GSA Network News archives

GSA Network News Email Archive - September 2007

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Sign Up for GSA Network News! Email:

September 26, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
Kick Starting Campaigns on Your Campus!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Save the Date - GSA Network's YES conference is coming soon!!!
2. Re-register your GSA today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!
3. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!
4. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award Two $1,000 Scholarships
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
5. Gay Day at Six Flags is this Friday! (Los Angeles)
6. SoCal for Youth is looking for Volunteers! (Los Angeles)
7. Trevor Project's Teen Scavenger Hunt & Dance Party at Gay Days 2007 (Anaheim)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
8. Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction Presentation (Modesto)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
9. Movie and Pizza Night (San Francisco)
10. LGBT Center Youth Program Announces Youth Photo Project: Capturing Life With a Lens (San Francisco)
11. Save The Date for the 5th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat! (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
12. GLBTQ Youth: Get Interviewed (and Paid!) About Your Thoughts on Technology
13. Help with Video About Intolerance and Hate Crimes
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
14. The Hear Me Project Story Contest - $2500 Prize
15. Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008 Call for Proposals
Go directly to National listings

Jobs
16. GLAAD's Fall 2007 Internship Opportunities
17. Helen Zia Fellowship for Social Change
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
18. NEWS: Protecting GLBT Students from Bullies. Bill Moves Forward in State Legislature
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

Kick Starting Campaigns on Your Campus!

A campaign is an intensive, sustained and coordinated organizing fight that uses the collective power of the people to make change. Campaigns seek to redistribute power and/or resources, bring institutional change, and build grassroots leaders. It is through campaigns that you can make change on your campus and we want to help you do that!

What new campaign will you take on this school year? Maybe getting gender neutral bathrooms, teacher trainings, or LGBTQ literature in the library? Or you could work to administer a school climate survey, organize a Day of Silence, or work to stop slurs and name calling on your campus. This and so much more is needed and in the words of the late June Jordan "We are the one's we've been waiting for." So let's get started!

Here are some tools from GSA Network that will help you decide on which hot new campaign your school wants to take on this year, and how you can stay ahead of the game.

GSA Network Campaigns
Back by popular demand, it's GSA Network's anti-slur campaign manual! You can download our Take It Back: A Manual for Fighting Slurs on Campus at http://www.gsanetwork.org/takeitback/.

Go beyond the binary of Boy-Girl with GSA Network's Beyond the Binary: A Tool Kit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools. This manual will get you ready to fight gender oppression at your school. Download the entire manual at http://www.gsanetwork.org/BeyondtheBinary/toolkit.html.

Make it real with our organizing manual on school safety and violence pervention. You can download the Make It Real: AB 537 Student Organizing Manual at http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/index.html. Or, download our AB 537 Fact Sheet at http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/ab537.html and GSAs Legal Rights at http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/legal.html.

Organizing a Campaign
When you work with a group to change your school in a specific way, you are working on a campaign. Before you start a campaign to change your school, you need a plan. When taking on any campaign, it helps to be organized and strategic. Here are some things to think about to help you create your campaign plan:

What is your overall goal? Think Big! Your goal is what you are fighting to accomplish. Everything you do in your campaign should work toward your goal. Then, when you begin considering specific tactics and actions, you can ask yourselves this question: “If we take this action, will it get us closer to our goal?”

What do you know about your problem? This is the time to do research, research, research!

What do you need to know about your issue? Think about student surveys or collect student stories, get statistics, etc. The more you know about your issue, the better chance of choosing the best strategy.

What are your strengths and weaknesses? Honesty is key in this section of your planning. Think about the number of people working on your campaign, access to transportation, copy machine, money, and also your group’s morale. The more honest and thorough you are, the easier it will be for you to get organized.

Who are your supporters? Who are your opponents? Consider who will help you achieve you goal. Teachers? Student groups? Community members? PTA members? Remember that people may organize against you, figure out who they are and create a list. Your opponents can never be your targets.

Who is your target? Your target is the person who has the power to give you what you want. If your target appears to be a group of people (example: School Board/ Student Governing Body) concentrate your efforts on a particular person or two people rather than the whole group. Determine who in the group is undecided about letting you carry out your campaign and focus your efforts on them. Their votes of approval will make the difference.

What are your tactics? What actions will help you reach your goal? While brainstorming tactics ask yourselves how each tactic will help you meet your campaign goal. Examples of tactics may include: getting students to sign a petition supporting what you are trying to do, asking parents to write supportive letters to the school board, or having students wear buttons or ribbons in support of your campaign. If you are trying to change students’ attitudes, you should consider participating in the Transgender Day of Remembrance, Day of Silence, AIDS World Day, etc.

What do you do after the campaign is over? Once your campaign is over, it is important to spend some time evaluating what happened and what impact your group had on your community. If you won a victory on campus, be sure to celebrate your success. If you weren’t successful, think about what prevented you from succeeding.

How to stay up to date on GSA Network campaigns:
- Sign up for the GSA Network weekly e-mail newsletter at http://www.gsanetwork.org/news/index.html. Tell all your friends to sign up and definitely sign your advisor up!

- Look for all of GSA Network publications. These will be mailed out to GSAs registered in California in September and October and throughout the year. Check out http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/index.html to downoad all of our resources.

- Join the GSA Network Youth Council in your area. Train other youth, plan conferences and help support GSAs throughout your region. Join by visiting: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html#youthcouncil.

- Register your GSA! If you are a GSA in California and you are not registered with GSA Network please go to: http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.php. All GSAs must register every year to receive resources from GSA Network.

Have a great year and keep up the amazing activism you do!

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. Save the Date - GSA Network's YES conference is coming soon!!!

YES (The Youth Empowerment Summit) is a FREE Bay Area conference for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, and straight ally youth dedicated to fostering safe schools and youth activism. YES is structured to focus on giving youth organizers the tools to combat homophobia and transphobia in schools.

Saturday, December 8, 2007
Everett Middle School
San Francisco, CA
More info coming soon!

For more information, call Marco at 415-552-4229 or email him at marco@gsanetwork.org.

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2. 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 resource sheets, 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:
mailto:info@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229

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3. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

Order one of our three New T-shirts and help support GSA Network
* GSA Power
* A is for Ally
* Activist
* Male, Female, Other / Neither / All of the above

Also in stock
* I heart GSA
* I HELLA Heart GSA
* and our classic GSA Organizing Shirt

These new designs can ONLY be purchased at our online store. For every item you buy GSA Network gets a small donation ($3-5) to keep doing all the good work we do!!!

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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4. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award TWO $1,000 Scholarships

BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND INFORMATION AND CRITERIA
The BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND (BPF) at Fresno State is accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a student in the 2008-09 academic year. The BPF scholarship criteria is that a Fresno State incoming or returning student with good academic standing that has demonstrated pride in the community be selected as its recipient.

The BPF will also bestow the newly-established GSA NETWORK AWARD of $1,000 to a student affiliated with the GSA NETWORK in the 2008-09 academic year. "This new Bulldog Pride Fund annual award will assist and support GSA Network alumni from within and without the Central Valley that attend Fresno State," said Peter Robertson, founder of the BPF and a three-time Fresno State graduate. "By attracting and retaining GSA-affiliated student leaders and advocates, we will create a new sense of pride within the university and the community-at-large."

For the 2008-09 academic year, the priority window deadline to apply for all scholarships at Fresno State, including the Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund, is from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, 2007.

DETAILS ONLINE: http://www.bulldogpride.org

BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
In compliance with federal and state legislation, all Bulldog Pride Fund at Fresno State applicants and awardees are considered without regard to: sex, race, age, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, disability or covered veterans status. The BPF actively seeks and encourages applicants from all segments of our diverse society.

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++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events, resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of GSA Network.

Southern California
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5. Gay Day at Six Flags is this Friday! (Los Angeles)

Discount tickets and a free ride available for LGBTQ youth!

LifeWorks and MCCLA are coming together again to bring a group of LGBTQ youth to Magic Mountain for the annual Gay Day at Six Flags. We're renting a big comfy bus and bringing 40 people, do you want to be one of them?

When: Friday, 9/28, from 5pm - midnight
Where: We'll be leaving from MCCLA in West Hollywood at 5pm
8714 Santa Monica Blvd, LA CA 90069
Cost: Each ticket is $28, $10 less than the prepay price! Payment will be accepted that night in either cash or check.

Want to come? RSVP with your name and phone number to mailto:rsvp@lifeworksmentoring.org to guarantee your spot with us - discount tickets are first come first served.

More info available at http://www.odysseyadventures.com

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6. SoCal for Youth is looking for Volunteers! (Los Angeles)

Southern Californians for Youth is a membership-based network of social justice youth organizations working to build power among low-income youth of color in the greater Los Angeles region. We work to transform conditions in our communities by strengthening and developing the capacity of youth organizing groups. Our vision is to create a strong multi-racial/multi-ethnic youth movement led by youth of color committed to social justice.

Volunteer Description
Volunteers will work as part of a team, along with the SoCal for Youth staff, that will do the critical day-to-day and programmatic work for the network. Volunteers commit to spend at least one month, 5-10 hours per week, to work on a project decided by the volunteer and SoCal for Youth staff. It is an opportunity to learn more about youth organizing, build work skills, get work experience, and help build a stronger youth movement in LA.

Volunteer Opportunities
October 1st - December 31st at 5-10 hours per week
October 6th Board meeting (logistics, additional support)
Fundraising (event logistics, outreach, calls, additional support)
Strategic Plan follow-up
CFYO Training For Trainers (logistics, additional support)
Statewide Convening (research locations, logistics, additional support)
Newsblasts (soliciting updates from organizations, working on content? & layout)
Office-Related (admintrative support, filing, etc.)
Board Retreat January 2008 (research, logistics, additional support)

Recommended Qualifications
Commit to at least one month, 5-10 hours per week
Youth Organizing experience
Passion for youth issues and social justice
Strategic Planning experience
Fundraising experience (grantwriting and/or grassroots fundraising)
Administrative experience
Computer literate
Access to a car

Preparation and Support
Volunteers will go through an orientation to get acquainted with SoCal for Youth hystory, structure, and current work. SoCal for Youth staff will ensure that volunteers are capable to work on tasks and participate for various activities. Each volunteer will check-in bi-weekly with the volunteer coordinator to share concerns, highlights, suggestions, review tasks, and plan for the upcoming weeks.

Time Requirement
One month (4 weeks) minimum
5-10 hours a week (time can vary according to project/activity)
Work schedule is flexible (after school hours or certain weekends for events)

To set up a volunteer interview or for more info contact Volunteer Coordinator:
Jairus Ramos
Southern Californians for Youth
5610 Pacific Blvd., suite 204
Huntington Park, CA 90255
(323) 581 - 3554
(323) 581 - 3533 fax
http://www.socal4youth.org

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7. Trevor Project's Teen Scavenger Hunt & Dance Party at Gay Days 2007 (Anaheim)

Join The Trevor Project at Gay Days, Disneyland on Saturday, October 6, 2007. Trevor will host a Teen Scavenger Hunt on Tom Sawyer
Island with a pizza party lunch and in the evening come and dance the night away at Trevor's Teen Dance with DJ Ray Rhoades.

Admission is FREE for all events!! To RSVP please go to: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/gaydays.aspx

The Trevor Project is the nation's only round the clock crisis and suicide helpline for gay and questioning youth.

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Central Valley

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8. Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction Presentation (Modesto)

Catherine Johnson-Roehr will present a program about the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction for the College Avenue Congregational Church, corner of College and Orangeburg, in Modesto. The program will be held at the church's Fellowship Hall at 4:00 PM on September 30th.

Soon after, Johnson-Roehr will present on the same topic for the Modesto chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays (PFLAG Modesto). The PFLAG Modesto program will take place at Emanuel Lutheran Church, corner of College and Stoddard in Modesto, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM, on October 2nd.

PFLAG Modesto meets twice a month. Typically, a meeting held the first Tuesday of the month is for support and a program. A gathering held on the third Tuesday of the month is more social in nature, often featuring free bingo (winners get prizes). The general public is welcome to both of PFLAG Modesto's regular monthly gatherings.

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Northern California

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9. Movie and Pizza Night (San Francisco)

Friday, Sept. 21
6pm-9pm

The Center is hosting monthly social nights for LGBTQQ youth 18 and under. If you are interested, please contact Nicole at 415-865-5530 or e-mail at mailto:nicoler@sfcenter.org. Or check out the youth program's myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/youthlgbt.

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10. LGBT Center Youth Program Announces Youth Photo Project: Capturing Life With a Lens (San Francisco)

Every Wednesday beginning Oct. 3, 4pm-6pm

Come learn about photography and meet new people. This program will consist of ten weeks of capturing and expressing your life in color and black and white. The project will culminate with an exhibition of your work here at The Center. This program is for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and allied youth 17 and under.

If you are interested, please contact Nicole at 415-865-5530 or e-mail at mailto:nicoler@sfcenter.org. Or check out the youth program's myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/youthlgbt.

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11. Save The Date for the 5th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat! (San Francisco)

October 27 & 28

The Queer Grrl Health Retreat is a chance for queer young women to come together to talk and learn about sex, our bodies, violence and pleasure. It's two-days of socializing, meeting new folks, fun, sharing, talking, education, gifts - we can make the space whatever we want it to be!

The retreat is FREE to all woman-identified folks 24 & under

Interested? Contact a Youth Advocate with questions or to RSVP:

Jessica Arevalo
415.703.6150 x16
mailto:jessica@lyric.org

Kyle Kitson
415.703.6150 x18
mailto:kyle@lyric.org

Who puts on the Queer Grrl Health Retreat? LYRIC – a community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer & questioning youth 24 and under. For more info on LYRIC, please visit us at http://www.lyric.org.

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Statewide
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12. GLBTQ Youth: Get Interviewed (and Paid!) About Your Thoughts on Technology

Do you chat on a cell phone? Do you IM? Do you think Facebook/MySpace is great/stupid/somewhere in between? Do you have videos on YouTube? Do you read/write/comment on blogs? Are your thumbs sore from text messaging? Do your friends spend too much time on their computers? Do you?

If you identify as a GLBTQ teen and have any opinions about computers, the internet, cell phones or instant messaging I want to talk to you.

My name is CJ Pascoe and I'm a researcher with the University of California, Berkeley's Digital Youth Project. I'm researching how teenagers think about and use technology. I'm conducting interviews that last about one hour about your thoughts on technology.

Participants will receive a $25 gift certificate.

To read about the Digital Youth Project findings please visit http://digitalyouth.ischool.berkeley.edu. If you think you might like to be interviewed please call, IM, or email me.

510-643-4227
AIM: cjpascoe74
mailto:cjpascoe@socrates.berkeley.edu
http://socrates.berkeley.edu/~cjpascoe
Facebook: http://berkeley.facebook.com/profile.php?id=704690857

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13. Help with Video About Intolerance and Hate Crimes

Note: The last date this student can accept stories and experiences is October 5th. (The final project needs to be done by November 16th!)

My name is Blair Prout, and for my high school senior project I am planning to make a video about intolerance/hate crimes against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. I will be gathering any experiences anyone in the gay community (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people) has had with gay intolerance and or hate crimes.

If you, or anyone else you know, has had trouble with this at one point or another, or you know a supportive parent who has been worried about their child getting abused because of their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, could you please have them contact me at mailto:lost.in.green@gmail.com. If you have an experience you would like to share but you are afraid to have your identity known, I can accommodate that.

My film is going to be a mixture of real-life stories and narrative film shorts depicting violent or intolerant situations. Identities do not have to be exposed in my film; no one even needs to know that you were involved at all.

You may also contact Respect Sacramento at mailto:admin@respectsacramento.org to address being a part of my film.

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National
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14. The Hear Me Project Story Contest - $2500 Prize

Your Story

You think about things. Abstinence. Sex. Condoms. Drugs. Monogamy. HIV. Alcohol. Parties. Regrets. Risks. Responsibilities. Choices.
Pressures. Down-Low. Boyfriends. Girlfriends. AIDS. The Future. All the risks you take. All the ones you don't. Should you or shouldn't
you? Did you or didn't you? You have a story. Real life or fiction. Write it down. Send it in. Your story must be about HIV or AIDS. The characters in your story must be impacted in some way by HIV or AIDS.

Official Rules & Regulations

The sponsor of the contest is The Hear Me Project, an initiative of HEAR ME, Inc. and Select Media, Inc. (the "Sponsors"). The contest is
open to all youth between the ages of 14 and 22 as of September 1, 2007. Employees of Select Media, Inc. are not eligible to enter.

All entries must be accompanied by a fully completed and signed Entry/Release form, available at http://www.hearmeproject.org. The Entry/Release form may be photocopied. One entry per person.

Your story can be up to 5 pages double-spaced or neatly handwritten. Entries that are illegible will be disqualified. Typed entries are
preferred. Your story must be about personal vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. Your story can be either fiction or non-fiction. The characters in the
story must be impacted by HIV/AIDS. Your story must be your original creation, and must not have been previously published.

The contest begins on September 1, 2007. Entries must be submitted online at http://www.hearmeproject.org or by mail to the following address: The HEAR ME Project, 375 Greenwich Street, 8th floor, New York, NY 10013. To be eligible, entries must be postmarked by December 1, 2007.

All components of the entry, including the entry form and 3 copies of your essay, must be mailed in the same envelope, or submitted online
at http://www.hearmeproject.org.

Entrants' stories will be judged by a panel of judges selected by the Sponsors, based on the following criteria: (a) originality, (b) writing style, and (c) aptness to subject. The potential winner will be notified by telephone and/or mail and/or e-mail and will be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility/Assignment of Rights/Publicity and Liability Release so as to be received by sponsor within seven (7) days of notification, unless prohibited by law. Winner is subject to verification. If the potential winner does not execute and return the required affidavit and release so as to be received by Sponsor within seven (7) days of notification, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner selected. If the winner is under age 18, the winner's parent or legal guardian will be required to execute the Affidavit/Assignment/Release.

The winning story will receive a $2500.00 cash prize. For additional information and the full list of Official Rules & Regulations visit http://www.hearmeproject.org

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15. Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008 Call for Proposals

You haven't forgotten have you? Proposals for WAM!2008 are due exactly in one month, October 12th. We sure would love to get yours...

At Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008, we'll share facts and ideas, develop skills, build collaborations, and create action plans to amplify progressive women's public voices in society. We're bringing together more than 400 participants to exchange observations, ideas, experiences, opinions, and tools for change-and plan together for action.

We invite you to submit a proposal for a workshop, panel, strategy meeting, digital multimedia presentation, or other conference session. We want to hear your ideas whether you're a media producer or a PR strategist, a journalist, an activist, an academic, a community organizer, a funder or philanthropist, a "citizen" media watchdog, a media policy advocate, an alternative-network-builder, a blogger, writer, teacher, artist, technology trainer, cartoonist, deejay, (etc!) - we especially encourage proposals from women of color, women under 25 and over 65, low-income women, professionals/ producers working in broadcast and online media, and students.

Please send us your session proposals, and spread the word to others who may be interested. We encourage you to be creative not only with your proposed topic and content, but in your means of presentation-we're seeking interactive, provocative, dialogue-rich sessions that might as easily involve multimedia, collaborative projects, skills training or live performance as a panel or standard speaker.

Jaclyn Friedman
617-876-5310
http://www.wam2008.org

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Jobs:
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16. GLAAD's Fall 2007 Internship Opportunities

GLAAD has part time paid internships available in its Los Angeles Office. Internships run for 12 weeks, 15-20 hours a week, beginning in early October and pay a total stipend of $1200. GLAAD internships are invaluable opportunities to gain non-profit and LGBT advocacy experience in media advocacy and development work.

Applicants must be enrolled in a degree program at least half-time as a graduate or undergraduate student, or have successfully completed a graduate or undergraduate degree within the 12 months preceding the application deadline. To apply please email resume and cover letter to mailto:volunteers@glaad.org or fax to 323.933.2241

Internships available are:
Entertainment Media Intern
Media Field Strategy Intern
Information Technology Intern
Special Events Intern

More information is available at http://www.glaad.org/about/intern_opps.php

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17. Helen Zia Fellowship for Social Change

Named after the award-winning API journalist, author, and activist, the Helen Zia Fellowship for Social Change will train the next generation of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community leaders to effectively advocate for the community's needs and interests. Be part of a progressive API movement in California that promotes public awareness and mobilizes people to action to advance issues important to API communities.

This fellowship will support the work of progressive organizations that are advocating for fairness and justice in California , including API Equality and Asian Americans for Civil Rights & Equality (AACRE). API Equality is committed to working in our API communities for equal marriage rights and fair treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) couples and families through community organizing, public education, media outreach, and legal and legislative advocacy.

AACRE is a progressive voice advocating for state legislation and funding on behalf of our diverse API communities and empowers community members to be an active and engaged force in advancing civil rights and social justice. Building upon the expertise of its three partners (Chinese for Affirmative Action, Asian Pacific American Legal Center , and Asian Law Caucus), AACRE primarily focuses its advocacy efforts on areas such as civil rights, language rights, and immigrant rights.

ABOUT HELEN ZIA

A second generation Chinese American, Helen Zia has been both an activist and a journalist throughout her life. She began her activism as a student in high school and college during the heyday of the civil rights, anti-war, and women's rights movements. A graduate of Princeton University 's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Zia was a member of the university's first graduating class of women. She quit medical school after completing two years, then worked as a construction laborer, an autoworker, and a community organizer, after which she discovered her life's work as a writer.

As a magazine writer, editor and investigative reporter, Zia's special passion involved stories of ordinary people in pursuit of social change and justice. She became the Executive Editor of Ms. Magazine, where she received numerous journalism awards. Her investigation of date rape at the University of Michigan led to campus demonstrations and an administrative overhaul of its policies, while her research on women who join neo-Nazi and white supremacist organizations provoked new thinking on the relationship between race, gender, and sexual orientation in hate-motivated violence.

Zia has been outspoken on issues ranging from human rights and war to racial profiling and hate violence. In 1997, she helped author a complaint and gave testimony before the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights for racially discriminatory treatment against Asian Americans. Zia traveled to Beijing in 1995 to the UN Fourth World Congress on Women as part of a delegation of journalists of color. Her work on the Asian American landmark civil rights case of anti-Asian violence is documented in the Academy Award-nominated film, "Who Killed Vincent Chin?"

Zia is the author of Asian American Dreams: The Emergence of an American People (Farrar Straus and Giroux, 2000) and a finalist for the prestigious 2000 Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize. She is also co-author, with Wen Ho Lee, of My Country Versus Me (Hyperion, 2002), about the Los Alamos scientist who was falsely accused of being a spy for China in the "worst case since the Rosenbergs ." She is currently at work on a book about the 1949 exodus from China after the Communist Revolution-and working on any number of other causes.

FELLOWSHIP DESCRIPTION

The four-month fellowship program will provide Fellows with the training and experience to raise public awareness and organize their peers in support of issues that are important to API communities.

WHEN: January 15, 2008, to May 15, 2008

WHO: Applicants must be students based at a California college or university. In addition, preference will be given to:
- Applicants who are sophomores and juniors, although exceptional first years and seniors will be considered;
- Applicants who have a strong interest in social justice issues and a demonstrated commitment to supporting API communities; and
- Applicants who exhibit outstanding leadership potential as demonstrated by previous leadership roles.

WHAT: Fellows will participate in and lead a wide variety of public education and community organizing activities:
- Participate in a leadership training in San Francisco on January 11-13, 2008, that will equip fellows with the tools to be effective advocates and organizers;
- Attend the statewide API Policy Summit in Sacramento on April 15-16, 2008, to meet with API public officials and community leaders throughout California ;
- Participate in a closing event in San Francisco upon the end of the fellowship (date to be determined);
- Organize one campaign to advance an issue of the fellowship group's choosing that is important to API communities (e.g. civil right, immigrant rights, and language rights);
- Organize one campaign to advance an issue of the fellowship directors' choosing that is important to API communities (e.g. marriage equality for same-sex couples);
- Implement activities to promote support for campaign issues. Activities may include: voter registration drives, letter writing efforts, panel discussions, conferences, etc.;
- Build coalitions with other student groups and mobilize other students to help advance campaign issues; and
- Establish enduring interest in campaign issues either by founding student groups that will continue advancing them or integrating them into the agendas of existing groups.

HOW: Fellows will be provided a stipend of $1,500 for their participation in the Fellowship. It is anticipated that Fellows will be working approximately 5-8 hours per week from January to May. In addition, Fellows will receive transportation and housing for attendance at the leadership training and API Policy Summit and support to implement campaigns.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Sunday, November 4, 2007.

Completed applications must include:
- Attached application form
- Resume
- Contact information for one reference from a peer/colleague
- Contact information for one reference from a non-peer (e.g. professor, work supervisor, etc.) [1]

Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a phone interview in November, and successful applicants will be notified by the end of November.

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions about the Fellowship, please contact:
Andy Wong
(415) 274-6760 x316
mailto:awong@caasf.org

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News
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18. NEWS: Protecting GLBT Students from Bullies. Bill Moves Forward in State Legislature

Protecting GLBT Students from Bullies. Bill Moves Forward in State Legislature
September 2007
Out Now Magazine
By Seth Hemmelgarn

One day when Will Dudgeon was in the eighth grade, he and some other students were changing out of their swimming trunks after gym class. Another student accused Dudgeon of looking at him. Two or three boys pushed Dudgeon to the ground, calling him "fag," and "queer" as they whipped him with towels and smacked him around.

Will said the gym teacher saw what happened, but "he just turned around in his chair. He didn't say anything."
The 17-year-old from San Jose said the push caused bruises on his knees and elbow. As he talks, the shyness that helped prevent
Dudgeon from reporting the incident is still there. But he has been speaking up a bit lately.

"I've been trying to make it so nobody else has to go through that," he said.

This past spring, Will told his story to state legislators as he and other students visited Sacramento to push for legislation designed
to protect GLBT students.

One of the bills they were lobbying for was Assembly Bill 394. The bill, also known as The Safe Place to Learn Act, was authored by Lloyd Levine, a Southern California Democrat. It would require the State Department of Education to make sure schools have adopted anti-discrimination and harassment policies and established processes for taking and investigating complaints of violations. The bill is also designed to ensure anti-discrimination and harassment policies are publicized. Part of the motivation for the bill is to make sure staff and eachers respond when they hear harassment taking place.

Originally, the bill mandated anti- harassment and discrimination training - which many say are crucial to protect children - but because of cost concerns it has been watered down. Provisions in the current version dealing with investigating complaints and posting anti-discrimination procedures might be stripped in order to ensure the bill's survival. Levine has expressed frustration with the bill's troubles. The fate of those provisions was not known at presstime.

The bill is expected to pass the Legislature in September. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger will then have 30 days to sign it. The governor vetoed similar legislation last year, but many are hopeful he'll sign this bill. Schwarzenegger was facing re-election, and some say he bowed to right-wing political pressure. The pressure is off this year.

In a statement released at the time of his veto, Schwarzenegger said he had always fought to protect all children but the legislation would create "unfunded mandates." When asked about the issue of election year pressure, the governor's press office reiterated the veto statement. A spokesperson declined to comment on the bill's chances, saying only the governor has no "preconceived notions" of the upcoming legislation.

The legislation is designed to encourage schools to implement AB 537, also known as the California Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000. The act bars discrimination or harassment for any reason, including race, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Many feel the bill was an important first step, but they said that it's not being implemented consistently, and that many people don't even know about it. That means staff are less likely to address harassment.

"We have a non-discrimination law protecting students from harassment, but it's not being enforced," said Carolyn Laub, executive director and co-founder of the Gay- Straight Alliance Network, which is based in San Francisco. The lack of training appears to be hurting
students.

She said the group has done surveys showing that, every day, GLBT students at a majority of schools are harassed. When students complain, they are frequently ignored. State data have shown the lack of safety deprives many students of the ability to get a free education.

To read the full story, visit: http://www.outnowmag.com/

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September 19, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
A Month of History, Celebration & Action!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Announcing Some Changes at GSA Network
2. Re-register your GSA today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!
3. Applications Now Available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp!
4. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!
5. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award TWO $1,000 Scholarships
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
6. Trevor Project's Teen Scavenger Hunt & Dance Party at Gay Days 2007 (Anaheim)
7. Models of Pride Conference (Los Angeles)
8. 17th Annual Heart and Sole AIDS Walk (Santa Barbara)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
9. Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction Presentation (Modesto)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
10. Queer Youth Activist Wanted (San Francisco)
11. Save The Date for the 5th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat! (San Francisco)
12. Movie Night at the Pacific Center (Berkeley)
13. LGBT Community Center Youth Program & Events (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
14. GLBTQ Youth: Get Interviewed (and Paid!) About Your Thoughts on Technology
15. Help with Video About Intolerance and Hate Crimes
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
16. The Hear Me Project Story Contest - $2500 Prize
17. Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008 Call for Proposals
Go directly to National listings

Jobs
18. Legislative Internship Opportunity
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
19. NEWS: For a Number of GayBars, It's Last Call
Go directly to News listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

A Month of History, Celebration & Action!

In the early 1990's, a group of grassroots community leaders and teachers decided the country was in need of a special month to commemorate the struggle and accomplishments of the LGBTQ community, and to recognize and celebrate how this history has changed our society. As October commemorates the first gay and lesbian marches on Washington D.C. in 1979 and 1987 as well as National Coming Out Day on the 11th, it made for the perfect month to honor LGBTQ history.

We hope you’ll take the time during the month of October to reflect upon the LGBTQ history created by those before us, celebrate the great accomplishments of the movement and use the struggles of the past to fuel your passion to continue to change society and make history in the years to come!

There is always something new to learn about in the vast rainbow of the LGBTQ movement, so take the time this month to ask yourself: Do you know when the first national gathering for LGBTQ people of color was held in the U.S.? How about which city denied a Latino gay group from marching in the city’s Puerto Rican Day Parade? What was the first political activism organization for queer Asians? Do you know who Sylvia Rivera is? How about Chrystos? (answers at the end of this article)

Below are a few great links on LGBTQ history to share with your family, friends, co-workers and fellow activists followed by a few things you can do throughout the month of October to educate and celebrate LGBTQ History Month!

Educate & Reinvigorate!
- 31 Icons for LGBTQ History Month – http://www.LGBTQhistorymonth.com
Equality Forum has announced 31 Icons to be featured throughout the month of October. The 31 Icons, selected by leaders of national and international LGBTQ organizations, achieved success within their respective fields of endeavor, were national heroes or advanced LGBTQ civil rights.

- Out of the Past – http://www.pbs.org/outofthepast
From the beginning of American history, homosexuality and love between people of the same sex have been part of the social and political landscape. The documentary Out of the Past recovers facets of our history that have been left out of the textbooks and follows one young woman making history today. This site continues the exploration begun by the film, providing glimpses of nearly 400 years of lesbian and gay history, and encouraging you to share relevant stories and news from your own life and community.

Make History – Get Active!
- Take a minute to share a few LGBTQ facts with your family and friends! In just a minute, you could send an email, send a text message, or even post a bulletin on myspace. Why not send one fact every day for the month of October?

- Write a letter to the editor (LTE) and educate thousands! If you can write a paragraph you can write a letter to the editor, so sit down and put your pen to paper. An LTE is an easy way to express your opinion and knowledge about an issue. Simply find our your school, local, or statewide newspaper’s submission email and requirements.

- Host a brown bag lunch discussion! What’s better than food with friends? Not much, but you can add to the excitement by sharing about LGBTQ history. Maybe make a fun game from facts about LGBTQ history. Don’t forget to invite any new potential friends to the group.

- Organize a viewing of one of your favorite LGBTQ movies! This is a great way to educate your school or work place. And why not use this as a fundraising opportunity by encouraging attendees to donate money to your GSA club or another great LGBTQ organization? For a list of great movies visit http://www.gsanetwork.org.

- Start a book club for a month! Invite people to read a book for LGBTQ history over the course of the month. You can meet weekly to share and discuss how the group was impacted, challenged or inspired by the book! For a list of books visit http://www.gsanetwork.org.

- Organize a visibility blitz! Make LGBTQ History Month visually loud and proud at your school or office. Making posters and hanging signs are two easy ways to increase awareness about the LGBTQ movement.

- Get creative! It just so happens that October is also Halloween. Why not host a LGBTQ theme Halloween party! Everyone could come dressed as an inspirational movement or person in LGBTQ history. Who said history couldn’t be fun? You could also use this as another fundraising opportunity! Why not pass the hat to collect money for a best costume prize. Of course the prize money would be given in the form of a donation to the winner’s favorite LGBTQ organization or GSA club of choice!

- Make it a date! Are there any events going on in your area? You might find that an art or history museum is holding a special event in honor on LGBTQ History Month. You could invite your school or office to spend an afternoon or evening out.

Answers:
From the Stonewall Rebellion, civil rights, and women’s rights movements, many solidarity groups came together to share struggle, victories and be in solidarity with other queer activists of color during the first national Third Work Gay & Lesbian Conference in 1979. This event was convened by the National Coalition of Black Lesbians and Gays and attracted hundreds of participants. The conference took place during the first ever National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

In 1972, the Latin American Homosexual Committee (Comite Homosexual Latinoamericano) attempted to march, but they were denied. Their efforts helped to create more awareness of gay issues in the larger Puerto Rican and Latino communities and of some of the struggles of gay Latinos in the mainstream white gay movement.

The Lesbian and Gay Asian Collective was the first known group to have organized in the U.S. to address the struggle of Asian-Americans as a minority in the LGBTQ liberation movement. It was organized at a national gay and lesbian rights conference in 1979.

Sylvia Rivera is a transwoman Latina activist born and raised in New York City. She was one of several people of color sex workers who started the Stonewall rebellion. She later went on to play big parts in the Gay Activists Alliance and the Gay Liberation Front, two post-Stonewall gay rights groups. In 1970, she and another transwoman formed the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) to fight for civil right for transgender individuals.

Chrystos is a lesbian Native American poet and influential activist. Her work gained national attention in the 1980’s when the U.S. denounced her work because some of it described love between lesbians.

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. Announcing Some Changes at GSA Network

As is the case with many nonprofits, GSA Network receives much of its funding from foundation grants. Unfortunately, and unexpectedly, GSA Network did not receive a very large grant that we had hoped to receive this fall. Upon learning this news, our goal became figuring out how to make cuts in our budget that would have the least impact on the youth and the programs we provide, while ensuring that we remain a financially stable organization.

Unfortunately, because staff salaries are such a large piece of the budget, some staff positions have been eliminated as of the end of this month (September). We are very sorry to lose Carlos Cabrera, our Southern California Program Coordinator, Sara Martinez, our Central Valley Program Associate, Kiely Hosmon, our Northern California Program Associate, and Estella Tse, our Administrative Assistant. We will miss them all. And we are so grateful for all that they have contributed to the amazing GSA movement we are part of.

Our remaining program staff will take on the following:
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez will take over the Southern California programs
* Lai-San Seto will take over the Northern California programs
* Robin McGehee will continue to work in the Central Valley
* Ruth Obel-Jorgenson will continue to work on our National program
* Lai-San will continue to work on our Advocacy program, assisted by all program staff

We continue to be inspired by the amazing growth of the GSA movement both in California and nationally. And more than ever, we are fired up this year to fight for safer schools! We are committed to empowering youth activists to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools.

At GSA Network, we consider this to be a temporary set-back. We have been working on a diligent campaign to increase individual donor funds, which help us become more financially stable and rely less on foundation grants. We would love for more of our funds to come from individuals like you who benefit from our programs, or who, as adults, wish there were programs like ours when you were in school. If you'd like to become part of our growing base of individual donors, we welcome and appreciate you. Go to http://www.gsanetwork.org and click on the "Donate Now" button.

Perhaps you can't make a donation right now, but would still like to help GSA Network. If you're in the San Francisco area, you can sign up to do small projects like stuffing envelopes, or for larger projects, such as being an intern. Please contact any of the GSA Network staff to inquire about these opportunities.

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2. Re-register your GSA today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!!

If you have any questions or concerns contact:
mailto:info@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229

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3. Applications Now Available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp!

Are you a youth activist? Are you a high school student who’s fighting homophobia and transphobia in your school and community? Do you want to find out how to spread your message and start making change on an even larger scale, like across the state and maybe even across the country?

Then join GSA Network and youth activists from around the state for GAYLA (GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy), a three-day policy advocacy and leadership development camp in Sacramento on October 26th to 28th.

Who: Youth activists in California high schools & middle schools who want to learn how to advocate for safer schools, create statewide change, and make schools safer & more supportive for LGBTQ and ally students.
What: GAYLA is a three-day intensive training in the legislative process, policy advocacy, media activism, & other important skills.
Where: Sacramento, CA
When: October 26-28, 2007
Why: To become an advocate & learn how to make schools safer all over CA

What you’ll learn:
- Understand what your legal rights are & how to educate others about them
- Figure out how laws like AB 537 are made & how you can become an active participant in the process
- Gain key media activism skills to help you spread your message everywhere.
- Break down barriers & help to ensure more youth voices are part of the statewide fight for LGBTQ equality
- Transform yourself into a public speaker who changes the hearts & minds of everyone around you
- Meet, make friends, & share resources with youth activists from across the state

Graduates of GAYLA will be encouraged to continue working with GSA Network & advocating for LGBTQ youth in schools by:
- Joining the GSA Network State Advocacy Youth Committee
- Helping to plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) 2008--the largest queer youth advocacy event in the state
- Training members of your GSA & QYAD 2008 participants in advocacy skills
- Serving as a media spokesperson in your region on GSA, safer schools, and LGBTQ youth issues
- Coordinating district lobbying visits to lawmaker offices in your areas
- Organizing & participating in rallies, letter-writing campaigns, and speak-outs in your area

How to apply:
Go to: http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla/

First submit a completed application in order to be considered for one of a limited number of spots at GAYLA this year. After your application is submitted, you will be contacted by a GSA Network staff member with follow-up questions.

Application deadline: October 10, 2007

Housing, and meals for youth participants of GAYLA will be provided by the GSA Network, and transportation assistance will be available for those who need it.

For more information, call or email Advocacy Coordinator Lai-San Seto at 415-552-4229 or mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org.

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4. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

Order one of our three New T-shirts and help support GSA Network
* GSA Power
* A is for Ally
* Activist
* Male, Female, Other / Neither / All of the above

Also in stock
* I heart GSA
* I HELLA Heart GSA
* and our classic GSA Organizing Shirt

These new designs can ONLY be purchased at our online store. For every item you buy GSA Network gets a small donation ($3-5) to keep doing all the good work we do!!!

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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5. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award TWO $1,000 Scholarships

BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND INFORMATION AND CRITERIA
The BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND (BPF) at Fresno State is accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a student in the 2008-09 academic year. The BPF scholarship criteria is that a Fresno State incoming or returning student with good academic standing that has demonstrated pride in the community be selected as its recipient.

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++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events, resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of GSA Network.

Southern California
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6. Trevor Project's Teen Scavenger Hunt & Dance Party at Gay Days 2007 (Anaheim)

Join The Trevor Project at Gay Days, Disneyland on Saturday, October 6, 2007. Trevor will host a Teen Scavenger Hunt on Tom Sawyer
Island with a pizza party lunch and in the evening come and dance the night away at Trevor's Teen Dance with DJ Ray Rhoades.

Admission is FREE for all events!! To RSVP please go to: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/gaydays.aspx

The Trevor Project is the nation's only round the clock crisis and suicide helpline for gay and questioning youth.

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7. Models of Pride Conference (Los Angeles)

Saturday, October 6, 2007
Occidental College
http://www.modelsofpride.org

Friends of Project 10 Inc. is proud to once again announce the fabulous Models of Pride (MOP 15) conference that will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007, from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, at Occidental College in Los Angeles.

MOP 15 is a free one-day youth conference that focuses on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues. All LGBT youth and their allies, ages 14 to 23, are invited to attend. We feature icebreakers, workshops, roundtable discussions, food, entertainment, networking opportunities, a resource faire, entertainment, and a dance finale!

And all-day adult workshop will also be provided for a fee.

Transportation is available in the morning from the Highland Park, Gold Line Station by free shuttle bus, and again in the evening from Occidental College to the Highland Park, Gold Line Station. The morning run is from 8 to 10 AM and the evening run is from 7 to 9 PM (details are on the http://www.modelsofpride.org website).

Currently, we are seeking conference sponsors, agencies and organizations for the resource faire (first come-first serve), and volunteers. Resource faire application deadline is September 22, 2007! Online registration is also available through October 4, 2007. Please visit our website at http://www.modelsofpride.org for conference details, online registration and for applications for both volunteers and the resource faire.

Interested sponsors should contact us directly at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or 626.577.4553.

MODELS OF PRIDE ADULT WORKSHOP
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Occidental College
1600 Campus Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041

(Preregistration Highly Suggested--$30 fee includes lunch and professional growth units)
Visit http://www.modelsofpride.org for more information and registration.

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8. 17th Annual Heart and Sole AIDS Walk (Santa Barbara)

Pacific Pride Foundation invites Santa Barbara County to support their community, and participate in the 17th Annual Heart and Sole AIDS Walk on Saturday, October 6, 2007. The walk will start from a new location in Santa Barbara: the Chase Palm Park Soccer Field along Cabrillo Boulevard near Garden Street.

With over 500 walkers annually, the AIDS Walk is one of the largest one-day fundraising events in Santa Barbara County and benefits local men, women and children living with, affected by, or at risk for HIV/AIDS.

The 10k route leads participants along the beach of Cabrillo Boulevard. Registration begins at 9:00 am and the walk starts at 10:00, ending with an ocean-side celebration of complimentary food, music, massages and an awards ceremony.

Support Pacific Pride Foundation's HIV/AIDS programs and services. We are the largest provider of HIV/AIDS services between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Pacific Pride Foundation's HIV/AIDS Programs and Services for last year:
- Provided services to 530 men, women and children living HIV/AIDS
- Distributed over 26,000 bags of free groceries and personal care items through our pantry
- Provided more than 629 sessions of HIV/AIDS related Mental Health counseling
- Performed more than 1,340 free anonymous HIV antibody tests
- Collected more than 162,000 used syringes through our Needle Exchange Program
- Distributed 32,840 free condoms and safer sex packets

Walk as an individual, or form a team with your friends, family and co-workers. Now is the time to sign up and start collecting pledges.
We thank you in advance for your commitment to help us reach our goal in the fight against AIDS and look forward to seeing you all there.

To get involved as a walker, volunteer, or donor please call the AIDS Walk staff at (805) 963-3636 ext. 121 or email Colette at mailto:colette@pacificpridefoundation.org. For general information go to http://www.pacificpridefoundation.org.

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Central Valley

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9. Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction Presentation (Modesto)

Northern California

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10. Queer Youth Activist Wanted (San Francisco)

Community United Against Violence (CUAV) LGBTQQ Speakers Bureau is seeking queer youth activists for Bay Area school presentations.

Requirement is participation in a free 2 day training Saturday & Sunday September 22nd/23rd from 10am-5pm. Full participation both days is required.

Food will be provided.

No previous public speaking experience necessary--just a good spirit, energy, and a desire to change the world. There are currently 4 spaces available, so please respond asap.

If you are interested please fill out the attached application and email it to mailto:connie@cuav.org, or fax it to 415.777.5565 (ATTN: Connie)

For more info, please visit our website at http://www.cuav.org, email, or call us: 415.777.5500.

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11. Save The Date for the 5th Annual Queer Grrl Health Retreat! (San Francisco)

October 27 & 28

The Queer Grrl Health Retreat is a chance for queer young women to come together to talk and learn about sex, our bodies, violence and pleasure. It's two-days of socializing, meeting new folks, fun, sharing, talking, education, gifts - we can make the space whatever we want it to be!

The retreat is FREE to all woman-identified folks 24 & under

Interested? Contact a Youth Advocate with questions or to RSVP:

Jessica Arevalo
415.703.6150 x16
mailto:jessica@lyric.org

Kyle Kitson
415.703.6150 x18
mailto:kyle@lyric.org

Who puts on the Queer Grrl Health Retreat? LYRIC – a community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer & questioning youth 24 and under. For more info on LYRIC, please visit us at http://www.lyric.org.

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12. Movie Night at the Pacific Center (Berkeley)

Friday September 21st
Movie Night 4-6pm: Transamerica

What Is the Film about? Bree (Felicity Huffman) gets the shock of her life when a week before her final sex change surgery she discovers a son she didn't know she had. After bailing him out of jail the two set out on a cross-country journey riddled with road bumps. Huffman won numerous awards (and an Oscar nomination) for her role as a man longing to be a woman. Elizabeth Pena, Burt Young, Kevin Zegers and Graham Greene co-star.

Pacific Center for Human Development
2712 Telegraph Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94705
510.548.8283 EXT. 514
http://www.pacificcenter.org

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13. LGBT Community Center Youth Program & Events (San Francisco)

Movie & Pizza Nite
September 21st
October 19th
November 16th

From 6pm-9pm

Youth Photo Project: Capturing Life with a Lens
October 3rd, 2007 --- December 19th, 2007
Every WEDNESDAY
From 4pm-6pm

*all programs and events are FREE for youth 18 and under*

For more information & to sign up please contact:
Nicole Ramirez-Monroe
415.865.5530
nicoler@sfcenter.org

Check out the Youth Program Myspace Page: http://www.myspace.com/youthlgbt
The SF LGBT Community Center (The Center)
1800 Market Street @ Octavia Blvd
San Francisco, CA 94102
http://www.sfcenter.org

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Statewide
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14. GLBTQ Youth: Get Interviewed (and Paid!) About Your Thoughts on Technology

Do you chat on a cell phone? Do you IM? Do you think Facebook/MySpace is great/stupid/somewhere in between? Do you have videos on YouTube? Do you read/write/comment on blogs? Are your thumbs sore from text messaging? Do your friends spend too much time on their computers? Do you?

If you identify as a GLBTQ teen and have any opinions about computers, the internet, cell phones or instant messaging I want to talk to you.

My name is CJ Pascoe and I'm a researcher with the University of California, Berkeley's Digital Youth Project. I'm researching how teenagers think about and use technology. I'm conducting interviews that last about one hour about your thoughts on technology.

Participants will receive a $25 gift certificate.

To read about the Digital Youth Project findings please visit http://digitalyouth.ischool.berkeley.edu. If you think you might like to be interviewed please call, IM, or email me.

510-643-4227
AIM: cjpascoe74
mailto:cjpascoe@socrates.berkeley.edu
http://socrates.berkeley.edu/~cjpascoe
Facebook: http://berkeley.facebook.com/profile.php?id=704690857

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15. Help with Video About Intolerance and Hate Crimes

Note: The last date this student can accept stories and experiences is October 5th. (The final project needs to be done by November 16th!)

My name is Blair Prout, and for my high school senior project I am planning to make a video about intolerance/hate crimes against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. I will be gathering any experiences anyone in the gay community (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people) has had with gay intolerance and or hate crimes.

If you, or anyone else you know, has had trouble with this at one point or another, or you know a supportive parent who has been worried about their child getting abused because of their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, could you please have them contact me at mailto:lost.in.green@gmail.com. If you have an experience you would like to share but you are afraid to have your identity known, I can accommodate that.

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National
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16. The Hear Me Project Story Contest - $2500 Prize

Your Story

You think about things. Abstinence. Sex. Condoms. Drugs. Monogamy. HIV. Alcohol. Parties. Regrets. Risks. Responsibilities. Choices.
Pressures. Down-Low. Boyfriends. Girlfriends. AIDS. The Future. All the risks you take. All the ones you don't. Should you or shouldn't
you? Did you or didn't you? You have a story. Real life or fiction. Write it down. Send it in. Your story must be about HIV or AIDS. The characters in your story must be impacted in some way by HIV or AIDS.

Official Rules & Regulations

The sponsor of the contest is The Hear Me Project, an initiative of HEAR ME, Inc. and Select Media, Inc. (the "Sponsors"). The contest is
open to all youth between the ages of 14 and 22 as of September 1, 2007. Employees of Select Media, Inc. are not eligible to enter.

The winning story will receive a $2500.00 cash prize. For additional information and the full list of Official Rules & Regulations visit http://www.hearmeproject.org

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17. Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008 Call for Proposals

You haven't forgotten have you? Proposals for WAM!2008 are due exactly in one month, October 12th. We sure would love to get yours...

At Women, Action & the Media (WAM!) 2008, we'll share facts and ideas, develop skills, build collaborations, and create action plans to amplify progressive women's public voices in society. We're bringing together more than 400 participants to exchange observations, ideas, experiences, opinions, and tools for change-and plan together for action.

We invite you to submit a proposal for a workshop, panel, strategy meeting, digital multimedia presentation, or other conference session. We want to hear your ideas whether you're a media producer or a PR strategist, a journalist, an activist, an academic, a community organizer, a funder or philanthropist, a "citizen" media watchdog, a media policy advocate, an alternative-network-builder, a blogger, writer, teacher, artist, technology trainer, cartoonist, deejay, (etc!) - we especially encourage proposals from women of color, women under 25 and over 65, low-income women, professionals/ producers working in broadcast and online media, and students.

Please send us your session proposals, and spread the word to others who may be interested. We encourage you to be creative not only with your proposed topic and content, but in your means of presentation-we're seeking interactive, provocative, dialogue-rich sessions that might as easily involve multimedia, collaborative projects, skills training or live performance as a panel or standard speaker.

Jaclyn Friedman
617-876-5310
http://www.wam2008.org

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Jobs:
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18. Legislative Internship Opportunity

Fall 2007 Legislative Internship Opportunity
Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson
16th District, California State Assembly

Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson
Elected in the California State Assembly in November 2006, Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson represents constituents in the cities of Alameda, Oakland and Piedmont in the 16th Assembly District. The District Office is the main point of contact between the 16th Assembly District and Assemblymember Swanson. In order to best serve constituents Assemblymember Swanson is committed to having a very proactive and responsive District Office, which requires staff to work together as a cohesive team in order to serve the very dynamic 16th Assembly District. For more information about Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson please visit: http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/members/a16

Internship for Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson:
One of the best ways to understand the inner workers of our government is through a State Assembly internship program. Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson is seeking motivated interns for his District Office. The following are examples of the services we offer to constituents through our District Offices:

- Referrals to community services
- Assistance resolving complaints with states agencies
- Obtain copies of legislation and/or legislative status updates
- Notification of legislative hearings in the district
- Certificates to recognize outstanding service
- Tours of the Capitol
- Copies of State Constitution and other state information
- Internships in the Capitol and District Offices
- Publications

Each intern will be assigned to an immediate staff supervisor who will provide projects and assignments for the interns working with her or him. We seek individuals interested in learning about and participating in state government and with a desire to serve the local community. Interns are a significant part of the District Office team and we expect the following minimum qualifications below.

- Enthusiasm, self-motivation, and a positive attitude
- Background and/or interest in public service, public policy and government
- Strong ability stay organized, stay flexible and multi-task
- 10 hours per week commitment strongly preferred
- Bilingual abilities are a plus.

Please mail or fax application along with a resume, cover letter, writing sample of no more than five (5) pages and a list of three (3) professional and/or academic references to:

Veronica Williams, Field Representative
1515 Clay Street, Suite 2204
Oakland, California 94601
OFFICE 510-286-1670 (ext. 21)
FAX 510-286-1888

To obtain an application call 510-286-1670 (ext. 21).

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News
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19. NEWS: For a Number of GayBars, It's Last Call

For a number of gay bars, it's last call
A changing gay society might not need the bars as cultural centers today.

September 16, 2007
Orlando Sentinel
Jeff Kunerth

The Full Moon Saloon went back to the days when gay bars didn't advertise their existence. No signs out front. No name on the door. Faces was for lesbians only. No men allowed. Southern Nights, one of the first gay bars in Orlando, built its business around drag-queen shows and "Lesbo a Go-Go" nights.

The Lava Lounge was an idea hatched at poolside by four friends, gay and straight, who thought it would be fun to run a bar. It lasted five years. All four bars are gone -- victims of circumstance and changing times. Within a matter of months, Orlando's gay and lesbian community witnessed its bar scene shrink by a third, seemingly overnight.

To some, the loss of Full Moon, Faces, Lava and Southern Nights signals the end of an era in which bars served as the hub of social life in the gay community. They offered sanctuary, anonymity and intimacy in a world that was largely hostile toward gays and lesbians. "It was the community center. There were no other social places to gravitate to," said Steve Tuhy, 54, a gay bar owner who moved to Orlando three years ago from Minneapolis.

But that changed as gays gained greater acceptance in society, older gays became more monogamous, and younger gays gravitated toward nightclubs that cater to a mixed crowd. "The larger percentage are in relationships, taking care of things at home. A lot have kids," Tuhy said. "If you're under 30, you don't care. You just go wherever it's a cool, hot bar."

The four bars all closed within the past six months for different reasons. Faces' owner died. Full Moon's owner retired. Southern Nights had financial and building problems. Lava's owners wanted to pursue other interests.

Orlando follows a national trend of long-established bars shutting down. In New York, it was the Roxy, where Madonna and Bette Midler performed. In Nashville, The Chute closed after 23 years. Four bars in Minneapolis shut down in the past year. The Suncoast Resort -- St. Petersburg's version of the Parliament House, an Orlando institution -- closed to make room for a Home Depot.

"A gay nightclub is obsolete," said Tuhy, who runs the Beer Bar, a gay neighborhood bar on Edgewater Drive. "It's something that has served its purpose."

To read the full story visit: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/services/newspaper/printedition/sunday/goodliving/orl-gaybarssep16,0,4112928.story

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September 12, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
National Coming Out Day is Around the Corner!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. SB 777 & AB 394 Passed the Legislature & Are Now on the Way to the Governor’s Desk!
2. Re-register your GSA today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!!
3. Applications Now Available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp!
4. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
5. Models of Pride Conference (Los Angeles)
6. Project Safe Zone Conference (Santa Monica)
7. Models of Pride Fundraiser (West Hollywood)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
8. San Joaquin Pride Center Rummage Sale (Stockton)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
9. Queer Youth Activist Wanted (San Francisco)
10. Join the GLAM Youth Choir (San Francisco)
11. Grupo en español para chavos - NUEVO! (Mountain View)
12. The Other Side of the Closet Fall Tour (Bay Area)
13. LGBTQI Communities Photo Project (San Francisco)
14. World of Difference Institute Workshop (San Mateo)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
15. EQCA ALERT: Anti-LGBT Activists Aim to Derail Youth Protections
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
16. Black Male Teachers Needed!
Go directly to National listings

Jobs
17. Legislative Internship Opportunity
Go directly to Jobs listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

National Coming Out Day is Around the Corner!

National Coming Out Day (October 11) is on the way! This day will mark the 20th anniversary of the Second National March on Washington D.C. for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1987 and the first unfurling of the AIDS Quilt on the Washington Mall. Half a million people filled the streets of the nation’s capitol that day. Those folks proudly spoke up, and you can too!

Many LGBTQ rights organizations were founded as the result of folks coming together for the 1987 march, and it inspired the creation of Coming Out Day, an annual opportunity to celebrate coming out and speaking up about LGBTQ issues. One important thing to remember is that you do not have to necessarily come out yourself as LGBTQ in order to participate in National Coming Out Day. What’s important is to show that you are an ally of LGBTQ youth and advocate for safer schools. Raising LGBTQ visibility is a great way of doing this. Here are some suggestions for how to do this at your school:

1. Host a speak-out! Host an open mic where people come up and share their coming out stories and/or talk, rap, sing, or chant about their support for LGBTQ youth . Try staging it in a high traffic area on your campus, like the cafeteria, during lunch or in the main quad. Spread the word though flyers and classroom announcements before the big day to attract as many people as you can.

A public speak-out is also a great way for some people to come forward and talk about what their concerns are and give your club a look into what some of the important issues are that you can tackle through activism.

2. Take over class! Get your teacher's permission to take over class and lead a discussion about equal rights, coming out, and/or LGBTQ issues at your school.

3. Take over the media! Talk to the writers of your school's newspaper and get them to run an article about National Coming Out Day and what it's like being out on your campus. At the end of the article, encourage students to submit their own coming out stories and get the newspaper staff to agree to run the stories in the following issue.

4. Be the media! Create your own club zine and get people to draw and write for it. Ask your local copy shop if they can make free copies of it for your club and pass out the copies to other students at school.

5. On-air marathon! Collect coming out stories, short articles about LGBTQ youth, poems and flash fiction pieces about being LGBTQ, and have students read them over the intercom during homeroom and between classes for the entire day. If you can get permission and round up enough volunteers, your club can take over the airwaves for the entire day!

Additional resources:
- More on the history of National Coming Out Day (from HRC-Human Rights Campaign): http://www.hrc.org/issues/ncod.asp

- Tips & Strategies for youth planning to come out to parents/guardians (from PFLAG-Parents, Families, and Friends or Lesbians & Gays): http://www.outproud.org/brochure_coming_out.html

- The Coming Out Archives—coming out stories from youth of many different backgrounds (from OutProud): http://www.outpath.com/

- Resources for Latino LGBTQ youth (from Ambiente Joven): http://www.ambientejoven.org/

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. SB 777 & AB 394 Passed the Legislature & Are Now on the Way to the Governor’s Desk!

The California Assembly passed SB 777, the Student Civil Rights Act, yesterday in a 42-19 vote. On the very same day, the Senate passed AB 394 (Safe Place to Learn Act) with a 24-12 vote. Both bills, which have both now passed both houses of the Legislature, are now on their way to be considered by Governor Schwarzenegger who has until mid-October to make his decision.

SB 777 would help clarify the laws protecting students from harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It would help to ensure that all students in CA-funded schools and educational programs—including students at alternative schools, charter schools, community colleges, and regular public schools—would be protected equally.

AB 394 would help provide school districts with specific steps they can take to ensure that they are protecting students from harassment and/or discrimination based on real or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity and implementing the CA Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000.

The next step is to make sure the Governor hears from California students on the importance of ensuring schools are safe and supportive for LGBTQ and ally students. Join GSA Network for Speak Out to Schwarzenegger Week (October 1-5) where you and other members of your GSA can join a postcard writing campaign, lobby at the Governor’s district office in your region, make phone calls, and show your support for Safe Schools For All! GSA Network will be blasting out info to all CA GSAs during the next few weeks about how to get involved or email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org for information.

Equality California (EQCA) is sponsoring SB 777 and co-sponsoring AB 394 along with Asian Americans for Civil Rights & Equality. To read EQCA’s press releases about both of yesterday’s victories, go to http://www.eqca.org.

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2. Re-register your GSA today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!!

If you have any questions or concerns contact:
mailto:info@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229

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3. Applications Now Available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp!

Are you a youth activist? Are you a high school student who’s fighting homophobia and transphobia in your school and community? Do you want to find out how to spread your message and start making change on an even larger scale, like across the state and maybe even across the country?

Then join GSA Network and youth activists from around the state for GAYLA (GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy), a three-day policy advocacy and leadership development camp in Sacramento on October 26th to 28th.

Who: Youth activists in California high schools & middle schools who want to learn how to advocate for safer schools, create statewide change, and make schools safer & more supportive for LGBTQ and ally students.
What: GAYLA is a three-day intensive training in the legislative process, policy advocacy, media activism, & other important skills.
Where: Sacramento, CA
When: October 26-28, 2007
Why: To become an advocate & learn how to make schools safer all over CA

What you’ll learn:
- Understand what your legal rights are & how to educate others about them
- Figure out how laws like AB 537 are made & how you can become an active participant in the process
- Gain key media activism skills to help you spread your message everywhere.
- Break down barriers & help to ensure more youth voices are part of the statewide fight for LGBTQ equality
- Transform yourself into a public speaker who changes the hearts & minds of everyone around you
- Meet, make friends, & share resources with youth activists from across the state

Graduates of GAYLA will be encouraged to continue working with GSA Network & advocating for LGBTQ youth in schools by:
- Joining the GSA Network State Advocacy Youth Committee
- Helping to plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) 2008--the largest queer youth advocacy event in the state
- Training members of your GSA & QYAD 2008 participants in advocacy skills
- Serving as a media spokesperson in your region on GSA, safer schools, and LGBTQ youth issues
- Coordinating district lobbying visits to lawmaker offices in your areas
- Organizing & participating in rallies, letter-writing campaigns, and speak-outs in your area

How to apply:
Go to: http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla/

First submit a completed application in order to be considered for one of a limited number of spots at GAYLA this year. After your application is submitted, you will be contacted by a GSA Network staff member with follow-up questions.

Application deadline: October 10, 2007

Housing, and meals for youth participants of GAYLA will be provided by the GSA Network, and transportation assistance will be available for those who need it.

For more information, call or email Advocacy Coordinator Lai-San Seto at 415-552-4229 or mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org.

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4. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear - Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

Order one of our three New T-shirts and help support GSA Network
* GSA Power
* A is for Ally
* Activist
* Male, Female, Other / Neither / All of the above

Also in stock
* I heart GSA
* I HELLA Heart GSA
* and our classic GSA Organizing Shirt

These new designs can ONLY be purchased at our online store. For every item you buy GSA Network gets a small donation ($3-5) to keep doing all the good work we do!!!

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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And all-day adult workshop will also be provided for a fee.

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6. Project Safe Zone Conference (Santa Monica)

There is a 12-hour conference that happens once a year in the spring called Project Safe Zone. At this conference around 100 high school students come together to explore the issues of sexism and homophobia in our community. It has become a wildly popular program at Santa Monica High!

Read more about this wonderful project by going to http://www.samohi.smmusd.org/psz/index.html.

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7. Models of Pride Fundraiser (West Hollywood)

Come join us on Wednesday, September 19, 2007, for the fun and fabulous LEGENDARY BINGO benefiting the 15th annual Models of Pride conference (MOP 15), starring Bingo-Boy and a fabulous Bingo Hostess.

Date: Wednesday, September 19th
Place: HAMBURGER MARY'S
8288 Santa Monica Blvd. (at Sweetzer West Hollywood)
Valet parking in restaurant lot
Full menu and bar
Time: 9 PM

Suggested Donation at the door: $20
What you get: 10 REGULAR BINGO GAME CARDS (for nine regular games) AND TWO GRAND PRIZE BINGO GAME CARDS (for one grand prize game) AND Silent auctions during the evening with tickets to events or theme parks, hotel stays, gift baskets and/or celebrity autographed memorabilia.

For more information go to: http://www.modelsofpride.org

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Central Valley

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8. San Joaquin Pride Center Rummage Sale (Stockton)

The San Joaquin Pride Center respectfully requests your support. We are holding a "rummage sale" fund raiser on Saturday September 15 th from 10am- 3pm.

We are looking for volunteers to: donate furniture, nic nacs,wall hangings, dishes, appliances and electronics (all must be in good working order please), clothing, tools, gardening supplies, sporting equipment, any other items that may help us raise monies to keep our doors open.

REMEMBER ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE!!!

We also need volunteers to help at the sale. Tell everyone you know to come on down!

Please contact the San Joaquin Pride Center to arrange for donations.
4410 N. Pershing Ave. Ste. C-22
Stockton, CA. 95207
(209) 951-9150
mailto:stocktonsjpride@yahoo.com

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Northern California
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9. Queer Youth Activist Wanted (San Francisco)

Community United Against Violence (CUAV) LGBTQQ Speakers Bureau is seeking queer youth activists for Bay Area school presentations.

Requirement is participation in a free 2 day training Saturday & Sunday September 22nd/23rd from 10am-5pm. Full participation both days is required.
Food will be provided.

No previous public speaking experience necessary--just a good spirit, energy, and a desire to change the world. There are currently 4 spaces available, so please respond asap.

If you are interested please fill out the attached application and email it to mailto:connie@cuav.org, or fax it to 415.777.5565 (ATTN: Connie)

For more info, please visit our website at http://www.cuav.org, email, or call us: 415.777.5500.

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10. Join the GLAM Youth Choir (San Francisco)

New Season Begins for GLAM Youth Choir

GLAM (Gay, Lesbian & Allied Musicians) Youth Choir will soon begin its third season, and is now accepting new members.

GLAM Youth Choir is a fun, safe place where GLBTQ and supportive youth unite in music, and find their unique voices. GLAM is a non-auditioned group, open to all GLBTQ & Allied singers & instrumentalists, ages 12-22.

Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 5-7pm, starting September 5th
Location: San Francisco Girls’ Chorus Building,
44 Page Street, San Francisco (Cross Streets: Page, Franklin & Market.)
(MUNI lines: F, 6, 7, 71, J, K, L, M, N, 47, 49 & 14)
(Near Civic Center BART, SamTrans & Golden Gate Transit)

Open Rehearsal for Current and New Members, Parents & Guardians:
Wednesday, September 5th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, 44 Page St.

We will present an overview of our 2007-2008 season, discuss GLAM membership, and begin some new music! Parents, guardians, and anyone interested in learning more about the organization are encouraged to attend the first rehearsal.

2007-2008 Season Plans:
- Wednesday, September 5: First Rehearsal
- Saturday-Sunday, September 15-16: Sing @ Gay Rodeo
- Wednesday, October 10, 2007, 7-8pm: GLAM Cabaret
- Saturday, October 27, 2007, 1-3: GLAM Bowl-A-Thon
- November 2007: Castro Holiday Tree Lighting (To Be Confirmed)
- December 2007: Holiday Caroling, local hospitals/hospices (To Be Confirmed)
- June 21-22, 2008: SF Pride
- July 12-19, 2008: GALA Choruses International Festival (Miami, Florida)

GLAM’s mission is to foster the acceptance of LGBTQ youth and their allies by empowering and inspiring its members and community through mentorship, education, and musical presentations. GLAM provides a fun, welcoming, safe, and creative arena for all youth ages 12 – 22, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, financial status, or home situation.

If you are thinking about joining GLAM, please come to the first rehearsal or contact us:
mailto:GLAMYouthChoir@yahoo.com
phone: (415) 865-3650
Mailing address: 1800 Market St., PMB 100, San Francisco, CA 94102
Website: http://www.glamyouthchoir.org
MySpace: http://myspace.com/glamyouthshowchoir
Scott Mills, Music Director
Andra Kimball and Aidan Dunn, Steering Committee Co-Chairs

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11. Grupo en español para chavos - NUEVO! (Mountain View)

Invitamos a todos los chicos de 15 a 23 años que sean gays, bisexuales, queer o que aún no se definen, para que vengan a integrarse a este nuevo y divertido grupo. Discutiremos temas como, la salud y sexualidad de los hombres jóvenes, prevención del VIH y de las Enfermedades de Transmisión Sexual, relaciones de pareja, salida del closet, familia, amigos, etc., Proveemos un espacio amigable y seguro para los chicos jóvenes para que interactuen y compartan ideas, pensamientos y preocupaciones acerca de su propio mundo. No necesitas reservación o inscripción previa. El grupo es en español e incluye pizza y sodas gratis.

CUANDO: El 1ro y 3er miércoles de cada mesa de 6:00- 8:00pm
DONDE: En el edificio de CHAC ubicado en el 711 Church Street, Mountain View, contacta a Rodrigo por correo a mailto:rgarcia@chacmv.org or llama para más información (650) 965-2020 x22

Group for young men in Spanish - NEW GROUP!
We invite all guys 15 to 23 years old who are gay, bisexual, queer or questioning to come and join this new fun group. We will discuss topics such as, young men’s health and sexuality, HIV and Sexually Transmitted Diseases prevention, relationships, coming out, family, friends, etc., We provide a friendly and safe place for young men to interact and share ideas, thoughts and concerns about their world. This is a free drop in group in Spanish with pizza and sodas included.

WHEN: The 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, 6:30- 8:30pm
WHERE: CHAC, 711 Church Street, Mountain View, contact Rodrigo at (650) 965-2020 x22 or at mailto:rgarcia@chacmv.org for more information.

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12. The Other Side of the Closet Fall Tour (Bay Area)

The following dates are still available for The Other Side of the Closet fall tour:
October 31st
November 5, 7, 26, 28
December 3,4,5,10,11,12,13

Book now before they're gone!

With The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy, young people are asked to look at the many different reasons that they stereotype & discriminate against each other including sexual orientation, race, religion, body type, etc. With a facilitated discussion after each performance, the only agenda of this YouthAware Educational Theatre program is to help audiences to think about and discuss how they can coexist peacefully with their differences.

The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy directed by Sara Staley
Appropriate for Students Grades 6-12, Teachers & Parents
Touring Northern California Schools and Communities from October 23rd - December 14th 2007.

Verbal and physical 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 explores the sources of homophobia and harassment in schools and gets young people to think about ways to move past their intolerance. This play has been touring to Northern California middle and high schools every fall, since 2000, to educate teens about diversity, acceptance and about the California School Safety Act (AB-537), which prohibits harassment in school based on actual or perceived sexual orientation. The Other Side of the Closet supports a safe school curriculum where students, teachers and parents can learn about differences and respect in an innovative and engaging format. Each performance includes a discussion with the cast, and handouts are provided for teachers to continue discussion in the classroom. This is a great program for your school's GSA or other diversity club to sponsor on campus, and we are also available to present community performances of this program on Monday and Tuesday evenings during the run of the tour.

How do you bring a YouthAware Tour to Your School or Community?
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 100-400 students per performance and can do the program up to two times a day at your school. Each performance and discussion lasts approximately 70 minutes, and students should remain seated for the entire program. NCTC is a non-profit organization and we do ask for a $250 donation per performance to cover our production costs, but if funding is an issue for your school, please contact us to discuss possible underwriting by one of our YouthAware donors.

For more information or to book a tour date email mailto:sara@nctcsf.org or call (415) 694-6149.

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13. LGBTQI Communities Photo Project (San Francisco)

The San Francisco Public Library needs your help with an imnportant LGBTQI history project. Whether you used to hold court at the Black Cat Café in the 1950s or marched with Queer Nation in the 1990s, the library wants you to get your photos out of the closets and into the archives!

The diverse faces and places of LGBTQI communities throughout San Francisco's history should be added to the Library's photograph archives. Researchers, writers, filmmakers and students are depending on people like you to help the Library create a comprehensive visual history of these communities.

It's easy. Here's how it works ...

Bring your photo albums and loose photos to PHOTO DAY on October 14, 2007 from 10 AM to 4 PM to the Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Branch Library, 1 Jose Sarria Court (16th Street just below Market). There, you'll meet with archivists who will select images and jot down your memories of them. Your pictures will be copied on the spot while you enjoy free refreshments and chat with other contributors. There's no need to still be living in SF or to self select from your collection. We urge you to bring it all.

Your photographs are then available to library users at both the San Francisco History Center at the Main Library and the Eureka Valley Branch. An exhibition of the images is planned at the branch when it reopens in 2009 after remodeling.

Photo Day appointments are strongly encouraged as this greatly reduces any wait time. Drop ins are accepted if time permits. To make an appointment or for more information, contact the project coordinator Nina Sazevich at mailto:nina911@pacbell.net or 415-752-2483.

We are also looking for volunteers to help select photos and work with the public that day. Volunteers attend a training on Saturday, October 13 from 9 AM to 4 PM to learn about the history of the community and the archival process. We end the training with a hands-on session in photo selection and recording. Lunch is provided. Interested volunteers should contact the Coordinator at the number and email above or download the volunteer application at http://www.sfpl.org/news/lgbtqishades.

If you have ideas for other organizations and people we should contact, please let us know. Thanks -- we look forward to seeing you on PHOTO DAY and thanks for helping us spread the word!

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14. World of Difference Institute Workshop (San Mateo)

A free one day workshop from A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute held in San Mateo on October 7, 2007. This is a professional development program for K-12 educators in Northern California. Due to a generous funder, we are able to provide this workshop and accompanying materials at no cost.

This is a one-time opportunity so please forward this announcement to your contacts. Northern California area teachers are facing increasingly diverse classrooms. To respond to this diversity, the A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute offers professional staff development opportunities for educators. This program assists educators in creating multicultural, non-biased learning environments where all children can be successful. For more information about the A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute, please visit our website at http://www.adl.org/education/edu_awod/default_awod.asp

WHO PARTICIPATES?
Kindergarten through 12th grade public, private or parochial school educators.

WHO BENEFITS?
The entire school community.

PARTICIPANTS WILL:
Gain an understanding of prejudice and discrimination and the harms they inflict upon individuals and society.
Recognize their own and others' biases and take personal responsibility for combating prejudice and discrimination.
Challenge the stereotypes and biases which inhibit intergroup understanding.
Acquire techniques for combating prejudice and discrimination.
Identify factors in the school environment which promote intergroup understanding and student success.
Obtain the A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute Study Guide which provides lessons, materials, and activities with a multicultural focus that enables students to confront prejudice effectively and learn to infuse these human relations materials into the core curriculum.

RESULTS:
An inclusive classroom and school environment where all students feel respected and challenged to succeed.

You must pre-register for the workshop and space is limited to the first thirty participants. Please contact Nina at mailto:ngrotch@adl.org if you have any questions or would like more information. I look forward to seeing you there!

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Statewide
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15. EQCA ALERT: Anti-LGBT Activists Aim to Derail Youth Protections

Right wing activists aim to derail Equality California's efforts to protect youth Extremists have targeted three EQCA-sponsored bills drafted to prevent bias-based discrimination against ALL young people and students, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). Anti-LGBT activists claim these bills grant "special privileges" to LGBT youth and would result in "reverse discrimination of religious students."

We need your help NOW to overcome this right-wing attack.
Call on your legislators today by visiting EQCA's http://www.eqca.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionCenter.aspx?c=9oINKWMCF&b=1022279

EQCA is the sponsor of the Student Civil Rights Act , authored by Sheila Kuehl, D-Santa Monica, designed to strengthen nondiscrimination policies in publicly funded schools, programs and activities so every student can feel safe at school. Not only does this bill protect LGBT youth, it also ensures that bias and harassment based on other characteristics, including ethnicity, disability and religion, have no place in our schools.

This important bill has been under attack by anti-LGBT extremists who would like to convince lawmakers and the public that the Student Civil Rights Act would ban all references to "Mom and Dad" in textbooks and assault religious freedom. In reality, the bill reinforces every student's religious freedom and encourages acceptance rather than exclusion.

EQCA is also the co-sponsor, along with Asian Americans for Civil Rights and Equality, of the Safe Place to Learn Act , authored by Assemblymember Lloyd Levine, D-Van Nuys. This bill will make sure all schools are complying with the state's existing anti-bias laws so that school officials can't turn a blind eye when young people are harassed.

EQCA's two school safety bills together ensure that California has clear standards that are rigorously enforced to keep youth safe in the classroom and the hallways of ALL California schools.

Because LGBT young people still face a lack of acceptance in society, they are more likely to suffer from homelessness and engage in activities that put them at-risk for entering the juvenile justice system. Once there, they often face the horrors of physical and verbal abuse, unnecessary confinement, and harassment. That is why EQCA is the sponsor of the Juvenile Justice Safety and Protection Act , authored by Sen. Carole Migden, D-San Francisco, that would establish basic safeguards to protect all youth in the juvenile justice system from abuse and mistreatment.

As the 2007 legislative session winds down, EQCA is working around the clock to pass these bills to protect our youth from bias and harm. We owe it to these brave young people to support them in every way we can so they can succeed and thrive in schools and keep their lives on track and focused on a bright future.

We need you to do two things right now:

1. Go to our http://www.kintera.org/TR.asp?a=hgLVKZOzGiJSI8K&s=6nLJIPOlGeLLKMOqEqE&m=hvITIaOSLhK6G Action Center and contact your legislators right now to support these youth bills.

2. Make a http://www.kintera.org/TR.asp?a=kjJ1L8PLIlIZKiJ&s=6nLJIPOlGeLLKMOqEqE&m=hvITIaOSLhK6G donation to EQCA today.

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National
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16. Black Male Teachers Needed!

Do you know any Black males who are seniors in high school who want to go to college out of state for FREE? Several Black Colleges are looking for future black male teachers and will send them to universities/colleges for 4 years FREE.

The 'Call Me MISTER' program is an effort to address the critical shortage of African American male teachers particularly among South Carolina's lowest performing public schools. Program participants are selected from among under-served, socio-economically disadvantaged and educationally at-risk communities. The program is a collaboration between Clemson University and four historically black colleges in South Carolina: Benedict College, Claflin University, Morris College and South Carolina State University.

The project provides:
a. Tuition for admitted students pursuing approved programs of study at participating colleges.
b. An academic support system to help assure their success.
c. A cohort system for social and cultural support.

Visit http://www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htm for more details and the online application or call (800) 640-2657.

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Jobs:
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17. Legislative Internship Opportunity

Fall 2007 Legislative Internship Opportunity
Assemblymember Sandré R. Swanson
16th District, California State Assembly

To obtain an application call 510-286-1670 (ext. 21).

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September 5, 2007

In this issue of GSA Network News, you'll find:

GSA Network Highlight
Welcome Back Youth Activists & GSA Advisors!!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Re-register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!
2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! (Statewide)
3. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)
4. Applications now available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp
5. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award TWO $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS
6. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear! Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
7. EcoPride 2007 (Pasadena)
8. Models of Pride Conference (Los Angeles)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
9. 18th annual Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (Fresno)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
10. Insignificant Others: The Perfect New Musical for GSAs to See! (San Francisco)
11. Join the GLAM Youth Choir (San Francisco)
12. Preventing Eating Disorders (Alameda)
13. October/November 2007 Community Programs at JFCS (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
14. Spokesperson Training for Let California Ring: Coming Soon!
Go directly to Statewide listings

Jobs
15. LYRIC Program Coordinator (San Francisco)
Go directly to Jobs listings

+++++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK HIGHLIGHT+++++++++++++++

Welcome Back Youth Activists & GSA Advisors!!

The GSA Network staff is ready to start another great year of activism in schools! The start of the school year is a great time to get educated, get organized, and get all the necessary tools you need. Check out the exciting opportunities below to help you get started!

New resources are on the way!
We listened to your needs and have created brand new resources you can use to change your school’s climate and educate your peers during the upcoming school year. Get ready!

Topics include:
* How to create LGBTQ visibility & awareness at your school
* Tips & strategies for GSA advisors
* GSAs & the marriage equality movement
* How to fight LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum
* How to combat white privilege
* New condensed & easy to use versions of our Take It Back, Make It Real, & Beyond the Binary campaign manuals

In late September, we will mail out copies of the new resources to all current CA GSAs and make everything available for free download at http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/index.html.

Be part of our Youth Council!
The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders from GSAs all over California. As a member, you will learn skills to become a stronger activist and work toward creating a safer climate at your school for LGBTQ youth and straight allies. You will get support around mounting a campaign, event planning or starting a GSA club on your campus. Youth Council members represent the needs of GSAs from their geographic region, help plan GSA Network events, and lead peer-to-peer workshops, leadership trainings, advocacy trainings and activist camps. For more information, please see number two in the GSA Network announcements section of the news.

Learn how to become a safe schools advocate at GAYLA!
GAYLA (GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy) is GSA Network’s first-ever activism camp devoted to advocacy and statewide policy. GAYLA will be three days of intensive skills-training in policy advocacy, lobbying, media activism, plus networking with GSA leaders and youth activists from across the state! For more info & to apply, go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla

Speak Out for Safe Schools—Lobby the Governor Week!
Both the Safe Place to Learn Act (AB 606) and the Student Civil Rights Act (SB 777), two very important bills lobbied for by over 500 youth at Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007, are expected to be considered by Governor Schwarzenegger this fall. Join GSA activists across the state in visiting the Governor’s district office in your area to speak out for safer schools and educate legislative staff about the needs of LGBTQ and ally youth. Lobby Week will be held during the first half of October, and we will send out more info about how your GSA can get involved in upcoming editions of GSA Network News. To get involved, send a message to mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org.

High Contrast exhibit now available in the Central Valley!
High Contrast is a photo-narrative exhibit created by youth that uses art as a means for change. Set it up in your school to show people what they might not have seen before, to incite dialogue, and inspire transformation. High Contrast is on the move and will be available to Central Valley GSAs during the 2007-2008 school year. For more info or to schedule the exhibit to visit your school, go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast

Leadership Trainings & GSA Summits!
So what is a GSA Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in the schools.

Topics include:
* How to run a GSA meeting
* Outreach, building membership, and diversity
* Concepts of gender and understanding sexual orientation
* Understanding laws to protect LGBTQ youth in schools
* How to take action against slurs, harassment and discrimination in your school

GSA Summits are half-day mini-conferences where GSA Network and other youth organizations will pair up to educate local GSA leaders about resources available to them in their regions.

These events are a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area, while learning some new skills to strengthen your club. Look for upcoming dates on the GSA Network News.

Conferences!
GSA Network organizes two different conferences every year:

• Northern California - Youth Empowerment Summit (Y.E.S) - TBA
• Central Valley - Expression Not Suppression Conference (E.N.S.) - Feb. 9, 2008

Both are FREE conferences for LGBTQ 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 on the lookout for additional details in upcoming editions of the GSA Network News.

Have a great year — create, inspire, and empower!

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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++

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1. Re-Register your GSA today - get new resources & keep informed!!

If you have any questions or concerns contact:
Kiely Hosmon, Program Associate
mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229

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2. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members. Please contact the appropriate contact person for an application.

The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders from GSAs all over California. As a member of the Youth Council you will learn skills to become a stronger activist and work towards creating a safer climate at your school for LGBTQ youth and straight allies. You will get support around mounting a campaign, event planning or starting a GSA club on your campus. In addition Youth Council members are responsible for giving input and helping guide the programs of the GSA Network. Moreover, under the guidance and mentorship of a region-specific Program Coordinator, Youth Council members are also required to launch one of GSA Network’s (or one of their own) campaigns on their campuses.

These campaigns are:
• Take It Back: A Manual for Fighting Slurs on Campus
• Beyond the Binary: A Toolkit for Gender Identity Activism in Schools
• The “Make It Real” AB537 campaign.

Finally, Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region as well as plan events and lead peer to peer workshops, leadership trainings, advocacy trainings and activist camps.

As a member of the youth council you will have monthly opportunities to
1. Network with youth from throughout your region.
2. Get peer and staff support and feedback on your ongoing campaign, action or event.
3. Give input on GSA Networks programs, policies and curriculum development.

In addition you may have an opportunity to
1. Help plan and run a youth led conference or present workshops at local conferences.
2. Plan and participate in GSA Network social activities like Pride.
3. Apply to become a paid peer-to-peer youth trainer.
4. Discuss emerging trends in the LGBTQ and greater social justice movement.
5. Provide occasional technical assistance to other GSAs.

Requirements
1. Willing to commit to serve on the Youth Council for one year.
2. Committed to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools.
3. Interested in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen the GSA Network.
4. A commitment to launching at least one campaign on your campus during the 2007-2008 school year.
5. A student in a public or private middle or high school in California.

Southern California
For more info contact mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org or call 213-534-7162

Central Valley
For more info contact mailto:Robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780

Northern California
For more info contact mailto:Kiely@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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3. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs (Statewide)

LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!!

Five poster designs are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals 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. YOU MUST ORDER THE POSTERS IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THEM!

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.

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4. Applications now available for Brand New GSA Network Advocacy & Youth Leadership Camp

Are you a youth activist? Are you a high school student who’s fighting homophobia and transphobia in your school and community? Do you want to find out how to spread your message and start making change on an even larger scale, like across the state and maybe even across the country?

Then join GSA Network and youth activists from around the state for GAYLA (GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy), a three-day policy advocacy and leadership development camp in Sacramento on October 26th to 28th.

Who: Youth activists in California high schools & middle schools who want to learn how to advocate for safer schools, create statewide change, and make schools safer & more supportive for LGBTQ and ally students.
What: GAYLA is a three-day intensive training in the legislative process, policy advocacy, media activism, & other important skills.
Where: Sacramento, CA
When: October 26-28, 2007
Why: To become an advocate & learn how to make schools safer all over CA

What you’ll learn:

• Understand what your legal rights are & how to educate others about them
• Figure out how laws like AB 537 are made & how you can become an active participant in the process
• Gain key media activism skills to help you spread your message everywhere.
• Break down barriers & help to ensure more youth voices are part of the statewide fight for LGBTQ equality
• Transform yourself into a public speaker who changes the hearts & minds of everyone around you
• Meet, make friends, & share resources with youth activists from across the state

Graduates of GAYLA will be encouraged to continue working with GSA Network & advocating for LGBTQ youth in schools by:
• Joining the GSA Network State Advocacy Youth Committee
• Helping to plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) 2008--the largest queer youth advocacy event in the state
• Training members of your GSA & QYAD 2008 participants in advocacy skills
• Serving as a media spokesperson in your region on GSA, safer schools, and LGBTQ youth issues
• Coordinating district lobbying visits to lawmaker offices in your areas
• Organizing & participating in rallies, letter-writing campaigns, and speak-outs in your area

How to apply:
Go to: http://www.gsanetwork.org/gayla/

First submit a completed application in order to be considered for one of a limited number of spots at GAYLA this year. After your application is submitted, you will be contacted by a GSA Network staff member with follow-up questions.

Application deadline: October 10, 2007

Housing, and meals for youth participants of GAYLA will be provided by the GSA Network, and transportation assistance will be available for those who need it.

For more information, call or email Advocacy Coordinator Lai-San Seto at 415-552-4229 or mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org.

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5. Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund to Award TWO $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS

BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND INFORMATION AND CRITERIA
The BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND (BPF) at Fresno State is accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a student in the 2008-09 academic year. The BPF scholarship criteria is that a Fresno State incoming or returning student with good academic standing that has demonstrated pride in the community be selected as its recipient.
The BPF will also bestow the newly-established GSA NETWORK AWARD of $1,000 to a student affiliated with the GSA NETWORK in the 2008-09 academic year. "This new Bulldog Pride Fund annual award will assist and support GSA Network alumni from within and without the Central Valley that attend Fresno State," said Peter Robertson, founder of the BPF and a three-time Fresno State graduate. "By attracting and retaining GSA-affiliated student leaders and advocates, we will create a new sense of pride within the university and the community-at-large."

For the 2008-09 academic year, the priority window deadline to apply for all scholarships at Fresno State, including the Bulldog Pride Scholarship Fund, is from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, 2007.

DETAILS ONLINE: http://www.bulldogpride.org

BULLDOG PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
In compliance with federal and state legislation, all Bulldog Pride Fund at Fresno State applicants and awardees are considered without regard to: sex, race, age, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, disability or covered veterans status. The BPF actively seeks and encourages applicants from all segments of our diverse society.

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6. School is Starting Soon and You Need Something to Wear! Buy a GSA Power T-shirt!

Another GSA Network T-shirt hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

Do you just love our GSA Power postcard? Well, now it's a shirt. Buy it today and help support GSA Network!

Order one of our three New T-shirts and help support GSA Network
* GSA Power
* A is for Ally
* Activist
* Male, Female, Other / Neither / All of the above

Also in stock
* I heart GSA
* I HELLA Heart GSA
* and our classic GSA Organizing Shirt

These new designs can ONLY be purchased at our online store. For every item you buy GSA Network gets a small donation ($3-5) to keep doing all the good work we do!!!

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

To Buy Today: http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork

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++++++++++++++++ OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS ++++++++++++++++
GSA Network News is a publication of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. Events, resources, and news items listed under "Other Announcements" are not sponsored or written by GSA Network, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of GSA Network.

Southern California
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7. EcoPride 2007 (Pasadena)

San Gabriel Valley Pride Inc. presents:

EcoPride 2007
Sunday, September 16, 2007
12 Noon to 6 P.M.
Pasadena Senior Center
85 E. Holly St.
Pasadena, CA
http://www.sgvpride.org

This year's theme is EcoPride. The focus is on how to make your home, transportation, and world more ecologically sound. Featured is a car show along with other events.

Come and celebrate San Gabriel Valley Pride with Friends of Project 10 table. Learn about our youth programs and find out how you can help to make a difference in a young person's life.

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8. Models of Pride Conference (Los Angeles)

Saturday, October 6, 2007
Occidental College
http://www.project10.org

Friends of Project 10 Inc. is proud to once again announce the fabulous Models of Pride (MOP 15) conference that will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007, from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, at Occidental College in Los Angeles.

MOP 15 is a free one-day youth conference that focuses on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues. All LGBT youth and their allies, ages 14 to 23, are invited to attend. We feature icebreakers, workshops, roundtable discussions, food, entertainment, networking opportunities, a resource faire, entertainment, and a dance finale!

And all-day adult workshop will also be provided.

Transportation is available in the morning from the Highland Park, Gold Line Station by free shuttle bus, and again in the evening from Occidental College to the Highland Park, Gold Line Station. The morning run is from 8 to 10 AM and the evening run is from 7 to 9 PM (details are on the http://www.modelsofpride.org website).

Currently, we are seeking conference sponsors, agencies and organizations for the resource faire (first come-first serve), and volunteers. Resource faire application deadline is September 22, 2007! Online registration is also available through October 4, 2007. Please visit our website at http://www.modelsofpride.org for conference details, online registration and for applications for both volunteers and the resource faire.

Interested sponsors should contact us directly at mailto:project10@hotmail.com or 626.577.4553.

MODELS OF PRIDE ADULT WORKSHOP
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Occidental College
1600 Campus Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(Preregistration Highly Suggested)

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Central Valley
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9. 18th annual Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (Fresno)

It's coming.... Are you ready?
It's the 18th annual Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival!

Next week we Kick-off the countdown to the festival with a party at the Landmark. Enjoy food, drink and fun while you pick up your film schedule catalogue, tickets and passes.

Who: Reel Pride Members and Sponsors (What?!!!? You're not a member or haven't ordered your pass yet? Go to http://www.reelpride.com or join at the party)
What: Kick-off Party. Announcement of the film schedule, wine, hors d'oeuvres and silent auction
When: Thursday August 30th from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Where: The Landmark, 644 E. Olive Avenue Fresno

This year's Reel Pride Film Festival is September 19th through the 23rd and will feature over 50 films, stars and events celebrating the best in LGBT cinema.

http://www.reelpride.com

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Northern California
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10. Insignificant Others: The Perfect New Musical for GSAs to See! (San Francisco)

Insignificant Others: The perfect new musical for GSAs to see in San Francisco!

Insignificant Others is the hilarious and heartwarming new musical about gay and straight friends in the City. Five young friends—two gay men and three straight women—move to SF from Ohio looking for love and adventure, in what http://www.gay.com calls, “An irresistible new tale of the City” and Jan Wahl of KRON4 says is “Will & Grace meets Sex and the City!” It’s the perfect show for friends, gay and straight, to see together.

GSA groups can receive HUGE student discounts to the show—50% off normal ticket prices—if they reserve in advance. That’s just $20 per ticket! The show plays Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. thru Sept 23, 2007 at the Zeum Theater at Yerba Buena Center, just two blocks from the Powell Street BART station. Check out the website at http://www.isomusical.com.
To reserve a group of tickets at this great price, send an email to Jay Kuo at mailto:significantjay@yahoo.com.

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11. Join the GLAM Youth Choir (San Francisco)

New Season Begins for GLAM Youth Choir

GLAM (Gay, Lesbian & Allied Musicians) Youth Choir will soon begin its third season, and is now accepting new members.

GLAM Youth Choir is a fun, safe place where GLBTQ and supportive youth unite in music, and find their unique voices. GLAM is a non-auditioned group, open to all GLBTQ & Allied singers & instrumentalists, ages 12-22.

Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 5-7pm, starting September 5th
Location: San Francisco Girls’ Chorus Building,
44 Page Street, San Francisco (Cross Streets: Page, Franklin & Market.)
(MUNI lines: F, 6, 7, 71, J, K, L, M, N, 47, 49 & 14)
(Near Civic Center BART, SamTrans & Golden Gate Transit)

Open Rehearsal for Current and New Members, Parents & Guardians:
Wednesday, September 5th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, 44 Page St.

We will present an overview of our 2007-2008 season, discuss GLAM membership, and begin some new music! Parents, guardians, and anyone interested in learning more about the organization are encouraged to attend the first rehearsal.

2007-2008 Season Plans:
• Wednesday, September 5: First Rehearsal
• Saturday-Sunday, September 15-16: Sing @ Gay Rodeo
• Wednesday, October 10, 2007, 7-8pm: GLAM Cabaret
• Saturday, October 27, 2007, 1-3: GLAM Bowl-A-Thon
• November 2007: Castro Holiday Tree Lighting (To Be Confirmed)
• December 2007: Holiday Caroling, local hospitals/hospices (To Be Confirmed)
• June 21-22, 2008: SF Pride
• July 12-19, 2008: GALA Choruses International Festival (Miami, Florida)

GLAM’s mission is to foster the acceptance of LGBTQ youth and their allies by empowering and inspiring its members and community through mentorship, education, and musical presentations. GLAM provides a fun, welcoming, safe, and creative arena for all youth ages 12 – 22, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, financial status, or home situation.

If you are thinking about joining GLAM, please come to the first rehearsal or contact us:
mailto:GLAMYouthChoir@yahoo.com
phone: (415) 865-3650
Mailing address: 1800 Market St., PMB 100, San Francisco, CA 94102
Website: http://www.glamyouthchoir.org
MySpace: http://myspace.com/glamyouthshowchoir
Scott Mills, Music Director
Andra Kimball and Aidan Dunn, Steering Committee Co-Chairs

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12. Preventing Eating Disorders (Alameda)

An Evening Discussion for Girls, Parents, and the Community

Please join Girls Inc. of the Island City for a town hall discussion about eating disorders.
Participants will learn about the signs, risk factors, and aspects of this problem and learn ways of preventing it.

The Problem

Eating Disorders are one of the most troubling behavioral disorders in our society, robbing girls and young women of their future and, not uncommonly, their lives. These mental disorders - which include anorexia, bulimia, and six other types of eating disorders, rank among the 10 leading causes of disability among young women, and anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of all mental disorders.

Furthermore, the successful treatment of people with eating disorders is still far below the successful treatment of other mental disorders - including drug and alcohol addiction.

But there is hope. Research shows that these disorders usually start during adolescence and that early detection and treatment drastically increase the chances that a girl with the disorder can get well.

Experts Share Advice

Dr. Tana Clark, PhD - a practicing health psychologist with more than 20 years experience - will facilitate the discussion, and experts from Girls Inc. of the Island City will share how the organization is working to help girls develop the skills and self esteem that can help them avoid becoming victims of this debilitating problem.

Event Details

Town Hall Discussion: "Preventing Eating Disorders"
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2007
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Location: Alameda Hospital, Del Cielo Conference Room, 2nd Floor
2070 Clinton Ave., Alameda, CA 94501
Cost: $10.00 for Adults -Youth 18 and Under Free
Pre-Registration Not Required
Refreshments Included
Sponsored by the online insurance company Esurance

Hosted by Girls Inc.'s Women of the 21st Century Club to raise money for and awareness about Girls Inc. programs that inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold(SM).

For more information, contact Development & Communications Director Kristin Butler at (510) 521-1743 or mailto:kbutler@girlsincislandcity.org or visit http://www.girlsincislandcity.org.

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13. October/November 2007 Community Programs at JFCS (San Francisco)

Unless otherwise noted, these programs will be held at Jewish Family and Children's Services at 2150 Post Street in San Francisco.

Free and Low-Cost Programs for Youth

Teen Learning at the San Francisco Food Bank
The Kavod Crew - a JFCS program for high school students combining Jewish learning with social action - will volunteer at the San Francisco Food Bank on Sunday, October 21, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join us for service and learning as we help feed those in need. To sign up, please contact Taylor Epstein at 415/359-2463 or mailto:TaylorE@jfcs.org.

Learn, Teach, Never Forget: Educating Teens about the Holocaust
Teens participating in The Next Chapter, a joint venture between JFCS' YouthFirst Program and Congregation Emanu-El, will gain new insight into the human costs of the Holocaust by interviewing and learning from Holocaust survivors. From October 2007 through May 2008, 11th and 12th graders will participate in workshops on Holocaust history and will take classes to learn how to conduct interviews and write oral histories. Free. Pre-registration required. Contact Taylor Epstein at 415/359-2463 or mailto:TaylorE@jfcs.org.

Ready, Set, Prep: SAT Classes and Academic Tutoring
Stressed about studying? Worried about the SATs? JFCS' College Preparation Program includes an SAT prep course, workshops on applying to college, info about financial aid, help with college essays and more. Plus, our after school drop-in tutoring is open to all high school students in need of support. Free. Contact Josh Aufhauser at 415/359-2477 or mailto:JoshA@jfcs.org.

Internships for Émigré Youth
Are you a teen looking for work experience? The JFCS émigré youth program's paid internship program for 10th, 11th and 12th graders begins on October 15. Internships run from October through April with breaks for all major holidays. Work 4-10 hours per week at JFCS offices. Applications are available now. For more information contact Ammie Bach, Emigre Youth Program Supervisor, at 415/359-2475 or mailto:AmmieB@jfcs.org.

For information: http://www.jfcs.org
Contact: mailto:GenanneW@jfcs.org
Phone: (415) 449-1294

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Statewide
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14. Spokesperson Training for Let California Ring: Coming Soon!

Upcoming Training Events

For the Freedom to Marry
Next month, the Equality California Institute and more than 45 coalition partners will announce the official launch of the Let California Ring campaign, an unprecedented public education campaign that will open hearts and minds about the freedom to marry.

A key component to opening hearts and minds is telling our stories effectively in the media and in our communities.
Beginning this weekend, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) will be holding media spokesperson training events across the state. At the end of this training, spokespeople will be ready to share their personal stories about the freedom to marry.

For more information about the trainings, please contact one of the Let California Ring staff members listed below.

Sacramento
Week of September 10
(details TBA)
More information: mailto:raja@glaad.org

Fresno
Week of September 17
(details TBA)
More information: mailto:raja@glaad.org

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Jobs:
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15. LYRIC Program Coordinator (San Francisco)

Introduction
Welcome to LYRIC and thank you for your interest in applying for the Program Coordinator position. This is an opportunity to work in a fun, intergenerational, family-like atmosphere while gaining the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to support the youth movement. Here at LYRIC, we (the program coordinators) work closely with young folks to set the tone and direction of youth programming. We also make an effort to join together best practices and proven models with grassroots methods and community-led strategies. Our informal, energetic and youthful community values teamwork, honesty and professionalism. We are looking for someone who is excited about creating a fun space for youth while maintaining healthy boundaries, upholding Community Agreements and remaining flexible in a fast-paced environment.

Organization Description
Founded in 1988, the Lavender Youth Recreation & Information Center (LYRIC) provides supports and services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQQ) youth, 24 years of age and under. LYRIC's mission is to build community and inspire positive social change with LGBTQQ youth, their families, and allies of all races, classes, genders, and abilities. LYRIC facilitates community building, education and economic development, health and wellness, and leadership development programming reaching over 600 youth and outreaching to another 4000 annually. The organization has a current budget of approximately $1 million and 11 full-time and 2 part-time employees.

Position Summary
The Program Coordinator is one of four, supported by a program team that also includes a Program Director, two Youth Advocates (“Case Manager”) and a part-time licensed therapist. Program Coordinators are responsible for designing and implementing innovative and relevant programming for LGBTQQ youth 24 years and under within four program areas: Community Building, Health & Wellness, Education and Economic Empowerment, and Youth Organizing. Program Coordinators may bring unique skills that favor focus in one program area over the others, however each Program Coordinator should bring skills and experience that will allow them to be successful working across all LYRIC program areas within a youth development and anti-oppression framework. The Program Coordinator reports to LYRIC’s Program Director and is accountable to working in collaboration with all members of LYRIC’s program staff, as well as working as part of the whole LYRIC staff team.

Responsibilities
1. Utilizing the resources of LYRIC and its community partners, and rooted in best practice, develop and implement innovative youth-led, youth-centered programming that will succeed within a diverse community context and meet the unique challenges of LGBTQQ youth 24 years and under.
2. Community Building activities—facilitate a safe and welcoming drop-in space, host dances and other events that end the isolation of LGBTQQ youth and strengthen multi-generational community, recruit and evaluate workshop facilitators for arts-based/anti-oppression focused workshop series, organize fieldtrips and other outings.
3. Health & Wellness activities—develop and facilitate community appropriate health and wellness trainings, recruit and evaluate workshop facilitators, train and support peer health educators, work with youth participants to host retreats, fairs, and service-learning projects that promote LGBTQQ youth health.
4. Education and Economic Development activities—develop job training curriculum, recruit and evaluate workshop presenters, assess and place interns at appropriate sites, advocate for the needs of interns, outreach for and evaluate placement sites, support site supervisors to improve the quality of the internship work experience, connect youth to educational resources (tutoring, post-secondary institutions, drop out prevention).
5. Youth Organizing activities—develop youth organizing curriculum, recruit and evaluate workshop presenters, support youth-led advocacy projects, foster peer support networks that will aid the work and continuing education of youth organizers, develop linkages between LGBTQQ youth activists and other social change agents.
6. Work in collaboration with the Program Director to develop evaluation tools that ensure continual program improvement and effectiveness of services and supports on participant outcomes.
7. Work in partnership with entire program team to ensure that Community Agreements are understood and followed.
8. Provide crisis intervention and conflict de-escalation as needed.
9. Develop and implement innovative outreach strategies - e.g. street-based, web-based - including creation of community-specific outreach materials.
10. Supervise groups of interns to develop, implements, and evaluate youth projects and events.
11. Coordinate community events – dances, conferences, filed trips – i.e. food, entertainment, booking workshop presenters, resource tables, reserving spaces, arranging transportation, volunteer management.
12. Maintain records of outreach activities, participant attendance at group activities, and meetings with individual youth.
13. Assist the Program Director with the compiling of information necessary to complete grant and contract reports.
14. Maintain relationships with community based service providers and youth serving agencies.
15. Attend staff meetings as well as other organizational retreats and gatherings.
16. Commit to building strong community within and without LYRIC that encourages respect for all and fosters effective communication.

Qualifications
1. Passion for and commitment to working with LGBTQQ youth.
2. Experience working in a youth services, youth advocacy, family support or educational setting.
3. Understanding of youth development, and knowledge of LGBTQQ youth issues.
4. Understanding of social justice and anti-oppression.
5. Understanding of best practice for effective youth outreach and engagement, and in the fields of youth employment, LGBTQQ youth health & wellness, and youth organizing.
6. Highly positive and enthusiastic style capable of motivating youth and supporting peers.
7. Self-motivated and ability to take initiative, manage, and complete multiple projects within deadlines.
8. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment; highly organized.
9. Ability to hold yourself accountable for your own work.
10. Commitment to ongoing self-improvement.
11. Valid drivers license and access to a registered and insured vehicle to use in carrying out job responsibilities a plus.
12. Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.

Skills and Experience
1. At least 2 years experience (paid or volunteer) in a program/project coordination capacity in an organization that provides direct services to youth.
2. Experience with diverse models of working with youth, i.e. understanding of principles of youth development, harm reduction, anti-oppression.
3. Experience working with trans youth, young women, youth of color, youth with disabilities and other historically marginalized groups.
4. Experience and competencies in working in a multiracial, multicultural, multi-gendered, and multi-age environment.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication and facilitation skills.
6. Excellent problem-solving skills.
7. Experience with data collection and basic reporting.
8. Knowledge of San Francisco and Bay Area resources, especially for LGBTQQ youth and their families.
9. Experience developing effective collaborations with other agencies and communities.
10. Bi/Multi-lingual desirable.

Salary
Salary: $35,000 per annum. Position includes full benefits package.

LYRIC is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are strongly encouraged from women, people of color, immigrants, young people, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and genderqueer people, people living with HIV/AIDS, people who are differently-abled, and bilingual and bicultural people.

To apply please email your resume with full contact information and a cover letter to mailto:PCjob@lyric.org. Please put PC and your name in the subject line. Applicants may also submit resume and cover letter by mail to: LYRIC – Attn: Program Coordinator Search, 127 Collingwood Street, San Francisco, CA 94114. No phone calls or faxes, please. We will contact you directly if we wish to talk with you about the position. This position will remain open until filled, but please note that interviews are scheduled to begin as early as 10/2. Thank you in advance for your interest in the position.

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