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In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Five Year Anniversary of AB 537
GSA Network Announcements
1. JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: GSA Network Associate Director
2. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
3. GSA Network honored with the John Anson Ford Human Relations Award
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
5. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
6. GSA Leadership Training (San Jose)
Other Announcements
7. Chaperones needed for Youth Halloween Dance
8. Come Out! Be Proud! Save Lives! (Pasadena)
9. Wellness and Information Fair (Yuba City)
10. Upcoming Free Training From the Harm Reduction Coalition & Proyecto
Contra SIDA Por Vida
11. LGBT Student of Color National Summit
12. Queer Youth in Rural GSAs needed to share experiences!
13. Executive Director, Filipino Task Force on AIDS (San Francisco)
14. NEWS: Santa Cruz area organizations gearing for Transgender Youth Awareness
Month
15. NEWS: Bay Area groups seek tolerance for transgender youth
16. NEWS: Tri-City sets example for state
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Five Year Anniversary of AB 537
This past weekend marked the five year anniversary of the passage of AB 537 into law. The California Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act was authored as AB 537 by then-Assemblymember Sheila Kuehl and signed into law on October 2, 1999. The landmark law added sexual orientation and gender, including gender identity, appearance and behavior, to the non-discrimination protections that apply to schools.
AB 537 was a landmark bill because it prohibited discrimination on the basis of not only sexual orientation but also gender. That definition of gender is about to change, making the protections of transgender and gender non-conforming youth even clearer. Thanks to the new hate crimes bill, SB 1234, authored by Senator Sheila Kuehl and signed into law this fall, the new definition of gender that will apply to hate crimes and education non-discrimination protections now reads: "'Gender' means sex, and includes a person's gender identity and gender related appearance and behavior whether or not stereotypically associated with the person's assigned sex at birth." The new definition will go into effect on January 1, 2005.
Is AB 537 being implemented in your school district? Response to the law in school districts has varied widely, with some districts making significant changes to improve safety while others have yet to update non-discrimination policies to include sexual orientation and gender identity, train teachers and administrators to prevent harassment, or introduce anti-harassment curriculum for students. Five years after its passage, the law's impact is now being felt statewide as urban, suburban, rural, and inland communities have undertaken efforts to create safer school environments. In many communities, GSA clubs have led the way in implementing the law. GSA Network's "Make It Real" Program has been supporting GSA activists with tools for implementing AB 537. You can download GSA Network's "Make It Real" manual for student organizers and learn more information at http://www.ab537.org.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
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1. JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: GSA Network Associate Director
GSA Network is hiring an Associate Director. The position is an opportunity to provide leadership in a dynamic organization that is growing within California and beyond. The Associate Director will work closely with the Executive Director to manage and lead the organization in its next phase of development. Primary responsibilities of the Associate Director will be in program and staff management, individual donor fundraising, and communications. This is a perfect position for a committed, highly motivated, and detail-oriented individual who is interested in working in a fast-paced youth organization committed to social justice.
To read the full job announcement, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/associatedirector.htm
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2. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network's High Contrast photo exhibit is on the move again!
A photo-narrative exhibit by youth and for youth.
"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good conversations." - GSA Advisor
"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with it-letting students know that it is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA student president
"Many students responded well to the universality of human issues and emotions. The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were feelings we all have." - GSA Advisor
In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see
us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what
they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation.
We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence.
We don't want anyone to leave thinking, "this isn't my issue." Because
all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there
are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough
to learn.
High Contrast is available for circulation as of October 1. If you are a GSA
in the Bay Area and are interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit
to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
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3. GSA Network honored with the John Anson Ford Human Relations Award
GSA Network is proud to be receiving the John Anson Ford Human Relations Award from the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations.
To attend the luncheon on October 14 where we will receive the award, please visit: http://www.savethedatecentral.com/commission.htm
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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.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL!
* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit
members.
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms.
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters.
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign.
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use while you're tabling.
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article
or announcement about your GSA.
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign and give them posters to symbolize
their support.
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place or fill a whole wall
with posters in a grid.
* Use the posters in conjunction with Day of Silence, Transgender Day of Remembrance,
LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), Coming Out Day (October
11), or Diversity Day or Week at your school.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
*********************************************
5. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
The new school year has begun! Welcome back!
Before you plan any more events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register
your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student
activism manuals, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future
GSA Network or LGBT related events. (Mailings will go out only to California
GSAs in middle and high schools.)
Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php
If you have any questions or concerns,
Sean Saifa M. Wall
mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)
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6. GSA Leadership Training (San Jose)
San Jose GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Potentials
WHEN: Saturday, October 16th, 2004, 10 am - 4pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: Defrank Center in San Jose, 938 The Alameda in San Jose
COST: Free!
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Erika Escobedo at mailto:youthprg@defrank.org
or 408.293.3040 ext 111, or Sean Saifa Wall, mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
or 415.552.4229.
Co-Sponsors are GSA Network and the Billy DeFrank Center
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
7. Chaperones needed for Youth Halloween Dance
On October 29, 2004, the Billy DeFrank LGBT Community Center and the Outlet Program will be hosting a Halloween Dance for youth from 7pm-12am. We are looking for volunteers/chaperones to help out with the dance.
If you are interested in volunteering please contact Erika Escobedo at mailto:youthprg@defrank.org or at 938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126.
The application also lists the volunteer positions that we are looking for on the night of the dance and what times you would be available. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you all for all your help!
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8. Come Out! Be Proud! Save Lives! (Pasadena)
UNITED RAINBOW ALLIANCE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CROSS CULTURAL CENTER PRESENT
COME OUT! BE PROUD! SAVE LIVES! Encouraging Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender
people to talk to their families and friends about their lives.
National Coming Out Day is celebrated every Oct. 11 to mark the anniversary of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights. Each year, thousands of GLBT people and allies have celebrated National Coming Out Day in schools, churches and businesses nationwide through workshops, speak-outs, rallies and other events aimed at showing the public that GLBT PEOPLE ARE EVERYWHERE.
MONDAY, OCT 11, 2004
NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY RESOURCE FAIR
PASADENA CITY COLLEGE ~ 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91106-2003
In the Quad from 11 am to 2 pm
FOR MORE INFO: 626.585.7980
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9. Wellness and Information Fair (Yuba City)
Presented by
SUTTER COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT
In Partnership with Yuba-Sutter Pride
Free!!! All Ages Welcome! 11am-3:30pm
1445 Veterans Memorial Circle,
Yuba City, CA 95993 (530) 822-7215
-Meet local area LGBTI groups
-Presentation on how tobacco companies target LGBTI communities @ 1p
-Mens health workshop @ 2p
-Womens health workshop @ 2p
-Free confidential rapid 20 minute HIV testing
-Blood pressure & Blood sugar screenings
-Sex education resources & materials: Free male & female condoms
Participating groups include:
-Health Education Council ˆ Cancer Detection Program
-ISCCD Chico
-Lambda Community Center
-Lambda Letters Project
-Life Coaching ˆ Empowerment In Action!
-Marriage Equality CA
-Nor Cal AIDS Challenge
-Sacramento Gender Association
-Sacramento Valley Veterans
-Sutter County Public Health HIV/AIDS Outreach
-The Court of The Great Northwest Imperial Empire
-Yuba County Health Department
-Yuba-Sutter Pride
*Military Guides from Servicemembers Legal Defense Network
*Voter Registration Info
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10. Upcoming Free Training From the Harm Reduction Coalition & Proyecto
Contra SIDA Por Vida
Transgender 202: Beyond Basics
Date: Wednesday October 20, 2004
Time: 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Check-in/Registration: 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Trainer: Prado Gomez, Director, Proyecto Contra SIDA Por Vida
Now that you know what Transgender means get a glimpse of the historical and international presence of gender variant people who are exploring the complex process of gender transition. This training will address the legal, medical and social implications of a person's gender transition and discuss strategies for reducing harms and risks experienced by transgender people.
This training will be held at:
The Film Arts Foundation
145 9th Street, San Francisco, CA
(Between Mission/Howard, Near the Civic Center BART)
Gus Klein
Program Manager
Harm Reduction Coalition
(510) 444-6969
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11. LGBT Student of Color National Summit
U.S. Student Association (USSA) Foundation Presents LGBT Student of Color National
Summit
Hosted at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio
January 15-17, 2005
Interested in forming or strengthening lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
(LGBT) student of color organizations on your college campus?
Learn to create spaces for LGBT students of color to meet. Ready to amplify LGBT student of color voices and win concrete victories on the campus, state, and national levels? Build the skills, knowledge, and networks to make your vision a reality.
If you are an LGBT student of color and an up-and-coming or current campus leader, then this cutting-edge National Summit is for you. The summit will draw 30 to 50 college students from across the country and will focus on capacity building and organizing LGBT students of color locally while also providing opportunities for resource sharing nationally. APPLY TODAY!
This summit is for lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, transgender, intersex, queer, same gender loving, and questioning college students of color (including but not limited to Asian and Pacific Islander, Black, Latina/o, Middle Eastern, and Native students of color). We encourage applications from students of color with disabilities, women, genderqueer, and transgender students of color.
IMPORTANT: Under most circumstances we will only accept 2 participants from any one single campus. We suggest that students have discussions at the campus and local level about who it would be most beneficial for your organization to send to the summit before submitting applications. The summit is a great leadership development opportunity.
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National Summit Logistical Details
* The costs of registration are covered for those who are selected as summit
participants.
* The summit will be held at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. The local
airport is Port Columbus International Airport (CMH).
* You must fundraise locally to cover your own travel and lodging. If you need
help identifying local funding sources or figuring out economical travel arrangements,
call Nick Sakurai, Director of the LGBT Student Empowerment Project, at USSA
Foundation at 202-347-8772 or email
mailto:lgbt@usstudents.org.
* Hotel information will be made available to accepted participants.
Rooms will run at $105/night (tax included) for a room that can hold 4 people. The hotel runs a free airport shuttle.
We will help participants find roommates to save money. Budget $53/person for
lodging for the weekend (budget more if you plan to arrive on Friday or desire
fewer people in your room). A limited amount of free community housing is available
UPON REQUEST. People only request community housing if you cannot afford the
hotel.
* Some meals will be covered during the summit. You should plan on bringing
$40 for food and incidentals. Bring additional funds if you want to go out on
the town.
* If you have any questions about the National Summit, please call Nick Sakurai,
Director of the LGBT Student Empowerment Project, at USSA Foundation at 202-347-8772
or email mailto:lgbt@usstudents.org.
*********************************************
12. Queer Youth in Rural GSAs needed to share experiences!
If you are a young person in Northern California who would like to share your experience with being in a GSA outside of the Bay Area, OutLoud Radio wants to know.
For more information, please contact Noah Miller at mailto:noah@outloudradio.org.
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13. Executive Director, Filipino Task Force on AIDS (San Francisco)
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
Executive Director
Filipino Task Force on AIDS
San Francisco, California
Founded in March 1988, the Filipino Task Force on AIDS provides crucial HIV and AIDS services, information, and advocacy to diverse segments of the Filipino community through educational outreach activities, community events, workshops at social, civic and church organizations with a high Filipino base, interview and public service announcements in print, radio and television, and one on one conversations with community members. FTFA fills a unique niche in the San Francisco Bay Area, targeting Filipinos, a historically underserved population that does not usually benefit from mainstream sources of HIV information.
Position Narrative:
FTFA seeks a dynamic individual with the leadership skills and vision to direct
a strong and growing organization. The Executive Director will supervise staff;
manage ongoing and newly developed programs, oversee fiscal operations, coordinate
grant writing and fund development; represent the agency and facilitate community
relations and inter-agency collaborations, and administer grants. The Executive
Director reports to the Board of Directors.
Responsibilities:
* Personnel Management: Supervise program and administrative staff; promote
teambuilding, encourage staff development and training; foster community; implement
organizational policies and procedures.
* Fundraising: Coordinate fund development activities in conjunction with the
Board, staff, and volunteers, including donor cultivation, grant-writing, and
fundraiser support.
* Fiscal Oversight: Ensure overall fiscal health of the agency; develop and
manage annual budget.
* Program Management: Oversee program direction and operations; provide support
and expertise to staff involved in case management; supervise systems operations
for data collection and program evaluation.
* Grants Management: Ensure compliance with grant requirements; manage and implement
grant projects; prepare activity and budget reports.
* Community Relations and Inter-Agency Collaborations.
Build and maintain the agency's relationship with the Filipino and Asian/Pacific
Islander community, represent the agency and network with other AIDS organizations,
NGOs, and the media.
* Board Related Responsibilities. Represent staff to the Board of Directors
by attending board meetings and other board events. Present regular staff reports
to inform the Board of developments in program, activities and concerns, including
financial and personnel issues. Liaison with the Board to develop joint staff-board
strategic planning and policy, and program development.
Qualifications:
* Knowledge of, and sensitivity to the Filipino culture.
* A bachelor's degree required, preferably in a health or human services related
field. Work experience in a related/relevant field may be substituted for education.
* Demonstrated skills in administrative and fiscal management, supervision,
written communication, organization development, and problem solving.
* 3 years experience working with a community-based organization, 2 years of
which are with the Filipino American community.
* Effective public speaking, public relations, and fund raising skills.
* Knowledge of HIV and its impact on the target population.
* Knowledge of Tagalog, or one or more Filipino dialect preferred, but not required.
Competitive salary offered with excellent benefits. Unfortunately, we can not provide for moving expenses at this time.
People of color, women, people with disabilities, people who are HIV+, and LGBTQ-identified people are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply, send resume, grant-writing sample (limit three pages), and letter
of intent (limit one page) indicating specific skills and experience that you
will bring to FTFA to:
E.D. Search Committee
Filipino Task Force on AIDS
109 Bartlett Street, Suite 204
San Francisco, CA 94110
The Filipino Task Force on AIDS is committed to end the increasing risk of
HIV and AIDS in the Filipino community.
We endeavor to mobilize the community to join us in our heartfelt concern, and
our efforts to improve the health and well-being of individuals, their families
and other groups vulnerable to HIV and AIDS through linguistically and culturally
appropriate outreach, prevention education and advocacy.
FTFA does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status,
color, creed, disability status, gender identity, HIV status, marital status,
medical condition, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
or veteran status.
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14. NEWS: Santa Cruz area organizations gearing for Transgender Youth Awareness
Month
October 3, 2004
By SARAH QUELLAND
The Santa Cruz Sentinel
Gender-identity issues will be addressed in Santa Cruz throughout October as local organizations, including the Santa Cruz County Task Force for queer youth and youth organization STRANGE, work together to put on events in recognition of Transgender Youth Awareness Month.
Events begin Monday with a panel discussion hosted by the Transgender Teen Project, 7-8:30 p.m. on 88.1 KZSC-FM's "Closet Free Radio" program.
"We're asking the community to listen to the show so they may get more information about these important issues," said Stuart Rosenstein, chair of the Santa Cruz County Task Force for LGBT.
In addition to having transgender guests speak on the program, Carolyn Laub, executive director of the Gay Straight Alliance Network in San Francisco, will be discussing a new tool kit titled "Beyond the Binary" that comes out later this month. The manual is designed to educate students, teachers and administrators about the issues facing transgender youth and to increase awareness on how people can make their school campuses safer for nongender conforming students.
To read the complete article, visit:
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/archive/2004/October/03/local/stories/10local.htm
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15. NEWS: Bay Area groups seek tolerance for transgender youth
RON HARRIS
Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO - Two years after the killing of the transgender teenager born Edward Araujo made national headlines, gay, lesbian and transgender groups in the San Francisco Bay area are reaching out to young people in hopes of teaching tolerance and acceptance.
The Santa Cruz County Task Force for Lesbian, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgenders
is one of several Bay Area groups working to create an atmosphere of greater
tolerance their communities. Monday marks the second anniversary of Araujo's
death, and October is recognized nationally as Queer History Month.
Stuart Rosenstein, chair of the Santa Cruz County task force, said the often
cruel forms of bullying and harassment begin in grade school, and misplaced
anger is often tagged with derogatory terms related to gender issues.
One way to confront the issues head on is to get back in the schools and talk
about them. Rosenstein's task force does just that, working directly with school
administrators to help quell climates of harassment before they take hold.
"K through 12 student education is very important (regarding) sexual orientation
and gender identity," Rosenstein told The Associated Press, "so that
LGBT young people are integrated within the fabric of our communities and not
singled out for harassment and ridicule."
Ridicule quickly turned to anger, and then murder, on Oct. 4, 2002 when Araujo,
known to her family and friends as Gwen, was beaten and strangled after her
biological identity was revealed in a late-night confrontation at a party in
Newark.
According to testimony at the preliminary hearing for the men accused in the
killing, Araujo was slapped, choked, beaten with a skillet, tied up and strangled
in an attack that lasted about two hours. The trial of the three men accused
in Araujo's killing ended in a mistrial.
Jorge Bru, 29, of Santa Cruz, was born male but identifies as a transgender
youth. Bru, who endured his childhood with the usual gender prodding taunts,
now coordinates monthly youth discussion forums in Santa Cruz to make sure others
understand the impact of those actions.
For all the college town's liberal leanings, "there's still lots of education
that needs to be done," Bru said. "There's still a lot of pockets
of communities that are not informed and there's still harassment and there's
still violence."
In Sunday's Oakland Tribune, a large notice in memory of Araujo's death played
prominently across an inside page. It read, in part, "Another year fades
away, and the pain has yet to subside, we grasp on to your sweet memory, an
inspiration that is very much alive."
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16. NEWS: Tri-City sets example for state
http://www.theargusonline.com/Stories/0,1413,83~1971~2444854,00.html
The Argus
October 04, 2004
By Grace Rauh, STAFF WRITER
The Tri-City area is an emerging center for groups actively promoting tolerance
of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth, according to the director of
California Safe Schools Coalition.
"There's an exciting amount of work going on in the (Tri-City) area,"
coalition director Molly O'Shaughnessy said. "Groups all over California
will be able to learn from strategies that work (there)."
Three Tri-City area organizations are among 13 statewide to receive grants from
the coalition. The money is intended to help end anti-gay harassment in schools.
Pat Skillen, president of the Newark-based Tri-City area chapter of Parents,
Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, believes the 2002 slaying of Newark
transgender teenager Gwen Araujo galvanized residents.
"When you have something tragic happen" it motivates people, she said.
Skillen's group received $1,250 from the coalition. It will be used for teacher
trainings and supplies.
In Fremont, the Committee to Assure Respect in Schools was awarded $1,250 to
help create a lending library stocked with materials related to gay and lesbian
issues.
Some Fremont teachers and administrators say they want access to information
to help them address these issues, and parents could use the library to teach
their children at home, said Carol-Ann Koch-Weser, a committee member.
"Materials that are not necessarily mainstream are often hard to come by,"
she said.
Peggy Rahman, a teacher at Millard Elementary School and the human rights contact
for the Fremont teachers union, said her colleagues are uncertain about how
to address gay and lesbian issues in the classroom.
Gay and lesbian issues are particularly controversial in Fremont, she said.
Rahman speaks about her husband and children in class, but gay and lesbian
teachers feel apprehensive talking about their partners or families, she said.
"Teachers would like a clear directive of how to address these issues in
the classroom," she said.
Rahman is not surprised that three local groups received the grants.
"There is a real need here in Fremont," she said.
California School for the Deaf in Fremont created a Gay-Straight Alliance club after San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom allowed same-sex couples to marry in February, said Laura Peterson, administrative adviser to the club and instructional principal for the CSD high school.
Students had questions and wanted a safe place to discuss gay and lesbian issues,
Peterson said.
The coalition gave $1,000 to the club, which plans to use the money for staff
training and to bring guest speakers to campus.
"We need a little kick-start," Peterson said.
Some of the club's student leaders graduated last year.
"I think, for us, (it will help) to really get the ball rolling,"
she said.
Staff writer Grace Rauh covers education for The Argus. She can be reached
at (510) 353-7010 or mailto:grauh@angnewspapers.com.
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools
GSA Network Announcements
1. Back 2 Skool BBQ in the Central Valley
2. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
3. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
4. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
5. GSA Leadership Trainings (San Jose, San Diego)
Other Announcements
6. Q-Team Rad-Fest (Los Angeles)
7. COLAGE Youth Leadership and Action Program
8. TRANSLATE: a trans youth open mic (San Francisco)
9. Upcoming Free Training -- Transgender 202: Beyond Basics (SF)
10. South Bay Center Youth Group Forming (Los Angeles)
11. ATTENTION: GSA advisors and GSA student leaders
12. GLSEN Provides Educator Resources for LGBT History Month
13. NEWS: GSAs more common in high schools
14. NEWS: Vigil honors transgender shooting victim
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools
After months of waiting and anticipation, Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools has arrived. Beyond the Binary is the third in a series of GSA Network publications that includes Take It Back: A Manual for Fighting Slurs on Campus and Make It Real, a strategy guide for AB537 implementation in schools.
Beyond the Binary grew out of a collaboration between GSA Network, Transgender Law Center, and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. The result is an informative, nuts-and-bolts manual that will help students and allies fight for gender justice. The manual features compelling personal accounts of gender identity and its complexity at home and in school. Student activists will find legal advice, community resources, and organizing strategies such as tips for organizing the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The manual will help students, teachers, and advocates to create safer school environments where gender equity is realized and affirmed.
To download a copy of Beyond the Binary, please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org
Additionally, every GSA in California will be sent a copy of the tool kit in the mail next week.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS+++++++++++++++++
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1. Back 2 Skool BBQ in the Central Valley
Gay-Straight Alliance Network would like to take this opportunity to invite you and your GSA to a Back 2 Skool BBQ. The BBQ will not only be a great place to meet and network with other youth from GSAs all over the Central Valley but will also be a perfect time to pick up important information on the different ways your school's GSA can fight homophobia and transphobia. Materials that will be available at the BBQ include: the Take It Back Manual for fighting slurs, the Beyond the Binary Gender Identity campaign manual, AB 537 and SB 71 fact sheets, and information pertaining to the Day of Silence and the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Closet project will also be on display along with information on how to bring it to your school.
The Back 2 Skool BBQ will be held in Fresno on October 23rd from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Redwood Grove picnic area in Roeding Park.
Coming from Bakersfield: Take 99 North toward Fresno. Exit Olive
Ave. and turn right. Pass one block and you will see Roeding Park on your right.
Turn right into the park.
Coming From Stockton: Take 99 South toward Fresno. Exit Olive Ave. and turn
left. Pass one block and you will see Roeding Park on your right. Turn right
into the park.
Fresno Public Transportation: Take bus line 33 to Roeding Park/Olive
Once in Roeding Park you will drive about 500 yards. On your right near the
entrance you will see the Redwood Grove picnic area and the GSA Network Banner.
You've made it! Be ready for food, fun, and fabulous people like yourself!
For those with vehicles there will be a $1 entrance fee. But wait we have the inside scoop…there is a street just west of the Roeding park entrance that you may park on. No fee. From there you can just walk around the tennis courts and you're here!
Please confirm your GSA club's attendance to the BBQ by contacting GSA Network's Central Valley Community Organizer, Omè Lopez at (559) 453-9040 or by e-mail at mailto:ome@gsanetwork.org.
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2. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network's High Contrast photo exhibit is on the move again!
A photo-narrative exhibit by youth and for youth.
"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good
conversations." - GSA Advisor
"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The
whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus
did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with it-letting students know
that it is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA student president
"Many students responded well to the universality of human
issues and emotions. The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were
feelings we all have." - GSA Advisor
In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see
us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what
they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation.
We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence.
We don't want anyoneto leave thinking, "this isn't my issue." Because
all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender.
Because there are so many shades to our identities. Because we
all deserve to be safe enough to learn.
High Contrast is available for circulation as of October 1. If you are a GSA
in the Bay Area and are interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit
to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
3. 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.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL!
* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit
members.
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms.
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters.
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign.
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use while you're tabling.
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article
or announcement about your GSA.
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign and give them posters to symbolize
their support.
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place or fill a whole wall
with posters in a grid.
* Use the posters in conjunction with Day of Silence, Transgender Day of Remembrance,
LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), Coming Out Day (October
11), or Diversity Day or Week at your school.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
*********************************************
4. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
The new school year has begun! Welcome back!
Before you plan any more events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register
your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student
activism manuals, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future
GSA Network or LGBT related events. (Mailings will go out only to California
GSAs in middle and high schools.)
Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php
If you have any questions or concerns,
Sean Saifa M. Wall
mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)
*********************************************
5. GSA Leadership Trainings (San Jose, San Diego)
San Jose GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Potentials
WHEN: Saturday, October 16th, 2004, 10 am - 4pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: Defrank Center in San Jose, 938 The Alameda in San Jose
COST: Free!
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Erika Escobedo at mailto:youthprg@defrank.org
or 408.293.3040 ext 111, or Sean Saifa Wall, mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
or 415.552.4229.
Co-Sponsors are GSA Network and the Billy DeFrank Center
---
San Diego GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Advisors
WHEN: Saturday, December 4, 2004, 10 am - 4 pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: Hillcrest Youth Center, 3777 4th Avenue, San Diego
COST: Free!
Co-Sponsors: TBA
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Bev Tang, mailto:bev@gsanetwork.org
or 213.534.7162.
++++++++++++++++ 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. Q-Team Rad-Fest (Los Angeles)
Q-team (Queer and Trans Youth of Color Multi Issue Organizing) is currently planning for a major event to educate and mobilize Queer and Trans Youth of Color against the war through positive and creative channels. We find it extremely important at this time to create a safe space for QTYOC to be a leading voice in the movement of LGBTSTQ peoples against the war.
Rad Fest: Radical Queer and Trans Youth of Color Coming Out Against the War
Festival and Dance
October 9, 2004, from 3-10pm
4402 W. Pico Blvd. LA 90019.
It will be a unique and creative mixture of arts, expression, education and
action. Rad Fest will be a safe and comfortable place for QTYOC and allies to
learn and dialogue about how war perpetuates oppression around the globe, and
a chance to counteract through creativity, positivity, and community building.
Contact qteam at 213-383-8080 or e-mail us at mailto:qteam@hotmail.com
for more information.
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*********************************************
7. COLAGE Youth Leadership and Action Program
*please spread the word*
Want to meet other youth with LGBT parents?
Want to meet other youth with LGBT parents while making a movie?
Want to meet other youth with LGBt parents while making a a movie and
earning $200?
Great- then the YLAP program is for you.
COLAGE YLAP (Youth Leadership and Action Program) is a activism program for youth ages 14-22 who have one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender parent. We meet once a month to gain new skills in media, public speaking, film production, advocacy and more while building new friendships and having a blast.
Want to learn more?
Come to the info meeting and group kickoff:
Sunday, October 24th
1-4 pm
127 Collingwood Street at 18th Street (one block west of Castro Street; this
is the LYRIC house)
For more info or to RSVP- Meredith at 415-861-5437 or mailto:meredith@colage.org
*********************************************
8. TRANSLATE: a trans youth open mic (San Francisco)
Calling all spoken word artists, poets, the musically inclined, and your friends
and allies!!!
Youth Gender Project Presents:
TRANSLATE
A trans youth open mic
A space for trans youth (25 and under) to express themselves through poetry,
spoken word, music or other similar performances. All Allies are welcome to
attend.
Join musical guests Transition and others on stage for our first open mic!!
FREE COFFEE!!
October 15th, 2004
Sign up starts at 6:45pm/show is 7-9pm
Threedollarbill Café @ The LGBT Center
1800 Market St. San Francisco
For more information contact Brooklynne or Courtney at 415-865-5625 or email:
mailto:Brooklynne@youthgenderproject.org
Youth Gender Project is a youth-led organization working to empower and advocate for trans, gender-variant and questioning (TGQ) youth. We address the challenges facing TGQ youth primarily in the San Francisco Bay area by creating, implementing and collaborating on programs to meet the needs of our community, and by educating those who work with us.
*********************************************
9. Upcoming Free Training -- Transgender 202: Beyond Basics (SF)Upcoming Free
Training From the Harm Reduction Coalition & Proyecto Contra SIDA Por Vida
Transgender 202: Beyond Basics
Date: Wednesday October 20, 2004
Time: 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Check-in/Registration: 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Trainer: Prado Gomez, Director, Proyecto Contra SIDA Por Vida
Now that you know what Transgender means get a glimpse of the historical and
international presence of gender variant people who are exploring the complex
process of gender transition. This training will address the legal, medical
and social implications of a person's gender transition and discuss strategies
for reducing harms and risks experienced by transgender people.
This training will be held at:
The Film Arts Foundation
145 9th Street, San Francisco, CA
(Between Mission/Howard, Near the Civic Center BART)
Gus Klein
Program Manager
Harm Reduction Coalition
(510) 444-6969
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*********************************************
10. South Bay Center Youth Group Forming (Torrance)
South Bay Center Youth Group
New Youth Group Forming!
This group will provide a safe and welcoming environment for gay youth and their
straight allies in the South Bay.
We are located at 2235 W. Sepulveda Blvd., Torrance
Call Shelly Hill at 310-328-6550 or e-mail mailto:shill@southbaycenter.org
for more information about this new group.
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*********************************************
11. ATTENTION: GSA advisors and GSA student leaders
Take Part in an Important Sociological Study on High School Gay-Straight Alliances
I am a sociologist working on a book, tentatively titled Allied Forces: The
Social and Political Impact of Gay-Straight Alliances, which documents the development
and rise of Gay-Straight Alliances in high schools across the country. It is
important that the book to include the greatest diversity of experiences from
as many schools in as many regions of the country as possible.
If you are interested in sharing the story of the beginnings of your school's gay-straight alliance with me please go to http://uhaweb.hartford.edu/miceli/survey.htm and complete an open-ended survey about your experiences.
Neither your name nor email address will be recorded by this survey, so absolute
anonymity will be assured.
The book (to be published by Routledge in 2005) will help provide well-deserved
recognition to the struggles of GLBT students and the work being done by students
and faculty to ameliorate the situation. I look forward hearing about the great
work you are doing in your schools.
Melinda S. Miceli, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Sociology
University of Hartford
860-768-4132
mailto:miceli@hartford.edu
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*********************************************
12. GLSEN Provides Educator Resources for LGBT History Month
http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/news/record/1720.html
The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, or GLSEN, celebrates Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgender History Month by providing new resources for educators.
October is a month of pride, remembrance, visibility and acknowledgement. GLSEN
encourages the education community to include the accomplishments and history
of LGBT people in America's schools this month and all year round.
At http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/news/custom/history.html, educators can access a guide to how to celebrate LGBT History Month at their schools. Suggestions range from screening an educational film to highlighting LGBT inclusive resources in school libraries.
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*********************************************
13. NEWS: GSAs more common in high schools
Gay & Lesbian Times
October 7, 2004
GSAs more common in high schools
Focus on safety helps ease coming-out process
BY RACHEL RALSTON, ASSISTANT EDITOR
National Coming Out Day is having a greater presence on high school campuses
these days. As with Transgender Day of Remembrance and the National Day of Silence,
many high school gay-straight alliances (GSAs) observe National Coming Out Day
in hopes of educating faculty and students about the importance of GLBT students'
safety on campus.
"We want to make everybody at our school as aware as possible," said
Lauren Lydiard, a senior at Scripps Ranch High School and chair of their GSA.
"People have come up to us and said, 'Wow, I didn't know some of these
things; I didn't know how these slurs I had been saying affect people,' or 'I've
been so upset; I didn't know there was some place I could go to talk about these
things that are affecting me.' So it's great to know that we do have an impact."
National Coming Out Day, which was created by the Human Rights Campaign, takes
place this year on Monday, Oct. 11.
To read the full article, visit: http://www.gaylesbiantimes.com/?id=3541
*********************************************
14. NEWS: Vigil honors transgender shooting victim
Planet Out
Karl Surkan
October 11, 2004
Approximately 130 people gathered in Minneapolis last Tuesday for a march and candlelight vigil for Tameka McCloud, a transgender youth who was shot repeatedly in the head and body at close range by a teen in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Sept. 29.
McCloud survived the attack and remains in serious condition at Hennepin County
Medical Center.
Police arrested 16-year-old Carlos M. Harris shortly after the incident. Harris
allegedly had a relationship with McCloud and shot her after learning that she
was transgender. He has been charged in juvenile court with attempted first-degree
murder, attempted second-degree murder and first-degree assault.
McCloud, 19, is one of many Twin Cities young people served by District 202,
a community center for LGBT youth aged 21 and under. Ben Peterson, a District
202 youth activist, felt moved to organize others after he heard about the shooting.
"I organized the vigil for Tameka because something like this really shouldn't happen," he said. "It doesn't matter if somebody's gay, straight, transgender, male or female -- they're still a person. I wanted to raise awareness and bring togetherness in our community."
To read more about the article, please visit:
http://www.planetout.com/news/article.html?2004/10/11/2
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Sexual Health Education gets REAL!
GSA Network Announcements
1. Back 2 Skool BBQ in the Central Valley
2. GSA Network honored by LA County Commission on Human Relations
3. Models of Pride, November 13th (Los Angeles)
4. Theatre Opportunity for GSAs (Southern California)
5. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
6. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
7. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
8. GSA Leadership Trainings (San Diego)
Other Announcements
9. Invitation to GSAs from Theater Rhinoceros (Bay Area)
10. RAINBOW FORUM IV for Youth (Santa Cruz)
11. COLAGE Youth Leadership and Action Program
12. Explore your creativity and get recognized! (San Francisco)
13. Triangle Speakers Needs More Speakers (Santa Cruz)
14. Youth Radio Invites You To "Young People Speak Out - Election 2004"
(San Francisco)
15. AQU25A: FREE trip to Asian Art Museum! (San Francisco)
16. APIAHF Seeking: DEVELOPMENT INTERN (San Francisco)
17. Sisterhood Fund Program Now Accepting Applications (Southern CA)
18. NEWS: Santa Cruz Sentinel Editorial: Gay abuse still an issue
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Sexual Health Education gets REAL!
On October 7, 2004, over fifty folks turned out at the Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church for a Community Meeting on Sex Education in public schools hosted by the Bay Area Communities for Health Education (BACHE). BACHE is an advocacy group which promotes the teaching of comprehensive, medically accurate, age-appropriate, bias-free sex education in our public schools.
The purpose of the event was to educate parents and people working in schools about current sexual health education curriculum in schools. SB 71, the California Comprehensive Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Prevention Act of 2004, which clearly defines the difference between sexual health education and LGBTQ anti-bias trainings, was also highlighted. To learn more about SB 71, download GSA Network's newest resource sheet by visiting: http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/index.html
Five amazing youth from Contra Costa county spoke at the BACHE event--2 representing
Planned Parenthood: Shasta-Diablo from Central County and 3 East Contra Costa
County youth respresenting GSA Network's Northern California Youth Council spoke.
One student commented that when he learned about SB 71, he asked his health
teacher why this law was not implemented in his school. Her reply was that SB
71 has not reached his school.
GSA Network sends a special thanks to Larson, Ernesto, and Drew for speaking
out about their experiences and giving their insightful guidance to include
more LGBTQ issues in sexual health education.
Co-sponsors of this event included the Contra Costa Safe Schools Coalition, ACLU of Northern California, Clergy for Responsible Choices, and Planned Parenthood: Shasta-Diablo.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. Back 2 Skool BBQ in the Central Valley
Gay-Straight Alliance Network would like to take this opportunity to invite you and your GSA to a Back 2 Skool BBQ. The BBQ will not only be a great place to meet and network with other youth from GSAs all over the Central Valley but will also be a perfect time to pick up important information on the different ways your school's GSA can fight homophobia and transphobia. Materials that will be available at the BBQ include: the Take It Back Manual for fighting slurs, the Beyond the Binary Gender Identity campaign manual, AB 537 and SB 71 fact sheets, and information pertaining to the Day of Silence and the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Closet project will also be on display along with information on how to bring it to your school.
The Back 2 Skool BBQ will be held in Fresno on October 23rd from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Redwood Grove picnic area in Roeding Park.
Coming from Bakersfield: Take 99 North toward Fresno. Exit Olive Ave. and turn
right. Pass one block and you will see Roeding Park on your right. Turn right
into the park.
Coming From Stockton: Take 99 South toward Fresno. Exit Olive Ave. and turn
left. Pass one block and you will see Roeding Park on your right. Turn right
into the park.
Fresno Public Transportation: Take bus line 33 to Roeding Park/Olive
Once in Roeding Park you will drive about 500 yards. On your right near the
entrance you will see the Redwood Grove picnic area and the GSA Network Banner.
You've made it! Be ready for food, fun, and fabulous people like yourself!
For those with vehicles there will be a $1 entrance fee. But wait we have the
inside scoop…there is a street just west of the Roeding park entrance
that you may park on. No fee. From there you can just walk around the tennis
courts and you're here!
Please confirm your GSA club's attendance to the BBQ by contacting GSA Network's Central Valley Community Organizer, Omè Lopez at (559) 453-9040 or by e-mail at mailto:ome@gsanetwork.org.
*********************************************
2. GSA Network honored by LA County Commission on Human Relations
GSA Network is proud to have received the John Anson Ford Human Relations Award
from the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations. GSA Network's
Executive Director, Carolyn Laub, and Southern California Public Ally, Bev Tang,
were on hand at the October 14th awards ceremony to receive the award, which
reads:
"For empowering gay youth to establish Gay-Straight Alliance clubs in schools
to work together through peer support, leadership development, and training
towards creating a safe environment to learn about homophobia, educate the school
community, and fight the discrimination, harassment, and violence experienced
by students."
GSA Network thanks the LA County Commission on Human Relations, all of the commissioners, and Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky of the 3rd District for honoring us with this award.
*********************************************
3. Models of Pride, November 13th (Los Angeles)
The annual Models of Pride conference (MOP XII) is around the corner. This
free conference, sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc., will be held on Saturday,
November 13, 2004, at Occidental College in Los Angeles. The conference focuses
on LGBT youth and their allies, ages 14-23. The day is filled with workshops,
a resource faire, round table discussions, food, networking, entertainment,
and a dance finale.
GSA Network will be conducting several workshops at the conference and will
have a table at the outreach fair. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please visit http://www.modelsofpride.org
for more information and to preregister.
*********************************************
4. Theatre Opportunity for GSAs (Southern California)
Break the Silence!
A Theatre Activism Think Tank for Addressing LGBTQQI Issues in Schools
Sponsored by:
Fringe Benefits Theatre,
Gay-Straight Alliance Network
and Cornerstone Theater Company
WHAT: In this intensive 4-day Theatre Activism Think Tank, we will collaborate to create several short scripts tackling homophobia and transphobia in high schools. These short plays will then be performed by GSAs at school assemblies in conjunction with The Day of Silence or Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, etc, or to add spice to talent shows or pep rallies. Some of the plays will also be presented in Health, History or English classes, incorporated in televised school announcements, or done as guerrilla theatre during lunch or passing periods! No theatre knowledge is necessary: we will be using brainstorming, discussion, freewriting and improvisation to create the plays.
WHO: This Theatre Activism Think Tank is designed primarily for Gay-Straight
Alliance (GSA) members from any/all California high schools. We also welcome
allies, including youth, GSA sponsors, educators, parents, theatre artists and
activists.
WHEN: The Theatre Activism Think Tank will meet from 11am to 5pm for 4
weekend dates only: November 20 & 21 and December 4 & 11. (Yes, we will
have lunch breaks!)
WHERE: Los Angeles. Specifics to be announced by November 12.
HOW: Please e-mail us -- Bev Tang, GSA Network Southern California Public Ally,
and Norma Bowles, Fringe Benefits Artistic Director -- with your brief answers
to the following questions. E-mail us by November 5, and we'll confirm with
you by November 12. Please don't stress about writing the perfect answers! The
GSA Network and Fringe Benefits just want to do our best to ensure that the
group is committed and diverse (in LOTS of ways!). AAAAND if thereís
a question you would rather not answer, just say so!
1. Name
2. School &/or Organization
3. GSA affiliation
4. Age &/or grade level
5. gender
6. race/ethnicity
7. sexual orientation
8. religion, if any
9. What LGBTQQI issues would you like to address? (What's happening in your
school?)
10. What are you into -- Theatre? Science? Debate? Writing? Activism? Band?
Or???
11. Are you available for and can you commit to all 4 Theatre Think days, 11am-to-5pm?
12. Contact information (e-mail, phone, mailing address, etc.) Please note if
confidentiality is desired.
13. Is there anything else you would like to let us know or to ask us?
So, again, please e-mail us by November 5: mailto:bev@gsanetwork.org
and mailto:normabowles@earthlink.net.
Fringe Benefits: Setting the Stage for Social Justice Fringe Benefits is a groundbreaking theatre company with a 13-year track record of collaborating with youth to create plays that promote constructive dialogue about diversity and discrimination issues. Fringe Benfitsí theatre activism workshops and residencies, the two published anthologies of our plays, Friendly Fire and Cootie Shots, and the award-winning documentary film about our work, Surviving Friendly Fire, narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, have all received critical acclaim, support from educators & parents and RAVE REVIEWS from youth! http://www.cootieshots.org
The Gay Straight Alliance Network: Empowering Youth Activists to Fight Homophobia and Transphobia in schools Gay-Straight Alliance Network is a youth-led organization that connects school-based Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) to each other and community resources. Through peer support, leadership development, and training, GSA Network supports young people in starting, strengthening, and sustaining GSAs and builds the capacity of GSAs to: 1. create safe environments in schools for students to support each other and learn about homophobia and other oppressions, 2. educate the school community about homophobia, gender identity, and sexual orientation issues, and 3. fight discrimination, harassment, and violence in schools. http://www.gsanetwork.org
Cornerstone Theater Company Cornerstone Theater Company is a multi-ethnic, ensemble-based theater company. We commission and produce new plays, both original works and contemporary adaptations of classics, which combine the artistry of professional and community collaborators. By making theater with and for people of many ages, cultures and levels of theatrical experience, Cornerstone builds bridges between and within diverse communities in our home city of Los Angeles and nationwide. http://www.cornerstonetheater.org
*********************************************
5. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network's High Contrast photo exhibit is on the move again!
A photo-narrative exhibit by youth and for youth.
"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good conversations."
- GSA Advisor
"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The
whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus
did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with it-letting students know
that it is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA student president
"Many students responded well to the universality of human issues and emotions.
The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were feelings we all have."
- GSA Advisor
In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see
us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what
they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation.
We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence.
We don't want anyone to leave thinking, "this isn't my issue." Because
all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there
are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough
to learn.
High Contrast is available for circulation as of October 1.
If you are a GSA in the Bay Area and are interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
6. 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.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL!
* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit
members.
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms.
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters.
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign.
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use while you're tabling.
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article
or announcement about your GSA.
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign and give them posters to symbolize
their support.
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place or fill a whole wall
with posters in a grid.
* Use the posters in conjunction with Day of Silence, Transgender Day of Remembrance,
LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), Coming Out Day (October
11), or Diversity Day or Week at your school.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
*********************************************
7. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
The new school year has begun! Welcome back!
Before you plan any more events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register
your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student
activism manuals, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future
GSA Network or LGBT related events. (Mailings will go out only to California
GSAs in middle and high schools.)
Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php
If you have any questions or concerns,
Sean Saifa M. Wall
mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)
*********************************************
8. GSA Leadership Trainings (San Diego)
San Diego GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Advisors
WHEN: Saturday, December 4, 2004, 10 am - 4 pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: Hillcrest Youth Center, 3777 4th Avenue, San Diego
COST: Free!
Co-Sponsors: TBA
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Bev Tang, mailto:bev@gsanetwork.org
or 213.534.7162.
++++++++++++++++ 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. Invitation to GSAs from Theater Rhinoceros (Bay Area)
THEATRE RHINOCEROS invites you and your GSA chapter to attend a performance of Two Fools by Terry Baum (October 28 - November 21), a queer show that speaks to all of us, gay and straight.
Two Fools - Gracie and Luna can't live without each other - and they can't
legally live with each other, either. Two women: one American and one Costa
Rican - a lesbian Odd Couple.
Two Fools - Two people in love who confront personal and cultural differences
- and Luna's illegal status.
Two Fools - A funny, passionate story of two women who claim the right to love
- without borders.
Two Fools - A comedy about relationships in general and the very timely issue
of same-sex marriage in particular.
Two Fools - A very poignant look behind the statistics and arguments surrounding
same-sex marriage and relationships.
ABOUT THE PLAYWRIGHT
TERRY BAUM has been writing plays since 1972. In 1974 Baum founded Lilith, a
San Francisco women's theater collective, which she led for five years.
In 1980, Baum wrote Dos Lesbos, A Play By, For and About Perverts with Carolyn
Myers. Baum co-starred in the original production, which ran for two years and
was nominated for two Bay Area theater awards. Baum is also the author of Immediate
Family, One Fool, The Black Jewish American Lesbian Show, Women In Line, Enid's
Fly Trap and Divide The Living Child and Waiting for the Podiatrist.
In 1996, Two Fools, or Love Conquers All - Not! the romance of two women who
can't legally live in the same country, premiered in San Francisco after runs
in New York (1998, 1999). Both Enid's and Divide were semi-finalists for the
Jane Chambers Award; Two Fools was a finalist.
JUST THE FACTS
Where: THEATRE RHINOCEROS, 2926 16th St., San Francisco, CA 94103
(BART accessible: 16th/Mission station)
Dates: October 28 - November 21, 2004
Preview/Pay As You Can Nights: October 28 & 29 (Thursday & Friday)
Opening Night Gala with reception: October 30 (Saturday)
Straight Night Out with reception: November 4 (Thursday)
Times: Wednesday - Saturday at 8pm, Sundays at 3pm (except October 31) and 7pm
Tickets: Box Office - 415.861.5079, $15.00 - $28.00 ($35.00 - Opening Night)
Youth/Student (25 and under) tickets are $15.00 for all Wednesday, Thursday
and Sunday performances. http://therhino.org/cheap.html
Contact: 415.552.4100 x 101, Jim Boin, Development Director, mailto:jim@theRhino.org
for group rates.
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10. RAINBOW FORUM IV for Youth (Santa Cruz)
The Local Queer Youth & Allies Movement-What's up?
AND
TRANS & INTERSEX Awareness & Peer-Education
The Rainbow Forum is a series of community-based, peer-educational discussions
facilitated by trained STRANGE youth participants.
Everyone is welcome and needed to attend!
FREE YUMMY SNACKS!!!
This Sunday, October 24th 2pm-6pm
Branciforte Middle School
315 Poplar Ave. Santa Cruz, CA
Call Jorge Bru for more info or if you need a ride at
(831) 295-6969 or e-mail him at mailto:sccstrange@yahoo.com
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11. COLAGE Youth Leadership and Action Program
*please spread the word*
Want to meet other youth with LGBT parents?
Want to meet other youth with LGBT parents while making a movie?
Want to meet other youth with LGBt parents while making a a movie and
earning $200?
Great- then the YLAP program is for you.
COLAGE YLAP (Youth Leadership and Action Program) is a activism program for
youth ages 14-22 who have one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or
transgender parent. We meet once a month to gain new skills in media, public
speaking, film production, advocacy and more while building new friendships
and having a blast.
Want to learn more?
Come to the info meeting and group kickoff:
Sunday, October 24th
1-4 pm
127 Collingwood Street at 18th Street (one block west of Castro Street; this
is the LYRIC house)
For more info or to RSVP- Meredith at 415-861-5437 or mailto:meredith@colage.org
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12. Explore your creativity and get recognized! (San Francisco)
Ever dreamed of being an artist? Or maybe you are an artist and you
want your work to be displayed for everyone to see it?
The San Francisco LGBT Community Center wants to provide youth
artists and would be artists 17 and under this opportunity. Come to
the Youth Space at The Center every Saturday in October and learn a
new art skill or perfect an old one! Then in November come see your
work displayed in The Center! Come and meet other LGBT teens, talk
about the issues that are important to you, and let your voice be
heard and your art.
Every Saturday in October from 12-4 in The Center's Youth Space.
Come and meet other teens, talk about the issues that are important
to you, and let your voice be heard and your art be seen!
The Center is located at 1800 Market St, San Francisco 94102
Contact Joel @
415 865-5560 or
mailto:JoelL@sfcenter.org
for more information
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13. Triangle Speakers Needs More Speakers (Santa Cruz)
There are so many requests for panels!
Triangle Speakers needs more volunteer speakers!
We need you:
if you are gay
if you are lesbian
if you are bisexual
if you are transgender
if you are the family member of someone who is GLBT
It's Easy:
To become a volunteer speaker, you attend a one-day training that is held at
Cabrillo College.
You speak about the subject you know the most about - your life experiences.
There are five people on each panel so you are not in front of a group of people
speaking along.
The next speaker training will be held on
November 6 (Saturday)
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
To register or to get more information
please call (831) 457-2934
Speaker panels are provided primarily throughout Santa Cruz County.
Some panels are also provided in Santa Clara County and Monterey County.
You can visit our website at http://www.trianglespeakers.org
Triangle Speakers
520 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
(831) 457-2934
mailto:triangle@trianglespeakers.org
http://www.trianglespeakers.org
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14. Youth Radio Invites You To "Young People Speak Out - Election 2004"
(San Francisco)
YOU'RE INVITED!
PLEASE JOIN YOUTH RADIO AT THIS BEAUTIFUL SAN FRANCISCO GALLERY
SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, October 21 from 6 - 8 pm
"Young People Speak Out - Election 2004"
A dialogue and celebration of Youth Radio's Election coverage
Hosted by Frish Brandt, Director of the Fraenkel Gallery
Fraenkel Gallery
49 Geary Street, 4th floor
San Francisco
Please RSVP to Teresa at 510-841-5123 or mailto:teresa@youthradio.org
Looking forward to seeing you there with our exciting young reporters and
commentators!!
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15. AQU25A: FREE trip to Asian Art Museum! (San Francisco)
Join AQU25A (Asians & Pacific Islanders, Queer & Questioning, 25 &
Under, All Together) for a FREE trip to Asian Art Museum!
Thursday, October 28
6:00pm
Meet on the front steps of Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin Street (at McAllister).
This event is free for all LGBTQQ Asian & Pacific Islander youth (25 &
under).
You must RSVP to Sabrina Wu, AQU25A Program Coordinator, at 415.292.3420 x315 or mailto:sabrina@apiwellness.org no later than Thursday, October 21. Space is limited.
Sabrina Wu
AQU25A Program Coordinator
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center
730 Polk Street, 4th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94109-7813
http://www.apiwellness.org
Tel. 292-3420, x315
TTY 292-3410
Fax 292-3404
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16. APIAHF Seeking: DEVELOPMENT INTERN (San Francisco)
Organizational Description:
Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) is a national advocacy
organization dedicated to promoting policy, program and research efforts to
improve the health and well-being of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)
communities. Founded in 1986, APIAHF approaches activities with the philosophy
of coalition-building and developing capacity within local AAPI communities.
We advocate on health issues of significance to AAPI communities, conduct community-based
technical assistance and training, provide health and U.S. Census data analysis
and information dissemination, and convene regional and national conferences
on AAPI health.
Responsibilities:
The Intern will assist with:
* Event planning and coordination major fundraising event
in Spring 2005
* Drafting proposals on health policy to small and medium
foundations nationwide (with emphasis in California)
* Maintaining schedule/calendar of proposal deadlines
* Researching opportunities in corporate partnerships
Qualifications:
* BA/BS (or currently enrolled) in Asian American studies,
Sociology, Social Welfare, Psychology, Public Relations, Communications or related
area
* Interest in Development/Fundraising field
* Proficient in MS Word, Excel, Access desirable
* Experience with database maintenance
* An interest in health policy for Asian American and Pacific
Islanders
* Excellent oral, written and proofreading skills
* Organized and methodical
* Friendly, outgoing personality
Flexible hours at 15-20 hours per week.? Internships are three-month periods.? Stipend available based on hours and work performance.
APIAHF is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace.
Email resume and cover letter as plain text, Windows MS-Word file, or PDF file
to mailto:mmagnaye@apiahf.org with
Development Intern in subject line.
http://www.apiahf.org
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17. Sisterhood Fund Program Now Accepting Applications (Southern CA)
Each year, the Sisterhood Fund Program trains 15 diverse young women from different regions of California to be leaders through decision making, advocacy, education and philanthropy. Over the course of seven months, the young women learn about themselves, each other, different communities' needs and the power of youth-driven funding to create positive change in the lives of all Californians.
This year, the program will operate in Southern California, including the southern San Joaquin Valley and as far south as the US-Mexico border. This program is open to all young women between the ages of 15 and 21, regardless of economic status, ethnicity, immigration status, ability, sexual orientation and/or if she is a young mother. If you know a young woman who might benefit from participating in Sisterhood, please encourage her to apply.
To download the application, visit:
http://www.womensfoundca.org/
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18. NEWS: Santa Cruz Sentinel Editorial: Gay abuse still an issue
Santa Cruz Sentinel Editorial
October 18, 2004
As we see it: Gay abuse still an issue
THREATS: While gay rights is hotly debated, the issue of abuse is sometimes
ignored.
The issue of gay rights has become part of the national dialogue. Questions
of gay marriage and of equal protection under the law are discussed constantly,
and have even made their way into the presidential debate.
All that is probably good - a public debate of any issue is better than having
it remain under the surface.
But a most basic issue is being overlooked: safety and prevention of violence.
Locally, activists are working hard to see that a state law is enforced that
specifically addresses abuse of those young people whose sexual orientation
is questioned, criticized or a matter of discussion.
The California School Safety and Violence Prevention Act spells out how schools
should protect young people whose sexual orientation - or perceived orientation
- puts them at risk.
The National Mental Health Association has reported that gay and lesbian teens
are at risk from abuse and violence as a direct result of "the hatred and
prejudice that surround them."
In fact, gay youth, according to the health association, are two to three times
more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual young people. Gay students
also, one survey reveals, miss school more than others: As many as 22 percent
of gay respondents had skipped school in the preceding month because they felt
unsafe.
It's important to remember in any discussion of sexual orientation of young
people that the issue is not really about sexual activity. Instead, gay abuse
can occur whenever any boy or girl is acting in a way that somehow puts them
outside the mainstream of how young people conform.
It's tempting to say that issues of abuse happen elsewhere, and not here in
Santa Cruz County. But local people who work with young people say that even
here there are major issues.
They say that on local campuses, too often you can hear anti-gay slurs or even
the phrase, "that's so gay." Words do matter, and thanks to the School
Safety and Violence Prevention Act, there is a recourse.
Here's how the act can be enforced on campus:
* Each school should have in place a harassment policy that specifically includes
gender identity, appearance and behavior.
* Urging teachers and other school officials to intervene whenever they hear
slurs.
* Support the establishment of a gay-straight alliance, or similar club.
* Ensure that signs are posted explaining how and where any student can go for
information or help in the event of any sign of abuse.
According to the law, any school or school district is required to follow up
on complaints from students or even from school employees. The law also lays
out what parents and students can do if the school or the district isn't responsive.
Or, anyone involved - parent, friend or student - can call the Safe Schools Project of Santa Cruz County, a countywide organization to help so-called "queer" and "queer-friendly" youth. For information, call 427-4004, or visit the Web site http://www.diversitycenter.org/qytf/safeschools.
Letters To The Editor: If you feel comfortable writing a letter to the editor,
it's easy to do online at: http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/news/edit/form.htm
Source: http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/archive/2004/October/18/edit/stories/01edit.htm
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Central Valley's Back 2 Skool BBQ
GSA Network Announcements
1. Sylvia Guerrero and Beyond the Binary: Fighting for Gender Justice
2. Models of Pride, November 13th (Los Angeles)
3. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
4. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs
5. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
6. GSA Leadership Trainings (Mountain View, San Diego)
Other Announcements
7. Halloween Dance at the DeFrank Center (South Bay)
8. New meeting time for GSA Coalition!! (Mid-Peninsula)
9. Trans/Giving: a celebration of trans/genderqueer/intersex artists (LA)
10. " Meet & Mingle" with the MTV crew in Modesto!
11. LYRIC's 6th Annual Masquerade Ball (San Francisco)
12. AQU25A: FREE trip to Asian Art Museum! (San Francisco)
13. JOBS: Volunteer/Leadership Coordinator & Health/Wellness Coordinator
14. NEWS: Gay legal group attacks U.S. school policy
15. NEWS: Boy Scouts' & GSAs' access to schools: Fed gov't needs comments
by 12/3
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Central Valley's Back 2 Skool BBQ
WOW!!! This past Saturday GSA Network held the o' so successful Back 2 Skool BBQ in Fresno. Over 60 GSAers attended along with parents, grandparents, GSA club advisors, and other adult ally supporters. Youth activists received materials and education during the Transgender Day of Remembrance and the Day of Silence workshops, ate like there was no tomorrow, and enjoyed a beautiful day with "family."
GSA Network would like to give a special thanks to the youth event organizers, adults and youth that donated food, and the youth from Tracy and Bakersfield for travelling so far from home for this fabulous event.
To get further involved with GSA Network in the Central Valley, please contact Ome Lopez at mailto:ome@gsanetwork.org or 559.453.9040.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS+++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. Sylvia Guerrero and Beyond the Binary: Fighting for Gender Justice
GSA Network is honored to introduce a new program, Educating for Transgender Student Safety, which brings Sylvia Guerrero to speak with students, teachers, and staff at schools throughout the Bay Area about the experiences she and her family have endured over the last two years after the death of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. In the fall of 2002, Sylvia Guerrero was forced into the Bay Area's media spotlight by the murder of her transgender daughter, Gwen Araujo. Even though it had only been a short time since Ms. Guerrero began accepting Gwen as her daughter, instead of the son she had thought she was raising, she suddenly found herself labeled a spokeswoman for respect and dignity for transgender people.
Coupled with Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools, we hope that these opportunities offered through GSA Network will increase your gender-based organizing efforts in schools as well as contribute to the overall safety of all students.
If you would like to bring Ms. Guerrero to your school or want more information about the Beyond the Binary tool kit, please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org.
*********************************************
2. Models of Pride, November 13th (Los Angeles)
The annual Models of Pride conference (MOP XII) is around the corner. This free conference, sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc., will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2004, at Occidental College in Los Angeles. The conference focuses on LGBT youth and their allies, ages 14-23. The day is filled with workshops, a resource faire, round table discussions, food, networking, entertainment, and a dance finale.
GSA Network will be conducting several workshops at the conference and will
have a table at the outreach fair. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please visit http://www.modelsofpride.org
for more information and to preregister.
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3. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
GSA Network's High Contrast photo exhibit is on the move again!
A photo-narrative exhibit by youth and for youth.
"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good conversations." - GSA Advisor
"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with it-letting students know that it is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA student president
"Many students responded well to the universality of human issues and emotions. The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were feelings we all have." - GSA Advisor
In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see
us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what
they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation.
We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence.
We don't want anyone to leave thinking, "this isn't my issue." Because
all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there
are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough
to learn.
High Contrast is available for circulation as of October 1. If you are a GSA
in the Bay Area and are interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit
to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
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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.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL!
* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit
members.
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms.
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters.
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign.
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use while you're tabling.
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article
or announcement about your GSA.
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign and give them posters to symbolize
their support.
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place or fill a whole wall
with posters in a grid.
* Use the posters in conjunction with Day of Silence, Transgender Day of Remembrance,
LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), Coming Out Day (October
11), or Diversity Day or Week at your school.
Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission
Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It
was supported by the Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute,
the San Francisco Arts Commission, and the Walter and Elise Haas Fund.
*********************************************
5. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club
The new school year has begun! Welcome back!
Before you plan any more events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register
your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student
activism manuals, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future
GSA Network or LGBT related events. (Mailings will go out only to California
GSAs in middle and high schools.)
Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php
If you have any questions or concerns,
Sean Saifa M. Wall
mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)
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6. GSA Leadership Trainings (Mountain View, San Diego)
Mid-Peninsula GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Advisors
WHEN: Saturday, November 13, 2004 10 am - 4 pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: CHAC, 711 Church St, Mountain View, CA
COST: Free!
Co-Sponsors: Outlet/CHAC and GSA Network
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Sean Saifa Wall at mailto:saifa@gsanetwork.org
or 415.522.4229.
San Diego GSA Leadership Training
WHO: GSA Members and Advisors
WHEN: Saturday, December 4, 2004, 10 am - 4 pm
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROVIDED)
WHERE: Hillcrest Youth Center, 3777 4th Avenue, San Diego
COST: Free!
Co-Sponsors: TBA
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Bev Tang, mailto:bev@gsanetwork.org
or 213.534.7162.
++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events,
resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not
sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views
and opinions of GSA Network.
*********************************************
7. Halloween Dance at the DeFrank Center (South Bay)
Come join us for the Monster Mash Youth Halloween Dance this friday.
Mark your calendars and tell your friends! This is a drug and alcohol free event.
Costumes and creativity welcome, lewdness and lack of attire is not!
Date: Friday, October 29, 2004
Time: 7:00PM - 12:00AM
Where: Billy DeFrank LGBT Community Center
938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126
Cost: $2.00
Prizes will be awarded to the most creative, gender bender and best
impersonation.
For more information, contact Erika at 408-293-3040 x111 or at
mailto:youthprog@defrank.org.
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8. New meeting time for GSA Coalition!! (Mid-Peninsula)
The official meeting time for the GSA Coalition group has been changed from every other Thursday to the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 6:30pm-7:30pm - it is still at Mt. View HS in room 314. Please pass the word on to anyone you think will be interested!!
The Wednesday meetings will begin in November. This month there is still a meeting this Thursday from 6:30-7:30pm. So the first Wednesday meeting will be Nov. 10th.
For more information, please contact:
Eileen Ross
mailto:eross@chacmv.org
phone 650-965-2020 x22
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9. Trans/Giving: a celebration of trans/genderqueer/intersex artists (Los Angeles)
West Hollywood, CA: "Trans/Giving," a showcase and display of art,
music, performance, and literature from trans/genderqueer/intersexed artists
celebrates its first anniversary Sunday, November 14, 2004, 6:30 p.m., at Fiesta
Hall in Plummer Park, located at 1200 N. Vista St., West Hollywood, CA (parking
is available at 7377 Santa Monica Blvd. near Santa Monica and Martel).
Our lineup so far includes Sherilyn Connelly, Lauren Steely, Lynn Breedlove,
and Steph Pennington. We are also presenting films by Eli S Mbessakwini and
Dean Spade. Please check www.transgiving.org for the latest lineup changes and
additions!
Trans/Giving was conceived one year ago, after yet another night thinking about
the misconceptions and violence that would destroy the transgendered/transsexual/intersexed/genderqueer
community. Depictions in the media have been incorrect at best, and at worst
foster the impression that members of our community are less than human.
Trans/Giving was born from the belief that the strongest statement we can make
as artists is simply through our art. From jazz musicians to Shakespearean actors,
slam poets to porn stars-when we show our poetry, our wit, our music, our images...we
become luminous... and maybe people will think twice before wanting to stamp
us out.
In its first year, Trans/Giving has sought to give new and established artists
and performers a stage, display space, a great audience-and a venue to try out
new ideas. The support from both artists and audiences has been tremendous,
and our first anniversary show will continue our tradition of mixing voices
and images into a compelling sample of the very best trans/genderqueer/intersexed
art we can find.
This event is all ages, alcohol and drug free, but pizza, soda, and cookies
inclusive. Suggested donation is $5-20, but no one will be turned away for lack
of funds.
Please e-mail ryka aoki de la cruz at mailto:rykaryka@yahoo.com
for more information.
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10. " Meet & Mingle" with the MTV crew in Modesto!
On Friday, November 5th Modesto Junior College's "Prism Club" presents "Alive & Aware." A frank discussion with MTV's Rachel Robinson, Veronica Portillo, and Shane Landrum. Topics include: Diversity, Tolerance, Culture, and student life. A brief discussion will follow. In addition, our guests will have the opportunity to " Meet & Mingle" with the crew!
Location: The State Theater 1307 J st. Modesto, CA @ 7pm
Cost: $10 @ the door or http://www.tickets.com
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11. LYRIC's 6th Annual Masquerade Ball (San Francisco)
Friday October 29th 7pm until Midnight
The San Francisco Women's Building
3543 18th Street @ Valencia
**Guest DJs**
**Costumes**
**Prizes**
**FREE**
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12. AQU25A: FREE trip to Asian Art Museum! (San Francisco)
Join AQU25A (Asians & Pacific Islanders, Queer & Questioning, 25 &
Under, All Together) for a FREE trip to Asian Art Museum!
Thursday, October 28
6:00pm
Meet on the front steps of Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin Street (at McAllister).
This event is free for all LGBTQQ Asian & Pacific Islander youth (25 &
under).
You must RSVP to Sabrina Wu, AQU25A Program Coordinator, at 415.292.3420 x315
or mailto:sabrina@apiwellness.org
no later than Thursday, October 21. Space is limited.
Sabrina Wu
AQU25A Program Coordinator
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center
730 Polk Street, 4th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94109-7813
http://www.apiwellness.org
Tel. 292-3420, x315
TTY 292-3410
Fax 292-3404
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13. JOBS: LYRIC is Hiring: Volunteer/Leadership Coordinator & Health/Wellness
Coordinator
Health & Wellness Coordinator (Part Time, 20 to 30 hours/week)
Develop and implement health and wellness activities (including HIV prevention
plan) for LGBTQQ youth, with a specific focus on transgender youth.
http://www.craigslist.org/sfc/npo/46102532.html
Volunteer & Leadership Coordinator (Full Time, 1.0 F.T.E.)
Responsible for all aspects of developing, implementing, and evaluating volunteer
and leadership programs at LYRIC including recruitment, training, and support
for youth and adult volunteers. A major component of youth volunteer and
leadership development is the LYRIC Youth Talkline, a national peer support
and referral phone line and email service. Other components include peer
health education, and youth organizing/advocacy pilot projects.
http://www.craigslist.org/sfc/npo/46102312.html
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14. NEWS: Gay legal group attacks U.S. school policy
by Jen Christensen
PlanetOut Network
Published 2004/10/20
Gay and lesbian student groups should have as much access to the public schools
as the Boy Scouts -- that's what Lambda Legal is trying to argue as the U.S.
Department of Education spells out access rules to our nation's schools.The
Bush administration has proposed regulations that would guide schools on how
their facilities should be used by groups for meetings, activities and centers
for recruitment. The new regulations specifically single out the Boy Scouts,
which Education Secretary Rod Paige called a "patriotic youth group"
that should be allowed to use the schools as much as "other groups"
do.Some school districts, like the one in New York City, the nation's largest,
severed ties with the Boy Scouts in 2000 because the organization discriminates
against people who are gay. That meant the Boy Scouts could no longer meet on
school grounds or recruit new members there. Chicago, San Jose, Minneapolis
and San Francisco are just a handful of the other districts that followed suit
and ended their sponsorship of Boy Scouts troops and also denied them access
to campuses.Lambda Legal said it would like the Department of Education to explain
what it means by "other groups," and to specifically include gay-straight
alliances as a group that should be allowed access to school facilities."The
Bush administration wants to add thousands of words about the Boy Scouts to
federal rules that don't say one word about gay student groups, even though
they're both protected by federal law and gay-straight alliances are unlawfully
denied school access on a regular basis," Kevin Cathcart, Lambda Legal's
executive director, said in a press release. "By focusing on the Boy Scouts
while ignoring gay youth, the Department of Education is failing our nation's
schools and putting young people in harm's way. We aren't going to sit by and
let that happen without a fight."Lubbock, Texas, and Charlotte, N.C., are
just two of several school districts across the country that have denied gay
groups access to the schools.
Lambda Legal is asking people who agree with them to call or e-mail the Department
of Education to get them to include gay-straight alliances to the language of
the new regulations. There is a 45-day public comment period before the guidelines
go into effect. People can write to the department at mailto:boyscoutscomments@ed.gov.
The campaign is a part of Lambda Legal's "Out, Safe and Respected"
campaign, which hopes to teach gay youth about their rights in a school setting.
*********************************************
15. NEWS: Boy Scouts' & GSAs' access to schools: Fed gov't needs comments
by 12/3
Lambda Legal asks that we respond by 12/3/04 to U.S. Dept. of Education proposed regulations about equal access to public schools for Boy Scouts and other "patriotic" youth groups but ignore access for LGBTQ student groups:
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From Lambda Legal:
Last week the U.S. Department of Education opens up its 45-day comment period
on the Bush administration's proposed regulations that guarantee equal access
to public school facilities for the Boy Scouts of America and other so-called
patriotic youth groups. But the <http://ga4.org/ct/z111tP61ZQo9/BSA1-FedRulesDoc>new
regulations completely ignore lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning
(LGBTQ) student groups whose equal rights are often violated.
As part of Lambda Legal's wide-ranging national campaign on students' rights
in public schools, "Out, Safe & Respected," we are urging the
U.S. Department of Education to add inclusive language to the policy regulations,
which will go into effect within the next couple of months.. We demand that
gay-straight alliances be specified in the new regulations as one kind of youth
group that also has a right to meet in public schools.
http://ga4.org/campaign/BoyScouts/
Let the Bush Administration know that access to public school facilities is as important for LGBTQ youth as it is for the Boy Scouts. Click here to send a letter today to urge the U.S. Department of Education to specifically include LGBTQ youth in the new school guidelines. The comment period runs through December 3, 2004.
Brief background
Congress passed the new public school access regulations as an amendment to
the Bush administration's No Child Left Behind educational reforms. The regulations
require schools that receive federal education funds to provide the Boy Scouts
and other so-called patriotic youth organizations (including, among others,
Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Girl Scouts of the
U.S.A. and Little League Baseball, Inc.) with equal access to school facilities
and activities as compared to outside community and youth groups.
But the special attention given to the Boy Scouts comes at the expense of groups
such as gay-straight alliances that are being completely ignored.
"The Bush administration wants to add thousands of words in favor of the
Boy Scouts to federal rules that don't say one word about gay student groups
-- even though they're both protected by federal law and gay-straight alliances
are unlawfully denied school access on a regullar basis," said Kevin Cathcart,
Executive Director of Lambda Legal.
"The Boy Scouts need no help getting access to schools but they're the
focus of the federal government's attention, while gay youth are routinely ignored
and left to fend for themselves when their rights aren't respected."
Lambda Legal's new "Out, Safe & Respected" campaign aims to inform
LGBTQ youth about their rights in school, and it gives them tools to enforce
their rights. The campaign includes in-depth information on starting and maintaining
gay-straight alliances. Over the past 10 years, Lambda Legal has won several
precedent-setting cases on behalf of LGBTQ youth in schools, including the first
cases that clearly established the rights of gay-straight alliances to meet
in public schools.
You can find more information about "Out, Safe & Respected,"
LGBTQ youth and gay-straight alliances at http://www.lambdalegal.org
or http://ga4.org/campaign/BoyScouts/