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GSA Network News Email Archive - February 2007

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February 28, 2007

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

GSA Network Highlight
Students Will Advocate for Some of the Strongest Non-Discrimination Protections in the Country at Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Richmond)
3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (South Los Angeles)
4. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager
5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
6. Learn Great Skills as a GSA Network Intern! (San Francisco)
7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
8. The Vagina Monologues @ UCR! (Riverside)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
9. Women's Educational Media Training (Concord)
10. AQU25A Film-Making Series (San Francisco)
11. YouthAware Educational Theatre Presents the World Premiere OutSpoken Tour! (Bay Area)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
12. GSA Program Assistant/SFSU Graduate Student Is Seeking Your Input for a Study!
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
13. Experiences of Sexual Minorities Questionnaire
14. The Trevor Project
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
15. Deadline is March 1! Point Foundation Accepting Applications
16. Deadline is March 2! Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards!
17. San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG Scholarship Program
Go directly to Scholarships listings

Jobs
18. COLAGE Development Manager (San Francisco)
19. SOUL Summer School Program Associate (Oakland)
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
20. NEWS: States Seek Laws to Curb Online Bullying
21. NEWS: Utah Passes Bill To Curb Gay-Straight Student Clubs
22. NEWS: Mormon Family Sues Santa Rosa Schools Over Pro-Gay Policies
23. NEWS: Federal Judge Throws Out Lawsuit Over Gay Discussions in Classroom
24. NEWS: Protecting All Students
Go directly to News listings

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

Students Will Advocate for Some of the Strongest Non-Discrimination Protections in the Country at Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007

We're less than four weeks away from Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007 (March 26)-California's biggest statewide education and advocacy day for youth activists fighting for safer school and the rights of LGBTQ and straight ally youth. Hundreds of youth are going to rock the Capitol!

This event is going to be a HUGE one where youth from all corners of the state will be learning about and advocating for important legislation that seeks to help wipe out the discrimination and harassment and help create safer, more supportive schools for LGBTQ and ally youth.

SB 777, authored by Senator Sheila Kuehl (D-Santa Monica) would update California's Education Code and ensure the strengthening and uniformity of all non-discrimination policies governing all publicly funded schools and education programs, including regular public schools, charter schools, alternative schools, and post-high school educational
institutions. In short, all students in publicly funded California schools and educational programs would be equally protected from harassment and discrimination. The legislation also makes very clear the legal responsibility of school districts to protect students. If passed, it would mean California students would have some of the best
non-discrimination protection in the entire country.

We will also be telling you in the next couple of weeks about another still-developing bill that would make clear some of the specific steps schools need to take to make sure students are safe. This bill is similar to AB 606 (The Safe Place to Learn Act) that GSA Network supported last year.

To find out more about Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007, please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org/qyad. To participate, you must register at http://www.eqca.org/qyad/2007/.

Queer Youth Advocacy Day is a youth-led day of lobbying, advocacy training, and educational workshops at the Capitol in Sacramento on March 26, 2007. It's a super opportunity for hundreds of CA youth activists just like you to unite and educate lawmakers on the needs of LGBTQ youth and what is needed to end harassment and discrimination in school. This event is co-sponsored by GSA Network, Bienestar, and Equality California.

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

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1. GSA Power T-shirt & More - Buy today!

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

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

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

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

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

So, help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

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

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2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Richmond)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on Sunday, March 11th from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

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

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Sunday, March 11th. from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: The RYSE Center: Youth Down for Change
205 41st. Street at Bissell, Richmond, CA 94805
COST: Free!

NOTE: Although The RYSE Center is scheduled to open its doors in Spring 2008, we are grateful to be able to utilize their facilities and celebrate the birth of this project.

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org

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3. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (South Los Angeles)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on March 17, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

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

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 2007, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Dorsey High School
3537 Farmdale Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90016
323-298-8400
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Carlos Cabrera, GSA Network Southern California Program Coordinator, at 213-534-7162 or mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org

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4. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager

GSA Network is seeking a National Program Manager to oversee the development and management of its new national programs. Over the past two years, GSA Network has embarked on an exciting national expansion. In 2005, GSA Network founded the National Association of GSA Networks, which brings together youth and adult leaders from state and regional GSA networking groups in nearly 20 states to network and share best practices for GSA organizing.

Additionally, GSA Network has piloted a replication of its model for GSA organizing in New Mexico, helping the Santa Fe Mountain Center establish the New Mexico GSA Network. In 2006, GSA Network completed a national expansion strategic plan that formalizes its national training and replication activities. GSA Network's national program will further the organization's mission by expanding its unique youth-driven, state-based program model nationally - adding an important voice to the LGBT, safe schools, and social justice movements.

The National Program Manager is responsible for running GSA Network's national programs, including supporting the core current operations of the National Association of GSA Networks and the development and coordination of our National Training and Replication Program.

To view the entire job description and learn how to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about

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5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with GSA Network. Do it NOW to make sure you receive our student resource sheets, FREE posters, other resources, and notifications of future GSA Network or LGBT-related events. Please note that mailings will go out only to California GSAs in middle and high schools.

Register online at http://www.gsanetwork.org/register/index.html

For more info, email Tanya Mayo at mailto:tanya@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229

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6. Learn Great Skills as a GSA Network Intern! (San Francisco)

Intern call outs!

What's in it for you?
As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience working for California's most dynamic LGBTQ youth-led organization. You will gain invaluable insight about a mid-sized non-profit and GSA Network's particular organizational and organizing models. You will also learn a broad range of skills while providing program and/or administrative support.

Duties May Include
*Outreach and technical assistance to high school and middle school GSAs
*Curriculum, resource sheet, and program material development
*Media or press work
*Lobbying and policy
*Event planning
*Individual donor fundraising
*Organizational spin-off
*Database systems.

Interns also have the option of participating in staff meetings, thus ensuring that their voices will be heard and that their opinions are valued. 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.

Please note that this is a non-paid position and that the internship is for our San Francisco office.

Your Responsibilities
*If you are student, your school must take responsibility for setting the number of credits for the internship
*If you are coming from a considerable distance, you are responsible for your own housing, living expenses, and any other costs.

How to Apply
Please contact Kiely for an application. Thank you for applying!

Kiely Hosmon
Program Assistant
Phone - 415-552-4229
Fax - 415-552-4729
mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org

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7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/ycapp.html

The GSA Network Youth Council is a diverse group of youth leaders from GSAs all over California. As a member of the Youth Council, you will learn skills to become a stronger activist and work toward creating a safer climate at your school for LGBTQ youth and straight allies. You will get support around mounting a campaign, planning events, and starting a GSA club on your campus. In addition, Youth Council members are responsible for giving input to GSA Network and helping to guide our programs. Youth Council members will represent the needs of GSAs and youth activists from their geographic region, as well as plan events and lead peer-to-peer workshops, leadership trainings, advocacy trainings, and activist camps.

As a member of the Youth Council, you will have monthly opportunities to
* Network with youth from throughout your region
* Get peer and staff support and feedback on your ongoing campaign, action, or event
* Give input on GSA Network's programs, policies, and curriculum development.

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

Requirements
* Willingness to commit to serving on Youth Council for one year
* Commitment to creating change for LGBTQ youth and fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools
* Interest in developing GSA Network and suggesting ideas to strengthen it
* Must be a student in a public or private middle or high school in California.

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

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 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.

Southern California
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8. The Vagina Monologues @ UCR! (Riverside)

Wednesday, February 28, 2007
8:00pm @ TBA

Sunday, March 4, 2007
5:00pm @ TBA

Wednesday, March 7, 2007
8:00pm @ TBA

Tickets prices TBA
Fine Arts Ticket Office, 951.862.4331 (Visa/MC)
Parking $5 in Lot 1

Beneficiaries onclude the Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center.
Presented by The Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance

Email mailto:vmonologues_ucr@yahoo.com for more info

V-Day UCR is supported by Women's Resource Center, Women's Studies, LGBT Resource CenterThe V-day UC Riverside Campaign has raised over $20,000 in five years for local organizations dedicated to ending violence against women!

What is V-day?
V-Day is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. V-Day is a palpable energy, a fierce catalyst that promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise money, and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations. V-Day generates broader attention for the fight to stop worldwide violence against women and girls including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexual slavery. V-Day provides funding to create and nurture innovative programs to stop the violence.

Through V-Day campaigns, local volunteers and college students produce annual benefit performances of "The Vagina Monologues" to raise awareness and funds for anti-violence groups within their own communities. V-Day itself stages large-scale benefits and promotes innovative gatherings and programs (The Afghan Women's Summit, The Stop Rape Contest, Indian Country Project, and more) to change social attitudes towards violence against women. In 2002, more than 800 V-Day benefit events were presented by local volunteer activists around the world, educating millions of people about the reality of violence against women and girls.

The V-Day movement is growing at a rapid pace throughout the world. V-Day, a non-profit corporation, distributes funds to grassroots, national, and international organizations and programs that work to stop violence against women and girls. V-Day was named one of Worth Magazine's "100 Best Charities" in 2001. In its first five years, the V-Day movement has raised over $14 million, with over $7 million raised in 2002 alone.

The 'V' in V-Day stands for Victory, Valentine and Vagina.
(Excerpted from the http://www.vday.org website. To find out more information on the world-wide movement to stop violence against women and girls, please visit http://csw.ucr.edu/v-day)

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Northern California
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9. Women's Educational Media Training (Concord)

Ally Action and Respect for all Project are collaborating to create a peer-led version of Women's Educational Media's Film "Let's Get Real".

Let's Get Real (2003) takes an honest and unflinching look at the epidemic of name-calling and bullying among middle school youth today. Told entirely from a youth perspective, Let's Get Real features not only kids who are targeted, but also the youth who do the bullying and the allies who intervene when they witness harassment.

Ally Action is looking for peer educators to help lead in-class workshops on BULLYING!
• Are you between the ages of 14 and 22?
• Are you interested in making Contra Costa schools safe for all students?
• Would you like to earn some extra cash while making a difference?

JOIN US!
NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

Training will take place on
SATURDAY, MARCH 3
10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Where:
the Ally Action office
1924 Grant Street, Concord, CA 94520

If you're interested, then please contact Jillian Ross (Ally Action– Program Coordinator) at mailto:jillian@allyaction.org or 925.685.5480

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10. AQU25A Film-Making Series (San Francisco)

Want to be the next Ang Lee? Got an Academy Award winner brewing in your brain just waiting to be filmed? Ever wanted to learn how to write scripts, shoot video and edit your own film?

You can! Be a part of our FREE film-making series!

The series will be adminstered by TILT (Teaching Intermedia Literacy Tools) and begins on March 14th

Sessions are from 3:30-5:30 and will be held at the Richmond Village Beacon Center (Washington High campus)

For questions contact Lance at mailto:Ldwyer@apiwellness.org or check out TILT at http://www.tiltmedia.org

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11. YouthAware Educational Theatre Presents the World Premiere OutSpoken Tour! (Bay Area)

Now Booking – OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas – A Diversity Education Play for Teens

Touring Northern California Schools and Communities from April 10th – 26th 2007

From the same company that produces The Other Side of the Closet tour in the fall, our newest YouthAware Educational Theatre touring program, OutSpoken by Prince Gomolvilas, will be Northern California from April 20th – 26th 2007.

OutSpoken is a play for teens grades 7-12 that educates about diversity and differences, and looks at the many reasons young people feel ostracized or labeled in school, at home and in their community including race, sexual orientation, body type, etc. OutSpoken takes a unique look at these issues from different perspectives, and helps teens think about labeling and diversity within their own community.

Through OutSpoken, we hope young people will find new ways to move past their differences to a real place of understanding and acceptance. Each performance is about 65-75 minutes in length including a facilitated discussion with the actor-educators following the play. OutSpoken may be performed in any theater, gym, or other multipurpose space. We travel with out own set and sound equipment and do not require any special lighting.

OutSpoken would be a great program to accompany or compliment any Day of Silence events at your school, and/or for your GSA club to sponsor. It is produced by the YouthAware Educational Theatre Program with the New Conservatory Theatre Center based in San Francisco.

For more information, or to book a performance, contact Sara Staley at (415) 694-6149 or email mailto:sara@nctcsf.org.

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Statewide
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12. GSA Program Assistant/SFSU Graduate Student Is Seeking Your Input for a Study!

Hi to all you fabulous GSA members!

I am currently a Masters student in Women Studies at San Francisco State University. I’m working on a research project that is titled “That Doesn’t Happen Here”: Addressing Racism in California Gay-Straight Alliances. I’d like to survey youth who are still in high school and who are still involved with their GSAs about how they incorporate and discuss issues of race and/or racism.

If you feel that you have something important to say about this topic and would like to be interviewed please feel free to email me at mailto:khosmon@gmail.com.

People who, like you, are under 18, must have parental permission to participate in research. At the same time, for example, you may not yet be “out” to your parents or your parents may not know or approve of your involvement with the Gay-Straight Alliance, and for this reason, you do not want to give them a consent form to sign. If that is the case, please ask me for a waiver of parental permission, which will allow you to participate in my research while still maintaining your privacy. If you’re interested, I will get that to you through snail mail (or if you have access to a fax machine, I could fax it to you). Upon its return, I will then email you the link to Survey Monkey, a secured website.

My larger goal is to have your input in creating new curriculum addressing issues of race and/or racism so that GSAs have a handy tool for multi-issue organizing!

And don’t worry about having to meet me somewhere in San Francisco. I’m going to do all interviews by internet, so no one has to make any ridiculous treks across California and neither do I!

Participation in this research is voluntary. You may stop your participation at any time and/or leave any question blank. Your completion and electronic submission of this survey is a sign of your consent to participate in this research. If you have any questions, please contact me, Kiely, at mailto:khosmon@gmail.com or my advisor Dr. Julia Hua at mailto:jyhua@sfsu.edu.

Thank you in advance, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Kiely Hosmon

GSA Network Program Assistant
SFSU Grad Student

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National
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13. Experiences of Sexual Minorities Questionnaire

Dear Participants,
My name is Melanie Morrison and I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Saskatchewan. I am also the Co-Chair of the Canadian Psychological Association's Section on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGII; http://www.cpa.ca/sections/sexualorientationandgenderidentityissues/.

I, along with my research assistant, Rebecca Quaale, are currently conducting a study looking at sexual minorities' exposure to prejudice and discrimination and how this can affect health and well-being. As you may be aware, there is a dearth of research actually documenting the experiences of sexual minority persons and how this influences
their health in a Canadian context.

We would like to invite ANY individual who identifies as gay or lesbian to participate in our study by going to: http://www.socialjusticeresearch.com. As well, please feel free to circulate the link to ANY friends, family members, and/or colleagues you think might be interested in participating. THE SURVEY LINK CAN ALSO BE SENT TO WOMEN AND MEN WHO DO NOT LIVE IN CANADA.

Please note that participants are not required to put any identifying information such as their name, address, or e-mail on the questionnaire. This way, participants can feel comfortable answering questions honestly and feel confident that, because we cannot identify any one person, all of the information they provide will be anonymous. The survey has been approved by the Ethics Review Board (beh 05-02) of the University of Saskatchewan and is funded by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation.

This study is intended to document the types of experiences lesbian women and gay men may be having in this country, and your participation is extremely important and valued. Further, this understanding is critical given the current social, legal, and political climate in Canada and other countries abroad.

We would be happy to answer your questions and respond to any comments you might have about the study, and our contact information is located below. We greatly appreciate your consideration and support, and hope to hear from you soon.

Melanie A. Morrison, PhD &
Co-Chair of the Canadian Psychological Association's Section on Sexual
Orientation and Gender Identity Issues (SOGII)
Department of Psychology, 9 Campus Drive, Arts Building
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sk. S7N 5A5
Phone: (306) 966-2564; Email: mailto:melanie.morrison@usask.ca

In the event that I am unavailable, please contact:

Rebecca Quaale, BA (Hons.), Research Assistant
Phone (306) 966-1773; email: mailto:req596@mail.usask.ca

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14. The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock suicide prevention helpline for gay and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline, 866.4.U.TREVOR, is a free and confidential service that offers hope through its trained counselors. In addition to the helpline, the organization's website provides information on identifying and assisting potentially suicidal youth and "Dear Trevor", a confidential resource where youth can ask questions about sexual orientation and identity issues.

The Trevor Project also provides lifesaving guidance and vital resources to educators and parents. The organization was founded by three filmmakers whose film, Trevor, about a teenager who attempts suicide after realizing that he might be gay, received the 1994 Academy Award® for Best Short Film (Live Action).

For more information about The Trevor Project, please visit http://www.thetrevorproject.org. The Trevor Project is a 501 (c)(3) organization.

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Scholarships
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15. Deadline is March 1! Point Foundation Accepting Applications

The Point Foundation, the nation's largest nonprofit foundation supporting academic achievement in higher education among LGBT youth, recently announced major changes, including relocating its base of operations to Los Angeles and naming Jorge Valencia as its new executive director.

"Despite gains in civil rights and progress in our culture, a great number of LGBT youth in this country face enormous challenges simply because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Due to this fact, and to Point Foundation's increased outreach, we expect a significant increase in applications this year," Valencia told IN. "It's quite inspiring to meet so many outstanding LGBT students who represent this community's future leaders. To be a part of this process is both a great honor and a great responsibility."

All LGBT students who will be enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs for the 2007-08 school year are encouraged to apply for the prestigious, multi-year scholarships. Applications are currently being accepted through March 1.

MtvU, MTV's 24-hour college network, will partner with Point

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16. Deadline is March 2! Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards!

Wanted: Brave LGBTQ Youth!

Reward: Ten Thousand Dollars Each!

The Colin Higgins Foundation is requesting nominations for its annual Youth Courage Awards. Each year the Colin Higgins Foundation salutes LGBTQ individuals who demonstrate courage in the face of adversity and discrimination based on gender and/or sexual orientation.

Many LGBTQ Youth grow up in family, school and community environments that threaten their well being. They find themselves ostracized, marginalized, in psychological or even physical danger. Colin Higgins Foundation Youth Courage Award winners rise above such circumstances to inspire others by taking action, rallying support, and working to transform the systems and institutions that impact their lives.

This year the Foundation will be awarding $10,000 grants to:
* Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirit, Queer and Questioning youth (through age 24) who have bravely stood up to hostility and intolerance based on their gender and/or sexual orientation and triumphed over bigotry through working for LGBTQ rights and social justice.

The deadline for all nominations is 5pm (Pacific Standard Time) Friday, March 2, 2007.

Late nominations will not be accepted.

The Foundation encourages all nominations to be made via the online submission tool, which can be found at: http://www.colinhiggins.org/courageawards/nomin_mat.cfm or http://www.colinhiggins.org.

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17.San Jose/Peninsula PFLAG Scholarship Program

Our PFLAG chapter is offering five $2,000.00 scholarships (four to graduating seniors and one to a community college student who will be transferring) to students currently enrolled in schools in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County who will be attending an accredited college, university or business/technical school during 2007.

These scholarships will be given to individuals (LGBTQ and allies) whose educational history, personal plans and activities demonstrate support for justice and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons. These awards are provided with the understanding that the funds will be used to offset the cost of tuition, books or required fees.

Application deadline: Postmarked by Friday, March 31, 2007

Winners must attend a PFLAG Awards reception on Wednesday evening, May 9, 2007 from 7-9- PM at the First Congregational Church, 1980 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125.

For detailed instructions and the application, please see our web site at http://www.pflagsanjose.org

For questions, please contact Maribeth Ament 408-554-6852 or mailto:pflag.scholarship@yahoo.com

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Jobs:
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18. COLAGE Development Manager (San Francisco)

Position Objective & Overview
COLAGE seeks a Development Manager to develop, coordinate & implement major components of the organization's annual fund development plan and development department systems. The Development Manager helps ensure the growth and financial health of COLAGE by gathering and increasing resources, promoting visibility and securing long term support through a variety of fund development strategies, including but not limited to: grassroots fundraising, individual and family donor cultivation, events coordination, promotional communications, and corporate sponsorships/business partnerships. The Development Manager also strengthens the development infrastructure and helps build the capacity and sustainability of the organization through successful and innovative planning, administrative, financial, and data management activities and improvements.

About COLAGE
Founded in 1990, COLAGE engages, connects, and empowers people to make the world a better place for children of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) parents and families. We break the social isolation and discrimination faced by children of LGBT parents and families and secure respect, dignity and rights for ourselves, our families and all marginalized children, youth and families. Through an integrated array of peer networks and community building, youth empowerment and leadership development, political advocacy and public education, COLAGE prepares and mobilizes children, youth and adults with LGBT parents to take action for systematic change and social justice.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Fund Development & Donor Cultivation
2. Tools/Systems Maintenance & Data Processing
3. Communications & Merchandise Management

For a more detailed list of responsibilities, please contact COLAGE.

Qualifications/Ideal Candidate
· At least 3 years relevant work experience that indicates a knowledge of and track record of success in fund development, including: demonstrated success with grassroots fundraising, individual donor development, event coordination, outreach/organizational promotion, corporate relations, merchandising, data processing and formal fund development training in the non-profit sector or significant related for-profit sector marketing, public relations and communications experience.
· Computer fluency, comfort and familiarity using common software programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and FileMaker Pro. Proven ability to conduct data processing and management, mail merges, spreadsheets, desktop publishing. Internet savvy. Intermediate web skills a plus.
· Outstanding typing/data entry skills and excellent attention to detail and accuracy a must.
· Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with a wide range of donors and adapt to a variety of settings and audiences. Ability to maintain confidentiality and privacy of donor information.
· Superior oral and written communication and listening skills; must be a creative thinker and persuasive speaker and writer. Enthusiastic about inviting people to participate in and support our work.
· Excellent organizational skills including proven ability to manage multiple priorities and projects concurrently; effectively and reliably meet deadlines; work independently; establish new systems; and create a streamlined, productive development program.
· Strong interpersonal skills, enthusiastic team player with a demonstrated ability to work and cultivate relationships with people from a variety of different racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, educational, religious, sexual, gender, and generational backgrounds.
· Demonstrated commitment to youth empowerment, social justice, anti-oppression work, and LGBTQ rights.
· Fluency in language(s) in addition to English considered a plus (please note in cover letter or on resume).

Work Schedule, Compensation, and Benefits
Salary: FTE salary is $35,000 - 40,000 DOE. Hours: full-time (40 hrs/week); occasional travel, eves and weekends required. Status: Exempt. Supervisor: Executive Director. Supervises: Volunteers, Intern(s) as assigned. Benefits: Health insurance for medical, dental, vision, acupuncture/chiropractic care; vacation, sick, and holiday time; annual educational/training stipend; outstanding opportunity to help grow a leading youth, LGBT, family organization working for social justice. Location: San Francisco, CA.

COLAGE is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. People of color and people with LGBT parents are strongly encouraged to apply.

To Apply
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE by 5pm, Friday MARCH 9, 2007
PLEASE SEND YOUR APPLICATION BY POSTAL MAIL... NOT EMAIL
Include your resume, a cover letter reflecting answers to the guiding questions below, and names of 3 references (w/contact info) that can speak to your abilities.

Note: Interviews begin 3/1/07; early submission is encouraged. Only those applicants selected for an interview will receive a response. Candidates invited to second interview will be asked to submit a writing sample, such as an appeal, published article, brochure and/or event invitation.

Guiding Questions for Cover Letter:
* What brought you to social justice work?
* What interests you about working with COLAGE in this position?
* What do you see as some creative forms of resource development beyond foundation fundraising?

Mail to:
Development Manager Hiring Committee
COLAGE
1550 Bryant Street, Ste. 830
San Francisco, CA 94103

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19. SOUL Summer School Program Associate (Oakland)

SOUL, School Of Unity & Liberation – Job Available
Summer School Program Associate (April – August 2007)

Start Date: April 2007 - Position open until filled.

Our Mission:
Since 1996, The School Of Unity & Liberation, SOUL, is a training center to develop a new multi-racial generation of young organizers – especially women, people of color, queer folks and working-class people – who will have the skills and vision they need to struggle for the liberation of all oppressed people. SOUL strives to support the growing social justice movement – designing political education, organizing skills training and technical assistance programs to meet the distinct needs of our generation.

Responsibilities for SOUL's Summer School Program Associate include:
• Aide in pre-planning, program execution and evaluation of the 12th annual SOUL Summer School (SSS).
• Coordinate and facilitate summer interns’ local housing and travel.
• Run the logistical operations of the SSS, from securing food donations to planning and executing interns’ site mixer.
• Assist in facilitation and overall coordination of weekend training, May 5th, 2007.
• Be available to co-train several organizing skills trainings and political education trainings, as needed.
• Serve as grassroots fundraising liaison between Co-Director and summer interns.
• Coordinate limited video documentation of SSS 2007.
• Build & maintain strong relationships with SSS interns.
• Develop and begin to implement Alumni tracking, starting with contacting and mapping past SSS alumni.
• Shadow supervision check-ins between interns and SSS co-coordinator, TBD.
• General staff tasks as needed (i.e. administrative tasks, program evaluation and planning, fundraising).

Qualifications for the Summer School Program Associate position:
• Must understand the importance of, and be committed to, educating youth—especially young people of color and low-income youth—between the ages of 17 and 25.
• Have experience in facilitating and training.
• Hold a high level of discipline, accountability and follow through.
• Have an interest and openness to combining radical politics and organizing.
• Be open to engaging in facilitative leadership.
• Must have a radical political analysis and hold a strong desire to help build a broader social justice movement.
• Direct organizing experience in community, labor, youth, or student organizing preferred.
• Bilingual English and Spanish,Tagalog, or Cantonese a plus.

Employment Status and Compensation:
The position is full time on SOUL’s regular staff salary ($32,000/year) April - August 2007, with the possibility of being hired on as permanent staff member post-summer. Some nights and weekends required.
Full Medical and Dental benefits are provided, paid vacation, paid sick-time, and self-care stipend.

How to Apply:
E-mail or mail a cover letter, resume and two references to:
SOUL / SSPA Search: 287 17th Street, Suite #225, Oakland, CA 94612, or mailto:soul@schoolofunityandliberation.org

Applications Due: March 12th, 2007

People of color, women, immigrants, LGBTQ, and working class candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants from outside the region are welcomed to apply.

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NEWS
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20. NEWS: States Seek Laws to Curb Online Bullying

By JUSTIN M. NORTON

PROVIDENCE, R.I. Feb 21, 2007 (AP)— Ryan Patrick Halligan was bullied for months online. Classmates sent the 13-year-old Essex Junction, Vt., boy instant messages calling him gay. He was threatened, taunted and insulted incessantly by so-called cyberbullies.

In 2003, Ryan killed himself.

" He just went into a deep spiral in eighth grade. He couldn't shake this rumor," said Ryan's father, John Halligan, who became a key proponent of a state law that forced Vermont schools to put anti-bullying rules in place. He's now pushing for a broader law to punish cyberbullying often done at home after school and wants every other state to enact laws expressly prohibiting it.

States from Oregon to Rhode Island are considering crackdowns to curb or outlaw the behavior in which kids taunt or insult peers on social Web sites like MySpace or via instant messages. Still, there is some disagreement over how effective crackdowns will be and how to do it.

" The kids are forcing our hands to do something legislatively," said Rhode Island state Sen. John Tassoni, who introduced a bill to study cyberbullying and hopes to pass a cyberbullying law by late 2007.

But others argue that legislation would be ineffective. George McDonough, an education coordinator with Rhode Island's Department of Education, concedes that the Internet has become an "instant slam book" but questions whether laws can stem bad behavior.

To read the full story, visit:
http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory?id=2891468

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21. NEWS: Utah Passes Bill To Curb Gay-Straight Student Clubs

365Gay.com
Newscenter Staff
February 21, 2007

(Salt Lake City, Utah) Legislation that would allow Utah schools to ban LGBT student clubs is on its way to Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. for his signature.

The House passed a Senate version of the bill on Wednesday despite gutting a similar measure only weeks earlier.

The bill would allow schools to ban clubs they believe would threaten the "moral well-being" of students or faculty.

It would require parents to sign a consent form before their children can join clubs and it would force clubs to provide school principals with information that would be presented to the club a week in advance so parents can review it.

The legislation also requires the state to cover the costs of lawsuits involving the restrictions of school clubs. That provision is seen as a move to use the power of the state to prevent lawsuits if Gay-Straight Alliances were banned at schools.

The Senate already passed the bill. It sailed through the House on Wednesday, even though that body earlier had rejected most of the provisions.

The bill was sponsored by Republican Sen. Chris Buttars and Rep. GOP Rep. Aaron Tilton.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/Newscon07/02/022107utah.htm

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22. NEWS: Mormon Family Sues Santa Rosa Schools Over Pro-Gay Policies

Lois Pearlman
Bay Area Reporter
02/22/2007

A Santa Rosa couple, members of the ultra conservative Eagle Forum, is suing the Santa Rosa schools claiming their daughter suffered discrimination and harassment when she was a student at one of the district's high schools.

The couple, Kathy and Elden Rice, said that their daughter, Rebekah Rice, faced teasing and threats from students and unfair disciplinary action by a teacher because of her religion and her parent's opposition to school policies. The family belongs to the Church of Latter Day Saints in Santa Rosa.

The incidents cited in the lawsuit include a written referral for saying "that's so gay," an alleged threat by an openly lesbian student, a classroom presentation that included the R-rated film, Saving Private Ryan, and a mistaken search of Rebekah's backpack.

The non-jury trial began last week in Sonoma County Judge Elaine Rushing's courtroom. In the lawsuit, which names teacher Claudine Gans-Rugebregt, Principal Mark Klick, and Assistant Principal Frances Kass Mason, the Rices said school officials retaliated against Rebekah Rice because of her parents' involvement in protests against a Day of Dialogue held at Maria Carrillo High School in 2000.

On Tuesday, February 19, Orlean Koehle, president of the California Eagle Forum and a Santa Rosa substitute teacher, said "Elden [Rice] took the lead and essentially led the charge" when a small group of religiously conservative parents protested the event, especially the inclusion of a presentation on homosexuality.

Filed in December 2003, the lawsuit seeks an order for the school district to comply with education code regulations it allegedly violated, notification to every parent that the school failed to inform them about the showing of the R-rated film, unspecified monetary damages, and removal of the referral from Rebekah Rice's school record.

Koehle, who had to be admonished several times for speaking out of turn, admitted that the Rices's lawsuit was "partially to counter the pro-gay agenda in public schools."

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.ebar.com/news/article.php?sec=news&article=1581

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23. NEWS: Federal Judge Throws Out Lawsuit Over Gay Discussions in Classroom

Anthony Cuesta
02.23.07

A federal judge on Friday tossed out a lawsuit presented by parents who were enraged by discussions on homosexuality in their children’s classroom.

The Associated Press reports that U.S. District Judge Mark Wolf said federal courts have decided in other cases that parents' rights to exercise their religious beliefs are not violated when their children are exposed to contrary ideas in school.

“ In essence under the Constitution public schools are entitled to teach anything that is reasonably related to the goals of preparing students to become engaged and productive citizens in our democracy,” Wolf said in his ruling, reports the AP.

In a 38-page decision, Wolf said the two couples--David and Tonia Parker, and Robert and Robin Wirthlin--have the option of sending their children to private schools or home-schooling them, the Boston Globe reports. He also said, according to the Globe, that the couples can ask the school district to excuse their children when classroom discussions touch on issues of homosexuality.

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.gaywired.com/article.cfm?section=66&id=13277

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24. NEWS: Protecting All Students

NY Times
Editorial
February 24, 2007

Like all too many school districts, Toms River, N.J., has done a poor job of protecting gay students from bullying. According to the New Jersey Supreme Court, the district punished students for being one minute late for class, but made harassing another child for being gay punishable only after a third offense.

In a landmark ruling this week, the court unanimously held that public school districts like Toms River’s are liable for damages if they fail to take reasonable steps to stop prolonged anti-gay harassment of a student by another student. It correctly found that students had a right to be protected against this sort of abuse.

The decision changes the legal landscape in New Jersey, and we hope it will be the start of a new national approach to the problem.

A study by the National Mental Health Association a few years ago found that more than three-quarters of teenagers reported that students who were gay or thought to be gay were teased and bullied in their schools and communities.

To read the full article, visit:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/24/opinion/24sat4.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

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February 21, 2007

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

GSA Network Highlight
HOMOMatrimony, Bake Sales, and other FUNdraising Tips
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Three MORE GSA Network T-shirts Hot off the Press!!
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Richmond)
3. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager
4. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007 Update: Transportation & Registration
5. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
6. Learn Great Skills as a GSA Network Intern! (San Francisco)
7. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
8. Free Movie Screening at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Central Valley
9. Reel Pride Night OUT-Film Screening! (Fresno)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
10. LYRIC: This Week and Next Week in After School Program (San Francisco)
11. April 2007 Community Programs at Jewish Family and Children's Services (San Rafael)
12. Become a Part of the Digital Story Telling Video (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
13. GSA Program Assistant/SFSU Graduate Student Is Seeking Your Input for a Study!
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
14. Cast your Vote for We Belong - Fighting Homophobia in Small Town America
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
15. PFLAG San Diego Scholarships Available!
Go directly to Scholarships listings

News
16. NEWS: Gay Marriage Supporters Rally
17. NEWS: Schwarzenegger Says He Will Veto Gay Marriage Bill Again
18. NEWS: Utah Senate OKs Club Measure
19. NEWS: Lesbian Couple Arrested for Peaceful Protest at Focus on the Family
Go directly to News listings

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

HOMOMatrimony, Bake Sales, and other FUNdraising Tips

We often hear from GSA's that raising funds can be difficult, and that students are always looking for creative ways to make a buck to help support the great work they are doing on campus and in the community to stop harassment, discrimination and homophobia. We have heard of quite a few great ideas over the years and want to share them with you.

In the planning stage you might want to consider doing some investigation into how funds can be given to your club and where these funds are housed. Become familiar with your school's system for financing student organizations. How do clubs set up bank accounts? Where will donations go? Who will donation checks be made out to? Who has the power to sign checks? Talk to other student leaders at your school, your advisor, and an administrator to get ideas and advice.

When you understand how the system works at your school you will be better equipped to start the fundraising process. Some of the most club engaging ideas include having a bake sale or car wash - instead of selling just cookies, sell cookies with rainbow chocolate chips or M & M’s. You might also consider finding out which club member or advisor has access to a wholesale card (i.e. Costco) and have them pick up a couple of boxes of Starburst. With the Starburst you can sell them at a cost that will net your club some extra money while also having fun with the signage – offer flyers about your club meeting and have posters that say, “Taste the Rainbow – Starburst for $1” or the new Twizzler Rainbow Twist can be found on http://www.theworldofcandy.com or http://www.amazon.com for 50% off it’s regular price. Sell each rainbow pack for a $2 and you’ll have $12 after each package is sold.

We have also had GSAs tell us of success from selling Mochas during the morning arrival time, smoothies during recess and PB & J sandwiches during lunch.

Some other ideas include: Sponsor a play, concert, or other cultural event to benefit your GSA. You might also consider donating part of the proceeds to a community organization or charity. A few years ago, Drake High School in Marin teamed up with their school's Drama Department to put on a play that dealt with issues of homophobia and stereotyping in a school setting. The play ran for four nights to sold out audiences, and raised lots of money for the Drake GSA and the GSA Network.

Just recently, at the Expression NOT Suppression conference the Central Valley Youth Council came up with the idea to have a HOMOMatrimony booth to provide ANYONE the chance to marry. For $2 each marrying couple received a HOMOMatrimony certificate and photo. They created a booth with a valentine’s backdrop, bought some veils and top hats at the Dollar Store and at the end of the evening had raised over $100 for their efforts.

If you have the ability to get out in your community – work to investigate local community organizations and businesses to help you raise money by donating a portion of their profits (from a given block of time) to your GSA. Lynbrook High School in San Jose did this at Ben & Jerry's one evening. For every customer that mentioned the Lynbrook GSA that night, the club got a percentage of the money. If you'd like to set up a fundraiser at a Ben & Jerry's near you, contact the company at 310.546.1717. Another company that offers a fundraising night to local clubs and organizations is Sweet Tomatoes – contact them about their community events by visiting http://www.sweettomatoes.com/communityspirit/

If your club has other good tips or ideas for raising money, let us know! And Happy FUNdraising!

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

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1. Three MORE GSA Network T-shirts Hot off the Press!!

Three MORE GSA Network T-shirts hot off the press... Cafepress that is.

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

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

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

So help support GSAs and look cool doing it.

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

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4. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007 Update: Transportation & Registration

1. Registration starts next week! In order to attend QYAD, you must register online first. Registration will be open at http://www.eqca.org this week, and we will send out a notice to everyone when it opens. Keep an eye out!

2. Transportation assistance. Several GSAs have already told us that they're planning to attend this year's event and need help with travel to Sacramento. Charter buses will again be available to pick up and drop off students in several cities, including Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles. Planned bus routes routes are being confirmed and were posted on http://www.gsanetwork.org/qyad TODAY. We are asking for suggested donations of $5-$20 for seats, but no one will be turned away due to lack of funds.

There are limited funds available for students who need travel help and live too far away from the bus pick-up sites. To find out how you can get help, please contact Lai-San Seto, Advocacy Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:lai-san@gsanetwork.org.

To get help in getting yourself to Sacramento, you must indicate this on your form when you register.

3. Show your $$$ support for QYAD today! Your local group or non-profit organization can help to ensure that QYAD is open and accessible to youth from all socioeconomic backgrounds by becoming a QYAD community partner and helping to subsidize transportation and free meals for youth participants. To find out how to do this, please contact Lai-San Seto, Advocacy Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:lai-san@gsanetwork.org. Forms for community partners will also soon be available at http://www.gsanetwork.org/qyad.

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

Central Valley
For more info, email mailto:robin@gsanetwork.org or call 559-268-2780.

Northern California
For more info, email mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org or call 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.

Southern California
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8. Free Movie Screening at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)

As part of the queer film series at Crossroads, sponsored by FLAG (our gay/straight alliance), we will be having our next movie screening of the year on Thursday, Feb. 22nd , from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. We invite you to join us for a great event!

We'll be screening the wonderful, Canadian “Oscar”- winning movie, Lilies. (See description below).

All students and faculty from Gay/Straight alliances and their friends are welcome. It's a great way to meet new friends, or see old ones. We had our biggest crowd yet at the last film, and are expecting lots of folks at this one as well.

The movie is FREE and free pizza and drinks will be provided! But please reply and let us know if you might come, so we have an idea of how much food to have ready.
**When you reply, make sure to include your name and the school (if any) you are from, as well as how many people you are bringing—this helps a great deal.

Directions are below. Please email us at mailto:flag2@xrds.org

If you have any more questions, please feel free to e-mail and ask. Hope to see you there.

Lilies
DIR: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0258531/ John Greyson, Canada, 1996

LILIES is an emotionally intense, sexy, suspense-filled tale of teenage love, betrayal and revenge in which one man's past comes back to haunt him.

The setting is a men's prison in 1952, where Bishop Bilodeau arrives to hear the confession of Simon, sentenced forty years earlier for the alleged murder of his teenage love Vallier. But Simon has more than confessing on his mind. The confessional door is locked from the outside, and Bishop Bilodeau is suddenly a hostage, forced to confront a past he'd much rather forget.

This great movie was nominated for 14 Genie (the Canadian “Oscar”) awards, and won 4 of them, including for Best Picture. It also won audience and best picture awards at LGBT film festivals around the country.

Directions:

Crossroads is at 1714 21st St. in Santa Monica, at the corner of 21st St. and Olympic Blvd.

The screening room we're meeting in is on the 2nd floor of the Arts Building.

Here's what you do--when you turn onto 21st from Olympic, take an immediate right onto a driveway-looking street and find a place to park. You'll see our "quad" which looks like a parking lot or an alley, and which we call (of course) the alley.

Walk to the end of the alley to the tall building on the left, enter and climb the stairs to the 2nd floor. You should see people..

Hope the directions aren't too confusing. It's not really that hard once you see it, and you can always ask people.

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Central Valley
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9. Reel Pride Night OUT-Film Screening! (Fresno)

Whole New Thing
Friday February 16, 2007
8pm - Tower Theatre

Go here to purchase tickets online: http://reelpride.com/2006/f_q_wholenewthing.php .

When a precocious, homeschooled 13 year-old boy is sent to the local, rural school for the first time, it's going to be a whole new thing. For everyone.

A beguiling and provocative comedy/drama about the discovery of sex and the longing for intimacy, Whole New Thing vividly brings to life the rites of passage of youth and middle age. Smart, funny, poignant, and captivatingly intense, brilliantly acted and visually lush, Whole New Thing is at once richly entertaining and thought-provoking.

EMERSON THORSEN, 13, lives with his parents KAYA and ROG in their eco-home in the wilds of Nova Scotia. He's just had his first wet dream, and completed writing and illustrating his first book, all 1000 pages of it. Meanwhile, the homeschooled youth can barely add 2 + 2. His mother enrolls him in the local school. There, Emerson's English teacher is DON GRANT. At 42, the solitary Don has settled into a life of perpetual adolescence, paying regular visits to a park washroom for anonymous sex. In the classroom, Emerson stirs things up.

Surprisingly, Don sees a bit of himself reflected in Emerson. Emerson, initially scornful of his teacher, quickly develops his first crush - on Don. The precociously confident boy, raised in a household of casual nudity and sexual openness, throws himself into this awakening of his heart with dangerous abandon.

Anchoring the film are two astounding performances. As Don Grant, Daniel MacIvor delivers the performance of his considerable career. With the mixture of gravity and levity akin to prime Jack Lemmon, MacIvor plays a flawed and unhappy man, in a portrayal so rich with honesty, humor and heart audiences cannot help falling in love with him.

As the 13 year-old protagonist Emerson, Aaron Webber makes an electrifying screen debut, fearlessly bringing to life a remarkably complex character for his age. Revealing Emerson as alternately annoying, appealing, haughty, warm and finally utterly winning, Webber makes an indelible impression.

DIRECTED BY Amnon Buchbinder
Genre: Comedy/Drama
92 minutes (Canada 2005)

For more information on Reel Pride, please visit: http://www.reelpride.com

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Northern California
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10. LYRIC: This Week and Next Week in After School Program (San Francisco)

Wednesday, February 21st
Youth Speaks
From the day to day drama of our school and family lives, to the larger issues of social and economic injustice, we all struggle. In this poetry and Spoken Word workshop, we will use our words as weapons and tools for change. Come prepared to begin fighting back!

Thursday, February 22nd
Introduction to Organizing
This workshop breaks down organizing as a specifically important way to fight for justice. Participants will examine victories won through organizing as well as how organizing can build long-term change in our communities.

Friday, February 23rd
Closed
Sorry for the inconvenience. We hope to see you on Monday!

LYRIC: Next Week in ASP

Monday, February 26th
Mural Project
The LYRIC ASP community is creating a mural on the first floor. Whether you draw, paint or just have ideas, come and help us create a fabulous work of art! Become a muralist and make your mark at LYRIC.

Tuesday, February 27th
Art Speak
Are you creative? Do you wish to be more expressive? Are you interested in doing art projects that can benefit your mind and soul? Come check out this great workshop series to find out how to use art as a tool of communication.

Wednesday, February 28th
Youth Speaks
From the day to day drama of our school and family lives, to the larger issues of social and economic injustice, we all struggle. In this poetry and Spoken Word workshop, we will use our words as weapons and tools for change. Come prepared to begin fighting back!

Thursday, March 1st
“Save Me a Spot In College” Scholarship Presentation
“Save Me a Spot in College” provides students an opportunity to be a voice for greater college access and is sponsored by the Campaign for College Opportunity (CCO), in partnership with the California Department of Education.

Friday, March 2nd
Mean Girls
For more information, please visit: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0377092/
Raised in African bush country by her zoologist parents, Cady Heron thinks she knows about survival of the fittest. But the law of the jungle takes on a whole new meaning when the home-schooled 15-year-old enters public high school for the first time and encounters psychological warfare and unwritten social rules that teenage girls face today.

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11. April 2007 Community Programs at Jewish Family and Children's Services (San Rafael)

April 2007 Community Programs at JFCS in Marin
Unless otherwise noted, these programs will be held at Jewish Family and Children’s Services at 600 Fifth Avenue in San Rafael.

Free Program for Holocaust Survivors

Café By The Bay
Café By The Bay is a monthly event for Holocaust Survivors in Marin. Our next gathering will be on Wednesday, April 11, 2:00 to 4:00 pm. For more information, contact Lorraine Harris at 415/419-3635 or LorraineH@jfcs.org. FREE

Free Program for Parents and Young Children

The Month of the Young Child
April is the Month of the Young Child in Marin. Parents Place joins the Marin Board of Supervisors, the Marin Department of Education, and other organizations to celebrate young children and the important people in their lives. As part of the celebration, Parents Place’s Bonnie Romanow will be offering 2 free groups:

-Puppet Play – Free puppet show for young children, with simple tips to help you do more of the same at home. Tuesday, April 17, 3:30 to 4:30 pm.

- Magical World of Play and Learning – Play is essential for learning! You will learn tips to enhance your child’s experience, ways to simplify play materials, and how to have more fun. Tuesday, April 24, 6:30 to 8:00 pm.

Volunteers Needed!

A great volunteer opportunity!

JFCS’ Senior Companionship Program matches up volunteers with seniors. As a companion you'll build a relationship with a senior, make weekly visits, and have the good feeling of enriching a life. In addition, you'll get education and training from JFCS professionals in doing this important work. For more information, contact Betty Hirschfeld at 415/419-3661 or BettyH@jfcs.org.

Another Community Event of Interest:

Yom HaShoah Commemoration

Join members of the Jewish community from all over Marin County to remember the Shoah and to honor local survivors. This year our service and commemoration will include speakers from three generations. Sunday, April 15, 6:00 pm, at Congregation Rodef Sholom – 170 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael. Sponsored by the Partners for Jewish Life in Marin.

For more information, please contact:
Bonni Schiff
600 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael
415/419-3632
mailto:BonniS@jfcs.org

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12. Become a Part of the Digital Story Telling Video (San Francisco)

Your MUSIC, PHOTOGRAPHS, VIDEO FOOTAGE, & VOICE become one to create a Digital Story Telling Video!

-Come Learn How To Share Stories About Your Life!
-Make New Friends and Eat Good Snacks!
-Ride the Bus for Free with a Monthly Muni Pass Provided to You!
-Get a $250 Stipend at the Completion of the program!

Saturdays from 1:30pm-4:30pm
San Francisco
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender
Community Center
1800 Market St @ Octavia

You Must Be:
LGBTQQ Youth age 17 & under
Committed for 3-Months

Ask Nicole for an APPLICATION & Return it by MARCH 2nd!!!!

**STARTING**
MARCH 10th, 2007
Meets every Saturday from March 10th-May 26th 2007.

Any Question or Application Information Please Contact Nicole Ramirez at 415.865.5530 or mailto:NicoleR@sfcenter.org

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Statewide
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13. GSA Program Assistant/SFSU Graduate Student Is Seeking Your Input for a Study!

Hi to all you fabulous GSA members!

I am currently a Masters student in Women Studies at San Francisco State University. I’m working on a research project that is titled “That Doesn’t Happen Here”: Addressing Racism in California Gay-Straight Alliances. I’d like to survey youth who are still in high school and who are still involved with their GSAs about how they incorporate and discuss issues of race and/or racism.

If you feel that you have something important to say about this topic and would like to be interviewed please feel free to email me at mailto:khosmon@gmail.com.

People who, like you, are under 18, must have parental permission to participate in research. At the same time, for example, you may not yet be “out” to your parents or your parents may not know or approve of your involvement with the Gay-Straight Alliance, and for this reason, you do not want to give them a consent form to sign. If that is the case, please ask me for a waiver of parental permission, which will allow you to participate in my research while still maintaining your privacy. If you’re interested, I will get that to you through snail mail (or if you have access to a fax machine, I could fax it to you). Upon its return, I will then email you the link to Survey Monkey, a secured website.

My larger goal is to have your input in creating new curriculum addressing issues of race and/or racism so that GSAs have a handy tool for multi-issue organizing!

And don’t worry about having to meet me somewhere in San Francisco. I’m going to do all interviews by internet, so no one has to make any ridiculous treks across California and neither do I!

Participation in this research is voluntary. You may stop your participation at any time and/or leave any question blank. Your completion and electronic submission of this survey is a sign of your consent to participate in this research. If you have any questions, please contact me, Kiely, at mailto:khosmon@gmail.com or my advisor Dr. Julia Hua at mailto:jyhua@sfsu.edu.

Thank you in advance, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Kiely Hosmon

GSA Network Program Assistant
SFSU Grad Student

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National
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14. Cast your Vote for We Belong - Fighting Homophobia in Small Town America

We Belong is a short documentary video about two small town gay teens who had the courage to stand up to bigotry and discrimination in their schools, and the determination to tell their stories to the world.

When a gay teen in a small Pennsylvania town stood up to his abusers in the school locker room, he was arrested for disorderly conduct. When he was subsequently prevented from making a video about homophobia in his school as part of a class project, a local filmmaker documented his story in a short video called We Belong (featuring the music of transgender singer/songwriter Namoli Brennet).

We Belong is now one of six finalists in a national Seeds of Tolerance video competition. As a result, the newspaper in the small Pennsylvania town published a story on the video and the issue of harassment and discrimination in the local schools. The town and surrounding area are now in an uproar over the controversy, and C.J., the gay teen in the video, and his family have been threatened with death, among other horrible acts.

If We Belong does well in the Seeds of Tolerance competition, it could help a message of tolerance reach an AUDIENCE of MILLIONS on Current TV, and help other GLBTQ youth tell their stories and eliminate homophobic violence and discrimination in their schools and communities.

To see more information about and to CAST YOUR VOTE for WE BELONG see: http://WeBelongtheMovie.com

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Scholarships
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15. PFLAG San Diego Scholarships Available!

GLBT SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Attention GLBT high school seniors, undergraduate and graduate students :

Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) San Diego is offering scholarships for Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgendered (GLBT) students.
If you can use $1,000.00 to help pay school expenses and are a San Diego County resident, apply for one of our $1,000.00 scholarships!

Visit http://pflag.com for details and a downloadable application.

Application deadline is Monday, April 16, 2007.

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NEWS
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16. NEWS: Gay Marriage Supporters Rally

Some local leaders express support for change in laws

By Shaun Bishop
Palo Alto Daily News
February 15, 2007

A cast of characters consisting of government officials and others lined up to support same-sex marriage during a Valentine's Day rally in front of the San Mateo County Clerk's office.
The event, in its second year at the county seat in Redwood City, drew a crowd of more than 100 people at its peak as supporters hoped to influence upcoming legislation to legalize gay marriage.

A star of the show was state Assemblyman Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, the author of Assembly Bill 43, also known as the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act.
" People ask, 'Why do we need to fight a war over a word?' This word, 'marriage,' means everything," Leno said.

A similar bill also authored by Leno passed the state Legislature in 2005 but was vetoed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

On Wednesday, the focus was on celebrating the relationships of more than a dozen same-sex couples who gathered on the steps of the county center. Other officials in attendance included state Sen. Leland Yee, D-San Mateo/San Francisco, and county Supervisor Jerry Hill.

A newly outspoken supporter was Assessor/County Clerk/Recorder Warren Slocum, who said he believes he became the first county clerk in California to public take a stand in favor of gay marriage when he sent a letter to other county clerks in January.

" It just became clear that the right thing to do was support the idea of equal rights for all people," Slocum said.

The rally was organized by Marina Gatto, whose two moms Ramona and Arzu had for years asked the county clerk for a marriage license, only to be turned down each time.

" Today we stand together to show others by our own example what true community is," said Marina, a first-year student at UC Berkeley.

Several speakers emphasized that denying gay people a marriage license promotes inequality and sets a bad example for children.

A number of children stepped up to the microphone to express their support, including 7-year-old twins Miles and Zachary Kleiman, who needed a stepstool to reach the podium but didn't seem a bit nervous about facing the crowd.

" I think people should do whatever they want in their lives," Miles said.

Michaela Green, 16, and Chelsea Capone, 15, both members of the Woodside High School Gay-Straight Alliance, said they were proud of the government leaders for speaking up in favor of gay marriage.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.paloaltodailynews.com/article/2007-2-15-02-15-07-smc-marriage

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17. NEWS: Schwarzenegger Says He Will Veto Gay Marriage Bill Again

Associated Press
February 16, 2007

SACRAMENTO - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said he would veto a bill that would legalize gay marriage in California for the second time if state lawmakers pass it again this year.
In June 2005, the California Legislature became the first lawmaking body in the United States to vote in favor of allowing same-sex couples to wed. Schwarzenegger refused to sign the measure, saying it was in conflict with a 2000 voter-approved measure that shored up the state's one man, one woman marriage laws.

Assemblyman Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, reintroduced the gay marriage bill in December, but Schwarzenegger said on Thursday that his thoughts about it have not changed in the last year and a half.

" I wouldn't sign it because the people of California have voted on that issue," Schwarzenegger told a high school student who asked him about the bill at a California YMCA Youth and Government conference.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/states/california/northern_california/16717314.htm

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18. NEWS: Utah Senate OKs Club Measure

It would allow schools to ban gay alliances

By Tiffany Erickson
Deseret Morning News
February 16, 2007

The Senate has approved the ever-changing student clubs bill - now back to its original form - which would allow school officials to ban clubs that threaten "the physical, emotional ... and moral well-being of students."

Sen. Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, Senate sponsor of the bill, said under the measure schools could deny a club like a Gay Straight Alliance and not be in fear of litigation and legal costs since the Attorney General's Office would be required to defend the law.

HB236 would also give parents the authority to view material distributed in a club seven days prior to the club meeting and require the school to appoint a faculty adviser to each non-curricular club. It would also require clubs to establish bylaws, a statement of purpose and a name related to that purpose.

But during Senate debate critics called the language in the bill, aside from the provision requiring parental permission for a student to join a club "16 pages of burden some language and onerous requirements."

"The rest of the bill is strict, onerous requirements and hoops that we require 16-year-olds, who just want to get together after school and play chess, to jump through," said Sen. Scott McCoy, D-Salt Lake.

To read the full story, visit:
http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,660196132,00.html

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19. NEWS: Lesbian Couple Arrested for Peaceful Protest at Focus on the Family

Soulforce Campaign Asks Dobson to Take Steps Toward Reconciliation with LGBT Community

Soulforce Press Release
February 19, 2007
Paige Schilt

(Colorado Springs, CO) -- At approximately 1:30 p.m. on February 19, 2007, Dotti Berry and Robynne Sapp of Blaine, Wash., were arrested and removed from Focus on the Family headquarters in police custody. The couple entered the building earlier in the day and refused to leave until the organization's founder, James Dobson, takes a step toward reconciliation with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities by ceasing his misleading statements about research on lesbian and gay parents.

They have been charged with trespassing and have not yet been released.

" I am here today because I believed Dr. Dobson's teachings for many years, and it almost led to my suicide. My healing came from my acceptance of myself and my acceptance that God loves me exactly as I am," said Sapp. Sapp and Berry have toured Focus on the Family twice before to dialogue with visitors and staff about LGBT individuals and families.

Dobson has consistently misrepresented LGBT families with misleading references to social science research. In recent months, several social scientists -- including Dr. Carol Gilligan of New York University and Dr. Kyle Pruett of Yale -- have publicly rebuked him for mischaracterizing their research conclusions.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.soulforce.org/article/1181

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February 14, 2007

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

GSA Network Highlight
GSA Network’s Central Valley Conference – Expression NOT Suppression was a HUGE Success!!!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Has 3 New HOT T-shirts!!!
2. This Weekend! GSA Network Leadership Training! (East LA/San Gabriel Valley)
3. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager
4. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Richmond)
5. Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007 Update: Please Read!!!
6. Free Resources for New or Re-Registered GSAs!
7. Learn Great Skills as a GSA Network Intern! (San Francisco)
8. GSA Network Youth Council Wants You! (Statewide)

Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
9. Free Movie Screening at Crossroads School! (Santa Monica)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
10. Sweet'Tarts and Cupids Dance (Walnut Creek)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Statewide
11. GSA Program Assistant/SFSU Graduate Student Is Seeking Your Input for a Study!
Go directly to Statewide listings

National
12. Submissions Wanted for Queer Myths Zine!
13. AIDS/LifeCycle Jersey Design Contest!
14. New National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline
15. Open Call for Submissions from Youth and Adults with LGBT Parents
16. 50 Under 30 Public Education Campaign
Go directly to National listings

News
17. NEWS: MySpace Page Puts Teacher At Center Of Controversy
18. NEWS: Gay Teens Coming Out Earlier to Peers and Family
19. NEWS: Va. House Approves 'Permission Slips' Bill; Some Fear Impact of Parental Consent on GSAs
20. NEWS: Barstow High School Students Form Gay-Straight Alliance
Go directly to News listings

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

GSA Network’s Central Valley Conference – Expression NOT Suppression was a HUGE Success!!!

More than 130 youth showed up for this all day youth conference, and the energy level was completely mesmerizing. ENS was held in Fresno, CA, and the attendance had tripled from last year’s event. As these youth gathered to socialize, but more importantly to be empowered, they came from as far North as Jackson, CA and as far South as Porterville, CA. Here are some of the comments from youth who attended this exciting event!

“I really liked the different workshops and the only problem I had with them was the fact that I couldn’t decide on only one! I learned many things such as how to use yourself and your political powers, and how to better improve your GSA. At the dance I liked not having the pressure of being afraid that I would be put down for dancing with a guy. It was the most fun I have had in a long time, and at the same time I can go back to school now and change the environment around me using the new tools that I have acquired, and even more importantly I know I have support all across the Central Valley. I am extremely grateful for what the people at ENS and the GSA Network do for the teens of California.” Matthew Kalik, Junior at Oakdale High School

“Expression Not Suppression was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I've never felt so comfortable in my own skin and I loved the feeling of seeing so many youth just having a good time and not caring who was looking. One of the really cool things was the drag show. I personally have never seen one of these shows. It was so beautiful and amazing, I almost started crying. I felt that that's how things should be all the time, free of the daily crap, just fun. I look forward to the next GSA Network event...hopefully Queer Youth Advocacy can be next!” Jessica Meredith, Merced HS

“Rarely do I get the chance to celebrate and express my sexuality (other than in GSA meetings), so the conference was an amazing outlet that allowed me to feel comfortable in an environment that was not gay-stifled. It gave me a sense of direction as president of my first-year GSA - this conference was a little shove towards not only creating a stronger GSA, but creating change out in the world as well. I admire the time and effort they put into organizing these events, and I sincerely thank them for caring so much about students like me. One word: amazing. I, as a student, as a LGBTQ youth, as a woman, and as person, can create change; with the proper tools, and with courage, I can make a difference in our community and for other generations of LGBTQ youth as well.” Tanya Sarmina, Granite Hills HS

“I had the best time of my life yesterday. I've never been able to go somewhere and feel that comfortable with “who I am.” It was so awesome to be able to dance with a girl and not be criticized. Once again, you all hold a place in my heart and I'm sure for many others. Thank you.” Sydney Cooke, Merced HS

Do you feel the energy from these students, some of which drove three and a half hours to and from the conference? The dedication and loyalty to the GSA Network’s movement was apparent all day long. If you question their dedication and their struggle, listen to the words of one of the youth keynote speakers, Clint Wells from Bullard HS:

“I've decided to speak today about the hardships of queer youth. It is VERY hard to be young and queer in America. I would just like to see the hands of everyone who has been tormented because of their sexual orientation at school. I wish teachers were here today to see all of your hands. To have this many hands up is disgusting and unacceptable. Every day, queer kids across the nation are thrown up against walls, pushed into trashcans, called "fag" or "dyke," receive death threats, and in some scary cases, actually see those death threats carried out. We can't walk from class to class without getting harassed. We can't use the restrooms without people accusing us of being in the wrong bathroom. We can't walk to or from school without people yelling things from cars at us. We can't take the bus without people moving seats when we sit down.

To them, we are a disease and they NEVER let us forget it. To most people this constant oppression would force them into staying in their own rooms forever, but, not us. Not us “sissy little queer kids”. We fight back. We form Gay-Straight Alliances, show our numbers and empower each other. We draw in crowds bigger than bigoted Christian clubs and announce that “us sissy queer kids” are a force that you don't want to be up against. When we hear "queer!" we turn around and say "Hell yeah I'm queer, and there's nothing you could ever do to change that." HOMOPHOBIA is the disease, and we're the cure. There are these really corny inspirational posters up at my school that say "It’s better to be hated for something you are, than loved for something you're not," and all though they're really pretty cheesy, the message is great.

We need to realize that being gay doesn't mean being perfect. We can be gay and be ugly. We can be gay and be fat. We can be gay and be in a monogamous relationship. There are things beyond Abercrombie and glitter. To me being gay is about individuality, understanding and most importantly it’s about community. It is important for us to remember that our sexualities are not different. The options are not "straight" or "other." Just like the colors of our flag, there is a diverse rainbow of sexualities, all of which are completely normal and healthy. It is not until we completely celebrate this diversity that we will be on our way to liberating ourselves.”

May you all experience a moment of this type of Expression, reminding us every step of the way that the continual work that we all do to stop the Suppression will never be enough until ALL feel safe.

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

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1. GSA Network Has 3 New HOT T-shirts!!!

Look out for our new t-shirts and 5 cool buttons at conferences, leadership trainings, or at any one of our three offices. So make sure to bring a little cash the next time you see us.

Not only will you be supporting GSA Network but you'll look fresh too!

CAN'T WAIT? You just GOTTA have one today? Order online at http://www.cafepress.com/gsanetwork.

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2. This Weekend! GSA Network Leadership Training! (East LA/San Gabriel Valley)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on February 17, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

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

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.

WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Saturday, February 17, 2007, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Bienestar, La Casa LGBT Center
5301 E. Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90022
323-727-7897
COST: Free!

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus welcomes GSA Advisors and other adult allies to the leadership training. That being said, we ask that they help us to maintain the youth focus of this training.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact:
Carlos Cabrera, GSA Network Southern California Program Coordinator, at 213-534-7162 or mailto:carlos@gsanetwork.org

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3. GSA Network is Hiring a National Program Manager

GSA Network is seeking a National Program Manager to oversee the development and management of its new national programs. Over the past two years, GSA Network has embarked on an exciting national expansion. In 2005, GSA Network founded the National Association of GSA Networks, which brings together youth and adult leaders from state and regional GSA networking groups in nearly 20 states to network and share best practices for GSA organizing.

Additionally, GSA Network has piloted a replication of its model for GSA organizing in New Mexico, helping the Santa Fe Mountain Center establish the New Mexico GSA Network. In 2006, GSA Network completed a national expansion strategic plan that formalizes its national training and replication activities. GSA Network's national program will further the organization's mission by expanding its unique youth-driven, state-based program model nationally - adding an important voice to the LGBT, safe schools, and social justice movements.

The National Program Manager is responsible for running GSA Network's national programs, including supporting the core current operations of the National Association of GSA Networks and the development and coordination of our National Training and Replication Program.

To view the entire job description and learn how to apply, visit: http://www.gsanetwork.org/about

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4. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Richmond)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on Sunday, March 11th from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. It includes breakfast and lunch!

So what is a GSA Network Leadership training?
Youth from various GSAs come together for a FUN, interactive, peer-to-peer training that provides students with the skills to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. Led by other GSA leaders from around Northern California, the training will show students how to start and run a kick-ass GSA.

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

Young people become activists because they respect themselves and other people too much to let anyone be treated like a second-class citizen. They believe in the basic worth of all human beings, including themselves. That's why so many students, including straight allies, are coming together to fight sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination at their schools. The goals of a student activism group include winning concrete improvements in people's lives, making students aware of their own power, and altering the relations of power. GSAs in California are leading the fight for social change and justice.

This is a great opportunity to network with other GSAs in your area while learning some new skills to strengthen your club.
WHO: GSA members, potential members, and GSA advisors
WHEN: Sunday, March 11th. from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: The RYSE Center: Youth Down for Change
205 41st. Street at Bissell, Richmond, CA 94805
COST: Free!

NOTE: Although The RYSE Center is scheduled to open its doors in Spring 2008, we are grateful to be able to utilize their facilities and celebrate the birth of this project.

GSA Network values the participation of adult allies in our fight against oppression and injustice in schools, and thus w