 |  |  |
| ||
 | |  |
| ||
| | |
| ||
| | |
| ||
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Lawsuit Filed Against Bakersfield Schools!
GSA Network Announcements
1. WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
2. Youth Council Open Meetings! (Central Valley, Southern CA, Northern CA)
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
4. Young, Loud & Proud - San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival
(San Francisco)
5. Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund (Bay
Area)
6. Translators Needed - Volunteer with GSA Network
7. Counter Protest - "Reverend" Phelps comes to Tracy Graduation
8.Sakia Gunn Remembrance
Other Announcements
9. Participants needed for national Survey of LGBT youth
10. YouthAware - Educational plays for students about teen tolerance & homophobia
(San Francisco)
11. Fresh Meat in the Gallery - 2nd Annual Transgender Art Exhibition (San Francisco)
12. NEWS: District tries to discourage counterprotest
13. NEWS: Gay marriage protesters take message to schools
14. NEWS: Calif. judge won't force immediate publication of gay stories
15. NEWS: Student journalists sue school district over censorship of gay articles
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Lawsuit Filed Against Bakersfield Schools!
On May 19, 2005, GSA Network joined high school journalists and LGBT students from East Bakersfield High School in a lawsuit against Kern Union High School District over the censorship of LGBT students' voices in the school newspaper. The ACLU of Southern California represents GSA Network and 5 students in this case about free speech and LGBT student safety.
Unfortunately, at a hearing today in Bakersfield, a judge refused to grant a motion brought by the ACLU that would have forced the East Bakersfield High School to immediately allow the publication of the articles on sexual orientation. While GSA Network and the students involved are disappointed that the articles won't be published this school year, everyone involved is determined to keep fighting for the students' rights to publish their articles.
The student journalists and their sources who were silenced after their school administration censored a suite of articles about gay students held a press conference in Los Angeles at the offices of the ACLU on Thursday, May 19, to tell their story.
"A features package on homosexuality was pulled from our newspaper, the East Bakersfield High School's The Kernal this month by administration, because they believe that publishing the names and photographs would put the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students interviewed in danger," stated Maria Krauter, the Focus Editor for the Kernal. "As student journalists, we strongly believe in our freedom of speech, or, in this case, our freedom of press. Although we share the administration's concern for all East High students, we do not share the opinion that these article would incite any members of the student body to commit harmful acts against them. All of the LGBT students featured are already out and known on campus. We also obtained parental permission from the parents of those under 18."
The journalists from this award winning student publication stated that they are interested in publishing the articles, which cover several different viewpoints, because they believe in educating and informing their student readers and the East High community. The stories in question range from an analysis of research on what makes people gay, to an interview with a pastor and students about why they disagree with homosexuality, to an article about LBGT students on the campus, and one student's process of coming out to her mother. "Whether or not a person approves with homosexuality," Maria Krauter continued, "it is an issue that requires open, healthy discussion and understanding, and The Kernal is hoping to create this dialogue."
GSA Network joined the lawsuit on behalf of its student members who attend East Bakersfield High, where efforts are underway to start the 6th GSA in the school district. GSA Network's Executive Director, Carolyn Laub, who spoke at the press conference, said, "If the principal has direct evidence that there are safety concerns at school, then his first priority should not be to curtail free speech rights of students but to take appropriate steps to identify and discipline those students who are making threats and to make clear to the school community that harassment will not be tolerated. Instead, the principal at East High is sending a clear message to the students identified in the censored Kernal articles: go back into the closet if you want to be safe at school."
According to the ACLU, the Bakersfield incident, which will have statewide implications, is the most recent in a trend of school administrators censoring student journalists if they choose to write about sexual orientation.
For more info, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/press/ParamovKern.html
**********************************************
1.WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
!!BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING TO WIN $100 FOR A KICK-ASS PARTY FOR YOUR GSA CLUB!!
How successful was your club fighting transphobia and homophobia in your school? Did GSA Network help or do you need more from us next year? Please fill out this evaluation and let us know what you need in order to have an even more successful club next year! (Please ensure that at least one advisor and one GSA student fills out the application).
Get your evaluation in by May 31st to be entered into the drawing. (Only GSAs in California are eligible.)
For the on-line evaluation go to: www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/index.php
Additionally, please note that GSAs in California have been sent hard copies of the evaluation in the mail!
**********************************************
2.Youth Council Open Meetings! (Central Valley, Southern CA, Northern
CA)
To join the Youth Council, apply online at: www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
Saturday May 28th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Central Valley)
When: Saturday April 30th,
Where: GSA Network office (4403 E. Tulare St., Fresno)
Directions: Take 99 South, exit #133 towards Airport/Kings
Canyon onto 180 East. take 41 South towards Paso Robles and then exit at Divisadero
st/Tulare. Turn left on Divisadero and then continue on to E. Tulare street.
office is across the street from Roosevelt High School.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Robin McGehee, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 559-453-9040 or robin@gsanetwork.org.
Sunday May 29th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Southern California)
When: Saturday April 30th, 2:00pm
Where: GSA Network office (605 Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los
Angeles)
Directions: Take I-10 East to CA-110 North exit toward Pasedena.
Take exit #22A/6TH ST/9TH ST onto James M Wood blvd toward downtown, Bear left
on W 9TH ST, Turn right on S HOPE ST, Turn right on W OLYMPIC BLVD. Go to the
sixth floor.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Sandy Williams, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org.
Sunday, June 18, Open Youth Council Meeting! (Northern California California)
When: Sunday June 18th, 1:00pm
Where: GSA Network office (160 14th Street, San Francisco)
Directions: The office is located on 14th between South Van
Ness and Folsom.
If you're taking BART, get off at the 16th & Mission stop. Walk out of the
station, turn right, and walk down 16th towards S. Van Ness (runs parallel with
Mission). Turn right at the corner of 16th and S. Van Ness and walk two blocks
to 14th and S. Van Ness. Turn right. GSA Network will be on the left halfway
down the block. Our name is on the door. Press the buzzer, and we'll let you
in.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
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.
To apply for GSA Activist Camp for Summer 2005, visit www.gsanetwork.org/camp.
Date: July 22-24, 2005
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Want more info?: sandy@gsanetwork.org
Dates: August 12-14, 2005
Location: Oakland, CA
Want more info?: lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
4. Young, Loud & Proud - San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival
(San Francisco)
frameline29
San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival
June 16-26, 2005
Young, Loud & Proud
Sunday June 19 | 3:15 pm | Roxie
Free for ages 18 and under (present ID at door)
Young queers are blazing a trail in this collection of films by and about queer youth. The next generation gives the audience a firsthand look into what it is to be young and queer in the current phase of the LGBT movement.
What does the word "gay" mean for children of LGBT parents? In director
Jacqueline Frost's WHAT IS GAY?, kids speak for themselves.
CALLING NATE chronicles the gender-bending trials and tribulations of one Nadia
Hluszko, as she juggles conflicting advice from her mothers (one used to be
her father, and the other is addicted to "The Osbournes") and problems
with her girlfriend when she takes a different gender identity out for a test
drive.
In TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA, our 13-year-old hero talks about how great she imagined life would be when she became a teenager, and discovers it is not at all. She spends her time online looking up phobias, and finds a word for her condition: a fear of the number 13.
PROM NIGHT (a recipient of the Frameline Film & Video Completion Fund) chronicles a beloved local tradition for young queers in the East Bay, following prom participants as they raise money, plan logistics, and prepare for their special night. Although they are teens like any others, they must endure something other teens do not encounter on the traditional American prom night: an onslaught of protesters.
Co-presented by Dimensions Clinic, Gay-Straight Alliance Network and Lavender Youth Recreation & Information Center.
frameline29, the 29th San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival, screening June 16-26 at the Castro Theatre, the Roxie Cinema, the Victoria Theatre and the Parkway Theatre is the oldest and largest event of its kindin the world. Tickets go on sale to Frameline members Friday, May 27. General public ticket sales begin Friday, June 4. Tickets are available at Superstar Satellite video store located at 474 Castro Street (between Market and 18th Street in San Francisco), online at www.frameline.org/festival, by phone at 925 866 9559 and by fax at 925 866 9597.
*********************************************
5. Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen
Araujo Memorial Fund (San Francisco)
"The presentation really changed the way I look at lesbians, gays, and
transgenders because no matter how you feel you should never discriminate against
anyone and Gwen Amber Rose Araujo shouldn't have had her life taken."
-Emiliano Zapata Street Academy Student Oakland, CA
Please join Sylvia Guerrero, Julie Dorf and Jenni Olson, Chris Daley (Transgender Law Center), Tina D'Elia (Community United Against Violence), Carolyn Laub (GSA Network), and Derrick Miller-Handley (GLSEN SF-EB) for a Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
Please come to hear about how this fund has made it possible for the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Educators Network (GLSEN)/San Francisco-East Bay chapter and the Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) to collaborate in getting Sylvia Guerrero, the mother of Gwen Araujo, into 24 Bay Area schools this school year to speak about transgender issues. You'll also learn more about the upcoming re-trial of the murder case in Hayward. Celebrate the successes and learn more about transgender education in the Bay Area schools
WHERE: At the home of Julie Dorf & Jenni Olson
300 College Avenue / San Francisco (in St. Mary's Park, near Bernal Heights)
WHEN: Sunday June 5, 2005 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Suggested donations of $25 or more may be given at the event.
TO RSVP - Contact Henry Pacheco at hpacheco@horizonsfoundation.org or 415.398.2333 ext. 350.
*********************************************
6. Translators Needed - Volunteer with GSA Network
Be a part of fighting homophobia and transphobia in the school in your own special way!
We are in need of Spanish, Cantonese and Tagalog translators to translate resource sheets.
Help get the following resource sheets (and more) out to the bilingual and
monolingual students.
*Transgender Inclusivity in GSAs
*Building Anti-Racist GSAs
*Coalition Building
*Making Your School a "Hate Free Zone"
If you have a good command of the written language and can put in a few hours of volunteer time please give us a call.
Contact: tanya@gsanetwork.org or 415.552.4229
*********************************************
7. Counter Protest - "Reverend" Phelps comes to Tracy Graduation
From the West High GSA in Tracy, CA:
COUNTER-PROTEST: Over the past school year the West High School GSA in Tracy,
CA has gone through hoops to strive for a hate free environment. There have
been teachers preaching "..homosexuality a sin...", rocks & candy
thrown at our group during homecoming as well as the constant harassment that
reigns over the campus halls. Recently group efforts have begun to pay off,
and then a religious group: Westboro Baptist Church (<http://www.godhatesfags.com>www.godhatesfags.com)
from Kansas has decided to travel to Tracy and protest our graduations calling
Tracy high schools "...sodomite whorehouses that kiss up to the fag agenda..."
.
Our GSA will have a counter protest and invite all support to raise awareness
that the LGBT community isn't what people think and are normal, contrary to
what the extremist group is saying.
Who? GSA youth and community supporters, GSA Network, EQCA
(Marriage Equality of California), Unitarian Universalist Church, as well as
several other LGBT organizations.
Where? Tracy High School, 315 E. 11th St, Tracy, CA 95376 ACROSS
THE STREET AT LINCOLN PARK
Why? Educate and show that the extremist group isn't welcome
in California with their hateful ideas toward the LGBT community.
When? June 11th from 8:30-4:00 FEEL FREE TO COME ANY TIME BETWEEN
THE LISTED TIMES. OTHERWISE ALL DAY SUPPORT IS AWESOME!
DRESS FOR THE HEAT AND FEEL FREE TO BRING PEACEFUL BANNERS, FLAGS, POSTERS,FLYERS,
ETC. PROMOTING THE WORD OF "STOP HATE." ALSO CHAIRS, FOOD, AND WATER
ARE ALL THINGS YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER BRINGING FOR COMFORT.
For more information or to find out out how you can help, please call Lai-San
at GSA Network at lai-san@gsanetwork.org
*********************************************
8. Sakia Gunn Remembrance
San Francisco's Harvey Milk Plaza is the venue for LGBT political events ranging
from celebration of the US Supreme Court's ending of sodomy laws to marking
the anniversary of Harvey Milk's and George Moscone's murders. Sunday, May 22,
2005, saw the Plaza used as the venue for an intimate remembrance of another
homophobia-inspired murder. A group of San Francisco queer activists
came together to publicly recognize the second anniversary of Sakia Gunn's murder.
The event was sponsored by GSA Network as well as the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic
Club, the Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club, and Community United Against Violence
(CUAV).
Gunn was an out black lesbian teen from Newark, New Jersey. On May 11, 2003,
she was fatally stabbed by Richard Mc Cullough minutes after she publicly
rejected his sexual advances. Compared to Matthew Shepard's murder, Gunn's slaying
provoked very little reaction from the black and LGBT communities or even the
press.
This lack of sufficient community outrage or even acknowledgment of Gunn's death
became a theme of several speeches at the San Francisco event. Swazzi Sowo of
Black Rap admitted her anger at never having heard of the killing of Gunn before
she was asked to speak at this memorial. She urged listeners of the need to
remember homophobic murders in the black community and to keep Gunn's memory
alive. Cecilia Chung of S.F.'s Human Rights Commission also admitted she
needed to Google Gunn's name to get information about her case. Chung talked
about how Gunn's case related to the city's lack of support for homeless LGBT
youth in the Castro. Fresh White of CUAV found Gunn's standing up to Mc
Cullough instead of being intimidated into silence a source of pride. She
repeated the call for more public acknowledgment of Gunn's slaying.
The other major theme of the event's speeches was public acknowledgment
of community injustices. Tommi Avicolli-Mecca of And Castro 4 All told an anecdote
from his days as a Philadelphia newspaper reporter. He covered a series
of murders of black transgendered Philadelphians despite editorial indifference
to the killings. To date, those crimes remain unsolved. Calvin Gipson, also
of And Castro 4 All as well as ANSWER, discussed racism in the white LGBT
community. New Jersey and New York's LGBT communities' general lack
of outrage over Gunn's murder had unfortunate parallels with displays of racism
in San Francisco's LGBT community as typified by the Badlands case.
The event ended with the reading of a statement from LaQuetta Nelson of the
Newark Pride Alliance (NPA). Her statement brought listeners up to date on current
developments in Newark's LGBT community. One major development was the
holding of Newark's first ever Pride Week from May 28 to June 4. She also mentioned
NPA's ultimate aim of uplifting both the black and LGBT communities to
improve life for all.
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
9. Participants needed for national Survey of LGBT youth
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) is conducting the 2005 National School Climate Survey, GLSEN's fourth national survey of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth about their experiences in school. The National School Climate Survey is a crucial tool documenting the problem of anti-LGBT bias in K-12 schools across the nation. It is also a chance for LGBT youth to speak out about their experiences and to inform education policymakers and the public about what is really going on in our schools.
LGBT youth who attended high school or middle school sometime during the current school year (2004-2005) and who are at least 13 years old are eligible to participate. Youth who did not complete the entire school year are also eligible. The survey is completely anonymous.
Additional information and the online survey are available at:
www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/library/record/1789.html
If you have any questions, please contact GLSEN's Research Associate, Elizabeth Diaz, at ediaz@glsen.org or GLSEN's Research Director, Dr. Joe Kosciw, at jkosciw@glsen.org
*********************************************
10. YouthAware - Educational plays for students about teen tolerance
& homophobia (San Francisco)
New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC) -YouthAware Educational Theatre
Coming This Fall - Educational plays for students about teen tolerance &
homophobia - Reserve Now!
OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas
A World Premiere Play for Teens.
At NCTC October 5th - 22nd 2005
Monday - Friday at 10:15am Saturday the 22nd at 2pm
Join us for the world premiere of our new YouthAware Educational Theatre program,
OutSpoken. Commissioned by NCTC and based directly on the voices of young people,
OutSpoken is a new drama for teens that goes beyond the themes explored in The
Other Side of the Closet to look at the many reasons that young people feel
ostracized in school, at home and in their community including race, religion,
sexual orientation, body type & socio-economic background. Through OutSpoken,
we hope young people will find new ways to move past these differences to a
place of real tolerance and understanding. All performances this year will be
held at the New Conservatory Theatre Center 25 Van Ness Ave @ Market St. in
San Francisco, before we take this program on tour next season. Tickets: $10
adults, $7 youth, $5/each for groups of 10 or more (underwriting available for
low-income schools)
The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy
On Tour in Northern California October 24th - December 19th 2005
Despite an anti-harassment law (AB537) that took effect five years ago in California,
harassment and bullying based on sexual orientation remains persistent in California
schools. Thousands of middle and high school students are targets of verbal
and physical harassment based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation.
The Other Side of the Closet supports a safer school curriculum wherein students,
teachers and parents can learn about diversity and acceptance in an innovative
and engaging format. Set in and around a high school, this hard-hitting play
tells the story of five teens who are grappling with issues of peer pressure,
youth violence, homophobia, behavior norms, expectations, discrimination and
identity. Each performance is followed by a facilitated discussion session with
the cast. Designed for 7th - 12th graders, The Other Side of the Closet is available
to tour to your school or community from October 24 - December 19th 2005. The
program is about 75 minutes in length and can be performed in any theatre, gymnasium,
cafeteria or multi-purpose room. A preview copy of the script can be viewed
at www.nctcsf.org/ScriptLicensing.html.
A small donation is requested from school sites to cover production & any
travel costs, but underwriting is available for low income schools. Please call
to discuss logistics.
For more info: 415-861-4914 or email sara@nctcsf.org
*********************************************
11. Fresh Meat in the Gallery - 2nd Annual Transgender Art Exhibition
(San Francisco)
FRESH MEAT DANCES OFF THE STAGE AND ON TO THE WALLS
Fresh Meat in the Gallery - 2nd Annual Transgender Art Exhibition
Fresh Meat Productions
San Francisco, CA (May 10, 2005) Fresh Meat Productionsí Second Annual
Fresh Meat in the Gallery is an historic exhibition of visual art by transgender,
intersex and genderqueer artists being presented in June and July in San Francisco.
Featuring sculpture, photography, paintings, mixed media and crafts from around
the world, this yearís showcase has expanded to two galleries. Artwork
will be shown at the SF LGBT Community Center from June 4 - July 31 and at the
ODC Theater
Gallery, June 12 - June 5.
Fresh Meat in the Gallery creates a visual dialogue about gender, the body and society. It is a conversation with and about subjects often left unseen or undiscussed, both within the queer community and society at large. Featured artist and genderqueer printmaker E. Ramstad says, "This artwork is about me, my community, changing bodies, my body.
This exhibition accompanies Fresh Meat 2005, the acclaimed annual festival of transgender and queer performance that runs June 16-18 at ODC Theater. A driving force in the growing trans art movement, Fresh Meat has been called ìfierce and fine tunedÖhistory in the makingî (Bay Area Reporter). Artistic Director and choreographer Sean Dorseyís ìintelligent and evocative work helps build a frame of reference to enable viewers to experience dance outside of gender.î according to Critical Dance.
The mission of Fresh Meat Productions is to build community through the arts by creating, presenting and touring original transgender and queer arts programs. The San Francisco Arts Commission, Horizons Foundation, Boston Foundation, Rainbow Grocery, Queer Cultural Center, Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Zellerbach Family Foundation and many generous individual donors provide funding support. For more information, please visit www.freshmeatproductions.org
Gallery One: LGBT Community Center, Gallery 301 (3rd Floor)
June 04 - July 31, 2005
1800 Market Street (at Octavia), San Francisco
Gallery hours: Mon-Fri 12noon-10pm, Sat 9am-10pm
Opening Reception: June 4, 6pm-10pm (opening reception of the National Queer
Arts Festival)
Gallery Two: ODC Theater Gallery
June 12 - July 5, 2005
3153 17th Street (at Shotwell), San Francisco
Gallery hours: Wed-Sat 2pm-5pm
Opening Reception: June 16, post-performance (Fresh Meat 2005)
*********************************************
12. NEWS: District tries to discourage counterprotest
District tries to discourage counterprotest
May 19, 2005
Tracy Press
by Bobby Wilson
Tracy Unified School District is trying to discourage counterprotesters from demonstrating against a rabidly anti-gay church set to picket the graduation ceremonies of Tracy and West high schools.
Earlier this month, the Westboro Baptist Church vowed to protest the June 11 ceremonies.
The Topeka , Kan. , church said they were upset that West's Gay-Straight Alliance pressured the district to punish math teacher Richard Thompson for expressing his personal views on homosexuality in class and during a private conversation with a student. Thompson has said he has no connection to the church.
Westboro has staged numerous protests across the nation, with the most notorious protest probably being the funeral of Matthew Sheppard. In 1998, Shepard was murdered in Laramie , Wyo. , because he was gay.
Once word of the church's protest was publicized, groups such as the Gay-Straight Alliance began to discuss counterprotests.
But Tracy Unified's Rebecca Frame, the student services director, has asked at least one group to not join GSA for the counterprotest.
To read the full article, visit:
www.tracypress.com/local/2005-05-19-Protest.html
*********************************************
13.NEWS: Gay marriage protesters take message to schools
Gay marriage protesters take message to schools
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
By Sean Rabé
The Ledger-Dispatch
A group protesting gay marriage near Argonaut and Amador high schools drew attention Tuesday morning.
"I think it's kind of amusing they feel they have to come to schools to convert us or something," said Argonaut High School senior Diane Mason. "It is kind of scary in a way, though."
Gay Marriage No drove two "truth trucks" to the high schools emblazoned with large banners proclaiming gay marriage was a sin. They did so, according to one of the truck's drivers, because "Schools are an educational facility that aren't allowed to teach this point of view, so we work with that by giving students who ask, literature and bumper stickers," said Dick Otterstad.
School officials were not pleased with the impromptu protest, however.
"I don't think they should be putting kids' lives at risk," Argonaut Vice-Principal Steve Burton while watching to make sure students weren't in danger of being hit by oncoming vehicles on Argonaut Lane. "This is the worst possible place to do this - we have kids crossing the street and almost getting hit by cars. It's not about their political beliefs, its about them putting students at risk."
To read the full article, visit:
www.ledger-dispatch.com/news/newsview.asp?c=159321
*********************************************
14.NEWS: Calif. judge won't force immediate publication of gay stories
Calif. judge won't force immediate publication of gay stories
Bakerfield high school story on gay students blocked by principal
BAKERSFIELD, CA (AP) | May 25, 2:35 PM
A Kern County, Calif., judge declined to immediately overrule a high school principal's decision to censor a student newspaper's articles about gay students, but noted the issue deserved a full review.
A group of high school journalists sued the Kern High School District on May 19 in an effort to keep their principal from stopping them from publishing articles that included photos and interviews with gay students discussing their sexual orientation.
To read more, visit:
http://www.washblade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=775
*********************************************
15.NEWS: Student journalists sue school district over censorship of
gay articles
Student journalists sue school district
May 21, 2005
CNN
LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- Student journalists sued their Bakersfield high school district Thursday in an effort to keep the school's principal from censoring student newspaper articles on homosexuality.
The suit, filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, requests an emergency order to allow the paper to publish the stories in The Kernal's year-end May 27 issue.
"The Kernal staff, along with the gay students we interviewed, we have lost our voices," said the paper's editor in chief, Joel Paramo, a plaintiff in the case filed in Kern County court.
To read more, visit:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/EDUCATION/05/20/student.paper.lawsuit.ap/index.html
*********
Students Ask Court To OK Gay Articles In School Paper
365Gay.com
May 19, 2005
(Bakersfield, California) Five students and their parents filed an emergency lawsuit today in Superior Court in Kern County seeking publication in the next two weeks of a series of articles about sexual orientation that was censored by school officials.
To read more, visit:
www.365gay.com/newscon05/05/05190schoolPaper.htm
*********
Alleging censorship, students sue district
Orange County Register
Friday, May 20, 2005
LOS ANGELES - A group of high school journalists sued the Kern High School District on Thursday in an effort to keep their principal from censoring student newspaper articles on homosexuality.
To read more, visit:
www.ocregister.com/ocr/2005/05/20/sections/region_state/region_state/article_527613.php
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
SHOW ME THE MONEY!!! - Raising money for your GSA
GSA Network Announcements
1. WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
2. Youth Council Open Meetings! (Northern CA, Central Valley, Southern CA)
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
4. GSA Network Mass Mailing Party (Bay Area)
5. Memorial for Sakia Gunn (San Francisco)
6. Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund (Bay
Area)
7. Translators Needed - Volunteer with GSA Network
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
Other Announcements
9. Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center Retreat
10. AIDS Walk San Francisco 2005 (Bay Area)
11. Many Faces One Community - Gay Pride Resource Faire (San Jose)
12. Become a YouthWorks intern (San Francisco)
13. NEWS: Casting insults on campus
14. NEWS: YOUTH COMMENTARY: Growing Up With A Gay Dad
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
SHOW ME THE MONEY!!! - Raising money for your GSA
A question that GSA Network hears from students over and over again is "how do we raise money for our GSA?" Fundraising is an important point of focus for GSAs. Without funding to back up the GSA, how can the group hope to accomplish the things they wish to do? We decided to ask GSA members for their ideas. Allan from Hilltop High School had this response.
"I know at my school, Hilltop High School, fundraising has always been
a major issue. A lot of events we wished to have were near impossible in our
eyes. Our Gay-Straight Alliance operated on a low budget, or it used to. That
is, until we realized a lot of events we could do could be fundraisers! At Hilltop
every club is allowed two fundraisers every year. The type of fundraisers they
approve are alright, but they usually don't bring in a lot of money-- 100 dollars
(and that is stretching it). Lately our GSA has been looking towards more unorthodox
ways of fundraising.
Our first major fundraiser was a one-day garage sale last year over the summer.
In just one Saturday afternoon we made close to 150 dollars! We did not sell
anything all that special, we just did our best, set up in a busy area and hoped
for the best. Heck, even if you do not have anything to sell and just have a
free Saturday, you can set up a car wash at your school. I am sure your school
does not use the parking lot on weekends.
Another excellent idea is to set up a GSA Movie Night at your school. Just show
2-3 gay-friendly/gay-themed movies and provide some drinks for just five dollars.
But make sure you provide other snacks and charge for them! A movie night is
a great way to make some extra money right before a big event (such as Transgender
Day of Remembrance, The Day of Silence, or even a Teacher Training), plus the
event is quick and easy. And if you really have some creative people throw in
a bake-sale or have a craft sale at the same time."
Other ideas GSA members offered were asking a local restaurant to hold a special
one day event in which a certain percentage of the money will go to your GSA.
The restaurant can charge an entrance fee which your GSA gets, or you can give
out flyers that customers present when they pay their bill and a certain percentage
of the bill will be donated. You can sell items like bracelets, buttons, or
rainbow ribbons. Also some queer friendly business have let GSAs set up donation
jars. And last but not least, a good old fashioned chocolate sale can get the
job done.
"Just asking businesses around your school or people at your school to
donate money works out dandy," added Earl, another GSA member. "Everyone
has money and if there is a reason to give it out they probably will."
Just a reminder however, not every school allows fundraising. Mission Viejo's
non-curricular club rules prohibit the GSA from fundraising as a group, according
to one of it's members. So be sure to check that out first, and then have a
good time and make lots of money.
**********************************************
1.WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
!!BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING TO WIN $100 FOR A KICK-ASS PARTY FOR YOUR GSA CLUB!!
How successful was your club fighting transphobia and homophobia in your school? Did GSA Network help or do you need more from us next year? Please fill out this evaluation and let us know what you need in order to have an even more successful club next year! (Please ensure that at least one advisor and one GSA student fills out the application).
Get your evaluation in by May 31st to be entered into the drawing. (Only GSAs in California are eligible.)
For the on-line evaluation go to: www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/index.php
Additionally, please note that GSAs in California have been sent hard copies of the evaluation in the mail!
**********************************************
2.Youth Council Open Meetings! (Central Valley, Southern CA)
To join the Youth Council, apply online at: www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
Saturday May 28th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Central Valley)
When: Saturday April 30th,
Where: GSA Network office (4403 E. Tulare St., Fresno)
Directions: Take 99 South, exit #133 towards Airport/Kings
Canyon onto 180 East. take 41 South towards Paso Robles and then exit at Divisadero
st/Tulare. Turn left on Divisadero and then continue on to E. Tulare street.
office is across the street from Roosevelt High School.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Robin McGehee, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 559-453-9040 or robin@gsanetwork.org.
Sunday May 29th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Southern California)
When: Saturday April 30th, 2:00pm
Where: GSA Network office (605 Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los
Angeles)
Directions: Take I-10 East to CA-110 North exit toward Pasedena.
Take exit #22A/6TH ST/9TH ST onto James M Wood blvd toward downtown, Bear left
on W 9TH ST, Turn right on S HOPE ST, Turn right on W OLYMPIC BLVD. Go to the
sixth floor.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Sandy Williams, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org.
**********************************************
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
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.
To apply for GSA Activist Camp for Summer 2005, visit www.gsanetwork.org/camp.
Date: July 22-24, 2005
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Want more info?: sandy@gsanetwork.org
Dates: August 12-14, 2005
Location: Oakland, CA
Want more info?: lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
4. GSA Network Mass Mailing Party (San Francisco)
Date and time to be announced - Please RSVP for more information
GSA Network Office
160 14th Street
San Francisco, CA
This is a huge project. Thousands of envelopes to stuff, seal, and stamp! There is absolutely no licking involved. This is a great way for anybody (yes, you!) to step right up and be a part of fighting homophobia and transphobia in the schools.
Pizza and drinks to fuel processing of GSA Network mailing
RSVP - tanya@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
*********************************************
5. Memorial for Sakia Gunn (San Francisco)
Local queer activists are holding a memorial for Sakia Gunn, a 15-year-old black lesbian who was murdered in a hate crime two years ago in a Newark, New Jersey train station. At the time she was killed, she was returning home with a friend from a trip to the West Village in New York City.
The remembrance will be held on Sunday May 22, 2pm, Harvey Milk Plaza, Castro and Market. Speakers will include community activists Calvin Gipson, Zwazzi Sowo, Cecelia Chung, Peter Wong, Fresh White and others.
Said Wong, an organizer of the event, "This remembrance pays respect to a young lesbian whose life was unfairly abbreviated by homophobic violence. It's also an opportunity to recognize that both the black and LGBT communities are diminished when a hate crime against black LGBT people is downplayed or ignored."
For more info, contact Peter Wong at glorycompy@yahoo.com or Tommi Avicolli Mecca at mecca44@aol.com
GSA Network is an endorser of the Sakia Gunn memorial event.
*********************************************
6. Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen
Araujo Memorial Fund (Bay Area)
"The presentation really changed the way I look at lesbians, gays, and
transgenders because no matter how you feel you should never discriminate against
anyone and Gwen Amber Rose Araujo shouldn't have had her life taken."
-Emiliano Zapata Street Academy Student Oakland, CA
Please join Sylvia Guerrero, Julie Dorf and Jenni Olson, Chris Daley (Transgender Law Center), Tina D'Elia (Community United Against Violence), Carolyn Laub (GSA Network), and Derrick Miller-Handley (GLSEN SF-EB) for a Reception to Support Horizons Foundation's Gwen Araujo Memorial Fund for Transgender Education.
Please come to hear about how this fund has made it possible for the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Educators Network (GLSEN)/San Francisco-East Bay chapter and the Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) to collaborate in getting Sylvia Guerrero, the mother of Gwen Araujo, into 24 Bay Area schools this school year to speak about transgender issues. You'll also learn more about the upcoming re-trial of the murder case in Hayward. Celebrate the successes and learn more about transgender education in the Bay Area schools
WHERE: At the home of Julie Dorf & Jenni Olson
300 College Avenue / San Francisco (in St. Mary's Park, near Bernal Heights)
WHEN: Sunday June 5, 2005 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Suggested donations of $25 or more may be given at the event.
TO RSVP - Contact Henry Pacheco at hpacheco@horizonsfoundation.org or 415.398.2333 ext. 350.
*********************************************
7. Translators Needed - Volunteer with GSA Network
Be a part of fighting homophobia and transphobia in the school in your own special way!
We are in need of Spanish, Cantonese and Tagalog translators to translate resource sheets.
Help get the following resource sheets (and more) out to the bilingual and
monolingual students.
*Transgender Inclusivity in GSAs
*Building Anti-Racist GSAs
*Coalition Building
*Making Your School a "Hate Free Zone"
If you have a good command of the written language and can put in a few hours of volunteer time please give us a call.
Contact: tanya@gsanetwork.org or 415.552.4229
*********************************************
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
9. Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center Retreat
AQU25A is sponsoring TWO upcoming retreats to relax, bond, and make new friends!
Retreats are
totally free and totally fun!!!
1) JUNE 3-5 \\ Lake Tahoe \\ Summer Retreat for gay, bi, downe, queer API young
men 18-35
2) JUNE 13-15 // Point Reyes // Getaway at API Youth Retreat for LGBTQQ API
youth under 25
For more info contact Bryant: bryant@apiwellness.org, 415-292-3420 x315.
*********************************************
10. AIDS Walk San Francisco 2005 (Bay Area)
On Sunday July 17th, 2005, 25,000 people will gather in Golden Gate Park for the 19th annual AIDS Walk San Francisco- a 10 K walk that benefits the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and dozens of other Bay Area AIDS organizations. Since its creation in 1987, unprecedented numbers of walkers have raised close to $50 million dollars to end the suffering brought about by HIV/AIDS. This is made possible in part by teams from schools and student groups.
We invite you to join with us at AIDS Walk San Francisco and help support the fight against HIV/AIDS! By becoming an AIDS Walk Team, you can play an important role in California's largest response to the AIDS crisis.
*A Team is a group of co-workers, fellow students, religious/civic organizations, friends and families that pre-register, raise money and walk together.
*Walking as a team is fun and a morale builder for all types of companies, schools and organizations. It is also a great way for you and your organization to show support for those living with HIV/AIDS.
*Unlike other fundraisers, it is FREE to register and walk! Just call our office at 415-615-9255 (ask for Molly), or register online at http://www.aidswalk.net/>www.aidswalk.net.
*********************************************
11. Many Faces One Community - Gay Pride Resource Faire (San Jose)
When: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 / 10am-3pm
Where: Social Services Agency Auditorium - 333 West Julian St., San Jose, CA
30 Organizations from San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland and Santa Cruz Counties will provide information and resources for Gay Foster Youth
One GRAND PRIZE and lots of other Great Prizes - Winners MUST be present
Sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Employee's Committee
*********************************************
12. NEWS: Casting insults on campus
Friday, May 13, 2005
By Kristen Munson
Gilroy Dispatch
Gilroy - When Adrianna Zepeda told one of her best friends that she was running for the presidency of Gilroy High School's Gay Straight Alliance earlier this year, their friendship ended.
"This must mean you're gay," her friend insisted.
"I told her, 'You're forgetting the 'straight' in Gay Straight Alliance,'" Zepeda said.
Since she took office, the freshman has endured some teasing from classmates, but has tried to make her message clear: Discrimination is unacceptable on the GHS campus.
She and about 15 other GHS students and four teachers participated in the Day of Silence on April 13. The annual demonstration calls for participants to remain silent all day to symbolize the oppression gay, lesbian and transsexual individuals feel every day.
The national protest has sparked debate between GUSD teachers, board members, parents and students regarding teachers participating in the event during class time.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.gilroydispatch.com/news/contentview.asp?c=159041
*********************************************
13. NEWS: YOUTH COMMENTARY: Growing Up With A Gay Dad
Amber Smidebush, Pacific News Service
Saturday, May 14, 2005
When I was about six years old, I was on vacation with my father at lake Don Pedro, a little man made lake east of Modesto. I asked him what his rainbow necklace was for. I can remember his face exactly; he was shocked, and nervous. He looked at me, and said, "Well, it just means that I have boyfriends instead of girlfriends."
I was confused, as I should be, and just kind of blew it off as something I would understand later.
When I came home my mom asked me how the trip was, and I looked at her and said, "Did you know that daddy has boyfriends?" My mom was shocked, and just sat there with a blank look on her face.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2005/05/14/gaydad.DTL
*********************************************
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Tam High reaffirms need for a safe environment for all students
GSA Network Announcements
1. WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
2. Youth Council Open Meetings! (Northern CA, Central Valley, Southern CA)
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
Other Announcements
5. Queer Movie Night! - "The Sum of Us" (Santa Monica)
6. GLSEN San Diego - GSA Social (San Diego)
7. Gay Prom 2005 (Hayward)
8. Many Faces One Community - Gay Pride Resource Faire (San Jose)
9. LGBT YOUTH PROM (Los Angeles)
10. Take Back our Schools Day (Oakland)
11. Rainbow Women's Chorus presents "A Tribute to Women of Broadway"
(San Jose)
12. Become a YouthWorks intern (San Francisco)
13. Deadline Extended for young women to apply for a $1000 scholarship (Central
and Northern California)
14. NEWS: Anti-gay bias said ignored at Poway High
15. NEWS: Gay-bashing at Marin high school a hoax
16. NEWS: Murder retrial for transgender teenager Gwen Araujo begins
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Tam High reaffirms need for a safe environment for all students
Tamalpais High School officials reaffirmed their commitment to having a safe and supportive environment for all students this week after it was revealed that a string of local hate crimes was the result of a hoax likely perpetrated by the student who had been one of the primary victims.
Not surprisingly, many of the school's students have found themselves confused, saddened, and sometimes angered by what has happened over the last few days, Still, it seems that some students are already speaking out about showing compassion. Tam High freshman Katherine McNeil is quoted in Tuesday's Marin Independent Journal reminding her fellow students about the importance of helping the young woman in question, explaining "She made a bad mistake, but I hope people aren't mean." (For additional news articles, see Item #15 below.
In response to the news this week, Tam High administrators sent letters to all of the students and teachers reiterating their intention to investigate all reported future incidents of harassment against LGBT students. GSA Network commends the Tam High administration for their continued commitment to ensuring a school environment where harassment is taken seriously and students feel supported to continue standing up for themselves.
Earlier this year, the community of Mill Valley and Tam High School came together
to stand together against the incidents--including graffiti scrawled on walls
and doors at the school, threats of violence, and an alleged egging. Over 250
community members attended a candlelight vigil against discrimination and hate.
Tam High's GSA, which re-formed this year in response to the incidents, is continuing
to work together and have said they are sad and worried for the student who
has said she is the perpetrator. The club is going forward with a screening
of "Not In Our Town: Northern California" tomorrow night at 7 pm at
Mill Valley Public Library. After the film is shown, GSA members will lead a
discussion of the importance of continuing the important dialogue concerning
the diversity and inclusion that began at their school and in Mill Valley after
the crimes began to be reported.
The topic of what happened at Tam might come up at your GSA's next meeting, or you might get asked about what this means for GSAs by other students or teachers at your school. Below is a list of things to consider when trying to answer these questions:
1. The Tam High situation does not discredit any or all GSAs or students who complain of harassment and/or discrimination-based incidents at school. The overwhelming majority of complaints are legitimate and should be investigated fully.
2. Every student deserves to feel safe and supported at school. If a student feels like he/she/ze has been the victim of a hate-motivated act, he/she/ze should also feel comfortable enough to report to the proper teacher or administrator. GSA Network commends Tam High School for taking steps to ensure that this is the case on its campus.
3. Everybody makes mistakes. One of the best and most useful responses to someone who has made a mistake is compassion and support, not condemnation or anger. No one has direct knowledge as to what this student was and is experiencing and feeling. Shunning or condemning her brings us no closer to having schools that are safe and inclusive for all LGBTQ students.
If you have any questions about the Tam High situation or how to handle discussions of it at your school, please call Lai-San at GSA Network at 415-552-4229 or Cristin Brew at the Spectrum Center in Marin at 415-457-1115.
**********************************************
1.WIN $100 for your GSA Club! - Take GSA Network's Year-End Evaluation
!!BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING TO WIN $100 FOR A KICK-ASS PARTY FOR YOUR GSA CLUB!!
How successful was your club fighting transphobia and homophobia in your school? Did GSA Network help or do you need more from us next year? Please fill out this evaluation and let us know what you need in order to have an even more successful club next year! (Please ensure that at least one advisor and one GSA student fills out the application).
Get your evaluation in by May 31st to be entered into the drawing. (Only GSAs in California are eligible.)
For the on-line evaluation go to: www.gsanetwork.org/yearendeval/index.php
Additionally, please note that GSAs in California have been sent hard copies of the evaluation in the mail!
**********************************************
2.Youth Council Open Meetings! (Northern CA, Central Valley, Southern
CA)
To join the Youth Council, apply online at: www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
Sunday May 15th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Northern California)
When: Sunday, May 15, 12:00-4:00 pm
Where: GSA Network office (160 14th Street, San Francisco)
Directions: The office is located on 14th between South Van
Ness and Folsom.
If you're taking BART, get off at the 16th & Mission stop. Walk out of the
station, turn right, and walk down 16th towards S. Van Ness (runs parallel with
Mission). Turn right at the corner of 16th and S. Van Ness and walk two blocks
to 14th and S. Van Ness. Turn right. GSA Network will be on the left halfway
down the block. Our name is on the door. Press the buzzer, and we'll let you
in.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Program Coordinator at 415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org.
Saturday May 28th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Central Valley)
When: Saturday April 30th,
Where: GSA Network office (4403 E. Tulare St., Fresno)
Directions: Take 99 South, exit #133 towards Airport/Kings
Canyon onto 180 East. take 41 South towards Paso Robles and then exit at Divisadero
st/Tulare. Turn left on Divisadero and then continue on to E. Tulare street.
office is across the street from Roosevelt High School.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Robin McGehee, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 559-453-9040 or mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org.
Sunday May 29th - Open Youth Council Meeting! (Southern California)
When: Saturday April 30th, 2:00pm
Where: GSA Network office (605 Olympic Blvd, Suite 610, Los
Angeles)
Directions: Take I-10 East to CA-110 North exit toward Pasedena.
Take exit #22A/6TH ST/9TH ST onto James M Wood blvd toward downtown, Bear left
on W 9TH ST, Turn right on S HOPE ST, Turn right on W OLYMPIC BLVD. Go to the
sixth floor.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Sandy Williams, GSA Network Program Coordinator
at 213-534-7162 or sandy@gsanetwork.org.
**********************************************
3. GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS 2005!!! - Apply Online
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.
To apply for GSA Activist Camp for Summer 2005, visit www.gsanetwork.org/camp.
Date: July 22-24, 2005
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Want more info?: sandy@gsanetwork.org
Dates: August 12-14, 2005
Location: Oakland, CA
Want more info?: lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
++++++++++++++++ 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. Queer Movie Night! - "The Sum of Us" (Santa Monica)
As part of the queer film series at Crossroads, sponsored by FLAG (our gay/straight alliance), we will be having our next--and last of the year--movie screening on Wednesday, April 20th, from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. We invite you to join us!
We'll be screening the great feature film The Sum of Us, (starring a young Russell Crowe as a gay man) and the hilarious short lesbian mockumentary Prom-troversy.
All students and faculty from Gay/Straight alliances and their friends are welcome. It's a great way to meet new friends, or see old ones.
The movie is free and free pizza and drinks will be provided! RSVP's are required. To RSVP or for more info, you can reach us at flag2@xrds.org
Directions:
Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and
Olympic Blvd.
The screening room we're meeting in is on the 2nd floor of the Arts Building.
Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate right onto a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our "quad" which looks like a parking lot or an alley, and which we call (of course) the alley.
Walk to the end of the alley to the tall building on the left, enter and climb the stairs to the 2nd floor. You should see people.
*********************************************
6. GLSEN San Diego - GSA Social (San Diego)
GLSEN San Diego will be holding a GSA Social
When: May 19th
Where: 4070 Centre Street (Being Alive Building--about a block and a half north
of the LGBT Center in Hillcrest)
*Pizza, snacks, and Soda free to all who RSVP
*Discussion Forum for GSA students around SD County.
*Movie--"But I'm a Cheerleader" (or alternate: "Camp")
RSVP to us at glsensd@glsensd.org
*********************************************
7. Gay Prom 2005 (Hayward)
Come As You Are, Be Who You Are, Make Your Dreams REALITY
11th Annual Gay Prom
When: Saturday June 11, 7pm - 12am
Where: Centennial Hall, Hayward, CA
A Substance-Free Event for LGBTQ Youth & straight allies, Ages 20 and under
Dress to Impress!
Tix $20/Adv $25/door
510.247.8200
www.GAYPROM.ORG
Brought to you by Project Eden, a program of Horizon Services, Inc.
*********************************************
8. Many Faces One Community - Gay Pride Resource Faire (San Jose)
When: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 / 10am-3pm
Where: Social Services Agency Auditorium - 333 West Julian St., San Jose, CA
30 Organizations from San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland and Santa Cruz Counties will provide information and resources for Gay Foster Youth
One GRAND PRIZE and lots of other Great Prizes - Winners MUST be present
Sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Employee's Committee
*********************************************
9. LGBT YOUTH PROM (Los Angeles)
Pre-purchase deadline is May 13th! Hurry!
When: May 20, 2005, from 8 to 11:45 p.m.
The annual prom for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, sponsored by Friends of Project 10, will be held on Friday, May 20, 2005, from 8 to 11:45 p.m.
The evening is primarily for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth, but our straight friends are also very much invited and welcome.
The location for the prom has been changed. The 2005 LGBT Youth Prom will now be held at the Friendship Auditorium, located at 3201 Riverside Drive, just east of Los Feliz Boulevard. There is free parking available adjacent to the auditorium.
The prom is open to youth ages 14 to 23 years old. Reduced price tickets are available to students for only $30, which includes a buffet dinner, unlimited soft drinks, parking, and an evening of dancing to the music by D.J. Rick Dominguez. Tickets must be prepurchased to get the reduced price and paid for by money order or cashier's check. No personal checks or credit cards accepted. Deadline for prepurchase tickets is May 13th!
Adults accompanying students must pay the full ticket price of $60. A LIMITED number of tickets will be available at the door to students for $40 (cash only) the night of the prom. We encourage you to buy tickets in advance, as we cannot guarantee admittance at the door. Pick up your prepaid tickets at the door the night of the event. We are not allowed to permit students to come in and out of the event. Sorry, no refunds can be made.
To purchase tickets, send $30 per ticket (money order or cashier's check payable
to "Project 10") to:
Friends of Project 10 Inc.
P.O. Box 39552
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Please be sure to indicate the number of tickets you are purchasing and the
name under which the ticket(s) should be held.
Please visit www.modelsofpride.org for more information. Contact us by e-mail info@modelsofpride.org or call (626) 577-4553 if you have any questions.
*********************************************
10. Take Back our Schools Day (Oakland)
When: May 17th (51st anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education)
12:00-1:00pm - open air public forum from at Frank Ogawa Plaza,
1:00-4:00pm an educational conference at the First Unitarian Church.
On May 17th, 2005 community members, teachers, parents, students, and city officials will be coming together to engage in a public forum and educational conference that will highlight the critical issues impacting our schools, students and communities. For over two years there have been sweeping reforms within the Oakland public schools, and those most impacted by the changes, the students, have not had the opportunity to share their concerns, their struggles, or their strategies for creating a more engaging and successful education environment. The goal of the 17th is to provide a safe space to engage in a public dialogue on the current state of education in Oakland. It is no accident that the students decided to plan this event on the 51st anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education. This landmark settlement was intended to end segregation in our schools, yet over half a decade later our schools are still separate and still unequal.
On May 3rd, 2005 the City Council unanimously endorsed a resolution calling May 17th in Oakland "Save Our Schools Day." Over forty Oakland organizations and associations have endorsed May 17th as a day for students to "take back our schools." The event is being organized, in unity, by students and adults through Organize Da B.A.Y Coalition and the Community Coalition to Defend and Improve Public Education.
We are asking both teachers and parents to endorse this day as an educational
fieldtrip, and if possible, participate in the days activities.
We are asking that all participants, both youth and adults, respect the space
and each other during this event. The principles guiding the day's events are
peace, unity and justice.
If you decide to participate in this event with your class we are asking that
you contact Raquel, event lead organizer at 510-645-9213.
*********************************************
11. Rainbow Women's Chorus presents "A Tribute to Women of Broadway"
(San Jose)
Curtain up! Light the lights! Rainbow Women's Chorus presents "A Tribute to Women of Broadway."
Two performances only: 8 PM Saturday, June 4 at Le Petit Trianon and 3 PM Sunday at the Historic Hoover Theatre, both in San Jose.
Get set for an enthusiastic, rousing and enlightening tour through Broadway musicals as written, arranged and performed by the women who helped make them happen. Songs include Hello, Dolly, Thoroughly Modern Milly, Everything's Coming up Roses and many more, delighting the young and old alike.
Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door, with special discounts for seniors, students and groups of 10 or more. Call (408) 259-3673 to reserve tickets or for info. www.rainbowwomen.org.
*********************************************
12. Become a YouthWorks intern (San Francisco)
YouthWorks is an internship program designed to give San Francisco youth the chance to explore a career and learn about city government. Participants intern in one of 40 San Francisco city departments. Participants also receive pre-employment training and are encouraged to participate in other career development trainings, fun activities and leadership opportunities.
Qualifications for YouthWorks
**Must be entering the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade for 05/06 or enrolled in a
GED program
**Must live in San Francisco County
**Must be enrolled in a San Francisco High School
**Must commit to work at least 1 session of YouthWorks (about 3 months)
How to Apply? Applications will be released: May 16th, 2005
Applications will be accepted: May 23rd- June 3rd ONLY
Participants will be accepted on a first come first serve bases during the
5/23- 6/3 application period,
so it is very important to get your application in as early as possible. The
summer is extremely competitive and we fill up within the first couple of days.
Where are applications?
Pick up at: 1596 Post Street (@Laguna)
Download at: www.sfyouthworks.org
*********************************************
13. Deadline Extended for young women to apply for a $1000 scholarship
(Central and Northern California)
New Deadline - Friday, May 20th.
Last year, the Women's Foundation of California partnered with the Women's Network Employee Association at PG&E to offer educational scholarships to young women in our Sisterhood Fund, in the amount of $1000 each. This year, we are partnering again and are opening the applicant pool to all young women (up to the age of 22) who are affiliated with the Foundation through our grant partner organizations. We will be awarding 10-12 scholarships this year and the decisions will be announced on June 23rd, 2005.
Answers to the questions should be limited to 2 pages, and completed applications
must be mailed to:
Stephanie Yang - 340 Pine Street, Suite 302, San Francisco, CA 94104.
For more info contact Stephanie Yang at The Women's Foundation of California
stephaniey@womensfoundca.org
415-837-1113 ext. 317
340 Pine Street, Suite 302
San Francisco, CA 94104
www.womensfoundca.org
*********************************************
14. NEWS: Anti-gay bias said ignored at Poway High
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
By Dana Littlefield
SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE
A former student at Poway High School testified yesterday that some of his classmates repeatedly harassed him because he is gay by calling him derogatory names, shoving him in hallways and spitting on him.
Joseph Ramelli told a San Diego Superior Court jury the taunts started during his freshman year and increased in the upper grades. He said students made disparaging remarks in his presence daily about gays and lesbians.
"It makes you feel insecure," Ramelli said. "It breaks you down.
"You start seeing that it isn't just words. It starts meaning more and more to you, especially as you start figuring out who you are."
Ramelli and his friend, Megan Donovan, are suing Poway Unified School District and administrators at Poway High.
They claim the school failed to provide a safe environment for them. And they claim teachers and administrators did little, if anything, to address the problem, according to court documents.
To read the full article, visit:
www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20050427/news_1mi27harass.html
*********************************************
15. NEWS: Gay-bashing at Marin high school a hoax
Alleged gay-bashing at Marin high school a hoax, police said
San Francisco Chronicle
Sunday, May 8, 2005
A 17-year-old top wrestler at an area high school here faked a series of gay-bashing incidents that prompted a police investigation, authorities said.
The rash of gay-bashing incidents at Tamalpais High School was the work of a student gay leader who claimed she was the victim of hate crimes, according to Mill Valley Police Capt. James Wickham.
To read the full article, visit:
www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/n/a/2005/05/08/state/n125818D89.DTL
******
Tam High glad gay-bashing hoax over
By Tad Whitaker
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Anger, relief and confusion were among the feelings expressed yesterday by Tamalpais High School students after police concluded that a series of gay-bashing incidents was staged by a student who was the primary victim.
The topic dominated conversation at the school yesterday, students said.
Some said they wanted hate crime charges brought against the suspect, a 17-year-old girl who is a top senior athlete and leads the school's Gay-Straight Alliance. Others said she had suffered enough with public humiliation.
All, however, expressed confusion about her motives and relief the problem appeared to be over.
"At least we know it's safe," said Chelsea Heaney, a 15-year-old freshman.
To read the full article, visit:
www.marinij.com/Stories/0,1413,234%257E24407%257E2861554,00.html
*********************************************
16. NEWS: Murder retrial for transgender teenager Gwen Araujo begins
Murder retrial in transgender teen case set to begin
By Yomi S. Wronge
San Jose Mercury News
May. 09, 2005
Three men accused of killing a transgender teenager return to a Hayward court today for the first day of jury selection in a second trial that's expected to play out much differently than the first.
To read the full article, visit:
www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/11600598.htm
******
Second trial in slaying begins Monday
By Rob Dennis, STAFF WRITER
Alameda Times Star
..."I think it's going to be very hard for people to go through it again," said Pat Skillen, president of the Fremont-Newark chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. "It's certainly going to be very hard for her family. ... I can't envision how difficult it's going to be for her family to go through this."
To read the full article, visit:
www.insidebayarea.com/timesstar/localnews/ci_2722312
******
Guerrero: Schools must give more sensitivity training
Araujo's mother talks at Fremont workshop on gender identity
By Barry Shatzman, The Argus
May 8, 2005
FREMONT - Schools need to learn how to deal with sexual and gender identity issues, and then educate their staff and students, Sylvia Guerrero told participants in a workshop Saturday.
The mother of murdered transgender teenager Gwen Araujo was the speaker at the training session, held at the Fremont Adult School.
"(Gwen) didn't have many cheerleaders behind her. And where are kids at most of the time? School," Guerrero said of the hardships faced by teens who deal with issues of their own gender identity on top of those that come from being a teenager.
"(It was difficult) for Gwen to just wake up every morning trying to be herself," she said.
Responding to a question by the father of a female-to-male transgender teen, Guerrero acknowledged that it was difficult for her initially to refer to Araujo as her daughter. She added, however, that a parental acceptance of a child's gender identification is what the child needs most.
To read the full article, visit:
www.insidebayarea.com/searchresults/ci_2722311
******
Gag order issued in murder retrial
By Yomi S. Wronge
San Jose Mercury News
May 10, 2005
Citing widespread publicity about the case, an Alameda County judge has banned the attorneys, defendants and witnesses from speaking to the press about the retrial of three men accused of killing a Newark transgender teenager.
To read the full article, visit:
www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/11608763.htm
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Policy Victory for Transgender Students in LAUSD
GSA Network Announcements
1. Youth Council Open Meeting! (Northern California)
2. GSA Leadership Training (Alameda County)
3. Less than 100 days until the GSA Activist Camps!
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
5. Safe Schools Resource Guide is now online
6. 2005 Preventing School Harassment survey is now underway
7. Listen online to our first Safe Schools workshop
Other Announcements
8. Sacramento Regional Gay-Straight Alliance presents The Second Annual
GSA Dance! (Sacramento)
9. May 31 is Deadline for Queer Asian and Pacific Islander Youth Scholarships
(Bay Area)
10. ACTION ALERT: Support Gay Youth fight for Los Altos Gay Pride Day (Los Altos)
11. Prom Queen: New LGBT Youth Movie on DVD Just in Time For Prom Season
12. OutSpoken - A World Premiere Play for Teens (San Francisco)
13. Public Allies is seeking talented young adults, ages 18-30 (Silicon Valley)
14. NEWS: Caller threatens Tam High teachers
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Policy Victory for Transgender Students in LAUSD
After a long process of working with other members of the California Safe Schools Coalition and a number of local community groups, GSA Network is very pleased to announce that Los Angeles Unified School District this year formally adopted an administrative guidance package on protecting transgender and gender non-conforming students. With the enactment of this policy, modeled after the San Francisco Unified School District policy developed by the California Safe Schools Coalition, one in six K-12 students in California is covered by a district policy on addressing the needs of transgender students.
You can now download the Los Angeles Unified School District Reference Guide REF-1557 "Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students - Ensuring Equity and Nondiscrimination" at http://www.casafeschools.org/TransgenderLAUSD.pdf.
Are you interested in working with your school district to improve protections for transgender and gender non-conforming students? Contact the Coalition at info@casafeschools.org or GSA Network at info@gsanetwork.org for help.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. Youth Council Open Meeting! (Northern California)
When: Sunday, May 15, 12:00-4:00 pm
Where: GSA Network office (160 14th Street, San Francisco)
Directions: The office is located on 14th between South Van Ness and Folsom.
If you're taking BART, get off at the 16th & Mission stop. Walk out of the
station, turn right, and walk down 16th towards S. Van Ness (runs parallel with
Mission). Turn right at the corner of 16th and S. Van Ness and walk two blocks
to 14th and S. Van Ness. Turn right. GSA Network will be on the left halfway
down the block. Our name is on the door. Press the buzzer, and we'll let you
in.
To RSVP or get more info: Contact Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Program Coordinator at 415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org.
**********************************************
2. GSA Leadership Training (Alameda County)
Meet other GSAs! Learn new skills! Help your GSA!
WHO: GSA Members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, May 14th 2005, 10:00-4:00 (Meals provided)
WHERE: Pacific Center---Alameda County/2712 Telegraph Avenue (Berkeley)
COST: Free!
CO-SPONSORS: GSA Network, GLSEN SF-EB & Pacific Center
For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Lai-San Seto, GSA Network Northern CA Program Coordinator, at
415-552-4229 or lai-san@gsanetwork.org
**********************************************
3. Less than 100 days until the GSA Activist Camps!
SAVE THE DATES FOR GSA ACTIVIST CAMPS!!!
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.
Date: July 22-24, 2005
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Want more info?: sandy@gsanetwork.org
Dates: August 12-14, 2005
Location: Oakland, CA
Want more info?: lai-san@gsanetwork.org
More details to follow in future issues of GSA Network News.
**********************************************
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: http://www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
*********************************************
5. Safe Schools Resource Guide is now online
The California Safe Schools Coalition's new SAFE SCHOOLS RESOURCE GUIDE pulls together over 400 pages of key safe schools resources, legal information, curricula, and organizing strategies into a user-friendly web format. No more re-inventing the wheel - you'll be able to find it all in one place.
Check out the new guide at http://www.casafeschools.org/resourceguide/index.html
*********************************************
6. 2005 Preventing School Harassment survey is now underway
Together with GSA Network, the California Safe Schools Coalition is
surveying high school and middle school students across California, with a focus
on LGBT students, to learn more about safety, discrimination, and harassment
in schools. In 2003 and 2004, we did the same survey and published a report
called "Safe Place to Learn", which you can view at http://www.casafeschools.org/getfacts.html#research.
We need your help! For the 2005 survey to be successful, we need hundreds of participants from schools all over California. We've sent copies of the survey to every GSA and LGBT youth group in California. Please pass the survey on to students, youth groups or other organizations on your list.
Students: you can take the survey online by going to http://www.casafeschools.org. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete. You can make a difference in only 10 minutes by improving our understanding of safety and discrimination in our schools.
To administer the survey on paper, download a .pdf of the survey at http://www.casafeschools.org/PSH2005final.pdf
*********************************************
7. Listen online to our first Safe Schools workshop
The California Safe Schools Coalition's first ever statewide Safe Schools Virtual Workshop was a big success! The April 11 workshop, titled "TRANSFORMING YOUR SCHOOL: Ensuring the Safety of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students" included presentations from Chris Daley of the Transgender Law Center, Jody Marksamer of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and Carolyn Laub of GSA Network.
We had over 20 participants and a great discussion about strategies for improving safety for transgender and gender noon-conforming students.
If you weren't one of those lucky 20, never fear! You can LISTEN ONLINE to the audio of the Virtual Workshop at http://www.casafeschools.org/04112005.wav.
Stay tuned for info on our next Virtual Workshop!
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
8. Sacramento Regional Gay-Straight Alliance presents The Second Annual
GSA Dance! (Sacramento)
Celebrate diversity and equality with a Mardi Gras theme. High school
students (18 and under) from across the greater Sacramento area unite and dance
the night away. Enjoy dancing, prizes, fun, and food in a safe environment.
School-friendly attire, please.
Download a flyer for the dance (MS Word doc) at http://www.geocities.com/sacglsen
Where: Hiram Johnson High School Cafeteria
6879 14th Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95820
When: May 7, from 7 to 11 pm
Cost: $5
Student ID Required
More information? Contact:sacleadershipcommittee@hotmail.com
Co-Sponsored by GLSEN GSAC
*********************************************
9. May 31 is Deadline for Queer Asian and Pacific Islander Youth Scholarships
(Bay Area)
San Francisco (April 28, 2005) May 31 is the deadline for
Asian and Pacific Islander
(A&PI) queer youth to apply for the Pride Scholarship. Any A&PI Bay
Area resident 22 years of age or younger who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, queer, or questioning and needs money to pay for education is eligible.
Awards range from $100 to $5,000.For information, see <http://www.apiwellness.org/>www.apiwellness.org
or contact Bryant Tan at 415.292.3420 x315,
bryant@apiwellness.org>bryant@apiwellness.org.
The Queer Asian & Pacific Islander Pride Scholarship was launched in 2000 by A& PI Wellness Center in partnership with the Scholarship's founder, Edward Cheng Ming Tang, Peninsula Community Foundation, community activists, and queer A&PI youth. The fund awards scholarships totaling $16,000 to deserving applicants, with the goal of eradicating the isolation, invisibility, homophobia and heterosexism faced by thousands of A&PI queer and questioning youth in the Bay Area and beyond.
A selection committee including A&PI lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning youth and adults reviews applications and selects scholarship recipients. Committee members are chosen for their diversity in backgrounds and life experiences. Factors considered in scholarship awards include financial need, personal and societal challenges, creativity and originality, community involvement.
Scholarship recipients will be honored at a community-wide event to be held
this
summer.
A&PI Wellness Center's mission is to educate, support, empower, and advocate
for
A&PI communities & particularly A&PIs living with or at-risk for
HIV/AIDS. A&PI Wellness Center is the oldest non-profit HIV/AIDS services
organization in North America targeting A&PI communities. See http://www.apiwellness.org/>www.apiwellness.org
for information.
For More Information Contact:
Bryant Tan
A&PI Wellness Center
415.292.3420 x315
bryant@apiwellness.org>bryant@apiwellness.org
*********************************************
10. ACTION ALERT: Support Gay Youth fight for Los Altos Gay Pride Day
(Los Altos)
Last year the Los Altos High School Gay-Straight Alliance went before the Los
Altos City Council to request a proclamation for a Los Altos Gay Pride Day.
At the first meeting, the council voted for a Tolerance Day, which we did not
want. At the second meeting, with much support from the gay community, the council
voted for our first Los Altos Gay Pride Day June 7.
Last week I was informed that Los Altos High School Gay-Straight Alliance request
for the second Los Altos Gay Pride Day June 7 is on the city council agenda
for May 24, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. The council's feeling is that they do not want
to give us Gay Pride Day proclamation, because it is too politically
charged. I say it is a human rights issue. I implore you to spread the word
and come to the meeting in support of our gay youth and community at 1 N. San
Antonio Road, Los Altos. If you would like to speak that evening, fill out a
card at the door before you enter the chambers. If you have any questions, call
me at (650) 960-8473 or e-mail me. THANK YOU ALL. MANY HUGS!
Ruth Gibbs
Los Altos High School GSA Advisor
ruth.gibbs@mvla.net
*********************************************
11. 12. Prom Queen: New LGBT Youth Movie on DVD Just in Time For Prom
Season
Ask for it at your local video store*, or purchase from http://www.wolfevideo.com
PROM QUEEN
This uplifting comedy-drama is based on the true story of Marc Hall, the
Canadian gay teen who sued the Catholic Church for not letting him bring his
boyfriend to his High School Prom. Like a homo-positive "Afterschool
Special," PROM QUEEN has a terrific cast which includes openly gay "Kids
In
The Hall" comedian Scott Thompson and rising star Aaron Ashmore (see his
photo spread in the current issue of OUT Magazine) as the blue-eyed,
blue-haired rebel who boldly confronts the homophobic school board, and
ultimately takes on the Catholic Church.
This heartfelt story inspires and entertains as it offers up a heroic
portrait of gay teen activism and portrays the true courage of his straight
friends and family as they rally together to send Marc and his boyfriend to
the prom. DVD extras include a documentary featurette on the real Marc Hall,
director's commentary, Melanie Doane's "You Are What You Love" music
video,
closed captioning and original theatrical trailer.
* ACTION ITEM: Ask your video store to carry PROM QUEEN! Many LGBT titles
are available for rental at video stores across the country. However, there
are also lots of stores that don't carry LGBT titles or don't realize there
is a demand for them. Next time you visit Blockbuster or your corner video
store, tell them they should carry more LGBT videos and DVDs!
Available on DVD starting May 3rd from stores everywhere; or visit
wolfevideo.com http://www.wolfevideo.com/
to place your order today.
PLEASE FORWARD TO FRIENDS & FAMILY & LGBT YOUTH EVERYWHERE.
*********************************************
12. OutSpoken - A World Premiere Play for Teens
OutSpoken by Prince Gomollvilas
A World Premiere Play for Teens.
At NCTC October 5th - 22nd 2005
Monday - Friday at 10:15am Saturday the 22nd at 2pmJoin us for the
premiere of our newest YouthAware Educational Theatre program, OutSpoken. Based
directly on the voices of young people, OutSpoken is a new drama for teens that
goes beyond the themes explored in The Other Side of the Closet to look at the
many reasons that young people feel ostracized in school, at home and in their
community including race, religion, sexual orientation, body type & socio-economic
background. Through OutSpoken, we hope young people will find new ways to move
past these differences to a place of real tolerance and understanding.
Tickets: $10 adults, $7 youth, $5/each for groups of 10 or more
The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy
On Tour in Northern California October 24th - December 19th 2005
Despite an anti-harassment law (AB537) that took effect five years
ago in California, harassment and bullying based on sexual orientation remains
persistent in California schools. More than 200,000 middle and high school students
each year are targets of harassment based on their actual or perceived sexual
orientation. The Other Side of the Closet supports a safer school curriculum
wherein students, teachers and parents can learn about diversity and acceptance
in an innovative and engaging format. Set in and around a high school, this
hard-hitting play tells the story of 5 teens who are grappling with issues of
peer pressure, youth violence, homophobia, behavior norms, expectations, discrimination
and identity. Each performance is followed by a facilitated discussion session
with the cast. Designed for 7th - 12th graders, The Other Side of the Closet
is available to tour to your school or community from October 24 - December
19th 2005. The program is about 75 minutes in length and can be performed in
any theatre, gymnasium, cafeteria or multi-purpose room.
A small donation is requested from school sites to cover production costs. Please
call to discuss logistics.(415) 861-4914 or
sara@nctcsf.org
Sara Staley
YouthAware Program Director
New Conservatory Theatre Center
25 Van Ness Ave., LL
San Francsico, CA 94102
(415) 861-4914 x109
http://www.nctcsf.org/YouthAware
*********************************************
13. Public Allies is seeking talented young adults, ages 18-30 (Silicon
Valley)
30 FULL TIME COMMUNITY SERVICE POSITIONS AVAILABLE:
Develop Your Leadership Skills and Create Social Change in Silicon Valley
Public Allies Silicon Valley is seeking talented young adults, ages 18-30,
from diverse backgrounds who wish to commit to a rigorous and rewarding ten-month
full-time leadership training and community apprenticeship program.
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
$17,000 for the ten months, $4,725 educational award, health care, child care, and the development of valuable leadership skills.
DEADLINE TO APPLY:
Friday, May 6, 2005. Applications are available at http://www.publicallies.org.
Please note that applicants from the Silicon Valley will be given preference.
For further information, please call 408-586-7633.
PROGRAM SUMMARY:
Public Allies Silicon Valley creates opportunities for diverse young leaders
to strengthen their communities through ten-month apprenticeships in community-based
organizations, weekly leadership trainings, and team service projects.
APPRENTICESHIP
Allies are responsible for creating, managing, and/or strengthening programs
in large and small nonprofits in Silicon Valley. They serve youth and adults
as shelter program directors, case managers, volunteer coordinators, youth counselors,
and more. 2004-05 Partner Organizations at which our Allies are placed include:
Catholic Charities, Inn Vision, Resources for Families and Communities, Teatro
Vision, Vision New America, Youth Community Service, and many more.
TRAININGS
Weekly leadership and professional trainings are facilitated by well-respected
local community and non-profit leaders, and Public Allies staff. Topics and
skills covered include Conflict Resolution, Public Speaking, Time Management,
the History of Silicon Valley, Cultural Competency, Teaching Non-Violence, Strategies
for Working with Youth, and Gender Politics. The trainings are built upon a
unique set of principles and practices in community problem-solving, collaborations
and self-knowledge.
TEAM SERVICE PROJECT
Allies are divided into teams of 10, with which they will collaborate on a seven
month community service project. This year, the teams are partnered with the
River Church Community, Youth Community Service, and the Community Development
Institute.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Interested applicants are asked to submit a written application and two references
by May 6, 2005. Eligible candidates will be contacted for an interview will
be contacted in June. The interview will consist of a panel interview and group
exercises. Approximately 40 finalists will be chosen, and asked to interview
at three to five agencies at which they are interested in working. Finalists
will be matched according to their preference. The final placements of 30 Allies
will be announced at end of July 2005.
*********************************************
14. NEWS: Caller threatens Tam High teachers
Phone messages are latest in spree of anti-gay actions
By Jennifer Gollan, IJ reporter
Following a string of anti-gay vandalism incidents at Tamalpais High School, five teachers at the school - some of whom are gay - have received threatening voicemail messages from an anonymous caller, officials said.
The calls follow seven incidents which began in November last year, the most recent of which resulted in written epithets of "die fag" on the car of a 17-year-old student, and "fag class" on the classroom door of a lesbian teacher at Tam High.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.marinij.com/Stories