 |  |  |
| ||
 | |  |
| ||
GSA Network News Email Archive - October 2005
| | |
| ||
| | |
| ||
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
500 GSAs and Going Strong
GSA Network Announcements
1. THIS SATURDAY!! GSA Network’s Expression Not Suppression Conference
- Last Chance to register. (Central Valley)
2. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GSA Network Mailing Party (San Francisco)
3. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon (Bay Area)
4. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
5. Join GSA Network at Creating Change in Oakland! (Oakland)
6. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
7. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
8. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
9. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
10. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
11. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
12. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Other Announcements
13. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
14. LYRIC's 7th Annual MasQueerAde Ball (Bay Area)
15. Call for submissions - art. poetry.prose.humor
16. TEEN LINE's "Growing up Gay" Outreach needs you! (Los
Angeles)
17. CUAV Speakers Bureau - Speakers Needed (Bay Area)
18. Southern Poverty Law Center Offers Youth Grants to Promote Tolerance
19. Announcing the 5th Annual National Sexuality Resource Center (NSRC) Summer
Institute
20. NEWS: Teacher who led gay group says school discriminated
21. NEWS: State to review charges of gay harassment on West High campus
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
500 GSAs and Going Strong
When GSA Network was founded in September 1998, there were less than 50 GSAs
in the entire state of California. Today, we've hit a milestone, with the registration
of the 500th GSA in California!
With GSAs in more than 40% of the public high schools and more than 50 private
schools across the state, our student-led movement for change is gathering real
momentum! We are reaching a critical mass, and GSA Network is proud that we
have been able to accelerate the growth of California GSAs, making us the state
not only with the most clubs but also the highest percentage of high schools
with established GSAs.
John F. Kennedy High School in Sacramento has the honor of being the 500th club
registered with GSA Network in California. The club, called the "Rainbow
Appreciation Alliance" was founded by Sam Williams, a senior. Sam had first
tried to start a GSA at JFK two years ago, but the attempt failed because of
lack of student support. She remembers being a freshman and feeling isolated
because she she didn't know how to find other LGBTQ students.
Sam's desire for change persisted, and she tried again this year to start the
club, and the response has been more favorable. Over 100 people signed their
sign-up sheet during club rush! While the school climate at JFK is not explicitly
hostile or violent, slurs can be heard with some frequency in the hallways during
passing. Teachers step in and intervene only some of the time. So, the need
for the club is very real.
Louis Perez is an openly gay sophomore at JFK, and a proud member of the new
club. He believes that establishing a GSA is important because, "Schools
should promote safe environments. Everyone should feel welcome. Everyone should
feel equal. We want people to understand how many people they hurt when they
say homophobic things."
Perhaps a sign of the times, the new club at JFK is already planning on being
an activist club, something that few GSA clubs focused on seven years ago. Louis
says, "We want to do protests. We want to hold events. We hope to leave
behind a school where no one has to feel afraid or threatened."
With the 500 GSAs across California, the persistence of founders like Sam Williams,
and the activist vision of students like Louis Perez, the GSA movement will
continue to grow and be strong and powerful!
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. THIS SATURDAY!! GSA Network’s Expression Not Suppression Conference
- Last Chance to register. (Central Valley)
Don't be the last to register for the upcoming Expression NOT Suppression conference!
A conference for LGBTQI and Straight Ally youth, ages 14-23, with a very exciting
keynote speaker, informative workshops and literature, time to mix-it-up with
local activists, an impressive drag show and an amazing Halloween Dance Party
to end the day!!!
This FREE event will be held on Saturday, October 29 from 11am-10pm (includes
snacks and dinner).
The location of the event is 1343 E Barstow Avenue, Fresno, CA 93710.
All interested youth should register at www.gsanetwork.org/ens/
or call 559-453-9040.
If you'd like more info or would like to help with planning, please call or
email robin@gsanetwork.org.
Expression Not Suppression
Join us in our fight to eradicate homophobia and transphobia in schools across
the Central Valley and beyond!!!
Register NOW!!!
**********************************************
2. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GSA Network Mailing Party (San Francisco)
November 1 and 2, 2005
Shifts throughout the day or evening
GSA Network Office
160 14th Street
San Francisco, CA
Hundreds of envelopes to stuff, seal, and stamp! There is absolutely no licking involved. This is a great way for anybody (yes, you!) to step right up and be a part of fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools.
Pizza and drinks to fuel processing of GSA Network mailing will be provided.
RSVP - justin@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
*********************************************
3. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon
(Bay Area)
YES Conference 2005 - (Youth Empowerment Summit)
YES is a FREE conference for LGBTQQI youth activists and their allies who are
dedicated to defeating homophobia and transphobia and creating safe and supportive
schools for everyone. The target audience is high school & middle school
students, and teachers & GSA advisors are welcome.
BE YOU! BE PROUD! STAND UP & FIGHT BACK!
Who? LGBTQQI youth activists & their allies
Where? Horace Mann Middle School, 3351 23rd Street, San Francisco
When? Saturday, December 3, 9:00 am -5:00 pm
Why? To meet other youth leaders, learn new skills, & share
the strength!
How much? Everything, including food, is FREE!
What else? Get down & dance with everyone you’ve
just met at a special youth-only dance at the SF LGBT Community Center, 8:00
pm-11:00 pm.
Pre-register for the GSA Network’s YES conference at www.gsanetwork.org/yes.
For more information:yes@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
*********************************************
4. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
Please take five minutes to participate in an important survey!
As you know, the right of same-sex couples to marry has been a hotly contested
topic over the past few years. On one side, President Bush has proposed a constitutional
ban on marriage for same-sex couples and many states have created their own
laws banning marriage for same-sex couples or defining marriage as between one
man and one woman only. On the other side, same-sex couples gained full marriage
rights in Massachusetts and temporarily gained marriage rights in San Francisco
and other cities. Most recently, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill
that would have extended full marriage rights to same-sex couples in California.
This flurry of activity combined with what we know will be a continued state-by-state
struggle around marriage rights in the upcoming years raises an important question
about how students are affected by the discussion around the issue at school
and the media coverage on the political fight. The California Safe Schools Coalition,
in partnership with GSA Network, has created this short survey in order to learn
more about how students are affected by the fight over marriage for same-sex
couples.
Please help us by clicking on the link below to take our survey.
http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB224NVM7JWBM
*********************************************
5. Join GSA Network at Creating Change in Oakland! (Oakland)
GSA Network at Creating Change!
November 9 -13, 2005
Oakland Marriott Civic Center
Info: http://www.thetaskforce.org/ourprojects/index.cfm
Join GSA Network staff and youth leaders at the largest annual LGBTQ activist
conference of its kind in the United States. The Creating Change conference
is sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). It offers folks
invested in social justice for the LGBTQ community a change to gather, grow
and learn together. GSA Network will be co-presenting workshops about the legal
rights of transgender youth in schools, the latest in safe schools legislation
and litigation, and developing youth-adult partnerships when working for policy
change.
This conference is a great chance to meet and network with other activists---both
adults and youth---acquire new skills, and learn about many different ways you
can fight for LGBTQ rights.
If you are interested in joining GSA Network at the conference, please email
Lai-San Seto at lai-san@gsanetwork.org
and ask about volunteering and scholarship opportunities.
For additional information email:youthcreatingchange@gmail.org
*********************************************
6. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
You are invited to CCA's Youth Night on November 5th. Hear a panel
of Gay/Straight Alliance students on their choice to come "out." Meet
the young gay leader who made international news when he stood up to his verbally
gay bashing math teacher and got him removed, challenged his local school board's
policy on Gay/Straight Alliance clubs and rankled the fruit-cake fundamentalist
homophobe, Rev. Fred Phelps.
Bring someone you know to hear GSA Network's Central Valley Coordinator Robin
McGehee explain the GSA phenomenon that has swept the nation's schools during
the last five years. These clubs provide support and leadership training opportunities
to gay students, while promoting tolerance and understanding between gay and
straight students and educators. Polls show that today's youth are much more
open to the fair and equal treatment of gays and lesbians than were their parents.
That sort of changing demographic starts in our schools, and the GSA movement
is a big part of that transformation.
Place: The Adobe Clubhouse, 5555 N. West Ave., Fresno Ca.
Date: Saturday, November 5th
Time: Dinner at 6pm. The meeting starts at 7pm.
Cost: CCA Members $10.00; Non-Members $15.00; Students with ID Free. Add $5.00
to sponsor a meal for a student. Space is limited, so reservations are required
for all seating.
Go to http://www.ccafresno.org to reserve
your place today.
*********************************************
7. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
Before you plan any 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 contact:
Tanya Mayo, Program Director
tanya@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229
**********************************************
8. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
The Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the
program activities of the GSA Network. They set goals and establish priorities
for the work of our organization. Youth Council members also represent the needs
of GSAs and youth activists from the geographic region of California they represent.
The requirements for joining the Youth Council include:
1. Involved in a GSA or LGBTQ-youth related group in your school.
2. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSAs and the
GSA Network.
4. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia in schools.
Southern California
For more info contact Sandy@gsanetwork.org
or call 213-534-7162
Central Valley
For more info contact Robin@gsanetwork.org
or call 559-453-9040
Northern California
For more info contact Lai-San@gsanetwork.org
or call 415-552-4229
*********************************************
9. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website:
www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
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 (April), Transgender Day
of Remembrance (November), 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.
**********************************************
10. 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 highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to: www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
11. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
Job Title: Program Coordinator – Northern California
Reports To: Program Director
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $32,000 – $34,000 + generous benefits
Organization and Position Overview:
Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) is a statewide, youth-led, social
justice organization based in San Francisco that empowers youth activists fighting
homophobia and transphobia in high schools and middle schools. GSA clubs provide
support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth
who are facing pervasive discrimination and harassment at school. As a non-profit
organization formed in 1998, GSA Network provides resources, training, and grassroots
organizing support to clubs working to educate schools about LGBT issues and
organize for social change. GSA Network currently runs a network of 500 GSA
clubs throughout California. With a staff of seven and 50 core youth leaders,
GSA Network maintains offices in San Francisco, Fresno, and Los Angeles.
The Northern California Program Coordinator position is a full-time position
located in San Francisco. The Program Coordinator is responsible for grassroots
community organizing, regional planning, and program implementation throughout
their region. The Northern California Program Coordinator works directly with
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) and straight ally
youth and adult advisors involved with more than 200 Gay-Straight Alliance clubs
throughout the Bay Area and Northern California. Willingness to work nights
and weekends and access to a car on a regular basis is thus necessary for the
position. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment,
an understanding of youth culture, and commitment to social change is required
for all positions at GSA Network.
See website for the full job description and how to apply:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
*********************************************
12. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Central Valley Program Associate: GSA Network is looking for a part-time (20
hours/week) Program Associate to work in our Fresno office. The Program Associate
will assist the Central Valley Program Coordinator with grassroots community
organizing and program implementation throughout the region. A demonstrated
passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy,
and a commitment to social justice are required for this position.
See website for the full job description and how to apply:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
13. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
It's time for another youth dance and we need your help. The Halloween
Dance will be held on Friday, October 28, 2005 from 7pm-12am at the Billy DeFrank
Center.
Please mark your calendars!!
If you would like to chaperone, please contact Erika at youthprog@defrank.org
or at (408) 293-3040 x111 for a dance application.
If you have any questions, please call (408) 293-3040.
We hope to see you there! Thanks in advance for all your dedication to the DeFrank
Center and youth programs!
*********************************************
14. LYRIC's 7th Annual MasQueerAde Ball (Bay Area)
As you know, summer is over, the school year has begun and the holiday season
is fast approaching. Cold weather and Halloween are just around the corner,
and with them comes LYRIC's first dance of the school year.
From 8 pm until 12 am on Friday, October 28th
San Francisco Women's Building, located at 3543 18th Street.
As the first of three dances that we will hold this year, some of the highlights
will include:
*Bewitching beats from our guest DJ that'll be fresh enough to raise the dead
and will have everyone on their feet, fins, paws or claws, dancing the night
away!
*Toothsome treats to tempt even the tricksiest of tastes!
*Prizes so prodigious, they're to die for!
*And what is the MasQueerAde Ball, without the all-out, over-the-top battle
of 'fits of fury and fierceness that is our Costume Contest.
So bring some friends and join us for the frightful festivities!
*open to LGBTQQ youth and their allies, 23 & under
*open to Transgender youth, 25& under
*this is a clean and sober event
*********************************************
15. Call for submissions - art. poetry.prose.humor
Got something to say about being young and Queer? Here's the place to say it!
IMAGES MAGAZINE is seeking submissions of Queer youth expressions including
art, photography, poetry, prose, & humor.
Please mail submissions to:
POSITIVE IMAGES
312 CHINN ST.
SANTA ROSA, CA, 95404
OR Posimage@sonic.net
Subjectline: IMAGES
All submissions must be received by NOVEMBER 21, 2005 and should include your
name, address, and phone #.
IMAGES is a free annual publication of Positive Images, Sonoma County's Gay,
Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, and Questioning Youth and Young
Adult Group.
For more information please check out our website! www.posimages.org
*********************************************
16. TEEN LINE's "Growing up Gay" Outreach needs you! (Los
Angeles)
Are you between 14 and 22 years of age and want to help educate the community
about LGBT issues? We are seeking volunteers to participate on our outreach
panels to help combat homophobia and widespread misunderstanding of LGBT issues.
TEEN LINE has been in existence for 25 years and has been reaching out to LGBT
youth through our teen-to-teen hotline and outreach to schools, youth groups
and youth-serving agencies.
If you are interested in volunteering or need more information, call Dr. Elaine
Leader at 310-423-1601.
If you want to talk to a trained teen on our hotline call 1-800-TLC-TEEN
any evening between 6-10 pm.
*********************************************
17. CUAV Speakers Bureau - Speakers Needed (Bay Area)
CUAV Speakers Bureau is more in demand than ever-but we have had to turn teachers
and other community leaders down simply because we don't have enough speakers.
All of you over the years have been vital to keeping this program alive-I thank
you for that support.
We have set the date for an all-ages open training for new speakers. All of
you can make a huge difference by spreading the word to your friends, partners,
school buddies-anyone you know that you think would make a great LGBTQ speaker.
The dates for the next SPEAKERS BUREAU training will be Sat/Sun January 14th
& 15th 2006, here in SF.
The training is a full 2-day training (although we generally end early on Sundays)
lunch, snacks, and beverages provided. Please spread the word so we can really
rejuvenate, reinvigorate, and be prepared for a busy spring semester.
You can have interested folks contact me connie@cuav.org
2006 is going to a challenging year-let's meet those challenges together.
Thanks, Connie Champagne
CUAV Speakers Bureau Program Director
*********************************************
18. Southern Poverty Law Center Offers Youth Grants to Promote Tolerance
Tolerance.org and Teaching Tolerance, www.tolerance.org/
educational programs of the Southern Poverty Law Center www.splcenter.org/,
have joined with the Study Circles Resource Center www.studycircles.org/
to offer the national "Mix It Up" youth campaign. The "Mix it
Up" campaign is designed to help young people understand and address the
issue of social boundaries in their schools and communities.
The Mix It Up Grants Program funds youth-directed activist projects that focus
on identifying, questioning, and crossing social boundaries in schools and communities.
Grants are limited to $500. The program gives priority to applications that
clearly show: 1) Youth leadership, i.e., projects envisioned by and to be implemented
by youth activists; 2) Collaborative efforts across social boundaries, i.e.,
different youth groups or clubs working together, or school-based clubs working
with community-based organizations; and 3) The project is part of continuing
efforts to identify, cross, or challenge social boundaries, i.e., the funded
project isn't "the end" of the effort.
See the Mix It Up Web site for complete grant application guidelines and for
further information on the program's other components.www.tolerance.org/teens/grants.jsp
Have a great idea about how to challenge social boundaries and bring down the
walls that divide your school? We want to help, and, to prove it, we give $500
grants to support youth-directed programs and projects that address social boundaries
in schools or communities. (Keep in mind: we can‚t give you one for hosting
a www.tolerance.org/teens/luch.jsp
Mix It Up at Lunch Day.)
Our guidelines are simple:
Youth must serve as decision-makers in the project. Ideally, the project is
created and implemented by youth.
Projects must promote collaboration across social boundaries ˜ different
youth groups, clubs or community groups working together.
The project or program should be a part of an ongoing effort, or an effort that's
just getting started, but will continue.
Grants are non-renewable.
Be creative. We're definitely open to new ideas!
Apply for a grant! Download and complete the www.tolerance.org/teens/grant_application.pdf
application. http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader for free to read PDF documents if it isn't already
installed on your computer.)
Mail the completed application to:
Mix It Up Grants
400 Washington Ave.
Montgomery, AL 36104
Please make sure you fill out the application completely, because incomplete
applications will not be considered.
Here's what you can expect from us and when:
Within four weeks of receiving your application, we'll let you know if your
project will receive a Mix It Up Grant.
If your project is selected for funding, we'll send you a grant agreement by
e-mail, which you have to complete and return to us by snail mail.
With three weeks of receiving your completed agreement form, we'll snail mail
you a check and instructions about the required final report on your project.
If you don't receive funding from us, we'll send you some great fundraising
ideas by e-mail. Hey, just because the project didn't receive a Mix it Up Grant
does not mean it's not worth doing!
*********************************************
19. Announcing the 5th Annual National Sexuality Resource Center (NSRC)
Summer Institute
San Francisco State University
July 10 - July 28, 2006
Check our website for future updates on courses, faculty, and our new APPLICATION
process: http://nsrc.sfsu.edu/summerinstitute
Join students, professionals, leading experts and faculty from the United States
and internationally for this unique educational and networking gathering.
2006 NSRC Summer Institute Theme: Rethinking Young People's Sexuality and Reproductive
Health
Proposed lecturers include:
Gilbert Herdt
Gary Dowsett
Deborah Tolman
Proposed theory, methodology and skills building courses include:
Sexuality, Social Inequality and Health
Qualitative Methods in Sexuality Research
Crises in Sexuality
Special events include:
Guest speakers from local community based organizations
Professional networking forums
Academic advising
6 academic units offered.
SFSU on-campus housing is available.
For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Feeney, Summer Institute & Education Coordinator
(415) 437-5113 or mailto:nsrc_si@sfsu.edu
*********************************************
20. NEWS: Teacher who led gay group says school discriminated
Teacher who led gay group says school discriminated
Rocklin High faculty member resigns, asking the board for an investigation.
By Kim Minugh
Sacramento Bee
October 14, 2005
The abrupt resignation of a popular history teacher and her claims of discrimination
have left the Rocklin High School campus reeling.
Brandee Ambrosia, an 11-year veteran of the school, tearfully submitted her
resignation during last week's Rocklin Unified School District board meeting,
saying she has been the target of retaliation for her role as adviser to the
Gay Straight Alliance.
"After 11 years of teaching ... that was a very difficult decision to make,"
Ambrosia, 37, said this week. "Yet I feel full of integrity that I stood
up for kids, I stood up for myself and I stood up for what is right."
Ambrosia, who taught government and economics, asked trustees to investigate
her claims.
Superintendent Kevin Brown said Ambrosia has been advised that she can pursue
her complaint with the state Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights.
Otherwise, the matter is considered closed.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.sacbee.com/content/news/education/story/13712475p-14554903c.html
*********************************************
21. NEWS: State to review charges of gay harassment on West High campus
by Bobby Wilson
Tracy Press
October 26, 2005
The state will review claims that Tracy Unified School District failed to protect
gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students from harassment.
The West High School chapter of the Gay-Straight Alliance complained to the
district last school year about harassment against homosexuals. The district
investigated those allegations.
GSA wasn’t satisfied with its conclusions this spring, saying the district
was “sweeping problems under the rug.” Alliance President Justin
Daley appealed shortly after to the state Department of Education.
Daley said harassment against gays at West High has decreased this year. He
credited the district with taking steps toward make things safer, such as escorts
for GSA at this year’s homecoming parade and adoption of a diversity advisory
committee.
On Saturday, Daley received a letter from Sharon Felix-Rochon, director of the
office of equal opportunity in California’s education department. She
told Daley her office will review his complaints, look at the district’s
investigation and let him know within 60 days whether her office will intervene.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.tracypress.com/local/2005-10-25-investigation.php
back to top
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Is your school safe for gender non-conforming students? Organize
for the Transgender Day of Remembrance!
GSA Network Announcements
1. See GSA Network on the Dr. Phil show - October 19
2. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
3. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GSA Network Mailing Party (San Francisco)
4. Join GSA Network at Models of Pride (Los Angeles)
5. GSA Network’s Expression Not Suppression Conference - Register today!!
(Central Valley)
6. Join GSA Network at Creating Change in Oakland! (Oakland)
7. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon (Bay Area)
8. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
9. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
10. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
11. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
12. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
13. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
14. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Other Announcements
15. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
16. LYRIC's 7th Annual MasQueerAde Ball (Bay Area)
17. Call for submissions - art. poetry.prose.humor
18. Queer Movie Night and Special Event! (Santa Monica)
19. Don't miss the ALPHABET SOUP conference for queer youth and their allies
(Santa Cruz)
20. Fusion 2005: The 3rd Los Angeles LGBT People of Color Film Festival (Los
Angeles)
21. The Other Side of the Closet - Dates still Avaiaible (Northern California)
22. think Venture Grants
23. Get up to $5000 from the Marin youth Grants Board!!! (Marin County)
24. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
(San Francisco)
25. NEWS: Gay Teacher 'Pushed Out' Because Of Bias
26. NEWS: Superintendent warns Utah school board against banning gay-straight
club
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Is your school safe for gender non-conforming students? Organize for the Transgender Day of Remembrance!
On November 20, 2005 thousands of people across the world will observe the
7th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), a day when we memorialize
transgender and other gender-variant individuals who have died because of hate-based
violence. By marking TDOR and educating people in your school about gender identity
issues, you and your GSA can both honor the dead and fight for justice and equality
for the living.
Download a copy of GSA Network's Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender
Identity Activism in Schools at www.gsanetwork.org/BeyondtheBinary/toolkit.html.
Familiarize yourself with the various issues facing gender non-conforming and
transgender students in schools and educate your peers, teachers, and school
administrators.
Here are some ways GSAs can honor Transgender Day of Remembrance:
1. Start a movement through moving pictures: Plan a movie night
with your GSA and invite your classmates to a screening of a movie like Boys
Don't Cry or watch episodes of Transgenerations, a recent Sundance
channel documentary series about four different transgender college students.
Pass the popcorn and kick-start a discussion.
2. Host a speaker: Collaborate with other activist groups on
your campus to bring a gender identity activist to speak in front of your classes.
Talk about whether your school is a safe, supportive environment for gender
non-conforming students. If it isn't, brainstorm ideas about what students can
do to make sure everyone has an equal chance at an education.
3. Honor through art: Create and distribute posters, stickers,
and T-shirts. Engage in direct action art such as mock crime scene chalkings,
cardboard tombstones honoring the dead, and/or life-sized cardboard cut-outs
(see page 30 of Beyond the Binary for an example) that name some of
the victims of the violence. Wear and/or display your creations at school and
invite your peers to ask you questions about what happened to people and why.
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
**********************************************
1. See GSA Network on the Dr. Phil show - October 19
The DR. PHIL show recently taped an episode dealing with LGTBQ issues. Sandy Williams, GSA Network's Southern California Program Coordinator, was featured as a guest expert for the show because of her role as an activist and advocate for youth. The show is scheduled to air TODAY, Wednesday, October 19th. Check your local listings to make sure you don't miss the show!
Episode: "I'm Gay, OK?"
Sexual orientation used to be something kept hidden from family
and co-workers, but now more and more people are "coming out" and
finding acceptance. Anjela says her mother and sister don't support her sexual
orientation, and feel she can't be Christian and gay at the same time. Can they
ever reconcile this touchy issue? Then, two men debate whether a person can
go from gay to straight, and parents of a 4-year-old boy fear their son's desire
to play with dolls and wear heels means he'll grow up to be gay. Are they overreacting
to his wishes to be a princess instead of a prince?
*********************************************
2. Survey about Marriage Rights and School Safety: How Does Marriage Affect
Students in School?
Please take five minutes to participate in an important survey!
As you know, the right of same-sex couples to marry has been a hotly contested
topic over the past few years. On one side, President Bush has proposed a constitutional
ban on marriage for same-sex couples and many states have created their own
laws banning marriage for same-sex couples or defining marriage as between one
man and one woman only. On the other side, same-sex couples gained full marriage
rights in Massachusetts and temporarily gained marriage rights in San Francisco
and other cities. Most recently, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill
that would have extended full marriage rights to same-sex couples in California.
This flurry of activity combined with what we know will be a continued state-by-state
struggle around marriage rights in the upcoming years raises an important question
about how students are affected by the discussion around the issue at school
and the media coverage on the political fight. The California Safe Schools Coalition,
in partnership with GSA Network, has created this short survey in order to learn
more about how students are affected by the fight over marriage for same-sex
couples.
Please help us by clicking on the link below to take our survey.
http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB224NVM7JWBM
back to top
**********************************************
3. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! GSA Network Mailing Party (San Francisco)
November 1 and 2, 2005
Shifts throughout the day or evening
GSA Network Office
160 14th Street
San Francisco, CA
Hundreds of envelopes to stuff, seal, and stamp! There is absolutely no licking involved. This is a great way for anybody (yes, you!) to step right up and be a part of fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools.
Pizza and drinks to fuel processing of GSA Network mailing will be provided.
RSVP - justin@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
**********************************************
4. Join GSA Network at Models of Pride (Los Angeles)
GSA Network at Models of Pride (MOP XIII)!
Saturday, October 22, 2005, 8:30am - 8:30pm
Occidental College in Eagle Rock
1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Info: http://www.modelsofpride.org
Join GSA Network staff and youth trainers at the BIGGEST EVER Models of Pride
Conference (MOP XIII) this coming Saturday, October 22 at Occidental College
in Eagle Rock.
Models of Pride XIII, sponsored by Friends of Project 10, is a free, one-day
conference that focuses on the concerns and interests of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,
Trans, Queer youth, and allies, ages 14 to 23. The conference is filled with
workshops, entertainment, a resource faire, food, networking opportunities,
live music, and a dance party finale! The performance this year is by DIYAA
formerly known as DRED.
Registration and Continental Breakfast are from 8:30 - 9:30am. The conference
opens at 9:30 am and ends at 8:30pm with a Dance Finale. Free shuttle service
will be provided to and from the college from the Pasadena Goldline Station
in Highland Park. The Goldline can be accessed from Union Station.
Morning pick-ups at Highland Park: 7:45 to 10 AM
Evening pick-up at Occidental College: 6:30 to 8:45 PM
THE LAST DAY TO REGISTER ONLINE IS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2005. ONSITE REGISTRATION
IS AVAILABLE THE DAY OF THE CONFERENCE.
Please check the Web site for online registration, conference schedules, updates,
and transportation information.
Look for GSA Network at the conference outreach tables and in one of the workshops we're presenting on AB 537, GSA campaigns, and running a kick-ass GSA!
back to top
*********************************************
5. GSA Network’s Expression Not Suppression Conference - Register
today!! (Central Valley)
Don't be the last to register for the upcoming Expression NOT Suppression conference!
A conference for LGBTQI and Straight Ally youth, ages 14-23, with a very exciting
keynote speaker, informative workshops and literature, time to mix-it-up with
local activists, an impressive drag show and an amazing Halloween Dance Party
to end the day!!!
This FREE event will be held on Saturday, October 29 from 11am-10pm (includes
snacks and dinner).
The location of the event is 1343 E Barstow Avenue, Fresno, 93710.
All interested youth should register at www.gsanetwork.org/ens/
or call 559-453-9040.
If you'd like more info or would like to help with planning, please call or
email robin@gsanetwork.org.
Expression Not Suppression
Join us in our fight to eradicate homophobia and transphobia in schools across
the Central Valley and beyond!!!
Register NOW!!!
back to top
*********************************************
6. Join GSA Network at Creating Change in Oakland! (Oakland)
GSA Network at Creating Change!
November 9 -13, 2005
Oakland Marriott Civic Center
Info: http://www.thetaskforce.org/ourprojects/index.cfm
Join GSA Network staff and youth leaders at the largest annual LGBTQ activist
conference of its kind in the United States. The Creating Change conference
is sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). It offers folks
invested in social justice for the LGBTQ community a change to gather, grow
and learn together. GSA Network will be co-presenting workshops about the legal
rights of transgender youth in schools, the latest in safe schools legislation
and litigation, and developing youth-adult partnerships when working for policy
change.
This conference is a great chance to meet and network with other activists---both
adults and youth---acquire new skills, and learn about many different ways you
can fight for LGBTQ rights.
If you are interested in joining GSA Network at the conference, please email
Lai-San Seto at lai-san@gsanetwork.org
and ask about volunteering and scholarship opportunities.
For additional information email:youthcreatingchange@gmail.org
*********************************************
7. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon (Bay
Area)
YES Conference 2005 - (Youth Empowerment Summit)
YES is a FREE conference for LGBTQQI youth activists and their allies who are
dedicated to defeating homophobia and transphobia and creating safe and supportive
schools for everyone. The target audience is high school & middle school
students, and teachers & GSA advisors are welcome.
BE YOU! BE PROUD! STAND UP & FIGHT BACK!
Who? LGBTQQI youth activists & their allies
Where? Horace Mann Middle School, 3351 23rd Street, San Francisco
When? Saturday, December 3, 9:00 am -5:00 pm
Why? To meet other youth leaders, learn new skills, & share
the strength!
How much? Everything, including food, is FREE!
What else? Get down & dance with everyone you’ve
just met at a special youth-only dance at the SF LGBT Community Center, 8:00
pm-11:00 pm.
Pre-register for the GSA Network’s YES conference at www.gsanetwork.org/yes.
For more information:yes@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
*********************************************
8. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
Before you plan any 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 contact:
Tanya Mayo, Program Director
tanya@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229
**********************************************
9. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
The Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the
program activities of the GSA Network. They set goals and establish priorities
for the work of our organization. Youth Council members also represent the needs
of GSAs and youth activists from the geographic region of California they represent.
The requirements for joining the Youth Council include:
1. Involved in a GSA or LGBTQ-youth related group in your school.
2. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSAs and the
GSA Network.
4. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia in schools.
Southern California
For more info contact Sandy@gsanetwork.org
or call 213-534-7162
Central Valley
For more info contact Robin@gsanetwork.org
or call 559-453-9040
Northern California
For more info contact Lai-San@gsanetwork.org
or call 415-552-4229
*********************************************
10. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website:
www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
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 (April), Transgender Day
of Remembrance (November), 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.
**********************************************
11. 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 highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to: www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
12. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
You are invited to CCA's Youth Night on November 5th. Hear a panel
of Gay/Straight Alliance students on their choice to come "out." Meet
the young gay leader who made international news when he stood up to his verbally
gay bashing math teacher and got him removed, challenged his local school board's
policy on Gay/Straight Alliance clubs and rankled the fruit-cake fundamentalist
homophobe, Rev. Fred Phelps.
Bring someone you know to hear GSA Network's Central Valley Coordinator Robin
McGehee explain the GSA phenomenon that has swept the nation's schools during
the last five years. These clubs provide support and leadership training opportunities
to gay students, while promoting tolerance and understanding between gay and
straight students and educators. Polls show that today's youth are much more
open to the fair and equal treatment of gays and lesbians than were their parents.
That sort of changing demographic starts in our schools, and the GSA movement
is a big part of that transformation.
Place: The Adobe Clubhouse, 5555 N. West Ave., Fresno Ca.
Date: Saturday, November 5th
Time: Dinner at 6pm. The meeting starts at 7pm.
Cost: CCA Members $10.00; Non-Members $15.00; Students with ID Free. Add $5.00
to sponsor a meal for a student. Space is limited, so reservations are required
for all seating.
Go to http://www.ccafresno.org to reserve
your place today.
*********************************************
13. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
Job Title: Program Coordinator – Northern California
Reports To: Program Director
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $32,000 – $34,000 + generous benefits
Organization and Position Overview:
Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) is a statewide, youth-led, social
justice organization based in San Francisco that empowers youth activists fighting
homophobia and transphobia in high schools and middle schools. GSA clubs provide
support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth
who are facing pervasive discrimination and harassment at school. As a non-profit
organization formed in 1998, GSA Network provides resources, training, and grassroots
organizing support to clubs working to educate schools about LGBT issues and
organize for social change. GSA Network currently runs a network of 500 GSA
clubs throughout California. With a staff of seven and 50 core youth leaders,
GSA Network maintains offices in San Francisco, Fresno, and Los Angeles.
The Northern California Program Coordinator position is a full-time position
located in San Francisco. The Program Coordinator is responsible for grassroots
community organizing, regional planning, and program implementation throughout
their region. The Northern California Program Coordinator works directly with
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) and straight ally
youth and adult advisors involved with more than 200 Gay-Straight Alliance clubs
throughout the Bay Area and Northern California. Willingness to work nights
and weekends and access to a car on a regular basis is thus necessary for the
position. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment,
an understanding of youth culture, and commitment to social change is required
for all positions at GSA Network.
See website for the full job description and how to apply:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
*********************************************
14. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Central Valley Program Associate: GSA Network is looking for a part-time (20
hours/week) Program Associate to work in our Fresno office. The Program Associate
will assist the Central Valley Program Coordinator with grassroots community
organizing and program implementation throughout the region. A demonstrated
passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy,
and a commitment to social justice are required for this position.
See website for the full job description and how to apply:
http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#jobs
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
15. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
It's time for another youth dance and we need your help. The Halloween
Dance will be held on Friday, October 28, 2005 from 7pm-12am at the Billy DeFrank
Center.
Please mark your calendars!!
If you would like to chaperone, please contact Erika at youthprog@defrank.org
or at (408) 293-3040 x111 for a dance application.
If you have any questions, please call (408) 293-3040.
We hope to see you there! Thanks in advance for all your dedication to the DeFrank
Center and youth programs!
*********************************************
16. LYRIC's 7th Annual MasQueerAde Ball (Bay Area)
As you know, summer is over, the school year has begun and the holiday season
is fast approaching. Cold weather and Halloween are just around the corner,
and with them comes LYRIC's first dance of the school year.
From 8 pm until 12 am on Friday, October 28th
San Francisco Women's Building, located at 3543 18th Street.
As the first of three dances that we will hold this year, some of the highlights
will include:
*Bewitching beats from our guest DJ that'll be fresh enough to raise the dead
and will have everyone on their feet, fins, paws or claws, dancing the night
away!
*Toothsome treats to tempt even the tricksiest of tastes!
*Prizes so prodigious, they're to die for!
*And what is the MasQueerAde Ball, without the all-out, over-the-top battle
of 'fits of fury and fierceness that is our Costume Contest.
So bring some friends and join us for the frightful festivities!
*open to LGBTQQ youth and their allies, 23 & under
*open to Transgender youth, 25& under
*this is a clean and sober event
*********************************************
17. Call for submissions - art. poetry.prose.humor
Got something to say about being young and Queer? Here's the place to say it!
IMAGES MAGAZINE is seeking submissions of Queer youth expressions including
art, photography, poetry, prose, & humor.
Please mail submissions to:
POSITIVE IMAGES
312 CHINN ST.
SANTA ROSA, CA, 95404
OR
Posimage@sonic.net
Subjectline: IMAGES
All submissions must be received by NOVEMBER 21, 2005 and should include your
name, address, and phone #.
IMAGES is a free annual publication of Positive Images, Sonoma County's Gay,
Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, and Questioning Youth and Young
Adult Group.
For more information please check out our website! www.posimages.org
*********************************************
18. Queer Movie Night and Special Event! (Santa Monica)
As part of the queer film series at Crossroads School, sponsored by FLAG (our
gay/straight alliance), we will be having our next movie screening/special event
on Wednesday, Nov. 2nd, from 6:15 - 9:00 p.m. We've been getting great
audience response at our films this year and we invite you to join us!
The event is called And Justice for All? The Struggle for Same-Sex Marriage.
Same-sex marriage is all over the news recently and is considered to be one
of the prominent civil rights issues of our time. Join us, find out the latest,
and have fun doing it!
Special Musical Guest: Phranc The "all-American Jewish lesbian
folksinger" and Tupperware lady will open up the evening with music to
delight & amaze us. If you've never seen Phranc perform, you don't know
what you're missing!
Special Guest Speaker: Robert Blackmon, L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center Vote for
Equality Project
We'll also be featuring an excerpt from the award-winning documentary about
same-sex marriage, Tying the Knot: The Union that's Dividing America.
All students and faculty from Gay/Straight alliances and their friends are welcome.
(Parents and students from Crossroads will also be attending.) It's a great
way to meet new friends, or see old ones.
The event is FREE and free pizza and drinks will be provided!
But please e-mail us and let us know if you might come, so we have an idea of
how much pizza to get. You can reach us at mailto:flag2@xrds.org
Directions:
Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and
Olympic Blvd.
The room we're meeting in is called Roth Hall on the 1st floor of the Administration
Building.
Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate
right onto a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our
"quad" which looks like a parking lot or an alley, and which we call
(of course) "the alley". Walk halfway down the alley to the building
on the left near a kiosk. Don't worry--you'll see signs. Follow the signs and
enter into Roth Hall. Hope the directions aren't too confusing. It's not really
that hard once you see it, and you can always ask people.
*********************************************
19. Don't miss the ALPHABET SOUP conference for queer youth and their
allies (Santa Cruz)
It will be a fabulous conference.
Saturday Nov. 5, 2005
Harbor High School
300 La Fonda Ave.
Santa Cruz
FREE!!!
This conference is organized by two dedicated youth: Brandi Foucheaux and Amanda
Walker who have put in tons of love and work to make this the best conference
ever, so don't miss it!
All day long will be great workshops (in english and spanish) on everything
from coming out to your parents, self defense, AB537, how to be an ally, Trans
101, safer sex, and much much more! We will have an awesome keynote speaker
(Meliza Banalez), and a kick-ass dance at night.
Conference is from 10:30am-10:30pm. (ages 13-20)
For more information (or to get a ride or be a volunteer), call Sharon Papo
(STRANGE program coordinator) at 831-469-1700x151. or e-mail her at mailto:sharon.papo@scccc.org
See ya there!
*********************************************
20. Fusion 2005: The 3rd Los Angeles LGBT People of Color Film Festival
(Los Angeles)
November 11-13
Egyptian Theatre, Barnsdall Art Park, Aratani/Japan America TheatreFusion is
a collaboration between Outfest and dozens of local community-based organizations
that serve lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender People of Color. Fusion
is a multi-ethnic, gender inclusive forum for films, panel discussions, spoken
word performance, music and community networking.
Visit our website to view the schedule of events:
http://www.outfest.org/fusion.html
FOR MORE INFORMATION and/or to VOLUNTEER PLEASE CALL 213-480-7088
*********************************************
21. The Other Side of the Closet - Dates still Available (Northern California)
A play to educate teens about homophobia and tolerance.
By Ed Roy Directed By Sara Staley
On Tour in Northern California October 25th – December 16th 2005
Tour Dates Now Available: November 8th, 18th, 21st, 28th & 30th December
1st, 2nd, 5th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 14th, & 15th
The above dates are still available for the 2005 tour! Harassment based on actual
or perceived sexual orientation remains persistent in schools all over the country.
The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy is a drama for teens that has been
touring to Northern California middle and high schools every fall, since 2000,
to educate young people about homophobia, hate crimes, verbal harassment and
about the California School Safety Act (AB-537), enacted in 2000, which prohibits
harassment in school based on actual or perceived sexual orientation. The Other
Side of the Closet is an agenda free program which simply supports a safe school
curriculum where students, teachers and parents can learn about diversity, acceptance
and how to treat each other with respect in an innovative and engaging format.
The play is set in and around a high school and tells the story of five friends
who are dealing with issues of peer pressure, youth violence, homophobia, behavior
norms, discrimination and identity. Each performance is followed by a facilitated
discussion the actor-educators and student audience.
YouthAware Educational Theatre programs may be performed in any theatre, gymnasium,
cafeteria or other multi-purpose room. We travel with our own set and sound
equipment, and do not require any special lighting.
We prefer to see between 100 and 300 students per performance, and we can present
a YouthAware program up to two times a day at your school. Start times may be
determined by the school.
The New Conservatory Theatre Center is a non-profit organization, and we ask
for a $250 donation per performance (free for SFUSD). If cost is an issue for
your school, please call or email to discuss possible underwriting.
The program runs about 75 minutes (play 45 minutes, discussion 30 minutes) and
all students need to remain for the entire program.
For more information call Sara Staley, YouthAware Program Director at (415)
861-4914 or email sara@nctcsf.org. You
may also download a preview copy of the script at http://www.nctcsf.org/Other.html.
*********************************************
22. think Venture Grants
Youth Leaders May Be Eligible for MTV's Think Venture Grants
Listen up all you do-gooders, entrepreneurs, and volunteers! Who said being
good doesn't pay off? MTV and Youth Venture are teaming up to offer up to $1,000
each week to young people who are making a difference by creating and leading
their own ongoing organizations, clubs or businesses that address a need in
their community.
think Ventures must focus on one of the following issue areas:
Discrimination
Education
Environment
Global issues
Sexual health
Each week, one grant will be awarded to a group of young people (two or more)
who submit the most compelling and sustainable think Venture application.
To apply:
*MTV Think Venture Grants
*Deadline: December 31, 2005
http://www.mtv.com/thinkmtv/features/ventures/
*********************************************
23. Get up to $5000 from the Marin youth Grants Board!!! (Marin County)
Applications are due on December 12th.
If you have a project idea that improves your community, get an application,
come to our workshop, and apply!
Funds for youth led groups only!
Must be located in Marin County to be eligible to apply.
There is mandatory applicant workshop on November 17th.
Don't hesitate to contact Matt Rosen at mrosen@yli.org
if you have questions or need help.
Thanks and good luck!
www.yli.org
*********************************************
24. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools
Coalition (San Francisco)
Job Description
Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
Full time position, based in San Francisco
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is seeking
an experienced professional and self-starter to conduct statewide outreach,
organizing, technical assistance and communications with a broad community of
groups and advocates engaged in creating safer school environments for LGBT
youth. The Outreach and Communications Coordinator will report to the Director
and will provide support for organizing and managing the Coalition.
Other information:
• Some travel within CA will be required
• This is a full-time exempt position, based in San Francisco
• Salary range: $36,000-$38,000 per year plus benefits
• The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center,
is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications
from women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals,
and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
• To apply, email resume and cover letter to search@casafeschools.org
no later than Friday, October 21.
• No calls, please.
For more information, see www.casafeschools.org
*********************************************
25. NEWS: Gay Teacher 'Pushed Out' Because Of Bias
365Gay.com
Newscenter Staff
October 15, 2005
(Santa Clara, California) A man who says he was forced to resign as a teacher
at a Northern California school because he is gay has filed suit against the
Ravenswood School District.
The suit, filed in the Santa Clara County Superior Court, alleges that the district
began discriminating against and harassing Emmit Hancock, after he revealed
that he is gay.
The lawsuit also alleges that after Hancock complained of the discrimination
and harassment, the district retaliated against him by undermining his authority
in the classroom, barring him from performing his teaching duties and ultimately
forcing him to resign.
The events at issue in the lawsuit began when some of Hancock's fifth grade
students at Willow Oaks Elementary School began calling each other derogatory
names like "fag," said his lawyer, Waukeen McCoy.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/newscon05/10/101505teacher.htm
*********************************************
26. NEWS: Superintendent warns Utah school board against banning gay-straight
club
Advocate.com
Associated Press
October 13, 2005
Provo City [Utah] School District superintendent Randy Merrill has warned the
district's school board that trying to ban the new Gay-Straight Alliance at
Provo High School would get the district in legal trouble. "If you deny
this particular club, you will go to court," he told the board of education
at a study session Tuesday night. "You will. I promise you."
As a result of the Gay-Straight Alliance application, the district is considering
a policy that would establish guidelines for clubs. Among other things, it would
require parental consent for students to participate in extracurricular clubs.
The board may vote on the policy at its November meeting.
Provo High senior Kaisha Medford, who led the effort to found the club, said
about 50 students have expressed interest in the club, which she said would
be "a social place where people can go and know that they won't be picked
on, where they're safe from harassment, from being bullied," she said.
Merrill said he might urge the teacher who has agreed to advise the club, Mary
Theodosis, to carefully consider the responsibility. He said an educator who
allows unlawful activities to go on during meetings could lose his or her teaching
license. And a club that violates the policy, if it is approved, could be dissolved.
Theodosis said she got involved because she wanted to help troubled teens. "I
think these kids are in a lot of trouble, and they need someone to help them,"
she said.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid21535.asp
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
Southern California Youth Trainer Helps Create a Safety Net in Santa
Barbara
GSA Network Announcements
1. Congratulations to GSA Network's new Advocacy Coordinator and Conference
Coordinator
2. Expression Not Suppression Conference - Register today!! (Central Valley)
3. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon (Bay Area)
4. See GSA Network on the Dr. Phil show - October 19
5. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
6. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
7. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
8. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
9. Join Gay-Straight Alliance Network at Creating Change in Oakland! (Oakland)
10. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
11. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
12. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Other Announcements
13. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
14. East Bay Premiere of Film by Bay Area Youth with LGBT Parents (East Bay)
15. Amnesty International - OUTfront group & Conference (Bay Area)
16. LOGO Documentary about queer Asians in America
17. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
(San Francisco)
18. NEWS: 'We are who we are'
19. NEWS: Six parents in bullying case settle lawsuit in Pacifica
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
Southern California Youth Trainer Helps Create a Safety Net in Santa Barbara
The Central Coast GSA Consortium and The University of California, Santa Barbara's
Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity hosted a day long conference on October
9th entitled SAFETY NET. The Consortium, which only had its first meeting this
past January, organized the conference to focus on LGTBQ issues in schools,
and "to educate and empower those who attend", according to co-coordinator
Patti Wilczek.
GSA members from the tri-county areas of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and
Ventura Counties joined local activists, educators, and allies to watch a screening
of the documentary IT'S ELEMENTARY, and attend workshops on Trans and Genderqueer
Issues, Bisexualtiy, Coalition Building, Racism and White Privilege in the Queer
Community, and Creating GSA Clubs. They also heard from keynote speaker Janet
Stanley, the CEO of the Pacific Pride Foundation and an activist for over twenty-five
years in the area of LGTB Civil Rights.
GSA Network participated in the conference by providing two of the workshops.
Courtney Knight, a junior at Marina High School in Orange County, and also a
member of GSA Network's Youth Council, co-facilitated a workshop on HOW TO HAVE
A KICK-ASS GSA. Courtney had just completed her facilitator training the day
before and so the Safety Net Conference was her first time speaking in front
of an audience. Courtney taught the fifteen youth and adults who attended the
workshop about the characteristics of a good facilitator, explained about the
types of GSAs, talked about her experiences putting on events and actions at
her high school, and led the participants through several rounds of "Speed
Dating" where they gained valuable information and ideas from other GSA
members about how their clubs work.
Even though Courtney was nervous, the feedback that she received was all very
positive. "I can't believe that this was your first training," a teacher
whispered to her as he was leaving, and Sean, Vice President of the GSA at Santa
Barbara High School, thought the workshop "was great! It helped with getting
ideas on fundraising and other activities, and to network between GSAs."
"I felt so empowered," Courtney said, "just teaching other youth
about how to create their own GSAs and how to facilitate them." She added,
"it's so funny, less than a year ago I was in their shoes, now I'm the
one who is doing the training."
The experience of getting empowered as a youth leader, trainer, and GSA organizer
is what GSA Network is all about!
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. Congratulations to GSA Network's new Advocacy Coordinator and Conference
Coordinator
GSA Network offers a hearty congratulations to Lai-San Seto, who has been hired
as our new Advocacy Coordinator! Lai-San has been the Northern California Program
Coordinator at GSA Network since March and is excited now to transition into
this new role in the organization. And as a result, GSA Network will be hiring
a new Northern California Program Coordinator (see below for the job announcement).
The Advocacy Coordinator will coordinate the expansion of our policy advocacy
and organizing efforts with youth, so Lai-San will be engaging LGBTQ and straight
ally youth in policy advocacy work at the state level, training youth leaders
in public policy and civic engagement, and organizing a Queer Youth Advocacy
Day in Sacramento on March 6, 2006. Stay tuned for more details about Queer
Youth Advocacy Day!
With Lai-San's transition out of the Program Coordinator role over the next
2 months, we have also decided to hire Ash Garber as the Conference Coordinator.
Ash will be coordinating the YES Conference, set to take place on December 3rd
in San Francisco (see below for details). Ash is a recent high school graduate
from Contra Costa County. He was the GSA president at his school and a fierce
leader and trainer on the Northern California Youth Council. Congrats to Ash!
back to top
*********************************************
2. Expression Not Suppression Conference - Register today!! (Central
Valley)
Don't be the last to register for the upcoming Expression NOT Suppression conference!
A conference for LGBTQI and Straight Ally youth, ages 14-23, with a very exciting
keynote speaker, informative workshops and literature, time to mix-it-up with
local activists, an impressive drag show and an amazing Halloween Dance Party
to end the day!!!
This FREE event will be held on Saturday, October 29 from 11am-10pm (includes
snacks and dinner).
The location of the event is 1343 E Barstow Avenue, Fresno, 93710.
All interested youth should register at www.gsanetwork.org/ens/
or call 559-453-9040.
If you'd like more info or would like to help with planning, please call or
email robin@gsanetwork.org.
Expression Not Suppression
Join us in our fight to eradicate homophobia and transphobia in schools across
the Central Valley and beyond!!!
Register NOW!!!
back to top
*********************************************
3. GSA Network’s YES conference is coming soon (Bay
Area)
YES Conference 2005 - (Youth Empowerment Summit)
YES is a FREE conference for LGBTQQI youth activists and their allies who are
dedicated to defeating homophobia and transphobia and creating safe and supportive
schools for everyone. The target audience is high school & middle school
students, and teachers & GSA advisors are welcome.
BE YOU! BE PROUD! STAND UP & FIGHT BACK!
Who? LGBTQQI youth activists & their allies
Where? Horace Mann Middle School, 3351 23rd Street, San Francisco
When? Saturday, December 3, 9:00 am -5:00 pm
Why? To meet other youth leaders, learn new skills, & share
the strength!
How much? Everything, including food, is FREE!
What else? Get down & dance with everyone you’ve
just met at a special youth-only dance at the SF LGBT Community Center, 8:00
pm-11:00 pm.
Pre-register for the GSA Network’s YES conference at www.gsanetwork.org/yes.
For more information:yes@gsanetwork.org or
415-552-4229
*********************************************
4. See GSA Network on
the Dr. Phil show - October 19
The DR. PHIL show recently taped an episode containing three segments dealing with LGTBQ issues. The segments included a mother and sister's struggle to accept their lesbian family member, a debate on the ex-gay movement, and parents questioning the sexual orientation of their 4 year old child. Sandy Williams, GSA Network's Southern California Program Coordinator, was featured as a guest expert for the show because of her role as an activist and advocate for youth. The show is scheduled to air Wednesday, October 19th. Check your local listings to make sure you don't miss the show!
*********************************************
5. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
Before you plan any 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 contact:
Tanya Mayo, Program Director
tanya@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229
**********************************************
6. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
The Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the
program activities of the GSA Network. They set goals and establish priorities
for the work of our organization. Youth Council members also represent the needs
of GSAs and youth activists from the geographic region of California they represent.
The requirements for joining the Youth Council include:
1. Involved in a GSA or LGBTQ-youth related group in your school.
2. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSAs and the
GSA Network.
4. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia in schools.
Southern California
For more info contact Sandy@gsanetwork.org
or call 213-534-7162
Central Valley
For more info contact Robin@gsanetwork.org
or call 559-453-9040
Northern California
For more info contact Lai-San@gsanetwork.org
or call 415-552-4229
*********************************************
7. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website:
www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
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 (April), Transgender Day
of Remembrance (November), 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.
**********************************************
8. 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 highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to: www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
9. Join Gay-Straight Alliance Network at Creating Change in Oakland!
(Oakland)
GSA Network at Creating Change!
November 9 -13, 2005
Oakland Marriott Civic Center
Info: http://www.thetaskforce.org/ourprojects/index.cfm
Join GSA Network staff and youth leaders at the largest annual LGBTQ activist
conference of its kind in the United States. The Creating Change conference
is sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). It offers folks
invested in social justice for the LGBTQ community a change to gather, grow
and learn together. GSA Network will be co-presenting workshops about the legal
rights of transgender youth in schools, the latest in safe schools legislation
and litigation, and developing youth-adult partnerships when working for policy
change.
This conference is a great chance to meet and network with other activists---both
adults and youth---acquire new skills, and learn about many different ways you
can fight for LGBTQ rights.
If you are interested in joining GSA Network at the conference, please email
Lai-San Seto at lai-san@gsanetwork.org
and ask about volunteering and scholarship opportunities.
For additional information email:youthcreatingchange@gmail.org
*********************************************
10. Gay Youth Night at CCA (Fresno)
You are invited to CCA's Youth Night on November 5th. Hear a panel
of Gay/Straight Alliance students on their choice to come "out." Meet
the young gay leader who made international news when he stood up to his verbally
gay bashing math teacher and got him removed, challenged his local school board's
policy on Gay/Straight Alliance clubs and rankled the fruit-cake fundamentalist
homophobe, Rev. Fred Phelps.
Bring someone you know to hear GSA Network's Central Valley Coordinator Robin
McGehee explain the GSA phenomenon that has swept the nation's schools during
the last five years. These clubs provide support and leadership training opportunities
to gay students, while promoting tolerance and understanding between gay and
straight students and educators. Polls show that today's youth are much more
open to the fair and equal treatment of gays and lesbians than were their parents.
That sort of changing demographic starts in our schools, and the GSA movement
is a big part of that transformation.
Place: The Adobe Clubhouse, 5555 N. West Ave., Fresno Ca.
Date: Saturday, November 5th
Time: Dinner at 6pm. The meeting starts at 7pm.
Cost: CCA Members $10.00; Non-Members $15.00; Students with ID Free. Add $5.00
to
sponsor a meal for a student. Space is limited, so reservations are required
for all seating.
Go to http://www.ccafresno.org to reserve
you place today.
*********************************************
11. JOB: GSA Network - Northern California Program Coordinator
Job Title: Program Coordinator – Northern California
Reports To: Program Director
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $32,000 – $34,000 + generous benefits
Organization and Position Overview:
Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) is a statewide, youth-led, social
justice organization based in San Francisco that empowers youth activists fighting
homophobia and transphobia in high schools and middle schools. GSA clubs provide
support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth
who are facing pervasive discrimination and harassment at school. As a non-profit
organization formed in 1998, GSA Network provides resources, training, and grassroots
organizing support to clubs working to educate schools about LGBT issues and
organize for social change. GSA Network currently runs a network of 500 GSA
clubs throughout California. With a staff of seven and 50 core youth leaders,
GSA Network maintains offices in San Francisco, Fresno, and Los Angeles.
In 2005, GSA Network is embarking on an exciting organizational development
expansion that includes hiring for several positions. The Northern California
Program Coordinator position is a full-time position located in San Francisco.
The Program Coordinator is responsible for grassroots community organizing,
regional planning, and program implementation throughout their region. The Northern
California Program Coordinator works directly with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,
and questioning (LGBTQ) and straight ally youth and adult advisors involved
with more than 200 Gay-Straight Alliance clubs throughout the Bay Area and Northern
California. Willingness to work nights and weekends and access to a car on a
regular basis is thus necessary for the position. A demonstrated passion for
LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, an understanding of youth culture, and
commitment to social change is required for all positions at GSA Network.
Job Duties:
• Function as community organizer for Bay Area and Northern California
and provide leadership for GSA Network in Northern California
• Represent the organization in collaborations and to the public throughout
the Bay Area and Northern California
• Coordinate Northern California Youth Council, a youth leadership group
that leads programming throughout the region; provide support and leadership
development training for Youth Council members
• Provide outreach, support, and technical assistance for GSAs across
Northern California through email, phone calls, and on-site visits to GSA meetings
• Support GSA campaign organizing in GSA Network’s two current campaign
efforts – the Anti-Slur Campaign and Gender Identity Campaign
• Assist GSAs in developing action plans, designing outreach strategies,
and conducting social, educational, and advocacy activities at their schools
• Coordinate Youth Steering Committee to organize GSA Network’s
annual conference
• Organize and help conduct annual GSA Activist Camp
• Organize and conduct leadership trainings, peer education and train-the-trainer
programs, and networking events for LGBTQ and straight ally youth
• Work with program team to develop program materials, resources, and
curriculum on specific topics related to GSAs and anti-homophobia/anti-transphobia
organizing in schools
• Coordinate speaking tour of Sylvia Guerrero
• Coordinate distribution of High Contrast, a traveling photo exhibit
about LGBTQ youth, in Northern California
• Present workshops at regional and national conferences
• Write or solicit articles for printed and e-newsletters
• Participate in program evaluation
• Maintain database records on GSAs, individual members, and allies
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Ability to relate to LGBTQ youth and straight allies, particularly youth
of color
• 1-2 years direct experience with non-profits, grassroots community organizing,
and coalition-building
• 1-2 years involvement in program planning and implementation
• Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills
• Solid time management skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage
multiple projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience doing public speaking and conducting trainings
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to mentor youth
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice, anti-oppression work, and
LGBTQ rights
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team,
with people from a variety of different racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, educational,
religious, sexual, gender, and generational backgrounds
To Apply:
Send cover letter and resume to jobsearch@gsanetwork.org
or mail to:
Job Search, GSA Network, 160 14th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103.
Specify job title when applying; no phone calls or faxes please.
Application deadline is October 31, 2005.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
GSA Network, a project of the Tides Center, is an equal opportunity employer
and encourages applications from youth, people of color, people of all sexual
orientations and gender identities, and people with disabilities.
*********************************************
12. JOB: GSA Network - Central Valley Program Associate
Central Valley Program Associate: GSA Network is looking for a part-time (20 hours/week) Program Associate to work in our Fresno office. The Program Associate will assist the Central Valley Program Coordinator with grassroots community organizing and program implementation throughout the region. A demonstrated passion for LGBTQ youth leadership and empowerment, experience in policy advocacy, and a commitment to social justice are required for this position. Visit http://www.gsanetwork.org for the complete job announcement.
++++++++++++++++ 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.
*********************************************
13. The Halloween Dance - The Billy DeFrank Center (Bay Area)
It's time for another youth dance and we need your help. The Halloween Dance
will be held on Friday, October 28, 2005 from 7pm-12am at the Billy DeFrank
Center.
Please mark your calendars!!
If you would like to chaperone, please contact Erika at youthprog@defrank.org
or at (408) 293-3040 x111 for a dance application.
If you have any questions, please call (408) 293-3040.
We hope to see you there! Thanks in advance for all your dedication to the DeFrank
Center and youth programs!
*********************************************
14. East Bay Premiere of Film by Bay Area Youth with LGBT Parents (East
Bay)
Our Family Coalition & COLAGE Fundraiser!!!!
Sunday, October 16 3pm
Parkway Theater 1834 Park Blvd. in Oakland
Admission Price: $5
In My Shoes: Stories of Youth With LGBT Parents & Post Film Discussion
From the members of COLAGE's Youth Leadership and Action Program comes a new
documentary film In My Shoes: Stories of Youth with lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender parent (LGBT) parents. Created by YLAP and Jen Gilomen, this film
awards viewers a glimpse into the lives of five youth who have LGBT parents
as they share their unique stories, their challenges and triumphs, their feelings
on the same-sex marriage debate and their vision for a more just and celebratory
world.
Afterwards join us for a discussion with COLAGE youth and OFC parents. This
is an amazing opportunity for prospective parents, new parents, and all families
to come and hear about what it's like to be a part of a queer family.
For more information contact Ember at COLAGE 415-861-5437.
*********************************************
15. Amnesty International - OUTfront group & Conference (Bay Area)
OUTfront group
Please join us on Thursday, October 20, for the
second monthly meeting of the new local OUTfront group ˆ dedicated to advocating
for LGBT human rights both locally and internationally at Ritual Coffee in the
Mission
Thursday, October 20th, at 7pm
Ritual Coffee - 1026 Valencia (between 21st & 22nd)
(well be at the back table∑ drinking the incredible coffee)
**To give you a few reasons why this meeting is going to be out-of-this-world,
and why you should come:
(1) OUTfront just launched an unprecedented report on police harassment and
misconduct towards LGBT people across the United States, which will be the topic
of international activism... until it stops!
You will have the opportunity to attend a workshop on police misconduct at Amnesty‚s
upcoming Western Regional Conference here in San Francisco -- and to be part
of extensive outreach to local law enforcement and government agencies to get
them serious about addressing the issue;
(2) We will take action on the spot to write letters demanding an investigation
into an instance of Police Brutality against a transgender woman in the custody
of Sacramento authorities.
(3) We‚ll discuss organizing a couple of LGBT human rights film screenings
at local theatres in the near future.
To find out more about LGBT human rights, the new OUTfront group, or Amnesty's
upcoming Regional Conference, please email OUTfront coordinator Brian Griffey
at OUTfrontSF@yahoo.com.
www.amnestyusa.org/outfront/index.do
*******
2005 Western Regional Conference
November 11-13, 2005
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway
San Francisco, CA
Info & registration: http://www.amnestyusa.org/events/western/regionalconference.html
Workshops will include:
* the workshop on police harassment and misconduct towards LGBT communities
* a panel discussion on the convergence of AIDS and human rights issues (spec.
in Africa)
* a Youth-4-Youth training that will emphasize skills high schoolers can develop
to reach out to peers and middle schoolers
* a roundtable with student groups that will discuss successful student organizing
strategies and techniques
* and a Human Rights Educators seminar for teachers, which will feature a workshop
led by the SF Chronicle on how to use newspaper case studies in the classroom
to develop reading comprehension skills; this workshop will be based specifically
on the Police Brutality report OUTfront just released
*********************************************
16. LOGO Documentary about queer Asians in America
LOGO is producing an exciting documentary about queer Asians in America. We
are hoping to acquire more real stories that highlight and illustrate the issues
that are truly important to the queer API community.
If you are currently going through a process relating to your gay Asian identity
and are willing to have our cameras follow you through it, WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR
STORY.
For instance, are you...
-on a mission to date anyone but a Rice Queen?
-about to come out to your family, friends or coworkers?
-trying to adopt or give birth to a child?
-working on changing your appearance or physique to meet a specific "ideal"?
-struggling with faith or trying to find a spiritual home where you feel comfortable?
-trying to re-connect with estranged family members?
-moving somewhere with a limited Asian population and worried about making connections?
Whatever your story, if it is happening NOW and relevant to your gay Asian-American
experience, we look forward to reading it.
PLEASE E-MAIL US AT: logoasian@mtvstaff.com
*Be sure to include your name and full contact information in your note (address,
phone, e-mail, and best times to reach you). Tell us as much as you can about
what your story is and what would happen if our cameras documented your life.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Thank you ~ The Logo Team
*********************************************
17. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools
Coalition (San Francisco)
Job Description
Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
Full time position, based in San Francisco
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is seeking
an experienced professional and self-starter to conduct statewide outreach,
organizing, technical assistance and communications with a broad community of
groups and advocates engaged in creating safer school environments for LGBT
youth. The Outreach and Communications Coordinator will report to the Director
and will provide support for organizing and managing the Coalition.
Other information:
• Some travel within CA will be required
• This is a full-time exempt position, based in San Francisco
• Salary range: $36,000-$38,000 per year plus benefits
• The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center,
is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications
from women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals,
and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
• To apply, email resume and cover letter to search@casafeschools.org
no later than Friday, October 21.
• No calls, please.
For more information, see www.casafeschools.org
*********************************************
18. NEWS: 'We are who we are'
'We are who we are'
Brandon High's popular Gay-Straight Alliance ruffles no feathers. Newsome High's
startup club did - parental ones. Could it survive on campus?
St. Petersburg Times
by S.I. ROSENBAUM
October 7, 2005
BRANDON - On a rainy Wednesday, all the kids go bowling.
They camp out across two lanes, spilling over linoleum seats in a puppy pile
of denim and sneakers, "LIVESTRONG" bracelets and band T-shirts, slurping
down sodas.
In lane one, pins scatter. Stephon Franklin turns to his friends, and they fly
into his arms.
"I guess I keep getting strikes," he crows. "I love me!"
Stephon is 15, a lean sophomore in oversized jeans. He's not the only gay student
here.
Some of the kids are straight; some are gay. Some say they don't want to wear
a label. They're all members of the Brandon High Gay-Straight Alliance.
The club was formed three years ago to promote tolerance of gays and lesbians.
Since then, no irate parents have challenged the club. No students have protested
it. There have been no confrontations between club members and other students.
Instead, the club has melted into the background of Brandon High - another piece
of the puzzle in a school of 2,000 students.
Nine miles away, students at Newsome High School started their own GSA last
month. Before they held their first meeting, parents were already upset.
Don't let this club form, they told Newsome's principal. Our kids don't need
a club promoting sexual behavior. They're not ready. It's not right.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.sptimes.com/2005/10/07/news_pf/Brandontimes/_We_are_who_we_are_.shtml
back to top
*********************************************
19. NEWS: Six parents in bullying case settle lawsuit in Pacifica
Six parents in bullying case settle lawsuit
SCHOOL DISTRICT TO CONTINUE CONTESTING CLAIM IN COURT
By S.L. Wykes
San Jose Mercury News
October 12, 2005
The parents of students accused of harassing a classmate have settled a lawsuit
filed against them and a San Mateo County school district where the alleged
name-calling occurred.
Lawsuits against the parents of alleged bullies are rare, with school officials
usually the first to be accused of not doing enough to stop bullying behavior.
But Shaposhnikov vs. the Pacifica School District and John Roes 1-10 may be
part of a new approach to finding legal fault -- and somebody to pay financial
damages -- when bullying goes unchallenged, experts say.
In this suit, Mark Shaposhnikov alleges the district allowed his son, a competitive
dancer, to be taunted with anti-gay slurs for two years in middle school, in
violation of federal laws forbidding harassment and discrimination. Shaposhnikov
says he met many times with school officials to talk about what was going on
-- and that nothing changed until he filed the lawsuit.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/living/education/12880490.htm
In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:
GSA Network Highlight
"What have you done today to make you feel proud?" - LGBT
Student Panelists Speak Out
GSA Network Announcements
1. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
3. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
4. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at your school (Bay Area)
5. Register for GSA Network youth activist conferences this Fall!
Other Announcements
6. Models of Pride XIII Conference (Los Angeles)
7. Alphabet Soup Conference (Santa Cruz)
8. Queer Pinoy Conference (Berkeley)
9. In My Shoes: Stories of Youth with LGBT Parents (Oakland)
10. AQU25A EVENTS (Bay Area)
11. Bring your GSA to see Outspoken for free! (Bay Area)
12. Speak Up! Speak Out! Queerspawn Media Training (San Francisco)
13. Join Valkyrie Theater of Dance and Drama performing group (Los Angeles)
14. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
(San Francisco)
15. JOB: School Climate Coordinator for SF Unified School District (San Francisco)
16. JOB: Intern Program Coordinator
17. NEWS: Questions deserve answers at Palm Springs USD
+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++
"What have you done today to make you feel proud?"
- LGBT Student Panelists Speak Out
Last week, GSA Network participated in a week of trainings for district
and school site administrators in Fresno Unified, as part of a groundbreaking
agreement with the district to ensure safe schools for LGBT youth. The trainings
were deemed incredibly successful by Fresno Unified administrators. At each
training, GSA Network student leaders served on speakers bureau panels, where
they shared their personal experiences with school harassment and coming out.
They reflect on their experiences below:
"We started our adventure with Fresno Unified as a group who were fearful of what was about to come. We knew that we only had a few supporters in the crowd, and recognizing teachers in the audience from our past made us feel a little uneasy. As we all started speaking we realized the power that we had to communicate with them about our lives. To see their eyes light up, despite hitting a few sore subjects, we started to mellow out and speak freely. We would listen to the song "Proud" by Heather Small before going into the training room for every panel. It got us pumped up. "What have you done today to make you feel proud?" Well, we answered that every time we spoke. It was so powerful and just truly amazing for all of us. We all learned new things on how we work individually and how we work as a team. We all went in as lambs but came out as lions. It was truly inspirational to get such positive feedback from all the administration and the other trainers on how we did. They all said that same thing every time: that we were the best part of the training. Teachers and administrators asked lots of questions and the questions showed that they were really interested and were actively listening. We had so many people come up after the panel to thank us. Many still wanted to ask more questions and get more advice on how to deal with LGBT students in their own schools that we ended up exchanging e-mail with most people so that they could get back to the trainings. We all felt good leaving them with so much information about LGBT students' needs. We also left them pondering new ideas. We left them inspired to want to make change in their own schools and that is what we wanted to do. So, we can say with every ounce in us that this mission has been completed."
+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
*********************************************
1. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
Before you plan any 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 contact:
Tanya Mayo, Program Director
tanya@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229
**********************************************
2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html
The Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the
program activities of the GSA Network. They set goals and establish priorities
for the work of our organization. Youth Council members also represent the needs
of GSAs and youth activists from the geographic region of California they represent.
The requirements for joining the Youth Council include:
1. Involved in a GSA or LGBTQ-youth related group in your school.
2. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSAs and the
GSA Network.
4. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia in schools.
Southern California
For more info contact Sandy@gsanetwork.org
or call 213-534-7162
Central Valley
For more info contact Robin@gsanetwork.org
or call 559-453-9040
Northern California
For more info contact Lai-San@gsanetwork.org
or call 415-552-4229
*********************************************
3. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!
Seven poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals to make change by building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment and against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at your school. You can order more than 30 for $1 each. From community organizations and individuals we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters, $4 each for 11-30 posters, and large quantity discounts are available.
You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website:
www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation.
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 (April), Transgender Day
of Remembrance (November), 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. 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 highcontrast@gsanetwork.org.
For more information on, and pictures of, High Contrast go to:
www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html
*********************************************
5. Register for GSA Network youth activist conferences this Fall!
For the 2005-2006 school year, kick-off your GSA with a Fall youth activist conference and dance. GSA Network's annual youth conferences are going to be held earlier in the year, so you can use all the skills and resources you get throughout the school year!!
Bay Area - Y.E.S. (Youth Empowerment Summit) December 3rd
2005
Register online at www.gsanetwork.org/yes/
Central Valley - E.N.S. (Expression Not Suppression) October
29th 2005
Register online at www.gsanetwork.org/ens/
++++++++++++++++ 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. Models of Pride XIII Conference (Los Angeles)
All youth, ages 14 to 23, are invited to the Models of Pride XIII (MOP XIII)
conference, sponsored by Friends of Project 10 Inc., on Saturday, October 22,
2005, at Occidental College in Los Angeles. This is a free one-day conference
that focuses on the needs and interests of LGBTQ youth. The day begins at 8:30
a.m. and ends with a dance finale at 8:30 p.m. This will be the biggest conference,
ever, with 45 workshops, food, a resource faire, roundtable discussions, and
entertainment featuring DIYAA!
Shuttle buses are available to transport participants from the Goldline Highland
Park Station to the college in the morning and then from the college in the
evening and back to the Goldline Station. Visit www.modelsofpride.org
for conference information, updates, and online registration.
**********************************************
7. Alphabet Soup Conference (Santa Cruz)
A place for Queer Youth and thier allies (ages 13-20) to connect, build community,
gain tools and motivation to help make our schools a safer place.
Saturday November 5th, 2005
10:30am-10:30pm
Harbor High School: 300 La Fonda Ave.
Santa Cruz, Ca
*Featuring Meliza Banales, an awesome and inspirational speaker
*Lots of fun workshops on issues ranging from coming out to you friends and
family to safe sex
*Rockin' Live Music and a Kick Ass Dance 8pm-10:30pm
*Brunch-Lunch- Dinner incuded
*FREE!!!
Want to be on the youth planning comittee or volunteer? Need more info? contact:
Brandi, STRANGE intern 831.427.4014 Email: Bfoucheaux@yahoo.com
Sharon Pap, program coordinator 831.469.1700 ext.151 Email: Sharon.papo@scccc.org
**********************************************
8. Queer Pinoy Conference (Berkeley)
Queer Pinoy Conference @ UC Berkeley
October 29
www.baklatomboyandbeyond.org
QPC stands for queer-minded pinoy/pinay (pin@y) conference and is open to any
person regardless of ethnic, gender, and/or sexual backgrounds. This year is
the re-launch of what we hope to become an annual conference for queer pin@ys
to find community without guarding our individual ethnic, gender, and sexuality
identities. Our theme focuses on inclusiveness and reflecting upon history,
today, and what will become of our future.
**********************************************
9. In My Shoes: Stories of Youth with LGBT Parents (Oakland)
Sunday October 16, 3 pm
In My Shoes: Stories of Youth with LGBT Parents
Parkway Theater, 1834 Park Blvd.
Screening of new documentary films offering viewers a glimpse into the lives
of five youth who have LGBT parents.
Discussion with Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere and Our Family Coalition
following film.
Admission: $5.
Info: 415.861.5437 or www.colage.org or www.ourfamily.org.
**********************************************
10. AQU25A EVENTS (Bay Area)
AQUA DROP INS
October 12 and 26
5:00-7:00pm, A&PI Wellness Center (730 Polk St.)
We're starting up drop-in sessions every FIRST and THIRD Wednesday of each month
from 5-7pm. Come and talk about anything that's on your mind, play games, and
make new friends. Help break in our new drop in room and grub on good food!
Drop-ins are for queer Asian & Pacific Islander youth under 25 and your
friends. To RSVP, please contact Bryant at bryant@apiwellness.org
or 415-292-3420 x315.
***********
Teabags and Biscuits
October 15
1:30pm-3:30pm, A&PI Wellness Center (730 Polk St.)
Check out this informal social gathering of queer APIs. Brought to you by AQU25A
and the Men's Program to bring together the community. Go to brunch with your
friends, then join us for some teabags and biscuits! To RSVP, please contact
Bryant at bryant@apiwellness.org or 415-292-3420
x315.
**********************************************
11. Bring your GSA to see Outspoken for free! (Bay Area)
FREE Tickets Still Available for OutSpoken
by Prince Gomolvilas directed by Sara Staley
A World Premiere YouthAware Educational Theatre Program for Teens about Differences
October 5th - 22nd 2005 Weekdays @ 10:15am Saturday Oct 22 @ 1pm & 3pm
Join us for the world premiere of the New Conservatory Theatre Center's newest
YouthAware Educational Theatre program, OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas. Based
directly on the voices of young people, OutSpoken is a new drama for teens that
goes beyond the themes of tolerance and homophobia explored in the hard hitting
YouthAware program, The Other Side of the Closet, to look at the many reasons
that young people feel ostracized in school, at home and in their community
including race, religion, sexual orientation & body type. Through OutSpoken,
we hope young people will find new ways to move past these differences to a
place of real tolerance and understanding. OutSpoken features a talented cast
of professional young actors. We are now offering FREE tickets to this innovative
new program. The program lasts about 70 minutes and includes the play and a
post-show discussion with the cast. We can seat up to 65 per performance.
October 5th - 22nd 2005 Weekdays @ 10:15am Saturday Oct 22 @ 1pm & 3pm
All performances held at the New Conservatory Theatre Center
25 Van Ness Ave. @ Market St. in San Francisco
Call (415) 861-4914 or email sara@nctcsf.org to
reserve seats!
**********************************************
12. Speak Up! Speak Out! Queerspawn Media Training (San Francisco)
Do you like free food and being on television? Do you want to meet other youth
with LGBT parents?
Speak Up! Speak Out! Queerspawn Media Training
As the debates about same-sex marriage and our families heats up around the
country and in California, the voices of youth and adults with LGBT parents
are more important than ever! You can become a media activist- using your experience
of having one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender parent to make
a difference in the world! This training will feature fun games and activities
that let you hone your skills - for public speaking, working with media (television
and newspapers), and other ways of using your voice to make a difference! After
the training you can join the COLAGE Speak Out program and learn about opportunities
to do media activism in the Bay Area and beyond.
Whether you've spoken out in the media many times before, or are just starting
to speak out- if you are a youth with LGBT parents who wants to make a difference-
this workshop is for you!
This workshop will be led by Meredith Fenton, the adult daughter of a lesbian
mom and the COLAGE Program Director.
This event is FREE and snacks will be provided!
Tuesday, October 11th
6 - 8 pm
at the SF LGBT Center, 1800 Market Street in San Francisco
For more information contact Ember Cook, COLAGE Program Coordinator at <mailto:ember@colage.org>ember@colage.org
or 415-861-5437 x103.
**********************************************
13. Join Valkyrie Theater of Dance and Drama performing group (Los Angeles)
The Valkyrie Theater of Dance and Drama is starting a dance/drama performing
group to work on two pieces. „What Is Courage? and One Night of Choices.
These dance/dramas explore the themes of having the courage to pull apart
from the crowd and the choices we make and live or die with. The participants
will also have the opportunity to develop their own dance/dramas and explore
what they have to say to the world. As of now, the plan is to meet 3 times
a week, 2 week days from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM and Saturday 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
(These times are subject to change according to the studio space we will be
using.)
I am looking for interested, dedicated participants between the ages of 11 and
17 who would like to create and perform on stage. No experience is necessary
to be a part of this group and there is no cost except your time and dedication.
Each interested party will be interviewed to ascertain their receptivity to
these projects and their willingness to be committed.
I will be working with 20 teenagers and 4 or 5 mentors. This will be an Inter
Faith Group with Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender teenagers, amongst
others, in the mix; a microcosm of the world we live in. They will perform
at schools, churches, peace rallies and sometimes with professionals. We will
also film the pieces that come out of the group to enter into film festivals
and to market for profits that will go back into Valkyrie Theater of Dance.
Our world is in a mess. But with our voices we can change it.
Please contact:
Lonnie Washington 310-877-3131
Janette Lane Bradbury 818-623-0247
Artistic Director elflie@acn.net
Valkyrie Theater of Dance and Drama
**********************************************
14. JOB: Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools
Coalition (San Francisco)
Job Description
Outreach and Communications Coordinator, California Safe Schools Coalition
Full time position, based in San Francisco
The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center, is seeking
an experienced professional and self-starter to conduct statewide outreach,
organizing, technical assistance and communications with a broad community of
groups and advocates engaged in creating safer school environments for LGBT
youth. The Outreach and Communications Coordinator will report to the Director
and will provide support for organizing and managing the Coalition.
Other information:
• Some travel within CA will be required
• This is a full-time exempt position, based in San Francisco
• Salary range: $36,000-$38,000 per year plus benefits
• The California Safe Schools Coalition, a project of the Tides Center,
is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications
from women, people of color, including bilingual and bicultural individuals,
and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
• To apply, email resume and cover letter to search@casafeschools.org
no later than Friday, October 21.
• No calls, please.
For more information, see www.casafeschools.org
**********************************************
15. JOB: School Climate Coordinator for SF Unified School District (San
Francisco)
District School Health Programs
San Francisco Unified School District
School Health Programs Department
R36 School Climate Coordinator (Year Round Position)
Mission: To ensure the academic, physical and emotional growth of San Franciscoís
children and youth by assisting school sites in building
their capacity to meet the needs of the whole child. The mission is aligned
with SFUSD goals and priorities and evidenced in SHPD goals and objectives,
which are implemented under the direction of the Executive Director of School
Health Programs Department. The role of the School Climate Coordinator is described
below.
As per Ed Code 44065, paraprofessional staff will not perform more than 50%
of their job duties consisting of rendering service in directing,
coordinating, supervising or administering any portion or all types of functions
related to school health programs.
Compensation: Year-round district position. Salary DOE ($38,688 - $46,826) plus benefits.
All candidates need to complete an on-line application at wwww. edjoin.org
Please include resume and cover letter.
**********************************************
16. JOB: Intern Program Coordinator
The Intern Program Coordinator is a management position for New Connections,
responsible for clinical and administrative supervision of the School-based
Intern/Trainee Program.
This is a part-time (20 hours/week) position. The Intern Program Coordinator
is an exempt position, reporting directly to the agency’s Director of
School Counseling. The salary is $44,000 to $46,500 FTE, or $22,000 to $23,250
for 20 hours per week. Positions of 20 hours or more at New Connections are
eligible for a wide variety of employee benefits.
New Connections is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate
on the basis of race, culture, age, disability, gender, HIV status or sexual
orientation. Recovering people, HIV-positive people and people of color are
especially encouraged to apply.
To apply, please send cover letter and résumé to Barbara Petterson
at bpetterson@newconnections.org,
or fax it to her attention at 925.363.5075.
**********************************************
17. NEWS: Questions deserve answers at Palm Springs USD
by Cindy Uken
The Desert Sun
October 2, 2005
If a fourth-grader asks his teacher what the word "gay" means, what
should the teacher say?
Should a teacher be allowed - or expected - to explain the correct use of condoms?
Should books such as "Heather Has Two Mommies," or "Daddy's Roommate"
be used in public schools?
You, no doubt, have steadfast opinions on each of those questions and others
like them. But do you know where your representative to the Palm Springs Unified
School District Board of Education stands on such issues?
Each of the five candidates seeking a seat on the school board next month has
been asked those questions and others; their responses will be available after
Oct. 10 to anyone who wants - or cares enough - to find out. The responses will
be posted on the network's Web site at www.glsen.org.
To read the full article, visit:
http://www.thedesertsun.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051002/COLUMNS25/510020321/1215