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GSA Network News
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Table of Contents
In this issue of GSA Network News you'll find:
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GSA Network Highlight
The National Association of GSA Networks holds 3rd Annual National Gathering!
GSA Network Announcements
1.
GSA Network Is Looking for Awesome Youth Activists for GAYLA!
2. Intern with GSA Network and No On Prop 8 in San Francisco
3. GSA Network Hiring Paid Interns for the Fall and Spring Semesters in LA
Other Announcements
Northern California
4. Lighthouse Youth Dance (East Bay)
5. Queer Youth Dance!
Southern California
6. Support Group for Parents of Transgender or Gender-Variant Youth
7. Rainbow Youth Festival! (L.A.)
8. Youth In Action Summit 2008 (Los Alamitos)
9. PeaceJam International
10. HYPE (L.A.)
11. Join the Orange County LGBT Center's Youth Bonfire!!! (Orange County)
Jobs and Scholarships
12. LYRIC Interships: Info Session August 14th! (S.F.)
13. Join the Intergenerational Storytelling Project (S.F.)
14. Release Your Inner Fabulousness!! Join ACCESS! (S.F.)
NEWS
15. NEWS: Death of a Transgender Woman Is Called a Hate Crime
16. NEWS: High school board supports gay marriage ban
17. NEWS: Fight gay-marriage ban, school trustee proposes
18. NEWS: State leg backs May 22 as "Harvey Milk Day"
19. NEWS: What same-sex marriage doesn't have to do with kindergarten
Read GSA Network News online: www.gsanetwork.org/news/networknews.html
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GSA Network Highlight
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The National Association of GSA Networks holds 3rd Annual National Gathering!
 GSA Network held our third annual National Gathering of GSA Networks in Chicago, Illinois over 4 days at the beginning of August. The gathering brought 70 youth and staff together from 13 states and one Canadian province to network and train on a multitude of GSA network specific topics.
The National Gathering is the signature program of the National Association of GSA Networks, which consists of GSA networks and coalitions in 22 states across the country. The National Association connects these groups to share best practices, curriculum, public policy advocacy tools, and organizing strategies.
This year's Gathering featured large group sessions on youth leadership models and racial justice work in GSA Networks. The sessions, which were led by California staff and youth explored how understanding various models of youth leadership and racial justice are vitally important to the work that GSA Networks do. Additionally, there were 10 workshops presented by youth and staff from 5 states on topics ranging from fundraising to transgender 101 to organizing in rural communities.
California attendee Ariel Lupton says: "The 2008 National Association of GSAs conference was rewarding because not only did I get to work on my own leadership skills by helping with several workshops, but I also took valuable information away from other workshops and learned more about simple social dynamics." Similarly Luis Perez from LA shared, "It was intense, but we had fun doing every bit of it. It's a lot of group work and we all learn so much from one another."
GSA Network's National Program Manager, Danielle Askini says: "This year was one of our biggest ever and Chicago was the perfect setting. Young people came from as far away as Oregon and Rhode Island, and all the way from Florida and New Mexico. The mix of perspectives, approaches, and experiences is what makes this gathering so powerful. Learning new ways to organize, and getting to network with other states is so helpful in envisioning the GSA movement of America.."
The overall success of the National Gathering was highlighted in participants' comments on the evaluations including:
"I now have information to give and the skills to pass it on to other youth."
"I will definitely bring more tools that are going to get other young people involved and excited about our GSAs."
"I learned how to incorporate more than just gay and straight into my GSA."
"I really enjoyed all of the workshops because they were educational and very empowering."
Next year the National Gathering will be held in Austin, TX and we hope to see even more state and regional GSA networks represented there as the GSA movement grows nationally.
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+++++++++++++ GSA NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS +++++++++++++
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Statewide Advocacy
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1. GSA Network Is Looking for Awesome Youth Activists!
GAYLA (GSA Advocacy & Youth Leadership Academy) is a three-day intensive training in policy advocacy & other important related skills. GAYLA will take place in Sacramento from October 4th - October 6th, 2008.
GSA Network is now accepting applications from young people who are interested in impacting the education system and working to implement the legislation that we've already attained. Youth (age 18 and under) in California high school and middle school Gay-Straight Alliance clubs who are strongly interested in making policy change at their schools and across the state should apply.
If you are an activist who is interested in learning more about policy advocacy, ensuring the education system implements gender identity non-discrimination laws in California schools, and developing community organizing skills - we strongly encourage you to apply. This training will lead to meetings with school administrators at the California Department of Education, California School Boards Association and other education agencies. After attending GAYLA, you will participate in a year-long campaign. You don't want to miss out on this opportunity!
To apply for GAYLA, check out our website or email [email protected] for more information or an application.
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2. Intern with GSA Network and No On Prop 8 in San Francisco!
Want to work on No On Prop 8?
GSA Network is looking for interns,
which are non-paid positions that would work a minimum of 5 hours/week between now and November 4 - election day!
Come be part of GSA Network's efforts to get GSAs and college LGBT groups involved in the campaign to defeat Prop 8. Be a part of making history!
You would do things like:
- call GSAs and get them to sign up for volunteer phone banking shifts
- help get materials out to GSAs and college groups
- help get local LGBT and non-LGBT youth organizations to endorse the No on Prop 8 Campaign
- be part of the Youth & Campus subcommittee of the No on Prop 8 SF Campaign Committee
Each intern will have a supervisor
who will be responsible for providing support, an evaluation,
and a letter of recommendation upon the conclusion of the
internship. For more information contact [email protected]
or call Carolyn @ 415-552-4229.
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Southern California
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3. GSA Network Hiring Paid Interns for the Fall and Spring Semesters in LA
Internship Description
GSA Network is looking to hire paid interns in LA for the Fall and Spring semesters. Interns will gain hands-on experience working for one of California's most dynamic LGBTQ youth-driven organization. They will gain invaluable insight about a mid-sized non-profit as well as GSA Network's particular organizational and organizing model. Interns will learn a broad range of skills while providing program and/or administrative support. This is a great way to gain hands-on experience, build up resumes, and possibly get college credits. Interns will do a variety of tasks including outreach and technical assistance to high school and middle school GSAs, curriculum development, resource sheets and program material development, working on media or press work lobbying and policy support, event planning, individual donor fundraising, database systems and and many other exciting activities. Interns also have the option to participate in staff meetings thus ensuring their voices are heard and their opinions are valued. Interns in the SoCal office will work directly with the Regional Program Coordinator, who will be responsible for providing support, an evaluation, and a letter of recommendation upon the conclusion of the internship.
Interns will be paid a competitive wage of $10 an hour. Internships are available on a part-time and full-time basis.
Intern Requirements
- Must have completed a year of college.
- A commitment to LGBTQ youth and their issues.
- Posses strong initiative & project management skills.
- Proficient in computer and Internet research skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Application Details
Applications must be submitted to Daniel Solis, Southern California Program Coordinator, by Friday, August 15th. Questions? Contact Daniel Solis: 213.482.4021 or [email protected]
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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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Northern California
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4. Lighthouse Youth Dance (East Bay)
Theme: "Lighthouse Luau"
Saturday September 6, 2008
6-9pm
Where: The Lighthouse Community Center
1217 A Street
Hayward, CA 94541
(Between the Reptile Room and A Street Caf�)
Refreshments will be served.
$5 suggested donation
Dress: Hawaiian shirts, shorts, grass skirts, tank tops, and summer wear. Casual!
School and CA ID's will be checked to verify age (one must be under 24).
More Info? Contact Tina: [email protected]
5. Queer Youth Dance!
Lyric celebrates 20 years!
Saturday, October 18th
SAVE THE DATE! LYRIC is celebrating its 20th year and what better way to celebrate than to throw a hot party! All queer youth 24 & under are invited to get down to good MUSIC and good FUN! Stay tuned for more details!
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Southern California
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6. Support Group for Parents of Transgender or Gender-Variant Youth
Saturday, August 23
3:30-5pm
Sunday, September 28
3:30-5pm
Room: TBA
L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza
1125 N. McCadden Place
Los Angeles, CA 90038
This free, confidential group is for parents, guardians and other caregivers (grandmothers, foster parents) whose children identify as transgender or gender-questioning, or who just express their gender in ways you have trouble with. Come to share your story and find support among other adults whose children are exploring and struggling with the difficult issue of gender identity. Please do not bring your children with you; this is a group for parents, caregivers and family only. This group will be held at least monthly, depending on demand and participation.
Questions and more information - please contact:
Corye Goodman at (240) 461-9317 [email protected]
Jen Durham, MSW at (314) 323-4775 or [email protected]
Refreshments will be provided
7. Rainbow Youth Festival! (L.A.)
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2008
Time: 2 to 9 PM
The Fourth Annual Rainbow Youth Festival will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2008, at the Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N. McCadden Place, Los Angeles.
The Festival is an outreach event and resource fair organized by representatives from the LA Gay & Lesbian Center, Gay & Lesbian Adolescent Social Services (MOHOP), Bienestar Human Services and LifeWorks Mentoring. The event provides a safe and healthy place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, ages 15 to 24, and their friends, to learn about community resources, socialize, meet friends and make new friends. Attractions at the event will include resources tables, performances, "dunk" tank, face painting, a live DJ, dance, talent show and youth entertainment.
8. Youth In Action Summit 2008 (Los Alamitos)
August 21st, 9:30am to 12:30pm
Casa Youth Shelter and Youth Development Program Present their: 5th Annual Teen Summit
at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church is located at 11600 Los Alamitos Blvd., Los Alamitos, CA 90720.
This conference is designed for young women and young men ages 13 and over. Our goal is to educated youth about Violence prevention, DUI and seat belt safety training, Drugs and Alcohol , provide alternatives, and to empower them to build safe and healthy relationships with others. There is NO CHARGE for this teen summit and all students in attendance will be provided with complimentary continental breakfast and take home snacks.
Please contact Maribel Contreras, Psy.D at Casa Youth Shelter at [email protected] or (562)594-6825 or (714) 995-8601 if you would like to make a reservation for your group or if you inquire further information.
9. PeaceJam International
Change Starts Here. Sign up for the PeaceJam International Youth Conference Today!
On September 11-13th, 2008, 7 Nobel Peace Laureates including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Rigoberta Menchu Tum, Jody Williams, Shirin Ebadi, Prime Minister Jose Ramos Horta, Adolfo Perez Esquivel and Betty Williams are joining 3,000 high school students from 37 different countries right here in Los Angeles! The Dalai Lama will present via live internet feed and United States President Hopefuls Barack Obama and John McCain have both been invited to attend this international youth conference as well!
Because youth have historically been at the forefront of social movements, the Laureates have called on young people of our world, inspiring them to make "over a billion acts of service and peace" in the next 10 years.
The conference features workshops and service projects held in LA communities led by local peace leaders. Some youth participants will showcase their youth-created Global Call to Action projects from around the world. There will be tons of international media coverage of the entire event!
We need the voice, talent, commitment and energy of your students to create positive change in our communities. It's time for youth to step up and define our future! Because LGBT youth are popular targets for violence and hate, the PeaceJam International Conference would be a wonderful opportunity for LGBT youth to gain the tools they need to be effective peace makers and leaders in their communities. At this exciting time in LGBT history, it is more important than ever to train our next generation of LGBT leaders to continue our fight for acceptance and equality.
Registration for this event is $345 for youth (ages 13 to 25) and for adults (adults only permitted if accompanying at least 3 youth), and space is limited.
Scholarships are available, but we are working all summer on fundraising to gain as many scholarships for Southern California youth as possible. We will be hosting a fundraising event called OnePeace held on August 19th as well. (View attachment)
For more information about this world-class event or to submit a group application on-line, visit http://www.peacejam.org/gcaconference/ or email me at [email protected].
10. HYPE (L.A.)
A meeting for gay/bi/queer asian youth
Thu 8/14 at 7pm
Join other 14-25 year old asian & pacific islander gay/bisexual/queer & questioning guys at the APAIT HYPE meetings at Plummer Park. Every 1st, 2nd, and 4th Thursday.
Plummer Park - 7377 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046
For more info contact Manny Padua - [email protected], 213-553-1839
11. Join the Orange County LGBT Center's Youth Bonfire!!! (Orange County)
Bring your swimsuit, towel, ipod, chair, etc. to the bonfire.
The bonfire will take place on Saturday, August 17 @ 4 p.m. on Pacific
Coast Highway & Beach (in Huntington Beach).
For more information contact the Center:
12752 Garden Grove Blvd.
Suite 101
Garden Grove, CA 92843
714-534-0862 ext. 206
www.myspace.com/lgbt_youth_program
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+++++++++++++ JOBS AND SCHOLARSHIPS +++++++++++++ |
Jobs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 12. LYRIC Interships: Info Session August 14th! (S.F.) Are you Young, Queer and Loud? The LYRIC Internship Program is offering LGBTQQ youth 14-24 years old the opportunity to work in a SF non-profit, gain work experience, strengthen your community and get PAID to do it! Join QYTC - a Queer Training Collaborative designed for youth Get job training (learn how to get and keep a job)! Work 10-15 hours a week plus get an hourly wage! Gain knowledge & experience! Meet new friends! Find a community or make a new one! Have FUN! Interested? Orientation is the 1ststep! Thursday, August 14th, 2008 4-6pm - 1st Floor SAVE YOUR SPOT NOW! SPACE IS LIMITED. Where: 127 Collingwood Street between 18th & 19th in the Castro Contact: RSVP to Mercedes at 415.703.6150 x 21 or [email protected]. 13. Join the Intergenerational Storytelling Project! (S.F.) Calling all LGBTQQ identified young people--JOIN the INTERGENERATIONAL STORYTELLING PROJECT, a collaborative project of LYRIC OutLoud Radio, and New Leaf Services. This project is a unique opportunity to *create history *learn about queer history *exchange life stories with LGBT elders *and GET PAID $10 an hour!!! Information Session: August 14th 4-6pm @ LYRIC Project Begins September 17th!!! For more info, contact Toni [email protected]14. Release Your Inner Fabulousness!! Join ACCESS! (S.F.) Get Paid For Being Queer $$$$$ What's the ACCESS Project? The ACCESS Project is a collaborative pilot project of Community United Against Violence, LYRIC, and Youth In Focus. Youth and adults in the project work together to partner with local community based organizations to improve their services to queer youth. Over the course of 9 months, you will conduct a needs assessment to gauge what these organizations are doing well and what they need to improve, write trainings based on the results of needs assessment, facilitate those trainings and help apply recommendations that we make to these organizations. Our Values We are committed to social justice and progressive change. We are a community-based youth-adult partnership. We are committed to breaking down historical barriers within our communities through sharing and dialogue. We are committed to building stronger, more diverse, and more vital communities. What You'll Get Out of It In this 10 month internship, $10/hr. How to Join Come out to the ACCESS Intern Information Session Thursday, September 4, 2008 127 Collingwood Street Begins at 4 pm and ends at 6 pm Please be on time Or Contact Jaedon at: 415.703.6150 x13 [email protected] |
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15. NEWS: Death of a Transgender Woman Is Called a Hate Crime
By Dan Frosch
New York Times
August 2, 2008
GREELEY, Colo. - Angie Zapata began living as a woman six years ago even though she was born male and named Justin.
Friends said Angie Zapata, who was found dead on July 17, was a glamorous figure in Greeley.
While Ms. Zapata, 18, was accepted by her many friends and five siblings, she was bullied in school and at times was lonely and troubled, an older sister, Monica, said. Eventually, Ms. Zapata dropped out of school and got her own apartment here in Greeley.
It was in that apartment that Ms. Zapata's badly beaten body was found on July 17.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/02/us/02murder.html
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16. NEWS: High school board supports gay marriage ban
San Diego Union-Tribune
August 1, 2008
The Grossmont Union High School District went on record yesterday supporting a November initiative that would ban same-sex marriage in California.
The board voted 4-0 to pass a resolution endorsing Proposition 8, which would amend the state Constitution to recognize marriage only between a man and a woman.
Trustee Richard Hoy abstained.
Several board members urged the board not to vote for the resolution, saying Proposition 8 had nothing to do with education.
Grossmont is believed to be the first public school board in the state to endorse the initiative.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/education/20080801-9999-1m1b8fill2.html
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17. NEWS: Fight gay-marriage ban, school trustee proposes
Some in San Leandro, elsewhere say matter is beyond district's purview
By Kristofer Noceda
The Daily Review
8/05/2008
SAN LEANDRO - The San Leandro school board may go where very few, if any, school districts have gone before. Trustee Stephen Cassidy has suggested a resolution for the board to oppose Proposition 8, which if passed by voters in November would ban gay marriage in California.
The board has not acted on the proposal, except to pass the matter on to an advisory committee for further discussion.
Proposition 8 might seem to have no direct impact on education. But Cassidy said his reasons have to do with the board's duty to defend the state constitution, and to protect the integrity of the board's efforts to promote inclusiveness on its campuses.
To read the full story, visit:
http://www.insidebayarea.com/dailyreview/localnews/ci_10080513
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18. NEWS: State leg backs May 22 as "Harvey Milk Day"
LA Times
August 5, 2008
The California Senate split along party lines Tuesday in narrowly approving legislation that would require the governor to proclaim May 22 of each year as Harvey Milk Day, in honor of the slain gay rights activist and member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
Sen. Sheila Kuehl (D-Santa Monica) said the bill by Assemblyman Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) was appropriate to honor a man who, in 1977, became the first openly gay elected official of any large city in the United States and later made the cover of Time Magazine.
"His legacy as a civil rights leader is still felt today," she said.
To read the full story, visit:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2008/08/state-leg-says.html
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19. NEWS: What same-sex marriage doesn't have to do with kindergarten
LA Times
August 8, 2008
The backers of Proposition 8 argue that the ban on same-sex marriage is about protecting school children.
>From what?
According to the pro-Prop. 8 ballot argument -- which is being challenged in court, with the case expected to be heard today -- same-sex marriage isn't about "live and let live." No, it contends, a continuation of same-sex marriage would force on our children, from the earliest years of grade school, a curriculum that teaches that gay marriage is fine.
"State education laws require teachers to instruct children as young as kindergarteners about marriage," the argument reads. "If the gay marriage ruling is not overturned, then teachers will be required to teach young children that there is no difference between gay marriage and traditional marriage....That is an issue for parents to discuss with their children according to their own values and beliefs. It should not be forced on us against our will."
The only problem is that everything about this argument isn't just specious, it's just wrong.
To read the full article, visit:
http://opinion.latimes.com/opinionla/2008/08/what-same-sex-m.html
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empowering youth activists to fight homophobia and transphobia
Gay-Straight Alliance Network
1550 Bryant Street, Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94103
415.552.4229 (Phone)
415.552.4729 (Fax)
[email protected]
http://www.gsanetwork.org |
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