work in Merced. Tina, Jose and Courtney of Golden Valley High School invite your support at their Friday evening meetings of the Prism Group for LGBTQQ youth. The group meets every other Friday at 5:30 at the Planned Parenthood office in downtown Merced. The next meeting is Friday the 13th of June! For more information contact Diana at mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
* Plan a GSA summer social, preferably involving water such as a beach, lake, river, or pool!
* Plan a GSA fundraiser (preferably involving water) like a car wash!
* Have a phone conversation that makes a difference! If you are Latino or Caucasian and between 13-18 years old, the Family Acceptance Project wants to interview you and your family for important research on the lives of LGB youth in families. $25 awarded to each person interviewed. To see if you qualify and for more information, call 888-354-4222 (toll-free) or email mailto:familyproject@sfsu.edu.
And... if you're the type that just wants to get your feet wet before diving into bigger projects, how about going on line and completing the 2003 Student Safety Survey? http://www.gsanetwork.org/.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
1. Join the GSA Network Youth Council!
The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders who care about fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools. There are 3 Youth Councils: Northern California, Central California, and Southern California. Each Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the programs of the GSA Network in their region. Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region as well as set goals and establish priorities for the entire GSA Network.
The Youth Council meets once a month, generally on a Saturday. Meetings will take place in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Fresno. Typically, Youth Council members are also involved in planning and/or implementing other trainings and conferences, most of which happen on weekend days as well.
For more information and to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
*********************************************
2. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
GSA Activist Camp is a youth-planned and youth-led event that features intensive community building, skill-building, political education, and leadership training for GSA members. Last year's participants had a great experience, and we hope to make this year even better! All youth who will be involved in a GSA next year and who want to develop leadership skills, network with other youth activists, learn a lot, and have a fabulous time are encouraged to apply. Cost: $0-$100 sliding scale - no one turned away for lack of funds.
Northern California Camp: August 6-8 in Oakland. Application deadline: July 7, 2003
Southern California Camp: July 18-20 in Santa Monica. Application deadline: June 24, 2003
For an application and more information: http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp
*********************************************
3. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Please take a few minutes to fill out GSA Network's Year End Evaluation. Your comments are VERY important to us!
Access the evaluation online: http://www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
4. Bay Area Gay Prom this month!! (Bay Area)
What: AQUEERIUM! Gay Prom 2003
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2003
Time: 7-12Midnight
Location: Centennial Hall, 22292 Foothill Blvd. Hayward CA
Theme: Aqueerium: Separate We are One; Together We are Whole
Visual: Undersea themescape
Dress: To the theme, or formal **Gary's Tuxedo shops offers
"Lambda Gay Prom" discount!**
Cost: $20 in advance; $25 at the door
DJ Music, Raffle Prizes, King King Queen Queen contest
Light snacks and beverages available for small costs (like .50 and
..75)
Note: This is a CLEAN and SOBER EVENT
Last year, we had over 400 queer youth and str8 allies show up, and we expect even more this year!
Check out http://www.gayprom.org
for this year's info.
Call 510/247-8200 for tickets.
*********************************************
5. Silicon Valley Girls Coalition Meeting & Presentation (South
Bay/Peninsula)
The Silicon Valley Girls Coalition
Invites you to their bimonthly meeting & presentation
Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Girls
Friday July 18th from 11:00-1:00 p.m.
@ The Mid-Peninsula YWCA
4161 Alma Street Palo Alto
*This event is Free
*Drinks and Desert will be served
RSVP by July 10th at
408-299-5123 or mailto:Whitney.Smith@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us
Join us for a panel presentation and discussion of issues facing lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered young women in Santa Clara County and learn more about how you can be a supportive ally and make your programs and services inclusive for all young women.
Panelists Include:
YWCA Mid-Peninsula's Outlet Group and Facilitators
For more information
mailto:whitney.smith@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us
or call 408-299-5122
http://www.owascc.org
*********************************************
6. Wipe Your Feet (Los Angeles)
TRACK 16 & The REACH LA Youth Arts Collective present:
Wipe Your Feet
June 7 - June 27, 2003 Track 16 Gallery
Reception June 7 6-10pm
Group exhibition features photography, digital works, and paintings by young artists ages 17-23: Amanda Alfieri, Esperanza Barajas, Norma Barajas, Mando Blanco, Hector Flores, Christopher Harris,Taizet Hernandez, Ana Lopez, Franco Marino, Ana Rodriguez
Track 16 Gallery
Bergamont Station
2525 Michigan Ave C1
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310)264-4678
This project was made possible by a grant from the California Arts Council, a State Agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal Agency
The REACH LA Digital Media Arts Program for Youth is also funded in
part by generous grants from:
William C. Bannerman Foundation Community Technology Foundation of
California Liberty Hill Foundation, Lesbian & Gay Community Fund
*********************************************
7. The Chorizo Show (Los Angeles)
The Chorizo Show
Friday June 27, at 8pm - Track 16 Gallery
Don't you miss it!! The event will include spoken word, video, audio works performance by Jarritos de Miel a.k.a. the Honeypots
Admission will be $5.00. Seating is limited
Please RSVP to (310) 264-4678
For more info http://www.track16.com
A project of REACH LA, a Youth Arts in Action Organization, under the
direction of Gina Lamb.
For more information contact Ana Lopez
(213)622-1650 ex. 104
http://www.reachla.org
Track 16 Gallery
Bergamont Station
2525 Michigan Ave C1
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310)264-4678
This project was made possible by a grant from the California Arts Council,
a State Agency,
and the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal Agency
The REACH LA Digital Media Arts Program for Youth is also funded in
part by generous grants from:
William C. Bannerman Foundation Community Technology Foundation of
California Liberty Hill Foundation, Lesbian & Gay Community Fund
*********************************************
8. SAY What?! (San Jose)
The Bill Wilson Center and the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Network are sponsoring an event for youth, planned by youth. (ages 14-22) Here are the details...
SAY What?!
(Sex And Youth What?!)
When is it? - Friday, June 20th
What Time? - 4:00pm - 11:30pm
Where is it? - Parkside Hall (180 Park Ave, San Jose)
What is it? - SAY What?! is a fun and educational even based around sexual health and relationships. There will be entertaining and informative workshops, youth resource fair, dinner, prizes, speakers, performers (spoken word, fire dancers, belly dancers), and as if that weren't enough, the evening will conclude with a giant dance.
Sounds like fun right? Well then, come on down, bring your friends, and have a good time.
RSVP by June 16 and receive 2 free raffle tickets!
Child care available - please call in advance.
For more information call 408-289-5829, or email
Sharon at mailto:sp4bwc@yahoo.com
Jason at mailto:jb4bwc@yahoo.com
Danielle at mailto:db4bwc@yahoo.com
*********************************************
9. Anytown Youth Leadership Institute (Northern California)
(EDITOR'S NOTE: This event conflicts with the GSA Network Northern California Activist Camp. See above for announcement about Camp.)
What is National Conference for Community and Justice's Anytown Youth
Leadership Institute?
CCJ's Anytown Youth Leadership Institute is an intensive human relations,
diversity, anti-oppression and leadership skill building experience for
high school-aged youth. The week-long residential program brings
together young people from diverse backgrounds to explore their multifaceted
identities, confront their own prejudices, learn how to recognize and counter
bias, gain advocacy skills, and acquire tools to become proactive leaders
for social justice. Anytown provides a unique opportunity and a safe
environment for youth to explore their own identities and biases and learn
the value of creating an inclusive society.
When will this year's Anytown take place?
NCCJ's Anytown Youth Leadership Institute will take place August 3-9,
2003.
Where will the Institute take place, and what about facilities, lodging
and meals?
CCJ's 2003 Anytown will be held at the YMCA Point Bonita Outdoor &
Conference Center in the Marin Headlands, at the northern end of
the Golden Gate Bridge, overlooking the entrance to the San Francisco Bay.
The dormitory style lodging and all meeting rooms are heated, and dormitories
are connected to common restrooms with hot showers. "All-you-can-eat"
meals are served three times a day and snacks and water are available throughout
the day. Staff are trained to handle emergency situations, with National
Park Service emergency personnel only 5 minutes away.
Who can apply?
Any young person who is 16 to 18 years of age can apply to be a delegate
at NCCJ's Anytown. Applicants should be physically and emotionally
capable of participating in a program which challenges them to discuss
their experiences with and attitudes about human relations issues.
NCCJ encourages people of all racial, religious, ethnic, gender, sexual
orientation, class, cultural, ability and other identity groups to apply.
How much does NCCJ's Anytown cost?
Tuition for the week-long Institute is $750. Tuition includes
lodging, meals, insurance, Institute programs, materials, transportation
from a meeting location in San Francisco to the campsite, follow-up activities,
and more. A $50 non-refundable deposit must be sent with your application
and covers the processing of the application and reserves a place at the
Institute. The deposit can be paid by check or money order made payable
to "NCCJ." The deposit will be returned if you are not accepted to
NCCJ's Anytown. Refunds of the deposit will not be given for cancellations.
What if I can't pay the tuition?
Financial aid is available based on need. Enclose the $50 processing
fee and fill out the financial aid section of the application. If
we cannot provide the amount you need, we will refund your $50 deposit.
Delegates are encouraged to raise as much of the tuition as possible.
You should also contact your/your child's school or other organizations
to inquire about sponsorship to provide financial support.
Questions? Call: 415-561-2283
*********************************************
10. Student Organizing Yearbook: Submit Today!
It's been another full year of exciting things happening in schools
and
student clubs across the country. Wanna make sure a piece of
your efforts
go down in history??? Submit your own article, story or artwork to
the
Student Organizing Yearbook and be published in this awesome review
of
student organizing for safer schools.
Read the guidelines and submission rules online at:
http://www.glsen.org/templates/student/record.html?section=48&record=457
*********************************************
11. Hands In (Alameda)
What: Interactive workshops, arts, performances, and more!
Where: HOME BASE 2750 Todd St., Alameda, CA 94501 (Former Naval Station)
When: Saturday, June 7 from 9am-4pm
Adults: $15
Youth: FREE
Hands In Project 2003 is an all day event hosted by youth and adults from different Bay Area youth organizations in collaboration with HOME and the Bay Area School of Enterprise (BASE). This event is to reaffirm, that especially in times like these, great work is happening in the Bay Area that is positively changing the world. It is time to acknowledge, celebrate and rejuvenate each and everyone who is making positive change in our youth and in our communities.
For more information call Etsuko Kubo @ 510-748-4314 x312
mailto:handsin2003@yahoo.com
*********************************************
12. Graduation Call-In Days! (California)
The Campaign for Quality Education
invites you to join us in the...
GRADUATION CALL-IN DAYS!!
Make your voice HEARD on June 5th, 6th, 9th, &10th!
This year, June is Graduation month for thousands of students throughout the state. Next year might be the year thousands of students are denied diplomas unless we do something about it NOW!
Before the June State Board of Education meeting, we will flood state board members' phone lines to tell them that DENYING diplomas is unfair! Whether you are a student, parent, grandparent, teacher or community member.... WE NEED YOU TO CALL-IN!!
Call one or more of the following contacts:
1. Reed Hastings, President of the Board, and the other 9 state board
members @ 916-319-0827*
2. Kerry Mazzoni, Office of the Secretary of Education in the
Governor's office @ 916-323-0611*
3. Jack O'Connell, State Superintendent of Public Instruction @ 916-319-0801*
*After your calls, please contact Lisa Castellanos in the CFJ/San Jose office at 408-292-9476 or mailto:lisa@caljustice.org to help us keep track of the total # of calls made by your organization/group.
What to say:
Hello. My name is _____ and I am a (student/parent/teacher/etc.)
and I live in (city). I am calling today to leave a message for (insert
name) to demand that the State Board of Education vote to delay the exit
exam until all students have an opportunity to learn and there are alternative
assessments. A delay of one to three years with no commitment to
monitor resources or provide a real opportunity to learn is terribly inadequate.
I hope (insert name) will make the right decision and support a delay of
the exist exam for the future of students and the state of California.
Thank you.
*********************************************
13. "Operation: Frozen Freedom" (San Francisco)
Mime Troupe
officially invites you and a guest to the annual Backyard Preview of
our NEW MUSICAL COMEDY...
Veronique of the Mounties
in "Operation: Frozen Freedom"
Wednesday, June 25, 2003 @ 5pm
Where: Mime Troupe Headquarters, 855 Treat Ave (between 21st &
22nd), San Francisco
FREE FOOD, FREE DRINK, FREE SHOW EH!
RSVP: 415-285-17117 or mailto:miche@sfmt.org
*********************************************
14. GLSEN National Conference Scholarship
LAST CHANCE TO APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP TO GLSEN NATIONAL CONFERENCE!
Join Hundreds of Students At GLSEN's National Conference: Teaching
Respect for All 2003
http://www.glsen.org/templates/student/record.html?section=45&record=1311
This year's conference takes place September 19-21 at the Hyatt Regency Capital Hill in Washington, DC. A lobby day, providing students and others opportunities to visit with elected officials in congress, will also be held prior to the national conference on Thursday, September 18, 2003. Scholarships are ONLY available to students registered in K-12 schools in Fall 2003.
Priority will be given to those who:
* haven't previously attended GLSEN's national conference;
* are starting or already involved in student clubs, commonly known
as
gay-straight alliances (GSAs) and other student organizing in their
K-12
school; and/or
* students who identify as students of color, transgender students,
straight
allies or students from the southern or western United States.
Learn more & APPLY ONLINE TODAY at:
http://www.glsen.org/templates/student/record.html?section=45&record=1311
*********************************************
15. NEWS: Theater Co. and Parents Favor Novato School District's
Diversity Education Program
ACLU and NCLR Intervene on Behalf of Theater Co. and Parents Who Favor Diversity Education to Help School District Defend Lawsuit
SAN FRANCISCO - A Novato parent group and a Los Angeles-based children's theater company filed a motion today in federal court to intervene as defendants in the case Citizens for Parental Rights v. Novato Unified School District. The American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California, ACLU of Southern California, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the national ACLU Lesbian & Gay Rights Project are representing a local coalition of parents, students, and organizations concerned with equality, United for Safe Schools Novato; and the educational theater company, Fringe Benefits.
The lawsuit attacked the Novato school district for presenting the theatre company's show in two elementary schools. The show, entitled "Cootie Shots: Theatrical Inoculations Against Bigotry," is a series of plays, poems and songs illustrating the hurtful effects of name-calling and strategies for coping with intolerance in a school setting. In one entertaining alternative to a traditional fairy tale, a tomboy encounters Rapunzel in her tower and persuades her to play outside instead of waiting for her prince.
"The school district did not violate anyone's rights," said Julia Harumi Mass, staff attorney with the ACLU of Northern California. "In fact, providing diversity education is an important way to protect students from discrimination and harassment. In a state as diverse as California, these programs are urgently needed to make our schools safe and fair for all students."
"As community members, we know that diversity education which represents all parts of our community is the best prevention against teasing, bullying and hate behavior," said Annan Paterson, co-chair of United for Safe Schools Novato. "We applaud the efforts of our school district to provide programs such as 'Cootie Shots' and want these educational opportunities to continue."
Students, parents, and educators throughout California and in other states have enthusiastically received the Cootie Shots show, but a small group of Novato parents objected to the show, claiming that they had a right to prevent their children from seeing it. United for Safe Schools Novato and Fringe Benefits decided to intervene and help the school district defend the lawsuit and its right to educate children about the values of diversity and acceptance.
National Center for Lesbian Rights joins the ACLU in representing the theater group and United for Safe Schools Novato. NCLR is the only national public interest law center dedicated to achieving full civil and human rights for all lesbians through a program of litigation, public policy, advocacy, community education, and free legal advice and counseling. "As advocates for lesbians, gay men, bisexual and transgender individuals, NCLR strongly supports the Novato school district's efforts to increase tolerance on campus through creative programs like 'Cootie Shots,'" said NCLR lawyer Courtney Joslin.
"Schools have an obligation to try to prevent harassment and promote diversity," said Tamara Lange, staff attorney with the national ACLU's Lesbian and Gay Rights Project. "We are concerned that this type of litigation will discourage schools from using valuable educational tools to protect kids in the future."
The case is pending in United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
A copy of the motion is available online at http://www.aclunc.org/
GSA Network Highlight
New GSA Network Youth Council Members
GSA Network Announcements
1. San Francisco Pride Parade (San Francisco)
2. Free Zone featured on ABC on Sunday (Bay Area)
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
4. Central Valley GSA Network & PRISM Meetings (Central CA)
5. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Other Announcements
6. "Celebrating Women": Vox Femina Free Concert (Los Angeles)
7. "The Other Side of the Closet" - Free for Marin Unified Schools
(Marin)
8. High School and College Rainbow Graduation Ceremony (Santa Cruz)
9. LYRIC Summer of Art (San Francisco)
10. Q Action Activities (San Francisco)
11. Hear Author and Activist Leslie Feinberg (Los Angeles)
12. San Francisco Pre-Pride Youth Events (San Francisco)
13. STRANGErs Going to San Francisco Pride (Santa Cruz)
14. Gay Shame: The Radical Alternative to Gay Pride (San Francisco)
15. Bike Out Coin Collection (Los Angeles)
16. LYRIC Youth Internship (Northern CA)
17. HIFY Youth Apprentice Internship (Northern CA)
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT +++++++++++++++
Congratulations to new GSA Network Youth Council Members!
This spring, GSA Network Youth Councils welcomed new members. The GSA Network Youth Councils are a diverse group of youth leaders who care about fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools. Youth Councils help plan and direct GSA Network programs throughout California.
Northern California
Lani Lee, Laguna Creek High School
Andrea Metro-Leister, Vintage High School
Andrew Rulloda, San Mateo High School
Padraic Wheeler, Davis Sr. High School
Central Valley
Frankie Martinez, Sunnyside High School
Nicole Smithey, Buchanan High School
Brandon Jackson, Clovis Unified
Janecia Toliver, Central Unified
Southern California
Sebastian Barry, Campbell Hall Episcopal School
Dani Bernstein, Brentwood School
Chris Ho, La Canada High School
Tanya Tsikanovsky, Brentwood School
Darcy Zoller, Lakewood High School
See your name on this list! GSA Network is still accepting Youth Council applications. Apply online: http://www.gsanetwork.org/ycapp.html
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. San Francisco Pride Parade
GSA Network/LYRIC Contingent
GSA Network and LYRIC are again co-sponsoring the youth contingent in this year's SF Pride Parade! We will be marching with several hundred youth from around the Bay Area.
When: Sunday, June 29, 2003
Where: Beale St. between Howard and Folsom
Time: 9:30am
Getting there: DON'T DRIVE - parking WILL be a nightmare. It is strongly suggested that you take public transportation. The assembly area is accessible by MUNI or BART. Those with ability-access needs should plan on arriving early, and can wait under the accessibility tent at the Command Center (77 Beale St.) until our line-up time, or our group passes by.
Go to the Embarcadero BART/MUNI stop - Howard St. is 2 blocks from Market.
Look for the GSA Network banner and GSA signs!
If you plan on joining us, please contact
John at 415-552-4229
or mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
2. Free Zone featured on ABC on Sunday (Bay Area)
On Sunday, June 15, GSA Network's Free Zone Project, an arts for social change project, will be featured on "Sunday on Seven" which airs on ABC. You can view the show in the Bay Area at 10:30 am on ABC, Channel 7. Hosted by Cheryl Jenings, the show features interviews with Free Zone participants and student artists/activists Harjant Gill and Vanessa "Andy" Duran, as well as GSA Network's Executive Director Carolyn Laub. The segment includes a clip from our award-winning film "As If It Matters" and shows posters from the "Liberation Ink" poster series.
Learn more about Free Zone at http://www.gsanetwork.org/freezone.
...and tune in Sunday at 10:30 am on ABC!
*********************************************
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
GSA Activist Camp is a youth-planned and youth-led event that features intensive community building, skill-building, political education, and leadership training for GSA members. Last year's participants had a great experience, and we hope to make this year even better! All youth who will be involved in a GSA next year and who want to develop leadership skills, network with other youth activists, learn a lot, and have a fabulous time are encouraged to apply. Cost: $0-$100 sliding scale - no one turned away for lack of funds.
Northern California Camp: August 6-8 in Oakland. Application deadline: July 7, 2003
Southern California Camp: July 18-20 in Santa Monica. Application deadline: June 24, 2003
More information at http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp
or
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
(Northern CA)
mailto:cathy@gsanetwork (Southern
CA)
*********************************************
4. Central Valley GSA Network & PRISM Meetings (Central CA)
Central Valley GSA Network Meeting
Mark you calendars now for the next Central California GSA Network
meeting.
When: June 21, 2pm
Where: GSA Network Fresno Office, 4403 E. Tulare Ave. (between Olive and
Belmont)
There will be a featured guest from the Imperial Dove Court de Fresno/Madera and lots of creative work on our "Closet Project" which will be available for display in area schools in September. We need your ideas! Come and join us if you are within driving distance! We welcome all newcomers!
For more info mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
PRISM Meets in Merced
When: Friday, June 13, 5:30pm
Where: Planned Parenthood Office, 710 W. 18th Street Suite 170
All those who can get to downtown Merced are invited to the next meeting
of
the PRISM Support Group for LGBT and Straight Ally youth. The group
which was
established one month ago by Golden Valley High School students, is
organizing
for support and activism in Merced.
For more info mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
5. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Please take a few minutes to fill out GSA Network's Year End Evaluation. Your comments are VERY important to us!
Access the evaluation online: http://www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network.
Events, resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are
not sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect
the views and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
6. "Celebrating Women": Vox Femina Free Concert (Los Angeles)
"Celebrating Women"
Saturday, June 14, 8pm
Culver City Presbyterian Church
11269 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City
This performance will be performed in support of Project 10 students. The concert is FREE, and students are invited to attend.
Vox Femina Los Angeles is a women's choral ensemble dedicated to the performance of quality choral literature with an emphasis on music by women composers. VFLA is a family of diverse women who are lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual. Through music, VFLA celebrates women and builds bridges within and beyond the lesbian and gay communities.
For more information contact:
http://www.voxfemina.org
310-391-2402
*********************************************
7. "The Other Side of the Closet" - Free for Marin Unified Schools
(Marin)
The YouthAware Program of the New Conservatory Theatre Center of San Francisco is offering to do a free performance of "The Other Side of the Closet" (please see description below) for Marin Unified Schools.
"The Other Side of the Closet," as well as other YouthAware Program performances, are available to non-Marin Unified schools at a cost. Please see http://www.nctcsf.org/YouthAware.html for more information on how other performances and how to book them.
In order to take advantage of the Marin Unified offer, please contact:
Sara Staley
YouthAware Programs Coordinator
The New Conservatory Theatre Center
25 Van Ness Ave., Lower Lobby
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 861-4914
(415) 861-6988 (fax)
mailto:youthaware@nctcsf.org
http://www.nctcsf.org
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CLOSET
By Edward Roy
A YouthAware production about tolerance and acceptance for High School students. Set in and around a high school, this hard-hitting play tells the story of five teens that are grappling with issues of homophobia, peer pressure, youth violence, discrimination and the meaning of true friendship. All performances of the 50-minute play are followed by a discussion between the actor educators and the audience. Annual tours of schools all over Northern California will take place October-December.
*********************************************
8. Rainbow Graduation Ceremony (Santa Cruz)
When: Thurs. June 12
Time: 2:30-5:30pm
Where: UCSC Women's Center
The 5th annual Rainbow Ceremony honors gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender graduating high school and university students in Santa Cruz county.
This event is open to any graduating students from any high school or college. So sign up soon!! and join the celebration!!
The ceremony is followed by a reception featuring live music, food, and beverages. Open to the public.
Info: Deb Abbott
mailto:dabbott@ucsc.edu
http://www2.ucsc.edu/glbtcenter
*********************************************
9. LYRIC Summer of Art (San Francisco)
Registration is starting now for LYRIC Summer of Art!
The workshops offered are FREE for LGBTQQI youth 23 and under (25 and under if you identify as transgender), supplies included. All classes are taught by peer instructors.
Workshops will start in July, and all classes will be once a week for six weeks (except for photography, which is eight classes long).
Here are the class descriptions. The class times will be set soon!
Basic Photo: This class will cover the basics of black and white photography,
from film development to making a good exposure, to working on your prints
in the darkroom. We have cameras for students to borrow!
Painting and Drawing: Get down to basics with pencils, paint and brushes,
with our workshop teacher Leanna, who specializes in mural painting.
Comic Drawing: If you've been doodling in your Trapper Keeper since
grade school, it's time to give those characters a life of their
own and produce you're own comic book.
Creative Writing: Free your mind through poetry and fiction. Simple
as that. This workshop will be taught by Danny, youth editor for HIFY and
karaoke superstar.
Journalism: Learn interviewing skills, technical and creative writing
skills, researching and reporting, and ambulance-chasing skills.
Graphic Design: This class will cover the basics of Adobe Photoshop
and Adobe Illustrator. Bring in your own art work and learn how to
turn it into a page layout as well as image manipulation. Taught by computer
art whiz Kyle, who is getting his BFA at CCAC.
To register, please call Linn Edwards, Arts and Media Program Coordinator
415-703-6150 x24, or mailto:linn@lyric.org
Please say what workshop(s) you'd like to take, and what days or times you would be able to come to classes.
*********************************************
10. Q Action Activities (San Francisco)
Q Action chat: Out-standing!
Discussion
Thursday, June 12th, 8:00pm.
At the Q Crib
539 Castro Street @ 18th St.
For information: 415.865.0790 x304
or http://www.qaction.org
FREE for 26 year old and under
Even when you're out, does everyone really know? No matter where you
fit on the out meter, safe sex and communication skills are a necessity.
Come build your skills and kick down some gay boy knowledge.
Q Action Event: But I'm a Virgin
Discussion/Video presentation
Thursday, June 19th, 8:00pm.
At the Q Crib
539 Castro Street @18th St.
For information: 415.865.0790 x304 or
http://www.qaction.org
FREE for 26 year old and under
How would you get what you want out of the FIRST TIME? If he says he's
a virgin, are you more likely to make the sex riskier? Come chat
about the pressures of virginity, sex & culture.
Q Action activities are for guys of all colors & flavors who dig other guys... and their friends.
*********************************************
11. Leslie Feinberg (Los Angeles)
Hear author and activist LESLIE FEINBERG
(Stone Butch Blues, Transgender Warriors)
LGBT LIBERTION AND THE STRUGGLE AGAINST RACISM, OPPRESSION, AND WAR
Host: Stuart Timmons, Author of the Trouble with Harry Hay, the biography of Harry Hay, Executive Director, the ONE Institute and Archives, Los Angeles.
Sunday, June 15 at 2:00 PM
ONE Institute & Archives
909 W. Adams Blvd.
Reception following the Forum
An afternoon celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans Pride and remembrance of the Stonewall Rebellion. An accomplished author and activist, Feinberg is also Managing Editor of Workers World, a weekly socialist newspaper.
Hear about the history of the origins of sexual oppression and how to fight it. Hear analysis of the global context of the LGBT liberation movement and the struggle for jobs, peace, and justice.
Sponsors: ONE Institute & Archives, International Action Center For more information call (213) 487-2368 or (213) 741-0094
ALSO: Join us on Sunday June 22 in the massive anti-war contingent at Christopher Street West parade. Say Yes to LGBT rights and No to racism, occupation and war!
*********************************************
12. San Francisco Pre-Pride Events (San Francisco)
Pre-Pride Pajama Party
presented by LYRIC's Kickin' It Projects
Where: Eureka Valley Recreation Center, 100 Collingwood St., San Francisco
When: Thursday, June 26, 2003
Time: 8pm to 12am
FREE to youth under 23.
Contact Renol for more info at
415-703-6150 x 10 or
mailto:renol@lyric.org
Pride Dance for Youth
Don't miss LYRIC's Pride Dance
When: June 27th 2003
Where: Rainbow Room, SF LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street
Time: 8pm - 12am
FREE to youth under 23
Contact Jaedon at 415-703-6150 x 13 or
mailto:jaedon@lyric.org
*********************************************
13. STRANGErs Going to San Francisco Pride (Santa Cruz)
SF Pride is coming up soon (June 29) and STRANGE (Santa Cruz County's queer, questioning, queer-friendly youth space) wants to assess how many folks would be interested in going up together. Transportation would be provided by STRANGE. Please get back to us as soon as possible if you are interested so we can plan accordingly.
mailto:sccstrange@yahoo.com
phone: 831.425.3155
the parade occurs on Sunday, and begins at 10am, which is a half-hour earlier than previous years!
the celebration will be rockin' both Saturday & Sunday
*********************************************
14. Gay Shame: Annual Shame Awards (San Francisco)
Friday, June 27th, 5:30pm
at Market & Octavia (across the street from the Center)
Please join us for the awards ceremony, walk of shame, and the devastating street party that will follow.
mailto:gayshamesf@yahoo.com
http://www.gayshamesf.org
*********************************************
15. Bike Out Coin Collection (Los Angeles)
Join us in an awesome, innovative way to collect money and get the word out about Bike Out!
We need 20 adults and 20 youth...
We will be marching in the West Hollywood Pride Parade and collecting coins on the sidelines. We'll give out lollipops and Bike Out stickers for all donations.
This will be a great way to mingle with lots and lots of people and help a great cause.
Come and join the fun!
When: June 22nd.
What time: Meeting times are 10:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.
Where: We will let you know where.
To sign up give Andrea a call
at (310) 452-7785 or
e-mail mailto:andrea@bikeout.org
We will need a copy of your ID. Please send a copy of your license
right away.
Send or fax to:
Bike Out, 724 Lincoln Blvd., Suite D,
Venice, CA 90291
FAX: (310) 452-0206
*********************************************
16. LYRIC Youth Internship (San Francisco)
For youth ages 16-18 years old who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, genderqueer, or questioning.
We are looking for enthusiastic and passionate young people who are interested in creating an inclusive society.
Youth who are selected for the internship will receive a fully-paid
training at the Northern California National Conference for Community and
Justice's Anytown Youth Leadership Institute. The Anytwon Youth Leadership
Institute is an intensive human relations, diversity, anti-oppression and
leadership skill building experience for young people. It is a WEEK-LONG
RESIDENTIAL
program, and selected youth will meet other young people in Northern
California from diverse backgrounds to explore their multifaceted identities,
confront their own prejudices, learn how to recognize and counter bias,
gain advocacy skills, and acquire tools to become proactive leaders for
social justice.
Upon completion of the training, youth will enter their internship at LYRIC for a minimum of 6 months. Interns then co-facilitate educational programming around the issues learned at Anytown Youth Leadership Institute, as well as other social justice work they are interested in doing.
Application Deadline (extension possible, please call us):
Next Friday June 13th. Please see attached.
Parental consent for Anytown Youth Leadership Institute required, and work permit required for youth under 18 years old.
Internship Length & Location: August 3rd to February/March 2004.
(NOTE: Training at Anytown is from August 3rd to August 9th.)
Location: YMCA Point Bonita Outdoor & Conference Center in
the
Marin Headlands. All expenses will be paid for! After camp/training,
interns will work at LYRIC for a minimum of 6
months.
Payment for internship: Currently set at $6.75, but may be subject to an increase.
If you have additional questions, please contact Aldo or Alan at LYRIC
Aldo Rodriguez
Community Center Program Coordinator/ Anytown Youth Leadership Institute
Coordinator for LYRIC
call: 415-865-5614
mailto:aldo@lyric.org
Alan Kwok
Career Development Program Coordinator
call: 415-865-5613
mailto:alan@lyric.org
*********************************************
17. HIFY Youth Apprentice Internship (Northern CA)
Applications due: June 30
Commitment: August 18-June 2004
15 Hours/week (flexible schedule)
$9/hour
POSITION SUMMARY AND QUALIFICATIONS:
You will learn how to facilitate workshops and trainings for both youth and adults. You will also create your own workshops and run weekend-long youth camp retreats.
We are looking for fun and energetic young people between the ages of 14 and 21 who are interested in learning more about youth health issues, social justice, and creative forms of expression. You should feel comfortable working with a diverse group of youth and adults and be cool talking in front of groups of people.
DUTIES:
* Go through training (including facilitation skills, health issues,
social justice/activism, positive sexuality, theater of the oppressed etc.)
* Participate in weekly meetings and various administrative tasks
* Watch and later facilitate all of HIFY's youth workshops and adult
trainings (on topics such as Self Esteem, Body Image, Substance Use and
Harm Reduction, Positive Sexuality, HIV, Anti-Homophobia, Healthy Relationships,
etc.)
* Update and change HIFY's current youth workshops and adult trainings
* Research a health topic of your choice and create a new workshop
to facilitate
* Plan and run 2 weekend long youth camp retreats
If you are interested please contact:
235 Montgomery St. #430 SF, CA 94104
fax: 415-274-1976
mailto:salzman@hify.org
APPLICATIONS DUE BY JUNE 30,2003
YOUNG MEN, YOUTH OF COLOR, AND QUEER YOUTH ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
health initiatives for youth
235 Montgomery St. #430
San Francisco, CA 94104
415.274.1970 x20
415.274.1976 (fax)
http://www.hify.org
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Welcome to GSA Network's New Program Director!
GSA Network Announcements
1. San Francisco Pride Parade (San Francisco)
2. Central Valley GSA Network Meeting (Central CA)
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
4. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Other Announcements
5. outLoud radio: Get Into a Movie Free, and Dance (San Francisco)
6. R.E.A.L.(Respecting Every Alternative Lifestyle) Meetings (Fresno)
7. That's So Gay: Art by Youth with LGBT Parents (San Francisco)
8. Not In Newark Meeting (Newark)
9. Q Action Event: But I'm a Virgin (San Francisco)
10. Triangle Speakers Bureau Training (Santa Cruz)
11. Track 16 & REACH LA Youth Arts Collective: "The Chorizo Show"
(Santa Monica)
12. GLSEN Seeking Participants for "No Name-Calling" Project
13. Summer Jam to Stop the Exit Scam! (Sacramento)
14. SCHOLARSHIP: George Choy Memorial/GAPA Scholarship (Bay Area)
15. JOB: DataCenter Youth Strategy Project Information Activist
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT +++++++++++++++
Welcome to GSA Network's New Program Director!
GSA Network is pleased to welcome our new Program Director, Stephanie Cho, who started this week. Stephanie will be working out of our San Francisco office, supporting GSAs both in Northern California and Southern California. You can say hello by sending her an email at mailto:stephanie@gsanetwork.org.
Stephanie Cho is a 26 year-old Asian femme born in tiny village outside of Seoul, Korea. Past resident of Portland, Oregon and sort-of graduate of Portland State University, she has worked as a Speakers Bureau/Outreach Coordinator for SMYRC (Sexual Minority Youth Recreation Center), court advocate for Asian Family Center, and community organizer for Oregon Action, a grassroots organization working on low-income issues. In her sparest of spare time, as a transracial adoptee, she co-founded Transracial Abductees, an extra radical organization that is dedicated to being critical of the transracial adoption industry and connecting transracial adoptee issues to the larger people of color movement. And in her favorite time, she super enjoys good/bad dance movies, getting to know this great city, fried foods, and spending time with her partner and kitty.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. San Francisco Pride Parade
GSA Network/LYRIC Contingent
GSA Network and LYRIC are again co-sponsoring the youth contingent in this year's SF Pride Parade! We will be marching with several hundred youth from around the Bay Area.
WHEN: Sunday, June 29, 2003
WHERE: Beale St. between Howard and Folsom
TIME: 9:30am
Getting there: DON'T DRIVE - parking WILL be a nightmare. It is strongly suggested that you take public transportation. The assembly area is accessible by MUNI or BART. Those with ability-access needs should plan on arriving early, and can wait under the accessibility tent at the Command Center (77 Beale St.) until our line-up time, or our group passes by.
Go to the Embarcadero BART/MUNI stop - Howard St. is 2 blocks from Market.
Look for the GSA Network banner and GSA signs!
If you plan on joining us, please contact
John at 415-552-4229
or mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
2. Central Valley GSA Network Meeting (Central CA)
GSA Network Meeting in Fresno
This Saturday, June 21st, 2pm
At the GSA Network Office
4403 E. Tulare Ave., Fresno
(Between Olive and Belmont)
Don't miss this important meeting!
On the agenda this week:
"The Closet Project"
Our trip to the SF Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29th
A winter formal with the Imperial Dove Court de Fresno/Madera
and lots more
Our meetings are open to all interested students.
Contact Diana for more information
(559)442-4777
mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
GSA Activist Camp is a youth-planned and youth-led event that features intensive community building, skill-building, political education, and leadership training for GSA members. Last year's participants had a great experience, and we hope to make this year even better! All youth who will be involved in a GSA next year and who want to develop leadership skills, network with other youth activists, learn a lot, and have a fabulous time are encouraged to apply. Cost: $0-$100 sliding scale - no one turned away for lack of funds.
Northern California Camp: August 6-8 in Oakland. Application deadline: July 7, 2003
Southern California Camp: July 18-20 in Santa Monica. Application deadline: June 24, 2003
More information at http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp or
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
(Northern CA)
mailto:cathy@gsanetwork.org
(Southern CA)
*********************************************
4. GSA Network Year End Evaluation
Please take a few minutes to fill out GSA Network's Year End Evaluation. Your comments are VERY important to us!
Access the evaluation online: http://www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
5. outLoud radio: Get Into a Movie Free, and Dance (San Francisco)
Be a Reporter, and Get Into a Movie Free!
Just wanted to let you all know that you can get into any movie at
the http://www.frameline.org/festival San Francisco Lesbian & Gay Film
Festival for free if you go as an http://www.outloudradio.org outLoud radio
reviewer. There's an amazing range of movies at this year's festival
and we really want to cover as much of it as possible from the queer youth
perspective. (Other youth are welcome too.)
The festival is already underway. If you want to review a film, please let us know ASAP!
You can see what movies are playing at http://www.frameline.org/festival.
[You should plan on spending 2-3 hours working on your review. We will
arrange with you to edit and record it. Reviews will be 3-5 minutes long,
and should include 2 or 3 sound bites from the movie (we'll help you with
that). We can also get you filmmaker interviews. It will be really really
fun.]
outLoud Benefit Dance
in celebration of queer youth and our allies
When: Wednesday, June 25th, 7pm to midnight
Where: Femina Potens, 465 So. Van Ness @ 16th St. in San Francisco
What: DJ Grassy Greenfields spinning music to groove to ++ live performances
++ cute peeps ++ food ++ door prizes
a benefit for outloud radio = sliding scale = (we won't kick you out cuz yr broke)
For more info contact:
outLoud radio
mailto:info@outloudradio.org
http://www.outloudradio.org
*********************************************
6. R.E.A.L.(Respecting Every Alternative Lifestyle) Meetings (Fresno)
R.E.A.L.(Respecting Every Alternative Lifestyle) meets...
Tuesdays, 5:30 pm
At 633 N. Van Ness, Fresno
(down the street from the GSA Network office)
REAL is a place for girls who want to hang out with other girls who
like
girls - lesbian, bisexual, questioning, don't know, don't care, no
labels.
For more information contact Elena
At (559)449-7384 or
Call the Prideline (559)488-4908 ext 3
*********************************************
7. That's So Gay: Art by Youth with LGBT Parents (San Francisco)
Monday June 23, 6:30-8:30 pm
Location: Cellspace Gallery, 2050 Bryant St. (at 18th), SF
Donations of $1-$100 welcomed at the door.
No one turned away for lack of funds.
Open to all ages!
An educational poster series and art exhibit by young people with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender parents and families. Be the first to see this exhibit, the first of its kind while enjoying entertainment and refreshments, meeting the youth artists, and supporting COLAGE by winning fabulous prizes in a silent auction.
That's So Gay: Art by Youth with LGBT Parents is a unique look into the lives of young people with LGBT parents and families - their challenges, hopes, triumphs and daily lives. The exhibit will debut two educational posters created by members of the COLAGE Youth Leadership and Activism Program, a training and action project for youth ages 14 and up with LGBT parents. The show also features art, photos, poetry, and more by YLAP members and kids in the COLAGE Middle School Program. Additionally, the That's So Gay event is an opportunity to meet one of the Grand Marshals of the 2003 San Francisco Pride Parade, Marina Gatto who is one of the artists and an active participant in the YLAP Program of COLAGE.
That's So Gay: Art by Youth with LGBT Parents is made possible by a grant from the SF Department of Children Youth and their Families. Ongoing support for COLAGE Bay Area Youth Leadership and Action Program provided by SF DCYF, SF Children and Families Commission, Haas Jr. Foundation, SF Foundation, Kicking Assets Fund of the Tides Foundation, and all our donors and allies. Special thanks to Jill Shenker, collaborating artist.
Info: Meredith at 415-861-5437 x 102
or mailto:meredith@colage.org
*********************************************
8. Not In Newark Meeting (Newark)
"Not In Newark" -- Newark Residents Seeking to Prevent Further Hate Crimes Against Transgendered, Gay, Lesbian, Intersex, and Bisexual (GLBT) Newark Children and Adults.
Thursday, June 19, 2003, 7 pm
Holy Redeemer Lutheran Church
35660 Cedar Blvd.
between Thornton Ave. and Newark Blvd.
What's this all about?
The murder of Gwen Araujo in Newark, and the controversy surrounding
Newark Memorial High School's production of the Laramie Project brought
to the fore the longstanding harassment and violence directed against
Newark students and residents who happen to be sexual or gender
minorities.
In response to the tragedy, the city and school district organized a
public forum, intended by the city as "a first step to identify ways
to
promote respect, tolerance and acceptance" of all Newark residents.
At
that meeting Mayor David Smith challenged all of us to put forward
proposals for positive change, proposals that specifically address
ways
to better protect the safety of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender
students and adults.
Other communities around the country have successfully organized using
the "Not In Our Town" model to prevent hate crimes in their midst.
"Not
In Our Town" is a national movement that encourages community response
to hate crimes. To learn more about NIOT, and the PBS coverage
of
Newark' response to the Araujo murder, see http://www.pbs.org/niot
and
http://www.pbs.org/niot/citizens_respond/newark.html.
"Not In Newark" is based on this model and seeks to identify and
implement substantive measures for preventing further violence in our
homes, schools, neighborhoods and city. As Newark City Manager
Al
Huezo, in a meeting with the youth group PRIDE! put it, "[the Araujo
murder] is a wake-up call; it's a two-by-four between the eyeÉ
I think
what we need to do is look at ourselves, inwardly, and not just us,
but
the entire community, and ask the question, 'How did this happen, what
led to it, and what can we do to change?' É We need you to kind of
pull
us, pull our chainÉ You have a responsibility to make sure this issue
doesn't go away - you have a role to play here."
Who is invited?
YOU - We need YOU! All those who care for the safety and well
being of
GLBT children and adults in Newark, particularly parents, teachers,
school district personnel and board members and city administrators,
and
are willing to dedicate some time to making Newark a safer and more
respectful place for everyone.
Preparing for the meeting
At the meeting we will discuss methods of preventing hate crimes
directed against GLBT kids and adults in Newark. We will particularly
address the needs of Newark students and the need to bring the schools
into compliance with State law AB 537. Many people and organizations
have thought carefully about decreasing harassment of kids in the
schools and there are many resources available. A comprehensive
report
by the Human Rights Watch, "Hatred in the Hallways" is available for
viewing at http://www.hrw.org/reports/2001/uslgbt, and their
recommendations are at
http://www.hrw.org/reports/2001/uslgbt/Final-03.htm#4.
The AB 537 task force report is available at
http://www.gsanetwork.org/ab537/pdf/taskforce.pdf
(or
http://www.gsanetwork.org/ab537/facts/taskforce.html).
We will discuss
the recommendations of these two organizations and how they can be
implemented in Newark.
Please think about what is needed, what proposals should be made to
the
school board and city council, what should be done at a grassroots
level, and, most importantly, what YOU are willing to do to make our
neighborhoods safer for GLBT kids and adults.
For further information:
Call Pat Skillen,
President, PFLAG Fremont/Newark/Union City Chapter
at 925-447-6333.
*********************************************
9. Q Action Event: But I'm a Virgin (San Francisco)
Discussion/Video presentation
Thursday, June 19th, 8:00 p.m.
At the Q Crib
539 Castro Street @ 18th St.
For information: 415.865.0790 x304 or
http://www.qaction.org
FREE for 26 year old and under
How would you get what you want out of the FIRST TIME? If he says he's
a virgin, are you more likely to make the sex riskier? Come chat
about the pressures of virginity, sex & culture.
Q Action activities are for guys of all colors & flavors who dig other guys... and their friends.
*********************************************
10. Triangle Speakers Bureau Training (Santa Cruz)
Homophobia Still Exists in Our Community
Education Makes a Difference
It is Easier Than You Think to Create Change
Become a Triangle Speaker
You speak with others on a panel of 3-5 speakers.
You talk about your own life.
You speak about what you know.
It is rewarding, and you make a difference.
Attend the next Speaker Training
Saturday, July 19, 9:00 am to 4:45 pm
520 Mission Street,
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
We feed you. We help you create a personal biography, practice speaking, and provide support and laughter.
Sign-up to become a volunteer speaker today!
Send an email to mailto:triangle@trainglespeakers.org
or give us a call at (831) 457-2934
http://www.trianglespearks.org
*********************************************
11. Track 16 & REACH LA Youth Arts Collective: "The Chorizo
Show" (Santa Monica)
In conjunction with the "Wipe Your Feet" exhibition by REACH LA, Track 16 will host "The Chorizo Show." A little bit of everything cooked up by the REACH LA Youth Arts Collective including spoken word and music, video pieces and audio documentaries and featuring a performance by Latina Lesbian girl band, Jarritos De Miel, a.k.a. The Honeypots, is an all-lesbian Latina band.
Original Songs written for women with carefully defined musical harmonies from ballads, to alternative pop.
Friday, June 27, 8:00 pm
2525 Michigan Ave, Bldg. C1
Santa Monica, CA
cross streets: Cloverfield Blvd. & Michigan Ave.
Admission will be $5.00
Seating is limited
RSVP to TRACK 16 (310) 264-4678
*********************************************
12. GLSEN Seeking Participants for "No Name-Calling" Project
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) is seeking organizational partners, and middle school educators and students to help plan and implement a new "No Name-Calling Week" project targeted at 5th through 8th graders.
GLSEN aims to create safer schools by making bullying, harassment, and name-calling unacceptable through public education campaigns that motivate youth to change their behavior and mobilize students and educators to take school-based action around the problem of name-calling and verbal harassment.
We are looking for planning team members who are interested in generating project content, developing resource materials, helping with outreach/publicity, and/or implementing a "No Name-Calling Week" in their schools.
If you are interested, please send a brief letter explaining who you are (student, educator, advocate, etc.), your grade level (if you are a student or educator), where you are located, why and how you want to be involved, and your experience with this issue. We regret that we may not be able to involve all applicants.
All questions and letters should be forwarded to:
Scott Hirschfeld
Director of Education, GLSEN
121 W. 27 St., Ste 804, NY, NY 10001
tel: (212) 727-0135 x108
fax: (212) 727-0254
mailto:shirschfeld@glsen.org
*********************************************
13. Summer Jam to Stop the Exit Scam! (Sacramento)
Californian's for Justice invites you to the...
SUMMER JAM TO STOP THE EXIT SCAM!
Wednesday, July 9, 2003
8:30am - 5pm
Corner of 15th & "N" St. in Sacramento
Activities include: Press conference, Rallies, Legislative delegations and Attendance at the State Board meeting!
On July 9th, the State Board of Education will meet to make their final
decision about the High School Exit Exam - whether to delay the denial
of diplomas past the class of 2004. We need to tell them they must
delay the diploma requirement till ALL students have a high quality opportunity
to learn and until there are alternative assessments to measure student
success.
Join hundreds of students and community members in Sacramento - demand
that the State Board do the right thing!
$5 Raffle tickets sold to help cover the costs of the Summer Jam to STOP the Exit Scam! The grand prize is 2 round-trip tickets anywhere in the U.S., plus a week time-share in the U.S.
For more info. contact:
Carmen Iniguez, CFJ Organizer
510.452.2728, mailto:carmen@caljustice.org
NOTE: there will be 2 large buses transporting folks to and from the
event.
Call for details.
*********************************************
14. SCHOLARSHIP: George Choy Memorial/Gay Asian Pacific Alliance
(GAPA) Scholarship (Bay Area)
Scholarship application & goals
The purpose of the George Choy Memorial / Gay Asian Pacific Alliance
(GAPA) Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender (l/g/b/t) Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) who
are in the process of applying to, or are currently attending, a post-secondary
institution. The maximum grant award is currently $1000.
Who was George Choy?
George Choy was an ardent activist who spoke out for queer APIs, driven
by the belief that we are all "part of the family too." He was especially
vocal in support of queer youth in our community, successfully representing
GAPA to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors to pass Project 10, the
counseling program for lesbian and gay teenagers in public high schools.
In keeping with the vision of George Choy, this scholarship embraces lesbians,
transgenders and other sexual minorities.
Who can apply?
You can apply for this scholarship if you:
* are self-identified as an Asian/Pacific Islander; (at least 25% API
ancestry); priority will be given to those self-identified as lesbian,
gay, bisexual or transgender, or involved in the l/g/b/t community;
* are in the process of applying to, or are currently attending school
* are living in one of the nine-Bay Area counties; (Alameda, Contra
Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Napa, Sonoma, and
Solano)
* have a grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or better
The deadline for submission of scholarship applications must be post-marked by June 30, 2003.
For application forms, please go to http://www.gapa.org/scholarship
Or contact: Hao Thai at mailto:hao@gapa.org
or call (415) 282-GAPA
*********************************************
15. JOB: DataCenter Youth Strategy Project Information Activist
INFORMATION ACTIVIST
Fulltime Position (1 FTE)
Salary: $40,000 plus vacation, health, dental, vision, chiropractic/acupuncture (including domestic partners)
Oakland-based position
People of color and women strongly encouraged to apply.
The DataCenter's Youth Strategy Project works with dozens of youth organizations across the country, especially those with bases among low-income and communities of color, to help them organize more successful social, environmental and criminal justice campaigns by providing research and research training assistance.
Organizations we've worked with span the country and address a wide array of issues affecting youth and young people, including CAAAV-Organizing Asian Communities, FIERCE, People Organized in Defense of Earth and Her Resources, Project HipHop, Sisters in Action for Power, Young Women United in Albuquerque, YouthAction, Youth Build Immigrant Power Project, Youth Justice Partnership, Youth Organizing Communities, and Youth United for Community Action.
Our approach combines professional-level research services with training and campaign consultation. Our partners believe that real change happens when the people from communities directly impacted by issues are informed, empowered and organized.
What we're looking for:
* Research experience (union or campaign research, community or grassroots
research, journalism, interesting school projects)
* Training experience, preferably rooted in popular education
* Experience in youth organizing, working with youth/ young people
13-21 years old (e.g., leadership development, organizing, youth issues)
* Experience in grassroots organizing
* Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Interest and/or experience in environmental or criminal justice issues
- Cultural competency
- Connections with organizations outside of California
Other desirable qualities:
- Second language fluency
- Lexis-Nexis research experience
- Experience with campaign strategy
- Familiarity with interpreting financial and/or census data
TO APPLY: Please send resume, cover letter, ONE sample of a Training Curriculum that you've developed or facilitated and ONE example of a Campaign- or Social Justice-related Research you've done (not to exceed 10 pages) . If you do not have written samples, please explain in the cover letter.
Send to:
Youth Strategy Project Hiring Committee, DataCenter
1904 Franklin Street, Suite 900
Oakland, CA 94612-2912.
Please no phone calls, faxes, or emails.
Applications will be considered as they are received.
Applications must be received by Tuesday, July 1, 2003.
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Spotlight on GSA Activists
GSA Network Announcements
1. San Francisco Pride Parade - NEW Gathering Time
2. Central Valley GSA Network Meetings (Central CA)
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
Other Announcements
4. LYRIC Pride Activities 2003 (San Francisco)
5. Other San Francisco Pride Weekend Events
6. Community Pride Breakfast (San Rafael)
7. R.E.A.L. Meetings (Fresno)
8. OutLoud Radio: Revenge of the Nerds Dance (San Francisco)
9. 5th Annual Queeriosity (San Francisco)
10. Seeking Queer Youth Stories for Militarism Project
11. Community Education Group Survey (Bay Area)
12. Summer Jam to Stop the Exit Scam (Sacramento)
13. Press Conference at SF City Hall (San Francisco)
14. SCHOLARSHIPS: NYAC Scholarship Listings
15. NEWS: Students Fight to Start Gay-Straight Alliance
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT +++++++++++++++
Spotlight on GSA Activists
Youth Activists involved with GSA Network are doing amazing things! GSA Network leadership development programs give youth the opportunity to become effective activists and the support to make real, positive changes in their schools.
Here are some GSA activists who have made a mark:
* Cierra Bolin, a sophomore at Clovis High, did a history day project on GLBT rights. It covers the evolving state of gay rights from ancient civilizations up to present, and has commentary throughout. She received awards from Project 10 and the Center for Constitutional Rights for the project. Her project is available online at <http://www.glbthistoryday.com>http://www.glbthistoryday.com. She's keeping the site up as a resource, so feel free to use it in any way you'd like.
* Casey Chase, a senior at Fairfield High and a member of the GSA Network Northern CA Youth Council, was invited to join the board of Solano Pride because of his activism and the work he has done to make his school safer for all students.
Congratulations!
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. San Francisco Pride Parade - NEW Gathering Time
GSA Network/LYRIC Contingent
NOTE NEW GATHERING TIME: 10:00/10:30am
GSA Network and LYRIC are again co-sponsoring the youth contingent in this year's SF Pride Parade! We will be marching with several hundred youth from around the Bay Area.
WHEN: Sunday, June 29, 2003
WHERE: Beale St. between Howard and Folsom
TIME: 10-10:30am - this is a NEW time
Getting there: DON'T DRIVE - parking WILL be a nightmare. It is strongly suggested that you take public transportation. The assembly area is accessible by MUNI or BART. Those with ability-access needs should plan on arriving early, and can wait under the accessibility tent at the Command Center (77 Beale St.) until our line-up time, or our group passes by.
Go to the Embarcadero BART/MUNI stop - Howard St. is 2 blocks from Market.
Look for the GSA Network banner and GSA signs!
UPDATED CONTACT INFORMATION:
John at 415-552-4229 (GSA Network Office) or mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
On the day of the parade: 510-207-6011
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2. Central Valley GSA Network Meetings (Central CA)
Central CA GSA Network Heads for SF Pride Parade
If you want to ride to Pride in SF with other GSA Network members from
the
Central Valley, contact Diana at the GSA Network office by Thursday,
June 26th.
No guarantees of seats on the van after Thursday!
For more information contact:
Diana @ (559)442-4777, (559)437-9016
mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
PRISM Meets in Merced
When: Friday, June 27, 5:30pm
Where: Planned Parenthood Office, 710 W. 18th Street Suite 170
All those who can get to downtown Merced are invited to the next meeting
of
the PRISM Support Group for LGBT and Straight Ally youth. The group
which was
established one month ago by Golden Valley High School students, is
organizing
for support and activism in Merced.
For more info mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
Queer Geeks
Calling All Fresno Area Geeks!
If you feel like a "dork", "geek"etc., and feel like an outsider in
the gay
community, come to Queer Geeks. This is an inclusive outsider group
for 15-24
year olds to meet and watch movies, play games and other geeky things.
We wish
to start meeting in the next few weeks, so give me a call.
Give Brad a call to get in on the planning of our very first meeting:
Brad @ (559)355-8834, mailto:rpgcub@yahoo.com
For more information contact:
Diana @ (559)442-4777, mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
3. GSA Activist Camp 2003! (Northern and Southern CA)
GSA Activist Camp is a youth-planned and youth-led event that features intensive community building, skill-building, political education, and leadership training for GSA members. Last year's participants had a great experience, and we hope to make this year even better! All youth who will be involved in a GSA next year and who want to develop leadership skills, network with other youth activists, learn a lot, and have a fabulous time are encouraged to apply. Cost: $0-$100 sliding scale - no one turned away for lack of funds.
Northern California Camp: August 6-8 in Oakland. Application deadline: July 7, 2003
Southern California Camp: July 18-20 in Santa Monica. Application deadline EXTENDED: June 30, 2003
More information at http://www.gsanetwork.org/camp
or
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org (Northern
CA)
mailto:cathy@gsanetwork.org
(Southern CA)
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
4. LYRIC Pride Activities 2003 (San Francisco)
We would like to invite all lgbtq youth (23 & under) to participate in the following events.
Thursday June 26th
Pre-Pride Pajama Party
Cost: FREE
What: hip hop pajama party
When: 8pm till 12 am
Where: 100 Collingwood (EVRC) across the street from lyric
Who: party for all "open minded young people"
Featuring: DJ Big Daddy (Oakland)
How to get there...
Bart: Take any SF train to Embarcadero then take the muni train
(K,L, or M) to Castro and walk to Collingwood and 18th
Muni: Get off at the Castro stop and walk to Collingwood and
18th
Note: Pajamas not need to party. This is a "Clean and Sober" event
For more information contact:
Renol @ 415-703-6150 x 10
Friday June 27th
Dragon Fire: A dance and performance space for queer youth 25 and under
Show Your Talents
Show Your Fashion
Show Your Pride
Show Yourself
Cost: FREE
When: 8pm to 12am
Where: SF LGBT Community Center
1800 Market Street at Octavia
2nd Floor, Rainbow Room
Directions:
Take BART to SF Civic Center, then transfer to Muni Metro J,K,L, or
M lines or take the F line on the surface streets.
To sign up to perform:
contact Jaedon
415-703-6150 x 13
mailto:jaedon@lyric.org
Note: This is a "Clean and Sober" event
*********************************************
5. Other San Francisco Pride Weekend Events
Friday, June 27th at 5:30pm:
Gay Shame Awards.
awards ceremony, walk of shame, and devastating street party that will
follow.
At Market St @ Octavia (across the street from the Center)
http://www.gayshamesf.org
Saturday June 28:
Dyke March. The theme is peace.
Show starts at 5 pm.
Lots of bands, spoken word, and more.
Dolores Park, Dolores St at 19th.
http://www.dykemarch.org/SFO/
*********************************************
6. Community Pride Breakfast (San Rafael)
Community Pride Breakfast
cosponsored by Spectrum and Rainbow Families of Marin
SATURDAY, JUNE 28
9:00-10:30 AM
IHOP at 1825 Fourth Street, San Rafael
All Ages Welcome!
Spectrum and Rainbow Families of Marin will provide fun gift bags for your kids. Special offer just for kids: IHOP will generously provide breakfast for children 12 and under (who order from the kid menu) free of charge! (Must arrive by 10:30 AM for kid deal.) Adults order from full menu and pay separately. Reserve your table now while space lasts!
Contact:
Hannah
457-1115 x206
mailto:hdoress@spectrummarin.org
*********************************************
7. R.E.A.L. Meetings (Fresno)
R.E.A.L.(Respecting Every Alternative Lifestyle) meets...
Tuesdays, 5:30 pm
At 633 N. Van Ness, Fresno
(down the street from the GSA Network office)
REAL is a place for girls who want to hang out with other girls who
like
girls - lesbian, bisexual, questioning, don't know, don't care, no
labels.
For more information contact Elena
At (559)449-7384 or
Call the Prideline (559)488-4908 ext 3
*********************************************
8. OutLoud Radio: Revenge of the Nerds Dance (San Francisco)
Wednesday June 25, 7:30 pm
OutLoud Radio, the weekly show by, for, and about queer and questioning
youth on Liberation Radio 93.7FM, invites you to share in an evening
of hot geek unity, replete with DJ's, food, games, prizes, spoken word,
and visual art by the Bay Area queer youth community.
The festival will be held at
Femina Potens
465 S. Van Ness Ave. at 16th street (one block from BART)
The fun commences at 7:30 pm.
Food will be provided, but this is a youth event after all, so Bring
Your Own Beverage
Remember: the theme is Revenge of the Nerds, and prizes will be awarded, so dress to possess!
All we ask is a $5-10 donation, but no one will be cast off
for lack of fundage. All proceeds benefit Out Loud Radio.
http://outloudradio.org
http://www.feminapotens.com
http://www.liberationradio.net
*********************************************
9. 5th Annual Queeriosity (San Francisco)
The 5th Annual QUEERIOSITY
A Queer Spoken Word Event
ODC Theater
3153 17th St @ Shotwell St., San Francisco
Saturday June 28, 8 pm
In support of the next generation of youth writers, Queeriosity & The Monster Debut will bring together established writers and youth poets of Youth Speaks.
Curated by Joel Barraquiel Tan debuting his first book of poetry, MONSTER,
out on Noise Press. The evening will feature readings from the selected
works of Joel Tan, Philip Huang, Alfred Arteaga, Maiana Minahal, Barbara
Jane Reyes, Sean
San Jose, Leilani Chan, Vanessa Vela, Barbara Jane Reyes, Tim'm West
and
Jaime Cortez by the authors themselves, and a preview of the soon-to-be
published works of the Youth Speaks Small Press Project from emerging
writers Chinaka Hodge, Stephen Pickens, Ayoka Stewart, Gabe Crane,
and Tim
Arevalo.
Tickets are on sale now
At the ODC box office
415.863.9834 (http://odctheater.org)
Youth under 20, $5
Everyone else is $10
*********************************************
10. Seeking Queer Youth Stories for Militarism Project
The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) seeks your story for publication on militarism.
The AFSC's LGBT Programs and Youth & Militarism Program are currently working in partnership with the National Youth Advocacy Coalition (NYAC) on a new issue brief on Queer Youth & Militarism which will feature interviews with queer youth and young adults directly impacted by militarism, graphic, artwork, etc. Race, class, age, and gender will be centralized in our queer analysis of militarism. (To see the first AFSC/NYAC anti-war issue brief, go to: http://www.afsc.org/lgbt/peace/default.htm where you can download a pdf copy.)
Now in the development process, we are identifying and interviewing queer youth and young adults whose lives have been impacted by militarism in a variety of ways. These include, but are not limited to:
* Militarism in the schools, including JROTC, impacts of the "Leave No Child Behind" Act (releasing private student information to military recruiters), and censorship of free student expression about the widening "war on terrorism" and related issues
* Registration for (and resistance to) the Selective Service
* Military recruitment, including issues for queer youth, promises made by recruiters, recruitment in Latino and other people of color communities, etc.
* Military service. We are interested in interviewing queer young people who have served in the U.S. armed forces or seriously contemplated doing so.
* Impacts of militarism on queer youth communities in countries/territories dominated by U.S. or other military presence
* Impacts of militarism on young queer immigrants of color in the U.S.
* Budget and other community impacts of the widening U.S. "war on terrorism" on queer youth organizations, agencies, programs, and services.
We are committed to centralizing the voices and perspectives of young queer people of color, trans youth and young adults, and young queer women. We are also seeking relevant photos and graphics we can obtain permission to use for this issue. The issue brief will be distributed free, in print and online versions, so we cannot pay artists or photographers. But all work we use, with permission, will receive a credit line.
If you are, or know of, a young queer person who might be willing to be interviewed for this publication, please let us know, giving us contact information by the second week in July, 2003. We can conduct interviews in person, by telephone, and by e-mail.
Contact:
Kay Whitlock
Special Representative for LGBT Programs
American Friends Service Committee
mailto:whitlock@bigsky.net
Telephone: 406-721-7844
Joseph Truong
Resources Coordinator
National Youth Advocacy Coalition
mailto:joseph@nyacyouth.org
Telephone: 202-319-7596, x 12
*********************************************
11. Community Education Group Survey (Bay Area)
Community Education Group has contracted with Alameda County to disseminate surveys for sexually diverse youth, community service providers who work with sexually diverse youth and teachers/administrators. The surveys seek input into the development of programs, services, and educational messages that are culturally specific. Incentives and help with distribution of survey is available, all participants will receive a copy of the final study. The conclusion of this project will result in a county wide youth summit in 2004.
If you would like to fill out a survey or have a group or social activity
where surveys could be distributed please contact Ed Diaz at 415 724-5033,
or email at mailto:e_diazjr@yahoo.com.
*********************************************
12. Summer Jam to Stop the Exit Scam (Sacramento)
Superintendent O'Connell has decided to cancel the July administration of the CAHSEE and he has recommended that the State Board, at its July meeting, delay the diploma requirement until the Class of 2006.
There have been a number of misleading news reports about this decision. It is important that we all understand--and communicate to our members--the following:
1. The Exit Exam has NOT been delayed. The State Board is still making
that decision on July 9, and we are still going to Sacramento to call on
the board to make the right decision.
2. A delay of 2 years, as recommended by Superintendent O'Connell is
terribly inadequate, and we need to make that clear to the State Board
before they make their decision.
We are calling on the State Board of Education to delay the Exit Exam long enough to ensure that all students receive a real opportunity to learn and the state provides alternative assessments.
How you can Help:
The Summer Jam to Stop the Exit Scam!! (Sacramento)
July Statewide Mobilization
On July 9th, the State Board of Education will meet to make their final
decision about the High School Exit Exam - whether to delay the denial
of diplomas past the class of 2004. We need to tell them they must
delay the diploma requirement till ALL students have a high quality opportunity
to learn and until there
are alternative assessments to measure student success.
Join hundreds of students and community members in Sacramento - demand that the State Board do the right thing!
When: Wednesday, July 9. 2003 from 8:30am -5pm
Where: Corner of 15th & "N" st. in Sacramento
Schedule:
9:30am Arrival
10 am Press conference & Rally,
12noon Lunch, Music, & performances
3:30pm Closing Rally @ State Education Bldg.
Also: visits with state legislators, having a presence at the Board meeting, and other activities throughout the day!
Contact CFJ to reserve your space:
510-452-2728
mailto:lisa@caljustice.org
RAFFLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW!!
We're selling raffle tickets for $5.00 each to raise money for the Summer Jam!!
GRAND PRIZE: One week stay in a Timeshare condo and Two Southwest Airlines
tickets anywhere in the continental USA.
OTHER PRIZES: Music CD's, T-shirts, and other cool prizes!
Raffle to be drawn on August 4, 2003 at 5:00pm!
Call your local CFJ office for more information on selling raffle tickets for fundraising to ride the bus!
Check out our website for more info on the raffle & flyers!!
WE NEED EVERYONE TO SEND A LETTER TODAY!!
Californians for Justice and our allies in the Campaign for Quality Education urge you to send a letter to the State Board of Education urging a significant delay to the CAHSEE.
We ask you to recommend in your letter that the Board:
* delay the CAHSEE diploma requirement until all students receive a
real opportunity to learn and the state provides alternative assessments;
* work with the California Department of Education and the legislature
to use the CAHSEE delay to improve schools, by monitoring key indicators
of opportunity to learn and taking action to improve them;
* meet the requirements of CAHSEE law and study alternative assessments;
* reject the use of a compensatory score (an option currently being
explored by the State Board to increase pass rates, without really improving
the conditions in school.)
For a download-able sample letter and fax cover sheet addressed to the
State Board members, check the CFJ website at
http://www.caljustice.org/takeaction_sbeletter.shtml
Call CFJ if you have questions:
Oakland: (510) 452-2728
San Jose: (408)292-9476
Fresno: (559) 443-1394
Long Beach: (562) 951-1015
San Diego: (619) 641-7750
*********************************************
13. Press Conference at SF City Hall (San Francisco)
The California Sane Budget Alliance, Ella Baker Center for Human Rights,
and
Books Not Bars will be holding a press conference to demand that Governor
Davis call for a pay freeze for prison guards:
Thursday, June 26th
3:00 p.m.
Steps of City Hall
Speakers include: Matt Gonzalez (Board of Supervisors); Mark Sanchez
(SF
School Board); Van Jones (Exec. Dir., Ella Baker Center); Bradley Reeves
(Vice
Pres., United Educators of SF); Jeremiah Jeffries (Pres., Teachers4Change)
Please forward to other organizations that might be willing to join
our Alliance
and call for Gov. Davis to support a prison guard pay freeze. Information
on this and our other eight demands is attached.
Thanks for your support!
For more information:
415-951-4844, ext. 241
mailto:cramirez@stanford.edu
*********************************************
14. SCHOLARSHIPS: NYAC Scholarship Listings
List of 102 scholarships for minority youth on NYAC's Forum
See an extensive list of scholarships available for minority youth at NYAC's Online Forum at http://www.nyacyouth.org
click onto "NYAC Online Forum"
and see "Scholarships"
*********************************************
15. NEWS: Students Fight to Start Gay-Straight Alliance
Utah students vow to fight for GSA
Advocate.com, June 17, 2003
http://www.advocate.com/new_news.asp?id=8983&sd=06/17/03
Utah students vow to fight for GSA
Two Logan High School students in Logan, Utah, are challenging their
principal's ruling that forming a gay-straight alliance at their school
would
violate district policy.
Mark Sailor and Jessica Liddell, who will both be seniors this fall,
said they would be willing to go to court if the school district upholds
principal Charles Nelson's decision.
"We would prefer not to. Our goal is to get this started," Liddell
said. "But we feel very committed to having this club, and if
that's what we
have to do, that's what we have to do."
Nelson told The [Logan] Herald Journal that regardless of the club's
intentions, formation of the GSA would be a violation of school policy.
After considering a proposal from Sailor and Liddell, he gave the
students a list of suggestions for changes to the club name and mission
statement that would bring both into line with district policy.
"The name itself involves human sexuality," Nelson said. "That
is the
portion of the policy we are concerned with."
According to a district policy approved in January, "a school shall
deny access to any student organization or club whose program or activities
would materially and substantially involve human sexuality."
Sailor said the intent of the GSA would be to promote tolerance and
acceptance, not to focus on sexuality.
"The purpose of the gay-straight alliance is to create a safe space
where people feel comfortable regardless of sexual orientation," Sailor
said.
Nelson said he agrees that a club promoting tolerance and awareness
of
discrimination is very much needed at Logan High. "I am in favor
of the
club," Nelson said. "This is a club that needs to happen, but
the name is going
to be an issue."
Even if Nelson approved the club, the school constitution requires the
student senate and faculty to vote on it. A majority vote from
both groups
is required for final approval.
Neither the student senate nor the faculty will be meeting again until
school is in session this fall.
Superintendent Richard Jensen said the district is working with Nelson
to review the situation.
"Our intent is to look at the federal case law, the state
administrative rule, and our school constitution to help us do the
right thing in this particular situation, and while this request came in
at the end of the school year, we're working in a timely manner," Jensen
said.