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GSA Network News Email Archive - September 2003

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September 3, 2003

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

GSA Network Highlight
GSA Network Turns 5!!!

GSA Network Announcements
1. Join the GSA Network Governing Board (Statewide)
2. GSA Network Fresno Office Considers Location Change (Central CA)
3. Workshops for Youth and Parents About Schools (San Francisco)
4. GSA Network-Fresno Unified Connections (Fresno)
5. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)
6. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club

Other Announcements
7. ALERT: THE DAY OF SILENCE DATE HAS BEEN CHANGED!
8. The Other Side of the Closet (Northern CA)
9. Mom Guess What Newspaper Submissions (Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto)
10. Reversing Vandalism (San Francisco)
11. Third Annual World HomoHop Festival (Bay Area)
12. Latin Pride: GLBT San Diego County (San Diego)
13. INTERNSHIP: go Internship
14. INTERNSHIP: APIHR for API LGBTIQ Youth

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

GSA Network Turns 5!!!

Happy Birthday to GSA Network! We're turning 5 years old this month! It's been an incredible journey so far -- growing from about 40 GSAs in 1998 to about 350 GSAs today. An entire generation of students have gone through high school since we started. We are in the midst of a shift in our culture when it comes to sexual orientation and gender identity. GSA Network is proud that our first five years have helped to create these changes. We've helped pass historic legislation that prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. We've won a great settlement in the first case testing that law. We've empowered thousands of students to organize for policy change and climate change in their schools. And our arts activism photo exhibit, posters, and videos have won awards and reached an audience of tens of thousands.

To help us celebrate, please send us a birthday present! We need your financial support in order to continue making change in the next five years and beyond. Please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org and click on DONATE.

Or, to help us celebrate, throw us a birthday party! A house party is a fabulous way to bring together your friends and community to give back to an organization that is helping to change young people's lives. Email Carolyn at mailto:carolyn@gsanetwork.org to learn how to host a birthday party for GSA Network.

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

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1. Join the GSA Network Governing Board (Statewide)

You Could Be a GSA Network Board Member

Are you...

passionate about GSA Network and our mission of empowering youth activists to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools?
able to commit to attending 8 meetings a year (four in person and four by phone)?
interested in how a nonprofit organization works and eager to help GSA Network?
ONE or more of the following: 1) in high school now, 2) no more than a year past your graduation from high school, or 3) 19 years old or younger?

If you answered yes to these questions, you should apply to GSA Network's Governing Board. GSA Network's Governing Board is a group of youth and adult allies who oversee the organization. We meet four times a year in person, rotating around Southern, Northern, and Central California. We also meet four times by telephone (toll-free). Youth board members' travel expenses are paid. Youth board members' terms are for one year.

To apply: send an email describing yourself and your interest in joining the board to mailto:carolyn@gsanetwork.org. We hope to fill several board slots by October, so don't delay!

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2. GSA Network Fresno Office Considers Location Change (Central CA)

The space needs of the Central California region are outgrowing the available space at our current N. Van Ness office address in Fresno. As the number of tenants increases in our current building, it becomes more difficult to experience our space as adequate to our program needs.

We are considering moving our office into the Barrios Unidos building on Tulare directly across the street from Roosevelt High School in Fresno. At that location, our office space would triple and we would share the building with only one other youth organization (Barrios works with students on safer sex and juvenile justice issues).

Contact Diana at the office with your concerns and questions related to this potential change of location. Tell us what you think!

Diana Bohn
tel: (559) 442-4777
mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org

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3. Workshops for Youth and Parents About Schools (San Francisco)

Join the Children, Youth, and Families Collaborative for an evening of
workshops about LGBT Families and schools.

Tuesday, September 9th
7 - 8:30 PM
San Francisco LGBT Center
1800 Market Street at Octavia

COLAGE presents Tools for School
For youth ages 9-13 with LGBT Parents
School can be a pain, and we don't mean homework. Come discuss issues
surrounding school and our LGBT families--- coming out, teachers,
rumors, friends, and more. We'll share tips for dealing with it all
while playing games and having fun.

Making Schools Safe for Children of LGBT Parents
For parents
This workshop is designed to pinpoint the problems LGBT parents face in
their schools and specific actions parents and students can take to make
their school environment more welcoming for all families. Panelists
include: LGBT Parents Creating Change, Youth Taking Action & The
Gay-Straight Alliance Network.

To register for the workshop, call Aimee at (415) 981-1960. Childcare
for kids under 9 provided in the fabulous KidSpace. If children are in
diapers, please RSVP to (415) 865-5553.

Co-sponsored by: Our Family Coalition, Gay-Straight Alliance
Network, LYRIC, COLAGE, SF LGBT Community Center, and New Leaf Services
for Our Community.

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4. GSA Network-Fresno Unified Connections (Fresno)

Do you know students at any of these Fresno Unified high schools?
Duncan? Cambridge?

GSA Network, in cooperation with the Fresno Unified School District, is in the process of establishing on-going communication between activist students at all 8 FUSD high schools and their principals. If you know students who want to be a part of this important effort at Duncan or Cambridge High Schools, please contact Diana at the GSA Network regional office.

For more information:
Diana Bohn
(559)442-4777
mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org

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5. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)

The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders who care about fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools. There are 3 Youth Councils: Northern California, Central California, and Southern California. Each Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the programs of the GSA Network in their region. Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region as well as set goals and establish priorities for the entire GSA Network. The Youth Council meets once a month, generally on a Saturday. Typically, Youth Council members are also involved in planning and/or implementing other trainings and conferences, most of which happen on weekend days as well.

THERE ARE SPACES OPEN IN THE NORTHERN & SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA YOUTH COUNCILS

For more information and to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

or contact
Stephanie Cho (Southern CA)
mailto:stephanie@gsanetwork.org
John Mendoza (Northern CA)
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org

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6. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club

The new school year has begun! Welcome back!

Before you plan any more events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with the GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our Take It Back manual, Liberation Ink order forms, 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.)

send the following information...

your email address (if available)
name of your school
city, state
name of your club

student leader's first and last name
student's graduation year
student's email (if available)
student's phone number (if available)
student's address, city, state, zip
mark discreet or not discreet
advisor's first name
advisor's last name
advisor's email (if available)
advisor's home phone number
advisor's work phone number

tell us about how and when your gsa got started.
tell us how the gsa network can help your gsa.
any other comments?

If you have any questions or concerns,
John Mendoza
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)

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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.

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7. ALERT: THE DAY OF SILENCE DATE HAS BEEN CHANGED!

GLSEN has become aware that many students across the country will be on spring break or just coming back from spring break the week of the Day of Silence. The Day of Silence date has been changed to Wednesday, April 21, 2004. Mark that on your calendars! Start organizing the Day of Silence in your school and/or a Breaking the Silence event in your community today!

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8. The Other Side of the Closet (Northern CA)

The Other Side of the Closet - Tolerance Theatre for Teens on Tour in Northern California This Fall

Now entering its 4th year of touring to Bay Area high schools, The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy is a hard-hitting, agenda-free theatre production about teen tolerance. Set in and around a high school, the play tells the story of 5 teens who are grappling with issues of peer pressure, youth violence, homophobia, behavior norms and expectations, self esteem, discrimination and identity. Each performance is followed by a facilitated discussion session with the cast. The Other Side of the Closet supports a safer school curriculum wherein students, teachers and parents can learn about diversity and acceptance in an innovative and engaging format.

Designed for 8th - 12th graders, The Other Side of the Closet, is available to tour to your school, community theatre or recreation center from October 20th - December 11th 2003. The program is about 70 minutes in length and it is affordable for all schools & communities. A great activity for your GSA or other tolerance promoting organization to sponsor!

Dates are still available!

Contact the YouthAware Programs Director at (415) 861-4914 or email mailto:youthaware@nctcsf.org for more information, or to schedule a performance date for your school.

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9. Mom Guess What Newspaper Submissions (Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto)

Calling all Queer & LGBT Youth Activists, Artists, Poets and Writers
Mom Guess What Newspaper is launching a new Youth Voices section of our
newspaper, for youth by youth.

MGW Newspaper is looking for submissions of editorials, columns, articles,
art and poetry from local youth!

MGW is also looking for a committed and organized individual with the
ability to write a column about queer youth issues twice a month, to serve
as the volunteer Youth Editor for the Youth Voices Section.

MGW Newspaper comes out the 1st and 15th each month, and is the oldest LGBT
newspaper in the Sacramento Metro area!

If interested please e-mail info@mgwnews.com or call 916.441.6397
Visit our website at http://www.mgwnews.com

Geoffrey Winder
Managing Editor
Mom Guess What Newspaper
1103 T Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

916.441.6397
mailto:editor@mgwnews.com
mailto:info@mgwnews.com

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10. Reversing Vandalism (San Francisco)

The James C. Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center of the San Francisco Public Library would like to extend the opportunity to local and national artists to take place in our upcoming exhibition, Reversing Vandalism.

The idea behind the Reversing Vandalism exhibition is to transform destructive energy, directed toward over 600 books, primarily on gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and women's studies, into a collection of artwork that illuminates the value and evolution of these books, art, and ideas.

At the beginning of 2001, San Francisco Main Library staff began finding books, carved with a sharp instrument, hidden under shelving units. Many of these volumes, eventually numbering over 600, were related to issues of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals, as well as AIDS and women's health issues. Eventually, the vandal was caught and charged with a hate crime.

When the damaged books were assessed, it was determined most were beyond repair, and were withdrawn from the Library's collection. In an effort to redirect the "energy" of the destroyed Library books, the Library is making them available to artists. The resulting artwork will be exhibited at the Hormel Center and other possible venues.

We would like to offer individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines one or more of the destroyed books to create works of art for the Reversing Vandalism exhibition. We have no preconceived notions of what the resulting artwork might look like, only that it would likely help transform these destroyed Library materials. Should your organization be willing to make the Call for Artist Participation applications available to members, clients, and constituents, we would be happy to provide you with them.

Application forms are also available on line here:
http://sfpl4.sfpl.org/news/revvandalismforms.pdf

Jim Van Buskirk, Program Manager
James C. Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center, San Francisco Public Library, 100
Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
415-557-4566 or 415-437-4831 (fax), mailto:jvanbuskirk@sfpl.org

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11. Third Annual World HomoHop Festival (Bay Area)

SEPTEMBER 11-14 2003
PeaceOUT:
The Third Annual World HomoHop Festival
@EastBayPride, Oakland CA
http://www.eastbaypride.org

SPONSORED BY:
SUGARTRUCK RECORDINGS
A.C.R.O.N.Y.M. RECORDS
PHAT FAMILY RECORDS
GAYHIPHOP.COM
AGITPROP! RECORDS
KPFA 94.1 BERKELEY(HARD KNOCK RADIO)
KILLER BANSHEE STUDIOS
OUTMUSIC.COM
OUTVOICE.NET
REDWINE/STRAWBERRY

ALL SHOWS @
THE OAKLAND METRO
201 BROADWAY @ 2nd Street, Oakland (in Jack London Square)
wheelchair accessible
ASL interpreted with advance notice
BART to 12th Street Station
AC TRANSIT #58,72, 72R to 2nd Street
all ages shows!!
(21 with ID and wristband to drink) unless otherwise noted

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 8PM
"HOMOHOP" Documentary screening
$5-$15 Sliding Scale

The opening night of the 3rd Annual World Homohop Festival features a
screening of the QueerYouthTV documentary "HOMOHOP" followed by an
evening of hiphop spun by a variety of local talents. "HOMOHOP"
won't screen again til the feature length version is completed, so
don't miss this piece of history! Be there or be square!
Screening and all festival visuals by KILLER BANSHEE STUDIOS!
More acts TBA
Visit http://www.eastbaypride.org or email
mailto:office@eastbaypride.org for more info.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 8PM
$8-15 Sliding Scale
DJ's: TOPH ONE (XLR8R) SICK DIAMOND (VA)
More TBA

TORI FIXX (Minneapolis)
PROTEGEE (Minneapolis)
GOD-DES (Madison, WI)
JEN-RO (South SF)
JAYCUB PEREZ (SF)

http://www.God-des.com
http://www.Torifixx.com
http://hometown.aol.com/macjdiggity

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 8PM
$8-15 sliding scale

DJs: SICK DIAMOND, TBA

DEADLEE (Los Angeles)
KATASTROPHE (sf)
JOHNNY DANGEROUS (Chicago)
HOUSTON BERNARD (NYC)

http://www.Deadlee.com
http://artists.iuma.com/IUMA/Bands/_Johnny_Dangerous_/
http://www.geocities.com/houstonbernard/

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 8PM
$8-15 sliding scale

DJ's: RASHAD (Deacons of The Dust, Deep Dickollective)
DOUBLE TOKEN (SF/Deep Dickollective) and more

DEEP DICKOLLECTIVE (Oakland)
KAYATRIP(SF)
LUCKY 7 (Oakland)
URBAN HERMITT (Seattle/Boulder,CO)
SERGIO (Oakland)

http://www.Deepdickollective.com
http://www.Luckysevenpoet.com

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12. Latin Pride: GLBT San Diego County (San Diego)

Saturday, September 27, 2003

President's Way and Park Boulevard (Balboa Park)

12 PM - 10 PM

Live Entertainment & DJ's

Scheduled to Appear:
Los Principes del Merengue
Emanue and
Rocky Padilla & Friends

Tickets are $8 in advance/$10 day of the event

SPONSORS:
COORS
LLEGO
BOURBON STREET
BACCHUS HOUSE
KICKERS
RICH'S
ADELANTE
IN LA MAGAZINE
FRONTIERS MAGAZINE
SAN DIEGO GAY & LESBIAN TIMES
UPDATE
LAVENDER LENS
CLUB PAPI - SAN DIEGO
ANONYMOUS

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13. INTERNSHIP: go Internship

GO/GSA INTERN POSITION DESCRIPTION

The go/GSA program is a unique program housed at the Richmond Village Beacon at George Washington High School (GWHS) and offers both on and off-campus programming for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer and questioning youth in the Richmond District. The program consists of two components: the Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) and the go Youth Advisory Council. The GSA is a Beacon sponsored school club that supports queer youth through hosting on-campus awareness raising events, monthly speakers from the queer community, and a community building space for queer youth. The go Youth Advisory Council is a leadership group that provides direction in GSA activities, offers faculty sensitivity trainings, and organizes off-campus field trips to queer community events.

Intern Responsibilities

Assist the Queer Youth Services Coordinator in:
- Planning and facilitating weekly GSA meetings
- Organizing logistics for on campus events and off-campus field trips
- Chaperoning off-campus field trips

Intern Qualifications

- HS diploma or equivalent
- Experience working with queer youth
- Interest in or familiarity with youth development principles
- Group facilitation skills
- Event planning experience
- Good writing and computer skills

The go/GSA internship is an excellent opportunity to gain hands on experience working at a youth development agency that offers a wide array of programming from Hip Hop/DJ class to Tutoring. In addition, this internship offers a great networking opportunity for those interested in working in the youth development field, as the Richmond Village Beacon collaborates with a wide array of youth service agencies and is a part of the larger Beacon Initiative. Finally, the Queer Youth Services Coordinator will provide the necessary structural support to assist students in obtaining academic credit for their internship if applicable.

To Apply
Please send resume and cover letter by September 19th, 2003 to:

RICHMOND VILLAGE BEACON
Jessica Van Tuyl
600 32nd Avenue - #T5
San Francisco, CA 94121
mailto:jvt@rvbeacon.org

The Richmond Village Beacon provides a wide range of after school services for youth and adults at George Washington High School, Presidio Middle School and Roosevelt Middle School in SF's Richmond District. The Richmond Village Beacon is part of a city wide initiative to create youth and community centers in our schools and is one of 8 Beacon Centers in San Francisco. The Richmond Village Beacon is a project of the Richmond District Neighborhood Center (RDNC). RDNC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer; we welcome and actively seek diversity in our workplace.

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14. INTERNSHIP: APIHR for API LGBTIQ Youth (Southern CA)

Asian Pacific Islanders for Human Rights

Founded in October 2000, Asian Pacific Islanders for Human Rights' (APIHR) purpose and goals are to advance the human rights of Pan Asian/Pacific Islander (API) lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersexual, queer and questioning (LGBTIQ) people. APIHR offers the API/LGBTIQ community a range of programs and services - from public education of gay and lesbian issues from an API perspective, youth outreach and leadership development, API-specific Anti-homophobia campaigns, and proactive policy development focusing on improving and securing the human rights of API/LGBTIQ people at local, state and national levels.

APIHR is the first agency in the nation with the purpose of advancing the rights and well being of this underserved population. And, with the opening of 'Ohana House in July 2003, APIHR is the first agency in the nation to offer a Community Center created by and for API/LGBTIQ people.

Join Us
We are proud to announce the launching of our Internship Program through APIHR's Youth Leadership Institute. APIHR offers exciting opportunities for youth in the fields Public Policy and Program Administration. All of these opportunities are available to interested high school, undergraduate and graduate students who identify API and queer. Please read the following for more detailed descriptions and how to apply.

Policy Intern (1)
The policy intern will work with staff and board members on a range of policy related concerns that impact APIHR's constituents on a local, statewide and national basis. Qualified candidates will be able to devote a minimum of 4-6 months, and a minimum of 15 hours per week, subject to staff needs and intern availability. The intern must have a working knowledge of public policy issues that might include API &/or LGBTIQ health concerns, STDs/HIV prevention and education, sexual and gender orientation, immigration rights, language access rights, and related issues.

Program Assistant Internship (2)
The APIHR Youth Program Intern assists staff in daily implementation of youth program Outreach, Peer Education, Hang Outs and works with APIHR Youth Board.

Qualified candidates will be able to devote a minimum of 4-6 months, and a minimum of 15 hours per week, subject to staff needs and intern availability. Youth Program Interns must have a working knowledge of event production. Experience with program development, a working knowledge of community outreach, coordination, implementation and evaluation a plus.

Stipends
A stipend is available to interns who meet the minimum requirements. Details to be discussed with prospective applicants at the time of interview.

To apply, please submit the following:
1) A cover letter that expresses your interest area and qualifications
2) A current resume
3) A writing sample (5 pages maximum)
4) Two names of individuals who are willing to serve as references

Applicants should send materials by September 19, 2003 to:
APIHR Internship Program
6115 Selma Ave.
Suite 207
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 860-0876

Or email: mailto:intern@apihr.org

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September 10, 2003

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

GSA Network Highlight
Central CA Youth Council Launches New Campaign

GSA Network Announcements
1. Santa Cruz GSA Leadership Training (South Bay)
2. Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Offers Free Tickets! (Fresno)
3. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)
4. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club

Other Announcements
5. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)
6. Q Action Events (San Francisco)
7. Models of Pride XI Conference (Southern CA)
8. Pride of the San Gabriel Valley (Southern CA)
9. "We Interrupt This Empire..." Showing (Peninsula)

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

Central CA Youth Council Launches New Campaign

"Talking It Out And Seeing It Through" Campaign
A collaborative effort between the GSA Network and Fresno Unified School District

In Spring 2003, students from the Central California Youth Council made a state of the schools briefing for Fresno Unified School District. The event was a success, and as a result of that effort, students from eight Fresno Unified high schools will be meeting with their principals in the upcoming month to establish an on-going dialogue around issues of safety for LGBT students. Findings from the initial meeting will be reported at the September and October Youth Council meetings and will be communicated to Fresno Unified administrators. The effort is a joint project of GSA Network and the Fresno Unified School District.

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

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1. Santa Cruz GSA Leadership Training (South Bay)

co-sponsors: GSA Network & STRANGE

!!!!ALL STUDENTS WELCOME!!!!

Do you want to be the club on campus whose presence is known--loud, powerful, and effective?

Do you want the great ideas of your Gay-Straight Alliance brainstorm to actually get done?

Come to this workshop to learn action-planning skills and discuss obstacles and solutions for effective organization. Become an active GSA and turn your club into a highly efficient, outspoken, homophobia-fighting machine!

When: Saturday- Sept 27, 2003
:10:00am-6:00pm

Where: @ Barrios Unidos (Santa Cruz)
         :1817 Soquel Avenue
           Santa Cruz, CA 95062
           831. 457.8208

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided!!

Please email or call John to confirm your attendance.
Advance notice is very much appreciated.
415-552-4229
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org

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2. Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Offers Free Tickets! (Fresno)

GSA Network activists are invited to "Pack The House" event at this year's film
festival on Saturday, September 20th!

Beginning at 11:30 am on Saturday, September 20th the Reel Pride Film Festival will feature youth themed films. Free tickets are available through Diana in the Fresno office. The tickets are available only to students and include admission to the youth after-party.

For details or tickets contact Diana Bohn at
mailto:Diana@gsanetwork.org or (559)442-4777

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3. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)

THERE ARE SPACES OPEN IN THE NORTHERN & SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA YOUTH COUNCILS

For more information and to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

or contact
Stephanie Cho (Southern CA)
mailto:stephanie@gsanetwork.org
John Mendoza (Northern CA)
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org

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4. Register Your Gay-Straight Alliance Club

The new school year has begun! Welcome back!

Send the following information...

Your email address (if available)
Name of your school
City, state
Name of your club

Student leader's first and last name
Student's graduation year
Student's email (if available)
Student's phone number (if available)
Student's address, city, state, zip
Mark discreet or not discreet
Advisor's first name
Advisor's last name
Advisor's email (if available)
Advisor's home phone number
Advisor's work phone number

Tell us about how and when your GSA got started.
Tell us how the GSA Network can help your GSA.
Any other comments?

If you have any questions or concerns contact:
John Mendoza
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org
415-552-4229 (phone)

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5. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)

Monday, September 8th, 6:30 - 8:30pm - Young Women's Support Group
Friday, September 12th, 6:30 - 8:30pm - Young Men's Support Group
Are you struggling with coming out? Are you confused or uncertain how to integrate your cultural and sexual identities? Uncertain of how or where to even begin addressing the issue of sexuality with your family? You are not alone. Come to the support groups at 'Ohana House. Meet peers that relate to your own struggles in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. Discussions will vary and have as a goal to create a healthy and empowered API community. The young women's group will meet every 2nd Monday of the month, and the young men's group will meet every 2nd Friday of the month.

Open only LGBTIQ API youth 24 and under.

Saturday, September 13th, 2 - 4pm - POWER PR: How YOU Can Change (Mis)Representations of LGBTIQ in the API Community through Media Access
Pei-Chi Chang, former Public Relations Executive at Fleishman-Hillard International Communications and previous Policy Analyst at the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center

How can we best educate the API community about LGBTIQ issues? How can we best affect change from within the API community? How can we ensure fair and accurate reporting? What works and what doesn't work?

Find out how to influence the media in your community through a fun and intense interactive session. Discover how you can personally affect the way that LGBTIQ are represented by the media.

Thursday, September 18th, 6:30pm - Movie & Popcorn Night at 'Ohana House
Every 3rd Thursday, 'Ohana House is open to queer APIs for an evening of coffee, cinema, and chat. We will be showing and discussing film as it relates to members of the API LGBTIQ communities. Find out about the many resources available in the Los Angeles area, meet local community members, and expand your perspective! Film begins at 6:30pm.

Saturday, September 20th and 27th, 3 - 6pm - 'Ohana Hangout
Every 3rd and 4th Saturdays of the month, come hang out at 'Ohana House! We have films, books, music, and munchies to fill all of your Saturday afternoon desires. Meet and mingle with other Asian/Pacific Islanders, 24 and under, who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersexual, Queer and Questioning. Take this chance to relax, have fun, and create your own community in a space designed specifically for you.
At our Saturday Hang Outs you can:
- Make friends - Watch movies
- Listen to music - Relax
- Build a community - Be yourself
- Have your tarot cards read - Access resources, books, and magazines

Open only LGBTIQ API youth 24 and under.

Tuesday, September 30th, 6:30pm - Women's Film Night at 'Ohana House
Every last Tuesday, 'Ohana House offers films to queer API women only. Come for a night of coffee and cinematic stimulation; stay for the discussion afterward! We will view and discuss film as it relates to women in the API LGBTIQ communities. Find out about the many resources available in the Los Angeles area, meet local community members, and expand your perspective! Film starts at 6:30pm.

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6. Q Action Events (San Francisco)

Q Action Event

Color Blinded!
Thursday, September 11 @ 8:00pm
Q-Crib, 539 Castro St @ 18th St.

What's race got to do with... Who's sexy? Got HIV? Your "type"?
Just how much does the color of his skin or the tone of his voice affect what you'll do sexually?
Tonight we'll break down the stereotypes that keep us uninformed.

Q Action is for guys of all colors & flavors 25 & under who dig other guys.

------------------

Q Action Event

Summer Fest!
Saturday, September 13 @ 11:00am
Meet: Q-Crib, 539 Castro St @ 18th St.

So you left puberty behind. Think you're too old to play outside like a kid?
Join Q Action's end of the summer fun in the park! We'll have music & games as we celebrate being and staying healthy.
It's a substance free & diverse event; this ain't no circuit party!

Q Action is for guys of all colors & flavors 25 & under who dig other guys.
--
Antonio Kruger
415.865.0790 x304
mailto:akruger@stopaids.org
http://www.stopaids.org

HIV Prevention Awards is September 15!
http://www.hivpreventionawards.com/

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7. Models of Pride XI Conference (Southern CA)

Models of Pride XI Conference

This year's conference will be held on
Saturday, October 25, 2003, at Occidental College

This is a free conference, sponsored by Friends of Project 10, Inc., that focuses on LGBT youth and their allies (middle school, high school and college-age).

Visit http://www.modelsofpride.org for more information and pre-registration.

Interested volunteers can e-mail mailto:MOPVolunteer@aol.com. Organizations interested in a resource table may contact mailto:project10@hotmail.com

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8. Pride of the San Gabriel Valley (Southern CA)

FREE

Come OUT and play! Pride of the San Gabriel Valley (formerly Pasadena Pride)
will take place Sunday, September 21st from 11am to 5pm in Memorial Park
(Raymond at Holly) in Pasadena.

The event will feature a display of the Love Makes a Family exhibit from the
Family Diversity Project. Cheer LA will be there with one of their
high-energy performances. A town hall meeting about Domestic Partners will
feature representatives from HRC, Equality CA and the Freedom to Marry
Coalition.

Domestic Partner registration will also be available!

Frisbee tossing, lawn games and the usual fun in the park will take place.
There will also be a very unusual bike (BiGHA) available for test rides for a
small donation.

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

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9. "We Interrupt This Empire..." Showing (Peninsula)

"We Interrupt This Empire..." Showing in Redwood City!

Friday, October 10th, 7:30 pm
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City
corner of Lowell and Brewster.

This extraordinary film is a documentary about the historic protests that shut down the city of San Francisco in March 2003 after the war in Iraq began. The film not only shows video footage from the streets of San Francisco, but it also contains segments on the media's coverage of the war and of anti-war demonstrations, on how corporations profit from the war, and about the government's ties to those corporations. Balancing humor, political education, and history, the film is a must see.

The film screening is being organized by Students Against Reactionary Jingoism and the Anarchist Sewing Circle, and is sponsored by the Social Action Committee of the UU Fellowship.

It is a benefit to help send students to Miami, Florida in November to protest the meetings of the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas (FTAA). Admission is $5-$15 sliding scale. No one will be turned away for a lack of funds.

For more information, contact Rob at mailto:opsarj@yahoo.com.

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September 17, 2003

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

GSA Network Highlight
Sunnyside High Adds Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity to Diversity Week

GSA Network Announcements
1. Santa Cruz GSA Leadership Training (South Bay)
2. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)

Other Announcements
3. Bring outLoud Radio to Your School (Bay Area)
4. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)
5. Lifting Da Word Off Da Page (San Francisco)
6. Theatre Think Tank (Los Angeles)
7. Hubbub: Queer Spoken Word (San Francisco)
8. Queers for Peace and Justice March for Immigrant Rights (San Francisco)
9. HIV Prevention Presenters Needed (Santa Clara)
10. INTERNSHIP: HOME Project Internships (Bay Area)
11. JOB: Program Director for Billy DeFrank Center (San Jose)
12. NEWS: Victory for Novato School District's Diversity Education Program

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

Sunnyside High Adds Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity to Diversity Week

Sunnyside High School GSA in Fresno is taking a big step this school year. With help from GSA Network staff, Sunnyside GSA members have chosen to take part in a student club coalition to design events for their school's Diversity Week. This year marks the first time sexual orientation and gender identity will be included in the annual celebration. The Diversity Week is scheduled for mid-October, and so far plans include a community fair and a speakers bureau exploring issues on sexual orientation and gender identity.

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

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1. Santa Cruz GSA Leadership Training (South Bay)

co-sponsors: GSA Network & STRANGE

!!!!ALL STUDENTS WELCOME!!!!

Do you want to be the club on campus whose presence is known--loud, powerful, and effective?

Do you want the great ideas of your Gay-Straight Alliance brainstorm to actually get done?

Come to this workshop to learn action-planning skills and discuss obstacles and solutions for effective organization. Become an active GSA and turn your club into a highly efficient, outspoken, homophobia-fighting machine!

When: Saturday, Sept 27, 2003
        :10:00am-6:00pm

Where: @ Barrios Unidos (Santa Cruz)
         :1817 Soquel Avenue
           Santa Cruz, CA 95062
           831. 457.8208

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided!!

Please email or call John to confirm your attendance.
Advance notice is very much appreciated.
415-552-4229
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org

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2. Join the GSA Network Youth Council (Northern & Southern CA)

The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders who care about fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools. There are 3 Youth Councils: Northern California, Central California, and Southern California. Each Youth Council is responsible for making decisions about and guiding the programs of the GSA Network in their region. Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region as well as set goals and establish priorities for the entire GSA Network. The Youth Council meets once a month, generally on a Saturday. Typically, Youth Council members are also involved in planning and/or implementing other trainings and conferences, most of which happen on weekend days as well.

THERE ARE SPACES OPEN IN THE NORTHERN & SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA YOUTH COUNCILS

For more information and to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

or contact
Stephanie Cho (Southern CA)
mailto:stephanie@gsanetwork.org
John Mendoza (Northern CA)
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org

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4. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)

Thursday, September 18th, 6:30pm - Movie & Popcorn Night at 'Ohana House
Every 3rd Thursday, 'Ohana House is open to queer APIs for an evening of coffee, cinema, and chat. We will be showing and discussing film as it relates to members of the API LGBTIQ communities. Find out about the many resources available in the Los Angeles area, meet local community members, and expand your perspective! Film begins at 6:30pm.

Saturday, September 20th and 27th, 3 - 6pm - 'Ohana Hangout
Every 3rd and 4th Saturdays of the month, come hang out at 'Ohana House! We have films, books, music, and munchies to fill all of your Saturday afternoon desires. Meet and mingle with other Asian/Pacific Islanders, 24 and under, who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersexual, Queer and Questioning. Take this chance to relax, have fun, and create your own community in a space designed specifically for you.
At our Saturday Hang Outs you can:
- Make friends                  - Watch movies
- Listen to music            - Relax
- Build a community        - Be yourself
- Have your tarot cards read    - Access resources, books, and magazines

Open only LGBTIQ API youth 24 and under.

Tuesday, September 30th, 6:30pm - Women's Film Night at 'Ohana House
Every last Tuesday, 'Ohana House offers films to queer API women only. Come for a night of coffee and cinematic stimulation; stay for the discussion afterward! We will view and discuss film as it relates to women in the API LGBTIQ communities. Find out about the many resources available in the Los Angeles area, meet local community members, and expand your perspective! Film starts at 6:30pm.

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5. Lifting Da Word Off Da Page (San Francisco)

Lifting Da Word Off Da Page
(a live performance @ the library)

Saturdays, September 20 & 27
>From 11-1 p.m.

Wednesday, October 1 @ 7 p.m.

Hip Hop Performance Poetry Workshops
For Queer Youth & Their Friends.
Led by Katastrophe (aka Rocco Kayiatos) http://katastropherap.com

Explore the history, culture, & politics of "homo-hop."

Learn how to write your own raps and perform them in new skool style!

All GLBTQ youth and their friends between the ages of 13 and 23 welcome,
but space is limited so please call branch to pre-register 415-355-5616.

Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library
3555 16th Street, San Francisco (near Market)
Cost: FREE!

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6. Theatre Think Tank (Los Angeles)

Join us!

At our Theatre Think Tank for Addressing LGBTQ Issues in Schools.

This will be the first of our 2003/2004 monthly workshops and we will be presenting readings of the early drafts of TWO EXCITING NEW PLAYS developed in the workshop, and brainstorming ideas for other plays to develop this year in the Think Tank. We need your input!!!

The Think Tank is open to all youth (14 and older), parents, educators, theatre artists, therapists, activists, thinkers and allies interested in creating &/or collaborating on performance pieces dealing with LGBTQ issues.

In the Think Tank we will:
- Discuss important LGBTQ issues
- Strategize ways to combat discrimination and intolerance in school communities
- Experiment with our ideas through improvisation and theatre games
- Read and stage works-in-progress and give feedback

Again, our first Think Tank meeting of the year will be held on

Saturday, September 20, 2003
>From 2-to-5pm
At GLASS, 735 S. La Brea Blvd., Los Angeles
(1/2 block south of Wilshire Blvd.. Metered street parking and some residential parking are available.)

The two plays we will be working on at this September workshop focus on building bridges between LGBTQ, Christian Right and African American communities. We will also begin brainstorming about other important LGBTQ issues that need addressing in schools.

Sign up to have your work-in-progress read at a future workshop!

The Think Tank will continue to meet throughout the year on the following dates (and at the same time and place):

Oct. 25 * Nov. 8 * Dec. 13 * Jan. 10 * Feb. 14 * Mar. 13 * Apr. 17 * May 15 * June 6

Join us whenever and as often as you can!

Please contact Natalya Brusilovsky at mailto:natalya2k@earthlink.net or call (213) 252-8112 for more information and to RSVP as space is limited.

Fringe Benefits is a groundbreaking theatre company with a 12-year track record of collaborating with youth to fight discrimination. Two published anthologies of our plays, Friendly Fire and Cootie Shots, and the award-winning documentary film about our work, Surviving Friendly Fire, narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, have all received critical acclaim, support from educators & parents and RAVE REVIEWS from youth!

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7. Hubbub: Queer Spoken Word (San Francisco)

Sunday September 21, signup at 2:30 pm, reading at 3 pm
Hubbub: Queer Spoken Word.

Featured readers: Jamez Smith and Andre the Urban Hermitt.
Hosted by Larry-bob.

Plus open mic, bring original writing to read (5 minute limit.)

$1-3 donation, all ages, no one turned away for lack of funds.

NEW ROOM AT LOCATION:
Hyena Playhouse,
2390 Mission Street, new room: Suite #304
[3rd floor, elevator]
cross street: 20th.
San Francisco.
http://www.holytitclamps.com/hubbub/

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8. Queers for Peace and Justice March for Immigrant Rights (San Francisco)

Saturday, September 20, 11:30am

Queers for Peace and Justice (Queers por la paz y la justicia) will be
marching in Saturday's immigrant rights march...

Marcha para los derechos de los inmigrantes...

PLEASE join us (nos juntaremos!)...I know a lot is happening this weekend and
every weekend until the election but this is important...

Saturday, September 20, assemble about 11:30am
Yerba Gardens (Mission between 3rd & 4th)

Around 12-noon we march to Civic Center for a program and festival.

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9. HIV Prevention Presenters Needed (Santa Clara)

Volunteers are needed to help present HIV prevention workshops in Santa
Clara County middle schools and high schools. This is a great opportunity
for folks looking to work with youth, combat HIV, and gain valuable
community service experience.

You should be able to volunteer 3-5 hours per month during the school day
and have experience giving presentations in front of large groups. Also,
you should have experience or a strong interest in working with teens as
well as speaking candidly about sexual health issues.

If you're interested, please attend an orientation on Tuesday, September
30th from 6-7pm at the YWCA in Palo Alto.

RSVP to: Eileen Ross, HIV Prevention Project Coordinator, by Friday,
September 26th.
Email: mailto:eross@ywcamid.org
Phone: (650) 494-0972 ext. 336

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10. INTERNSHIP: HOME Project Internships (Bay Area)

The HOME Project, an innovative community-based non-profit serving Alameda and Oakland youth, has internship opportunities available. Interns develop skills in program development, direct service with youth, networking and more. Current projects HOME youth are working on include an LGBTQQ Youth Action Group, a sound recording studio, performing arts, and a "transition to college project. HOME will be developing a visual arts program in the Fruitvale this year and are actively recruiting Latinas/os to support this effort.

Interns commit to a minimum of 12 hours a week from late September to January 30. Stipends range from $250-500.

If interested e-mail a resume and cover letter to mailto:pmurillo@homeproject.org.

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11. JOB: Program Director for Billy DeFrank Center (San Jose)

PROGRAM DIRECTOR FOR LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER

Serving under the direction of the Executive Director, this senior staff
position provides management of youth, adult and senior services, counseling
and group facilitation services, volunteers services, and anti-tobacco
awareness effort.

Status:    Full-time, exempt (40 hrs/week) ˆ Some evenings and weekends
required
Salary:    $50,000 plus benefits
Start date:    mid-October 2003
Note: Will consider filling this position as a ≤ time FTE.

The Billy DeFrank Center has served the lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgendered community and their allies since 1981. The Center offers a
supportive environment that includes: social and recreational activities,
support and discussion groups, prevention services, and educational and
advocacy programs for youth, adults and seniors throughout Silicon Valley.

Qualifications:   Master Degree in a related health and human service
discipline preferred. At least 2 years experience managing, organizing and
delivering programs and services required. Related BA Degree with
additional years of experience may be substituted for Masters Degree.

Work experience: Program design, implementation and evaluation; and
personnel management and evaluation required. Experience serving LGBT
people preferred.   Experience in providing leadership to activist,
community-based organizations required.

Skills:   Knowledge of South Bay LGBT community resources preferred.
Skills with group development and dynamics required. Knowledge of
public-policy issues required. Skills in interpersonal communications
required.   Proven track record in successful grant writing and
implementation. Computer literacy: word processing, database management,
email and Internet access required. Excellent verbal and written
communication skills are required.

Responsibilities:   Provide supervision and management of the Center‚s
direct activities, programs and services. Supervise and provide leadership
for program staff.   Collaborate on designing and implementing a range of
programs and services serving a variety of community interests.    Submit,
negotiate and monitor public sector contracts.   Staff programs as needed.
Establish and maintain good working relationships with other similar
organizations.

How to Apply:

Send resume and cover letter to:
Program Director Search
DeFrank Center
938 The Alameda
San Jose, CA 95126

or by email: mailto:ed@defrank.org
attn: Program Director Search

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12. NEWS: Victory for Novato School District's Diversity Education Program

Thursday September 4, 2003
Press Contact: Stella Richardson
(415) 621-2493

Victory for Novato School District's
Diversity Education Program

Group Walks Away After Court Allows Theater Co.
and Parents To Join Lawsuit

SAN FRANCISCO - Parents and students who sued the Novato School District over a diversity education program dismissed the lawsuit today, ending nearly two years of litigation. The lawsuit, Citizens for Parental Rights v. Novato Unified School District, attacked the Novato school district for presenting a play entitled "Cootie Shots: Theatrical Inoculations Against Bigotry "in two elementary schools. The play tackles the issue of stereotypes and discrimination in an age appropriate way, through short plays, songs, and poems. It is performed by Fringe Benefits, an educational theater company.

"This outcome is a great victory for the District, Fringe Benefits and the parents and students in Novato who are concerned about fostering tolerance in their community," said Julia Harumi Mass, staff attorney with the ACLU-NC. "The plaintiffs' decision to walk away at this stage of the case shows that their claims were baseless to begin with and sends a message throughout the state that schools have the authority to require mandatory attendance in tolerance-building and diversity education programs."

Students, parents, and educators in over a hundred schools throughout California and other states have enthusiastically received "Cootie Shots," but a small group of Novato parents objected to the show, claiming that it violated their religious rights and therefore had a right to prevent their children from seeing it.

United for Safe Schools Novato and Fringe Benefits decided to intervene and help the school district defend the lawsuit and its right to educate children about the values of diversity and acceptance. The ACLU of Northern California (ACLU-NC), ACLU of Southern California (ACLU-SC), National ACLU Lesbian & Gay Rights Project and the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) represented the groups. On July 11, 2003 the U.S. District Court of Northern California granted a motion allowing the theatre company and the parent group to intervene as defendants in the case.

"For parents, students, and community members, dismissal of this case is a real victory," said Annan Paterson, co-chair of United for Safe Schools Novato (USSN). "USSN has consistently supported the District's proactive efforts, such as the Cootie Shots presentation, to increase respect and safety on our campuses. It's a shame the plaintiffs in this case, a small group of parents, tried to stop this important work. In reality, our community supports diversity education and we will continue to move forward for all children."
Fringe Benefits Artistic Director, Norma Bowles added: "Having based Cootie Shots on studies by the National Educational Association and the American Psychological Association, we already knew that it is an important, age-appropriate program for addressing diversity and discrimination issues with young children. Today's victory confirms that school districts need not fear litigation in response to using this valuable educational tool."
This is a tremendous victory for schools and students," said Courtney Joslin, staff attorney at the National Center for Lesbian Rights. "This result affirms the ability of schools to use anti-bias and diversity education to ensure that schools are safe for all students, including lesbian and gay students."

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September 24, 2003

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

GSA Network Highlight
Central Valley GSAers Show Their Reel Pride!

GSA Network Announcements
1. IMPORTANT: GSA Network Technical Difficulties
2. GSA Network Back to School Fundraiser (Sacramento)
3. Central California Youth Council Meeting (Fresno)
4. Training for Trainers (Bay Area)
5. GSA Leadership Trainings (Northern & Southern CA)

Other Announcements
6. Youth ACT CD Release Party (Los Angeles)
7. Building Assets in Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Youth (San Jose)
8. Bring outLoud Radio to Your School (Bay Area)
9. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)
10. Wanted: WireTap Staff Writers (Bay Area)
11. Young Entrepreneurship Series Training (San Francisco)
12. Support 'Not In Newark' (Newark)
13. Trans March 2003 (Santa Cruz)
14. Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence College Scholarships
15. INTERNSHIP: Youthspace Internships (Bay Area)
16. NEWS: "Males Dressed As Females" To Be Scrutinized When Traveling

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

Central Valley GSAers Show Their Reel Pride!

Not only did the Fresno Reel Pride Gay and Lesbian Film Festival feature over 40 films, it also became an important forum for highlighting the work of GSAs and student activists in the Central Valley. Twenty five students staffed the concession stand over the 5 day festival which concluded on September 21st. The work of the GSA Network was applauded by numbers of audiences who showed their appreciation by leaving over $1100 in tips in support of on-going GSA Network programs and campaigns. Way to go Central Cali!

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

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1. IMPORTANT: GSA Network Technical Difficulties

Recently, the GSA Network has been experiencing certain technical difficulties with its database and email programs, causing errors in some of our records. If you sent a message to the GSA Network, and still require a response from our staff, please send us your message again. Please note: all poster orders and As If It Matters orders have been saved and are in the process of being filled. Thank you, and we apologize for any inconvenience.

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2. GSA Network Back to School Fundraiser (Sacramento)

Please join us for a BACK TO SCHOOL FUNDRAISER for the Gay-Straight Alliance Network this Thursday, September 25 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Uptown Studios, 912 1/2 J Street in downtown Sacramento.

The GSA Network supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth and their straight allies in their fight against homophobia and gender stereotyping in their local middle and high schools all across California. GSA Network provides peer support, youth leadership development, and trainings to GSA members in order to empower young people in their struggle against injustice.

There will be a very brief program to introduce you to the work of the GSA Network and to one of these young heroes. There will also be appetizers, drinks, and a silent auction at the event. $30 minimum donation. Admission free for students 18 and under. Some work exchange available. You can pay at the door and checks should be made payable to: Tides Center/Gay-Straight Alliance Network, 160 14th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. Your donation is tax deductible (tax ID# 94-3213100).

To RSVP or learn more information about the event call Jenn Richard at 916-595-8347 or follow the following link: http://www.evite.com/jlrichard@mindspring.com/gsa

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3. Central California Youth Council Meeting (Fresno)

Students are invited to attend the next meeting of the Central California Youth Council on Saturday, September 27 at 2pm at the GSA Network office.

The meeting will be held at the GSA Network office in Fresno:
4403 E. Tulare Ave. (between Olive and Belmont)

Call or e-mail Diana if you have questions:
(559)442-4777
mailto:diana@gsanetwork.org

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4. Training for Trainers (Bay Area)

Mark your calendars!

GSA Network Training for Trainers (T4T)
Saturday, November 15, and
Sunday, November 16
Location: SF/East Bay (tbd)

Take your leadership skills to the next level.
- Become a Make It Real trainer, and teach students about AB537 and how to make
their schools enforce nondiscrimination laws and policies.
- Learn how to facilitate workshops on Gender Identity, or How to Have a
Kick-Ass GSA.
- Learn to teach others about race/ethnic and class issues through activities
and discussions.

Every school year, the GSA Network receives requests from other organizations to facilitate workshops or trainings in various parts of California. The Training for Trainers fulfills the GSA Network's mission to empower youth by preparing them on how to teach each other to become better leaders and organizers.

The Training for Trainers is a free event that requires a commitment of one and a half days of training. Lodging can be arranged for youth who require it.

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5. GSA Leadership Trainings (Northern & Southern CA)

Santa Cruz GSA Leadership Training
When: Saturday, September 27
       10am - 6pm
Where: Barrios Unidos
       1817 Soquel Avenue
       Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Co-sponsor: STRANGE

Sacramento GSA Leadership Training
When: Saturday, October 11
       9am - 4pm
Where: San Juan Teachers' Association
       5820 Landis Ave.
       Carmichael, CA 95608
Co-sponsor: GLSEN Greater Sacramento

San Jose GSA Leadership Training
When: Sunday, October 12
      10am - 6pm
Where: Billy DeFrank Center
       938 The Alameda
       San Jose, CA 95126
Co-sponsor: Billy DeFrank Center

San Diego GSA Leadership Training
When: Saturday, November 8
      10am - 4pm
Where: Hillcrest Youth Center
       3777 4th Ave.
       San Diego, CA
Co-sponsor: Hillcrest Youth Center

Marin GSA Leadership Training
When: Saturday, November 8
      10am - 6pm
Where: SPECTRUM
       1000 Sir Francis Drake Ave.
       San Anselmo, CA 94960
Co-sponsor: Spectrum

Please RSVP:
mailto:john@gsanetwork.org (Northern CA)
mailto:stephanie@gsanetwork.org (Southern CA)
phone: 415-552-4229

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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.

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6. Youth ACT CD Release Party (Los Angeles)

Diverse voices that harmonize together to impact our society.

What:           Youth ACT CD Release Party
                  Confessions of the Discriminated

               Featuring tracks by Ozomatli, Fertile Soil,
                2-Sharp & Other Special Guests

                Performances by Youth Act Members and special invited guests

Who:            Music conceived, written and performed by Youth ACT!
               A program of the LA County Commission on Human Relations.

Time:        7-11:00pm
Performance: 8-10pm

Date:       Thursday September 25, 2003

Place:      Hard Rock Café, West Hollywood
               8600 Beverly Blvd-NW
            (corner of the Beverly Center, Beverly and San Vincente)

          Parking in the Beverly Center, Enter San Vincente ($1, 3 hours)

For Whom:    Youth (and their families) wanting to join in the effort to combat
            racism, discrimination and other forms of oppression against LA
            youth

This is an ALL Ages Event: Jeans + Positive Attitudes Okay

This is a Co-Production of Youth ACT (LA County Human Relations Commission) and the Urban Noise Project (CORE Concepts)

Youth ACT is a youth council the LA County Commission on Human Relations put together to ensure a youth voice in messages of its campaign to counteract violence between youth based on such differences as race, culture, socio-economic status, sexual orientation and religion, to increase understanding with regards to these issues, and to create youth-based projects to further these messages.

Confessions of the Discriminated is a CD of songs Youth ACT members wrote that reflect their experiences of discrimination and oppression from pervasive messages of materialism that draw divisive lines of class and socio-economic status between us as young people in LA.

We wish this CD to evoke our peers to stand up against racism, discrimination, and the oppression of all forms. The CD will be part of the resources that the Commission will offer to teachers and students to aid them in exploring the impact of discrimination and in provoking them to spearhead proactive projects that will diminish inequities in their schools and communities.

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7. Building Assets in Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Youth (San Jose)

The next event for the Silicon Valley Girls Coalition will be in
Partnership with the Cornerstone Project Youth Worker's Roundtable!

Building Assets in Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Youth

Wednesday, October 8th
11:30-1:30 p.m.
United Way Building
1922 The Alameda Room 105, San Jose
(one block off 880)

We have a GREAT panel and it promises to be an excellent workshop,. Please
forward this on to anyone you think may be interested.

Again, you bring your lunch and we provide the speaker, dessert and drinks.

Please RSVP, space is limited. Hope to see you there!!

Whitney Smith
Director, Office of Women's Advocacy
Santa Clara County
408-299-5122
mailto:whitney.smith@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us
http://www.owascc.org

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8. Bring outLoud Radio to Your School (Bay Area)

Bring outLoud Radio to Your School for Anti-Homophobia Presentations and Workshops

This is a great way for your GSA to become more active!

outLoud, the queer youth radio project, wants to organize a presentation or workshop in your school. Presentations are peer-led. We'll hear stories from outLoud radio about queer youth life, and use those stories to start discussions about homophobia, respect, and how to be a good ally.

For more information, contact Noah Miller, 510.548.4866, mailto:noah@outloudradio.org

outLoud radio: queer youth making waves
http://www.outloudradio.org

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9. APIHR Events for September (Los Angeles)

Saturday, September 20th and 27th, 3 - 6pm - 'Ohana Hangout
Every 3rd and 4th Saturdays of the month, come hang out at 'Ohana House! We have films, books, music, and munchies to fill all of your Saturday afternoon desires. Meet and mingle with other Asian/Pacific Islanders, 24 and under, who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersexual, Queer and Questioning. Take this chance to relax, have fun, and create your own community in a space designed specifically for you.
At our Saturday Hang Outs you can:
- Make friends                  - Watch movies
- Listen to music            - Relax
- Build a community        - Be yourself
- Have your tarot cards read    - Access resources, books, and magazines

Open only LGBTIQ API youth 24 and under.

Tuesday, September 30th, 6:30pm - Women's Film Night at 'Ohana House
Every last Tuesday, 'Ohana House offers films to queer API women only. Come for a night of coffee and cinematic stimulation; stay for the discussion afterward! We will view and discuss film as it relates to women in the API LGBTIQ communities. Find out about the many resources available in the Los Angeles area, meet local community members, and expand your perspective! Film starts at 6:30pm.

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10. Wanted: WireTap Staff Writers (Bay Area)

Wanted: WireTap Staff Writers (Fall 2003 Semester)
http://www.wiretapmag.org

Web magazine for socially conscious youth seeks young writers (under 21) who want to build their computer skills, strengthen their writing skills and have their voices heard before a national audience. No journalism experience necessary but applicants must have strong writing/research skills and be willing to commit to the project for at least one semester. An interest in social issues is a plus.

What do you get out of it? We will pay you $25.00 - $75.00 per article, provide free classes, free snacks and hook you up with a team of other writers. And of course, you get your writing PUBLISHED on our site.

When: Mondays and Wednesdays from 4pm-6pm
Where: At our South of Market office. Accessible by BART and MUNI

Some issues we'd especially like to see people write about this fall are:
Youth and Voting
Sex and sexuality
Drugs and alcohol and other health-related issues
Activism and community involvement

To Apply:
Complete the application (below) and send a sample of your writing to Jean Chen, c/o WireTap Magazine, 77 Federal Street, San Francisco, CA 94107, email mailto:editor@wiretapmag.org

Deadline: October 1st (or until all 5 positions are filled)

Wiretap, an independent online information source by and for socially conscious youth, is always looking for youth contributors. Wiretap is committed to including a variety of youth voices and does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, immigration status, ability, language, or ethnic/religious identity.

WireTap Staff Writer Application

Name and age: ___________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________
Phone: __________________ Email: _________________________________
School and grade: ________________________________________________

What skills do you have (writing, research, volunteer work, community involvement, etc.) that would make you a good staff writer?

What would you hope to gain from an experience as a WireTap Staff Writer?

What are some issues that are important to you?

Are you involved in any community, school, or political organizations? If so, which ones?

Please attach an essay, article or short story (no poems please) you have written and return to mailto:editor@wiretapmag.org * 77 Federal St., SF, CA 94107 fax # 415-284-1414

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11. Young Entrepreneurship Series Training (San Francisco)

LYRIC and the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) are
accepting applications for its first entrepreneurship training that gears
towards LGBTQ and straight-allied young people 14-19 years old.

The training is part of the Young Entrepreneurship Series (YES) program @
LYRIC that offers an exciting opportunity for you to learn what it takes to
start and run a business (or a non-profit). In this training, you'll learn
how to identify business opportunities and business concepts that are
essential to business development. The training is interactive and
incorporates local entrepreneurs and business people in San Francisco. By
the end of the training, you will complete your own business plan based on
your interests, passion, and/or talents/skills and compete for cash prizes.

Why not turn your ideas and talents into business (non-profit)
opportunities? Join YES and you could win $2000 to fund your very own
business (non-profit)! Each trainee will receive $200 stipend for
completion of YES. Please see Eligibility for prize and stipend details.

YES SPECIFICATIONS:

40-50 hour training
Training will be held every Monday and Wednesday at LYRIC from 4:00-6:00pm.
Two Saturday trainings/filed trips will occur as well.
$200 stipend given upon completion of training
Entrepreneurship top prize- $2000

Application DEADLINE: Friday, October 10th.
Training BEGINS: Wednesday October 15th.

ELIGIBILITY (to receive stipend and a chance compete for cash prize):

Must be 14-19 years old
San Francisco resident
Young women, straight-ally, and out-of-school young people are HIGHLY
encouraged to apply!
Ask your friends to join!

If you are 14-17 years old, you must be from low-income family and obtain
parental/guardian permission.
(NOTE: You may still be eligible even if you cannot obtain such information
or do not fit into the eligibility criteria. Please contact Alan for
details)

CONTACT:
For more information or an application, please contact Alan @ LYRIC -
415-703-6150 x30 or email him at mailto:alan@lyric.org

Thanks for your interest!

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12. Support 'Not In Newark' (Newark)

Attend the City Council Meeting

Join us to support "Not in Newark" at the Newark City Council Meeting,
Thurs. Sept. 25, at 7 PM (meeting starts at 7:30, everyone has to be
settled by then) at the Newark City Hall (37101 Newark Boulevard, 6th
Floor) when we submit our recommendations. Our presentation will be
brief and to the point. If you would like to speak at the meeting you
should get on the speakers' list by contacting Czarina Livia either in
person at the poster-party or the parade, or by leaving a message at the
helpline 510-226-6816 so she can call you back.

Next meeting of 'Not In Newark' - October 15
Our next meeting of Not in Newark will be held at the Newark Memorial
High School Career Center. NMHS is on Cedar Blvd. across from the
NewPark Mall. The meeting will be at 7-9 pm.

What is 'Not in Newark'?
The murder of our our neighbor, transgender youth Gwen Araujo in Newark,
and the controversy surrounding Newark Memorial High Schoolís production
of the Laramie Project brought to the fore the longstanding harassment
and violence directed against Newark students and residents who happen
to be sexual or gender minorities.

In response to this hate crime directed against a GLBT youth, the city
and school district organized a public forum, intended by the city as "a
first step to identify ways to promote respect, tolerance and
acceptance" of all Newark residents. At that meeting Mayor David Smith
challenged all of us to put forward proposals for positive change. 'Not
in Newark' was founded to promote tolerance in Newark and to
specifically address ways to better protect the safety of gay, lesbian,
bisexual and transgender kids and adults.

Other communities around the country have successfully organized using
the 'Not In Our Town' model to prevent hate crimes in their midst. 'Not
In Our Town' is a national movement that encourages community response
to hate crimes. To learn more about NIOT, and the PBS coverage of
Newark's response to the Araujo murder, see http://www.pbs.org/niot and
http://www.pbs.org/niot/citizens_respond/newark.html.

'Not In Newark' is based on this model and seeks to identify and
implement substantive measures for preventing further violence in our
homes, schools, neighborhoods and city.

Contact Info:
To contact other Not in Newark members you can leave a message at 510-226-6816.

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13. Trans March 2003 (Santa Cruz)

Trans March 2003
presented by STRANGE
sponsored by Diversity Center, UCSC GLBTI Resource Center

Saturday October 11, 2003
(National Coming Out Day)

3 pm March from Metro Station
This year the march will pause at the corners of Elm St., Lincoln St., and Cooper St. Those of us who wish, will take 5-10 minutes to engage downtown passersbys and shoppers in one-on-one, individual conversations about the purposes of the march and/or flyering informative, educational 1/4 sheets. The march will re-assemble and continue on down Pacific Avenue at the sound of the marchers making loud animal, festive noises.

4 pm Rally at Compass Rose
We are still in need of speakers!

5 pm Open mic / open forum at Compass Rose

6 pm Celebrate National Coming Out Day + AB 196:
Community Mingling at Diversity Center
Featuring Dashing Local Talents + INFO-SURGE!*

INFO-SURGE: a format of organizational self-presentation + outreach, usually contained within 3-5 minutes, in a series of 3-5 groups of organizations.

Please contact STRANGE if you and your organization would like to participate in the INFO-SURGE!

For more information or if you have
any questions please contact loo-cefer
via email at mailto:sccstrange@yahoo.com
via phone : 831.425.3155

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14. Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence College Scholarships

For more information, contact Sister Betty Does, 415-503-1556

The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. are pleased to announce the availability of cash grants for college students from the Sisters' Economic and Social Justic Scholarship Fund.

The Sisters' Economic and Social Justice Scholarship Fund provides cash grants to cover the educational expenses of college students committed to promoting economic and social justice. These grants range in size from $500 to $1,000 and are awarded to students across the United States. Applicants are evaluated for financial need, community involvement and commitment to create social change. Age, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation are not considered. There are no fees to apply for or receive a grant from the Fund.

Now in its fourth year, the Scholarship Fund has distributed cash grants to more than thirty-five students nationwide. Money for these scholarship sis provided by Ba-da-Bingo, the queerest bingo event on the face of the planet. Information about Ba-da-Bingo is available at http://www.BadaBingo.org.

Information and applications for the 2004 Grant Cycle are available via the internet at http://www.SisterFund.org. Applications are accepted from October 1 until October 31, 2003.

Since our founding in 1979, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. have been a force for social activism in San Francisco and queer meccas throughout the world. Our common vows are to promulgate universal joy and expiate stigmatic guilt. Our shared ministry is one of public manifestation and habitual perpetration. The Sisters are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

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15. INTERNSHIP: Youthspace Internships (Bay Area)

ARE YOU:
In MIDDLE or HIGH school?
Energetic & Motivated?
INVOLVED w/your COMMUNITY?
Interested in MAKING positive CHANGE?
Wanting to LEARN new SKILLS?
Open to working in a DIVERSE environment?

The YOUTHSPACE at the SF LGBTQQ Community Center is currently accepting
applications for OUTREACH INTERNSHIPS.

Applicants must be Middle or High School aged.
Paid INTERNSHIP for LGBTQQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, &
Questioning) youth & their ALLIES (friends, supporters).
No experience needed, training available.
Part-time, 5 (five) hours/week.
Help create a safe space at the YOUTHSPACE for all youth.
Gain inter-personal & team building skills.
OUTREACH to other youth in the community.
Assist in designing events & activities for the YOUTHSPACE.
Work in a team with other Youthspace Interns.

For applications or further information, please contact:
Aldo Rodriguez
Youthspace Coordinator
415.865.5614 or
mailto:aldo@lyric.org

Deadline: October 31, 2003

Equal Opportunity Statement
LYRIC is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are strongly encouraged
from women, people of color, transgender people, people with HIV/AIDS, and
people with disabilities.

Statewide Youth Talkline: 1.800.246.PRIDE (7743)

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16. NEWS: "Males Dressed As Females" To Be Scrutinized When Traveling

For Immediate Release: Dated September 13, 2003
From: The National Transgender Advocacy Coalition (NTAC)
Contacts: Robyn Walters, Seattle, Washington
Chair, Vanessa Edwards Foster; Houston, Texas
Contact Email: mailto:ntacmedia@aol.com
mailto:media@ntac.org
Contact Phone: 832-483-9901
360-437-4091
Website: http://www.ntac.org

Security Alert: "Males Dressed As Females" To Be Scrutinized When Traveling

Just in time for the upcoming Southern Comfort Conference and the fall convention season, the government issued new rules last week to airport security and law enforcement agencies, which will impact the transgender community. This most recent alert specifically mentions 'males … dressed as females.'

According to the agency's Press Release #238, intelligence collected globally by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) apparently leads them to believe that soft targets, and more clever approaches including use of disguise are considered the next trend in terrorism.

Quoting the DHS alert to the pertinent agencies, "Previous attacks underscore Al-Qaeda's ability to employ suicide bombers - a tactic which can be used against soft targets and VIP's. Terrorists will employ novel methods to artfully conceal suicide devices. Male bombers may dress as females in order to discourage scrutiny."

The agency also noted that "Recent mass-casualty attacks in Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Iraq used car bombs against hotels and housing compounds, suggesting that "soft" targets with minimum physical security measures could be viewed as attractive options in the U.S." Soft targets include apartment complexes, hotels, gas stations, shopping malls and restaurants. (http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/interapp/press_release/press_release_0238.xml)

For the transgender community, this means that airport screeners and other law enforcement agencies will be much more vigilant than usual. It also means they may be more likely to commit unwitting abuses. At the minimum, the transgender community should be mindful of the new alerts and prepare accordingly when traveling this fall, especially if flying.

Crossdressers should seriously consider doing any air travel in male garb until reaching their destination. With a focus on soft targets, even more casual pursuits such as shopping or going to restaurants could also potentially draw scrutiny.

Even for those who've transitioned, issues may arise if authorities suspect something. When traveling, it is advisable to consider bringing your court-ordered name (and gender) change papers. While terrorists may make fake identifications, they won't carry name change documents signed and notarized by a court.

In either case, be prepared to openly explain the truth about your transgender status if stopped and questioned by authorities. As frightening as this scenario may appear, hesitation or evasive answers will only draw more intense scrutiny and could possibly lead to police holding one temporarily for further interrogation. Lack of cooperation with authorities will likely be treated unfavorably and unapologetically.

"This isn't a request for everyone to be 'out and proud' or scare tactics," said Vanessa Edwards Foster, chair of the National Transgender Advocacy Coalition (NTAC). "We're trying to avoid having innocent transgenders jailed because a hesitant answer was inaccurately deemed as hiding terrorist motivations," as a result of the DHS security alert.

NTAC also asks for reports of any incidents where a transgendered party is forthcoming with all requests, and consequently is verbally or physically abused, or arrested under questionable pretense. If something of this nature occurs, we encourage those parties to keep a detailed report of all actions taken. An increased need for security should not give law enforcement a right to make personal character judgments and to abuse cooperative innocents.

"While the worst-case scenarios appear rather alarming, we don't want to discourage the community from traveling or conducting themselves as before." NTAC's Foster said. "There's still a good chance this won't affect most travelers.

"Live your lives," Foster suggested. "Just be forthright when the situation calls for it - and be prepared."

Travel smart - travel safely.

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