GSA Network News archives

GSA Network News Email Archive - November 2006

back to GSA Network News

November 29

November 22

November 15

November 8



Sign Up for GSA Network News! Email:

November 29, 2006

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

GSA Network Highlight
World AIDS Day - "Keep the Promise"
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Benefit in January! (Bay Area)
3. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall Intern! (San Francisco)
4. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)
5. Re-Register Your GSA Today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!
6. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
7. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's Even Cooler! (Statewide)
8. Save the Date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)
9. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)
10. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School! (Bay Area)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Northern California
11. The Other Side of the Closet (San Francisco)
12. Free Money for LGBT Youth! (Bay Area)
13. League of Youth Voices Accepting Applications (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

National
14. Participate in a Research Study!
Go directly to National listings

Scholarships
15. PFLAG National Scholarships Available
Go directly to Scholarships listings

News
16. NEWS: Calif. Appeals Court Asked To Uphold Anti-Bully Ruling
17. NEWS: Davis Unified School District Addresses Discrimination
18. NEWS: Testimony will Start for Former Garden Grove Student
Go directly to News listings

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

World AIDS Day - "Keep the Promise"

Originating as an idea out of the 1988 World Summit of Ministers of Health on Programs for AIDS Prevention, World AIDS Day (always December 1) has been commemorated and observed by a variety of governments, community organizations, and charities around the world. It is a day to remember those that we have lost due to this virulent pandemic, and it is also a day to renew our vow to stop the spread of HIV.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2006 is “Stop AIDS: Keep the Promise.” According to the official World AIDS Day website, http://www.worldaidsday.org, recent figures indicate that over four million people became infected last year alone. Given that startling statistic, this year’s theme is intended to hold us all accountable for stopping the virus by disseminating information, educating ourselves and our peers on HIV prevention, and – perhaps most importantly – taking ACTION in our respective communities by “keeping the promise” not to exacerbate the spread of HIV.

What can your GSA do? Your GSA can begin raising awareness on your campus by wearing the trademark red ribbons (these are really cheap and easy to make!) on Friday, December 1. Your GSA can also collaborate with local HIV prevention agencies and hold safer sex workshops, discussion panels, and other events to begin the conversation as to how your school can do its part to stop the spread of HIV. You can also ask local HIV prevention agencies to come and hold a “testing day” at your school to test for HIV. Additionally, your GSA can hold a fundraiser in coalition with other school clubs and then donate the money to a charity dedicated to preventing HIV. Many more ideas are listed on the official World AIDS Day website. Plus, you can order from the website an “HIV packet” for your school that contains ideas, worksheets, and other informational materials for you to use!

World AIDS Day is this coming Friday, December 1, 2006. Will YOU be keeping the promise on this day, and every other day of the year?

For more information regarding World AIDS Day and resources, please visit these websites:

http://www.avert.org
http://www.thebody.com/hotlines/calif.html (A listing of HIV prevention agencies in California)

back to top

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

*********************************************
1. GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on December 9 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 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.

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, December 9, 2006, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Oakland Public Library
125 14th Street
Oakland, CA 94612
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
*Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org
*Jessi Snow, Teen Outreach Librarian, Oakland Public Library, at 510-238-7233 or mailto:jsnow@oaklandlibrary.org

back to top

*********************************************
2. Save the Date! GSA Network Benefit in January! (Bay Area)

*****SAVE THE DATE*****

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Last year, we brought you a private screening of RENT - The Movie...

This year, get ready for the WORLD PREMIERE of Legally Blonde - The Musical as it hits the stage of the Golden Gate Theatre in San Francisco!

Tickets will be available as a benefit for GSA Network!

More info coming soon about ticket prices, VIP tickets, and corporate sponsorship packages!

Thanks to a tiered-ticket structure, everyone from students to VIP underwriters will be able to enjoy an exclusive theatrical event together, all while helping raise much-needed funds for the only student-led organization that connects GSA clubs across California.

To learn more about Legally Blonde - The Musical visit: http://www.shnsf.com/shows/show.asp?key=18&subkey=513

back to top

*********************************************
3. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall 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 to participate in staff meetings, thus ensuring that their voices are 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
http://www.gsanetwork.org

back to top

*********************************************
4. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)

MAKE YOUR MARK ALL OVER CALIFORNIA!
Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & pin design contest!

We have re-opened the design contest due to lack of submissions!! Send us all of your artistic and creative designs for a chance to win money and free T-shirts and pins!!

Can you draw, design, or paint? Can you capture a thousand words with just a single image? Do you want to see your artwork worn by hundreds and hundreds of students all over the state? If so, please submit your designs to our contest today!!!

The GSA Network is currently looking for individual artists or GSAs who want to impress everyone with their artistic skills and earn some cash! We need designs for two things: One design is for a GSA Network T-shirt, and the other is for a GSA Network button.

These designs should represent a strong, fierce message about youth activism and the GSA Network mission statement: "Empowering youth to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools." Show us what you see when you think about the power of coming together and creating change! For more information about GSA Network's mission statement and our work, please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html

The T-shirts and buttons will be distributed state-wide. Yes, this is your chance to get your artwork worn by many, many GSA members and other LGBTQ youth supporters all over California.

The winner for the T-shirt design will receive $100 + 5 free T-shirts!!!
The winner for the button design will receive $50 + 25 free buttons!!!

Rules…rules…there are always rules…
1) No profanity
2) No more than 3 colors for the T-shirt (This helps keep costs low so we can print up more shirts for everyone!)
3) Email your designs as JPEG or Adobe Photoshop attachments to mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org, or mail them to our office: 1550 Bryant St, Ste 800, San Francisco, CA 94103
4) Designs will not be returned
5) The original artwork becomes property of GSA Network
6) Submission deadline: Friday, December 1, 2006.

Remember, the button designs should be tiny enough to show up easily on a small pin. T-shirt designs can be larger with more details. Words and phrases can also be used by themselves or incorporated with the artwork!

back to top

*********************************************
5. Re-Register Your GSA Today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with 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.php

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

back to top

*********************************************
6. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: 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 movement
* 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 and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSA Network
* 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.

back to top

*********************************************
7. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's Even Cooler! (Statewide)

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will learn skills to become a stronger advocate to create statewide change and safer, more supportive schools for all students. Members are also responsible for providing input towards the planning of Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD). QYAD is an annual, all-youth lobbying day held at the Capitol in Sacramento that brings hundreds of youth together to speak to lawmakers about the needs of LGBTQ students. In addition, members are responsible for giving input that will guide GSA Network's advocacy program and for providing feedback and recommendations on legislation being considered by GSA Network for future support, endorsement, or other kinds of action.

The Advocacy Committee generally meets once per month with GSA Network's Advocacy Coordinator via a toll-free telephone conference line.

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will have monthly opportunities to
* Network with youth from throughout California
* Get peer and staff support and feedback on your GSA's advocacy efforts
* Give input on GSA Network's statewide advocacy program
* Learn about and discuss legislation and policies affecting LGBTQ youth in schools
* Help plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day and recruit youth in your area to participate.

In addition, you may have an opportunity to
* Become an Advocacy Day Leader and train youth in your assigned district in advocacy skills
* Lead lobbying visits to lawmakers' offices
* Lobby lawmakers during visits to their district offices in your area
* Become a youth media spokesperson on advocacy issues for GSA Network.

Requirements
* Willingness to commit to serving on the Advocacy Committee for one year
* Commitment to creating statewide and local change for LGBTQ youth and to fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools all over California, specifically with a focus on legislative advocacy and policy change
* Interest in developing and suggesting ideas on how to strengthen the GSA Network's advocacy program
* Must be a student in a public or private middle school or high school in California.

For more info or to apply, email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
8. Save the Date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)

Mark your calendars for March 26, the date of Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007!

Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) is a youth-led lobby day at the Capitol in Sacramento where hundreds of youth activists come together and educate lawmakers about the need for statewide policy that will make schools safer and more supportive for LGBTQ youth.

QYAD 2006 was huge success that brought 500 people to the Capitol, showed California legislators the power of youth activism, and opened a lot of people's eyes to the kind of harassment and discrimination still faced by many students. Now, it's time to go back to the Capitol and show them that we're still fighting for safer schools!

WHO: LGBTQ youth & their allies
WHERE: Crest Theater & the Capitol (Sacramento)
WHEN: Monday, March 26, 2007
WHY: To network with other youth activists, learn important advocacy skills, and help make change for schools all over California

Informational packets with additional details will be mailed out later this fall to all GSAs registered with GSA Network. Keep an eye on your mailboxes!

For more info, email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
9. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)

LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!

Five poster designs (and two new ones expected by December 06) are available for GSAs, organizations, and individuals who are building a presence of youth voices for justice, peace, and youth empowerment while fighting against hatred, harassment, and discrimination of all kinds. Every GSA in California can receive 30 FREE posters to use at their school (each poster after 30 costs $1). From community organizations and individuals, we request a donation of $5 each for 1-10 posters and $4 each for 11-30 posters. Large quantity discounts are available.

You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: http://www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation
Please note that we are currently out of POSTER #6. We should have this poster by late November.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL:

* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit members
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use them while you're tabling
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article or announcement about your GSA
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign, and give them posters to symbolize their support
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place, or fill a whole wall with posters in a grid
* Use the posters in conjunction with GLSEN'S Day of Silence (April), Transgender Day of Remembrance (November), LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), National Coming Out Day (October 11), and/or Diversity Day or Week at your school.

Liberation Ink is a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It is supported by Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, San Francisco Arts Commission, and Walter and Elise Haas Fund.

back to top

*********************************************
10. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School! (Bay Area)

GSA Network's High Contrast, a photo-narrative exhibit by youth for youth, is on the move again!

"I think it was powerful and provocative and sparked good conversations." - GSA Advisor

"There were at least 400 students that interacted with the exhibit. The whole week while High Contrast was there, the GSA and other groups on campus did workshops on hate crimes and ways to deal with them, letting students know that this is an issue that needs to be addressed." - GSA Student President

"Many students responded well to the universality of human issues and emotions. The emotions weren't just linked to being gay, they were feelings we all have." - GSA Advisor

In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation. We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence. We don't want anyone to leave thinking, 'This isn't my issue.' Because all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough to learn. - High Contrast

High Contrast is now available for circulation. If you are a GSA in the Bay Area interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org

For more information on and pictures of High Contrast, go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html

back to top

Northern California
*********************************************
11. The Other Side of the Closet (San Francisco)

THE NEW CONSERVATORY THEATRE CENTER PROUDLY PRESENTS:

A YouthAware Educational Theatre
FREE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE
Underwritten by the Wells Fargo Corporation

Monday December 4, 2006 at 7:00 PM at the New Conservatory Theatre Center 25 Van Ness Ave. @ Market St.
Audience discussion with the cast and director immediately following the performance. Light refreshments will be served.

FOR YOUR FREE TICKETS, CONTACT OUR BOX OFFICE 415-861-8972
Please join us for this complimentary performance of The New Conservatory Theatre Center's YouthAware Educational Theatre presentation of a safe schools program, The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy.

We welcome friends, family, teachers, allies, administrators, parents, teens, LGBT community members, and anyone with an interest in previewing this compelling social issue theatre for youth. This program has educated teens all over Northern California since 2000, about homophobia, diversity, and the CA Student Safety Act, AB537, in an innovative and engaging format. Feel free to forward this notice to anyone interested in attending.

back to top

*********************************************
12. Free Money for LGBT Youth! (Bay Area)

CALLING ALL BAY AREA LGBT YOUTH

-- Are you interested in making $25?

-- Do you want to help other lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth and their families?

WE NEED YOUR HELP to reach parents, foster parents, guardians and caregivers!!
Contact us to find out more and how you can get involved.

Call 415-522-8537 or 1-888-354-4222 or e-mail us at mailto:fap@sfsu.edu

The Family Acceptance Project is a research and education project of the Cesar E. Chavez Institute at San Francisco State University developed in 2002 to help increase family support for LGBT young people.

http://familyproject.sfsu.edu

back to top

*********************************************
13. League of Youth Voices Accepting Applications (San Francisco)

What Is The League of Youth Voices?

The League of Youth Voices (LYV) is a network of youth groups in San Francisco dedicated to creating positive changes in their communities. Each group in the network will have a youth representative on LYV.

LYV is a youth networking opportunity for your group to:
o Spread the word about topics of concern.
o Promote events or projects.
o Get support for community change projects through min-grants.
o Network with a broad coalition of young groups
o Attend workshops to build leadership skills and abilities.

LYV will also plan city-wide events, participate in a state-wide teen conference, and visit each others’ program sites so that we may better understand and support the exciting work of young people in our city.

Commitments?
There are a few commitments we need from your program to make the year-long journey easy for all of us.
o Meetings once a month with dinner provided. (Day/time TBA.)
o Host a visit of your own program’s site for fellow LYV members.
o Have at least one adult ally (advisor etc.) and one youth.

How Do I Join LYV?
All you need to do is contact Michele for the application and mail them to the following address:
Michele Paolella
Youth Leadership Institute
246 First Street, Suite 400
San Francisco, California 94105

If you have any questions or concerns, or need assistance filling out the application please contact Michele Paolella at (415) 836-9160 or by email at mailto:mepaolella@hotmail.com

back to top

National
*********************************************
14. Participate in a Research Study!

Louisiana Tech University is conducting a study regarding gender roles and identity of lesbian and bisexual women. The study is conducted entirely online, and we are offering an incentive--participants may enter a drawing for a chance to win one of eight $25 prizes.

We are a group of researchers interested in learning more about the gender roles and identity of women who have sex with women. We are attempting to develop an instrument to measure gender roles and identity. If you are a woman (either biologically or not) who has sex with other women, and are willing to anonymously answer questions of a personal nature about yourself, please follow the link below.

You will be asked to answer questions designed to help determine the types of personal characteristics, relational behavior, and beliefs associated with gender roles and identity as they relate to women who have sex with other women. Some of the items are of an explicit, sexual nature and you will be asked to provide responses as they relate to you personally. Your information will not be analyzed on an individual level, but rather as a group with a number of other respondents ensuring your anonymity.

You may exit the study at any time, and will be reminded of the explicit nature of the study prior to seeing any of the more explicit items. If after answering the demographic questions you decide you no longer wish to respond to the intimate items you will be offered a formal opportunity to exit the study, in which case your responses to the demographic items will be retained. You may also close the browser and leave the study at any time during the study. The formal opportunity is just in place to assure you are aware of the nature of the study prior to exposure to the potentially sensitive items.

If you have any concerns about the study, feel free to contact one of the researchers listed below. Individuals who complete the entire survey will be given the opportunity to be entered into a drawing for one of eight $25.00 gift certificates that you will be able to redeem on line. In no way will your responses to the survey items be connected to your drawing entry. Thanks in advance for your time and consideration. We sincerely appreciate any level of participation.

Link to Survey: http://www.latech.edu/tech/education/psychology/phpQ/fillsurvey.php?sid=10

Desireé LeBoeuf-Davis
Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA 71272
(318) 257-3413

Dr. Tony Young
Interim Associate Dean
College of Education
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, La 71272
(318) 257-3229

Diana Cabrera
Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA 71272
(318) 257-3413

back to top

Scholarships
*********************************************
15. PFLAG National Scholarships Available!

2007 scholarship materials now available!!

Application materials can be downloaded by students and financial aid administrators from our website,
http://www.pflag.org/scholarships.html

While parental support of, or consent to, the submission of an application to the PFLAG National Scholarships Program is desirable, it is not a requirement of the program. Special consideration is given to students in need, and to students who are living independently of their parents. Furthermore, in many cases students that are ineligible for federal funding may apply to the Program for support.

The National Scholarships are restricted to graduating high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who will be attending 2 or 4 year colleges for the first time in fall 2007. Other requirements are set out in the enclosed materials. Application packets
should be mailed to the following address postmarked no later than February 14, 2007:

PFLAG National Scholarships Program
1726 M Street, NW, #400
Washington, DC 20036

Students awarded a scholarship by a local PFLAG scholarship program are still eligible for a national award. Consequently, there should not be any conflict of interest between the National Scholarships Program and local PFLAG scholarship programs. Students who are related to your chapter members or who have been closely involved with your chapter are welcome to apply for one of the National Scholarships.

If you have questions about the Program, please contact the scholarships administrator at (202) 467-8180 extension 219, or mailto:schools@pflag.org.

back to top

NEWS
********************************************
16. NEWS: Calif. Appeals Court Asked To Uphold Anti-Bully Ruling

by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff
November 22, 2006

(San Diego, California) Lawyers for two students at a San Diego area school have asked a California appeals court to uphold a ruling that found the Poway Unified School District responsible for not protecting LGBT students.

Joey Ramelli and Megan Donovan were students at Poway High School, a school in the Poway Unified School District in northern San Diego County. Over the course of their junior year other students relentlessly taunted them with antigay slurs and Joey was even physically assaulted and his car was vandalized.

The two students found the harassment so brutal that they both had to drop out of Poway High School and completed studies toward their high school diploma at home. Represented by Lambda Legal they took the district to court in 2005.

During the trial the court was told that both Donovan and Ramelli reported the harassment to school officials but nothing was done. The jury found that the officials took "minimal or no action at all" when they reported the incidents. Further, the jury found that the harassment was so "severe and pervasive" that they awarded a combined $300,000 to the students.
Ramelli was awarded $175,000 and Donovan $125,000. They had sought $225,000 each.

"I kept a log of the times when I was called 'fag' and other derogatory words and when I was physically assaulted or my life was threatened," Ramelli said.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/Newscon06/11/112206school.htm

back to top

*********************************************
17. NEWS: Davis Unified School District Addresses Discrimination

Local teen's home egged, parents' car set on fire

By: Michael Bott
The California Aggie
November 27, 2006

In light of a recent incident in which a Harper Junior High School student submitted the names of 14 students who he alleged had been harassing him because of his gay parents, the Davis school board is focusing on spreading tolerance and awareness throughout Davis schools.

Guy Fischer, one of the boy's fathers, composed an e-mail about the incidents with his partner Richard. He said in the e-mail, which was sent to UC Davis student James Schwab, that he felt two incidents that occurred in October were related to his son's harassment.

"On October the 14, 2006, we awoke to see our car engulfed in flames in our front driveway, victim of a horrible arson," Fischer said. "A week after the firebombing of the car, our home was toilet papered and egged. We have since found out that the toilet papering and egging were related to homophobia our son has faced at his school."

Lt. Colleen Turay of the Davis Police Department said that although the DPD has not made any arrests in the arson case, officers apprehended three juveniles suspected of vandalizing the Fischers' house. The motivation, said Turay, was not hate based.

"When they gave us the info that they had been vandalized, they gave us a list of 14 kids who had been making some disgusting comments to [the boy]," Turay said. "These kids that we have identified as the vandals were not on the list."

Turay attributed the crime to a dispute between Fischer's son and the vandals, which she said was unrelated to homophobia. She added that the DPD had no evidence to suspect the arson was a hate crime.

Ryken Grattet, a UC Davis professor of sociology, said adolescents often get away with serious offenses with a slap on the wrist when they come from affluent neighborhoods.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.californiaaggie.com/media/storage/paper981/news/2006/11/27/CityNews/Davis.Unified.School.District.Addresses.Discrimination-2507993.shtml?norewrite200611291560&sourcedomain=www.californiaaggie.com

back to top

*********************************************
18. NEWS: Testimony will Start for Former Garden Grove Student

By KNX1070 NewsRadio Staff
November 28, 2006

SANTA ANA, CA (CNS) -- Testimony will start at a trial held to decide a lawsuit that a former high school student filed against the Garden Grove Unified School District, alleging her privacy rights were violated when her mother was told she was gay.

Charlene Nguon sued the district on September 7, 2005, alleging that Ben Wolf, principal of Santiago High School, told her mother about Nguon's sexuality at a parent meeting in 2004, something her mother did not know at the time.

The suit also claimed Nguon suffered discrimination when she was singled out for discipline for kissing and hugging her girlfriend when similar activity by heterosexual couples at the school was ignored.

The suit asked that a district policy regarding displays of affection be applied equally to gay and heterosexual students.

Alan Trudell, a spokesman for the district, has asserted that the district does not engage in discriminatory practices.

In court papers on the privacy claim, the district said Nguon lost that right to privacy because she was openly gay on campus.

A year ago, Selna refused a motion to dismiss the case.

Selna ruled that Nguon ''has a legally protected privacy interest in information about her sexual orientation.''

Christine Sun, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, said Selna left intact virtually every one of Nguon's claims in the lawsuit.

Nguon said she was suspended, then forced to attend another school when she refused to stop exhibiting affection for her girlfriend.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.knx1070.com/pages/134573.php?contentType=4&contentId=248633

back to top

November 22, 2006

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

GSA Network Highlight
Youth Empowerment Summit (YES) a Success!
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Save the Date! GSA Network Benefit in January! (Bay Area)
2. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)
3. Re-Register Your GSA Today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!
4. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
5. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's Even Cooler! (Statewide)
6. GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)
7. Save the Date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)
9. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School! (Bay Area)
10. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall Intern! (San Francisco)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Central Valley
11. Reel Pride Night OUT! (Fresno)
Go directly to Central Valley listings

Northern California
12. The Other Side of the Closet (San Francisco)
13. Free Money for LGBT Youth! (Bay Area)
14. Paid Focus Group for Female Queer Youth (San Francisco)
15. Youth Making A Change Ally Gathering (San Francisco)
16. CUAV Speakers Bureau Training (San Francisco)
Go directly to Northern California listings

Jobs
17. Transgender Law Center Policy Advocate (San Francisco)
Go directly to Jobs listings

News
18. NEWS: Florida School District Sued For Refusing Gay Club
19. NEWS: Anti-Homophobia Play Could Bring Drama to Manteca School
20. NEWS: California Student Journalists Win Free-Speech Fight
21. NEWS: A Stand Against Hate
Go directly to News listings

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

Youth Empowerment Summit (YES) a Success!

More than three hundred and fifty youth from all over Northern and Central California attended this year's Youth Empowerment Summit, a youth-led conference, on November 18, 2006. "It was a day of great networking, awesome workshop presenters, and amazing positivity," said one participant.

The third annual YES Conference certainly achieved its goal of educating and empowering youth to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools. The conference featured a total of thirty workshops throughout the day, which included such topics as transgender rights, safer sex tips, drug abuse prevention, and coming out. A favorite workshop of one youth participant was "Beyond the Binary: Gender Campaigning" because "the session taught me, as a queer youth advocate, how to reach out beyond just trying to represent the lesbian, gay, bisexual, male, and female populations, but also those who are non-gender conforming." An adult conference participant enjoyed the "Queer History 101" workshop: "It really helped youth and adults to be more aware of the queer past, as well as bridge the gap between the generations that attended the conference." Another popular workshop was "Letters from Home," a short film about one transgender man's transition and how it affected his relationship with his family. One participant commented about this workshop: "It was amazing and inspiring. I'm going to use what I learned and take it to my Gay-Straight Alliance at school and really break ground."

The all-day conference also featured a resource fair in which twenty community organizations participated, a dance and drag show in the evening, as well as entertainment by a Bay Area transgender performer, Katastrophe.

The sharing of knowledge and connections created between community members really made the day a success. In the words of one youth participant: "I felt comfortable and like I fit in. This conference made me feel very proud to be gay." Youth and adults alike left the conference empowered and ready to make positive changes in their own communities.

Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make this event run smoothly! Please send any pictures of the event you would like to share to mailto:yes@gsanetwork.org

GSA Network hopes to see you all again next year for the fourth annual YES Conference!

back to top

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

*********************************************
1. Save the Date! GSA Network Benefit in January! (Bay Area)

*****SAVE THE DATE*****

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Last year, we brought you a private screening of "RENT - The Movie"...

This year, get ready for the WORLD PREMIERE of "Legally Blonde - The Musical" when it hits the stage at the Golden Gate Theatre in San Francisco!

Tickets will be available as a benefit for GSA Network!

More info coming soon about ticket prices, VIP tickets, and corporate sponsorship packages!

Thanks to a tiered-ticket structure, everyone from students to VIP underwriters will be able to enjoy an exclusive theatrical event together, all while helping raise much-needed funds for the only student-led organization that connects GSA clubs across California.

To learn more about Legally Blonde - The Musical visit: http://www.shnsf.com/shows/show.asp?key=18&subkey=513

back to top

*********************************************
2. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)

MAKE YOUR MARK ALL OVER CALIFORNIA!
Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & pin design contest!

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

back to top

*********************************************
4. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for the Youth Council.
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 movement
* 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 to fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools
* Interest in developing and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSA Network
* 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.

back to top

*********************************************
5. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's Even Cooler! (Statewide)

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will learn skills to become a stronger advocate to create statewide change and safer, more supportive schools for all students. Members are also responsible for providing input towards the planning of Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD). QYAD is an annual, all-youth lobbying day held at the Capitol in Sacramento that brings hundreds of youth together to speak to lawmakers about the needs of LGBTQ students. In addition, members are responsible for giving input that will guide GSA Network's advocacy program and for providing feedback and recommendations on legislation being considered by GSA Network for future support, endorsement, or other kinds of action.

The Advocacy Committee generally meets once per month with GSA Network's Advocacy Coordinator via a toll-free telephone conference line.

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will have monthly opportunities to
* Network with youth from throughout California
* Get peer and staff support and feedback on your GSA's advocacy efforts
* Give input on GSA Network's statewide advocacy program
* Learn about and discuss legislation and policies affecting LGBTQ youth in schools
* Help plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day and recruit youth in your area to participate.

In addition, you may have an opportunity to
* Become an Advocacy Day Leader and train youth in your assigned district in advocacy skills
* Lead lobbying visits to lawmakers' offices
* Lobby lawmakers during visits to their district offices in your area
* Become a youth media spokesperson on advocacy issues for GSA Network.

Requirements
* Willingness to commit to serving on the Advocacy Committee for one year
* Commitment to creating statewide and local change for LGBTQ youth and to fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools all over California, specifically with a focus on legislative advocacy and policy change
* Interest in developing and suggesting ideas on how to strengthen the GSA Network's advocacy program
* Must be a student in a public or private middle school or high school in California.

For more info or to apply, email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
6. GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on December 9 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 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.

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, December 9, 2006, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Oakland Public Library
125 14th Street
Oakland, CA 94612
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
*Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org
*Jessi Snow, Teen Outreach Librarian, Oakland Public Library, at 510-238-7233 or mailto:jsnow@oaklandlibrary.org

back to top

*********************************************
7. Save the Date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)

back to top

*********************************************
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)

LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!

You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: http://www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation
Please note that we are currently out of POSTER #6. We should have this poster by late November.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL:

*Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit members
*Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms
*Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters
*Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign
*Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use them while you're tabling
*Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article or announcement about your GSA
*Create an agreement for teachers to sign, and give them posters to symbolize their support
*Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place, or fill a whole wall with posters in a grid
*Use the posters in conjunction with GLSEN'S Day of Silence (April), Transgender Day of Remembrance (November), LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), National Coming Out Day (October 11), and/or Diversity Day or Week at your school.

Liberation Ink is a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It is supported by Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, San Francisco Arts Commission, and Walter and Elise Haas Fund.

back to top

*********************************************
9. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School! (Bay Area)

GSA Network's High Contrast, a photo-narrative exhibit by youth for youth, is on the move again!

"In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation. We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence. We don't want anyone to leave thinking, 'This isn't my issue.' Because all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough to learn." - High Contrast

High Contrast is now available for circulation. If you are a GSA in the Bay Area interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org

For more information on and pictures of High Contrast, go to http://www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html

back to top

*********************************************
10. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall 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.

Please note that this is a non-paid position at 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
http://www.gsanetwork.org

back to top

Central Valley
*********************************************
11. Reel Pride Night OUT! (Fresno)

Reel Pride Night OUT!
Another Gay Movie

Friday November 24, 2006
8pm - Tower Theatre
6pm box office opens
Doors open 1/2 hour before film starts
DAY OF FILM - Cash only sales

$10 general admission
$5 VIP and Host Committee Members
To purchase tickets online please visit:
http://www.reelpride.com/2006/f_q_anothergaymovie.php

In the throbbing vein of modern day, kitschy and colorful films, Another Gay Movie takes a crate of neon Crayolas, some fabulous Eichler style, mid-century modern homes, and Brady/Leave It To Beaver suburban flair (even the movie's font title is pulled from the Brady archives) to take a literal "poke" of fun at all the gay clichés.
Kim Owens, http://kaffeinebuzz.com

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

back to top

Northern California
*********************************************
12. The Other Side of the Closet (San Francisco)

THE NEW CONSERVATORY THEATRE CENTER PROUDLY PRESENTS:

A YouthAware Educational Theatre
FREE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE
Underwritten by the Wells Fargo Corporation

Monday December 4, 2006 at 7:00 PM at the New Conservatory Theatre Center 25 Van Ness Ave. @ Market St.
Audience discussion with the cast and director immediately following the performance. Light refreshments will be served.

FOR YOUR FREE TICKETS, CONTACT OUR BOX OFFICE 415-861-8972
Please join us for this complimentary performance of The New Conservatory Theatre Center's YouthAware Educational Theatre presentation of a safe schools program, The Other Side of the Closet by Ed Roy.

We welcome friends, family, teachers, allies, administrators, parents, teens, LGBT community members, and anyone with an interest in previewing this compelling social issue theatre for youth. This program has educated teens all over Northern California since 2000, about homophobia, diversity, and the CA Student Safety Act, AB537, in an innovative and engaging format. Feel free to forward this notice to anyone interested in attending.

back to top

*********************************************
13. Free Money for LGBT Youth! (Bay Area)

CALLING ALL BAY AREA LGBT YOUTH

-- Are you interested in making $25?

-- Do you want to help other lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth and their families?

WE NEED YOUR HELP to reach parents, foster parents, guardians and caregivers!!
Contact us to find out more and how you can get involved.

Call 415-522-8537 or 1-888-354-4222 or e-mail us at mailto:fap@sfsu.edu

The Family Acceptance Project is a research and education project of the Cesar E. Chavez Institute at San Francisco State University developed in 2002 to help increase family support for LGBT young people.

http://familyproject.sfsu.edu

back to top

*********************************************
14. Paid Focus Group for Female Queer Youth (San Francisco)

A California women's non-profit is holding a focus group about what it's like to be a teen today!

A California women’s non-profit is looking for female queer youth between the ages of 16 and 18 to participate in a focus group on November 30th between 3:30pm and 6pm in downtown San Francisco. All participants will be paid $100 for their time.

If interested, email your name, phone number, sexual identity, age, and the name and phone number of one parent/guardian to mailto:bayarearesearch@aol.com.

Space is limited so be sure to send your information in as soon as possible. All emails must be received by November 23, 2006

Parental Permission Required!
Participation is anonymous

back to top

*********************************************
15. Youth Making A Change Ally Gathering (San Francisco)

You are invited to our Jobs Campaign Ally Gathering. We want to give all our closest folks an update about what's new with our campaign. We will have food and information at the gathering. YMAC is ready to launch an exciting new campaign and we need your support.

OUR GOALS:
-Get more quality jobs for youth under 18 years old
-Get the S.F Ballpark to Increase the Number of Jobs Available For Youth
-To prevent youth violence by creating better employment opportunity's for youth.

When: November 29,2006 @ 4:30pm
Where: 459 Vienna St. and Persia in the Excelcior District S.F CA. 94112

back to top

*********************************************
16. CUAV Speakers Bureau Training (San Francisco)

CUAV Speakers Bureau is more in demand than ever-but we have had to turn teachers and other community leaders down simply because we don't have enough speakers.

We have set the date for an all-ages open training for new speakers. Make a huge difference by spreading the word to your friends, partners, school buddies-anyone you know that you think would make a great LGBTQ speaker.

The dates for the next SPEAKERS BUREAU training will be Sat/Sun January 20th and 21st 2007, in SF.

The training is a full 2-day training (although we generally end early on Sundays) lunch, snacks, and beverages provided.

Interested folks can contact Connie Champagne at mailto:connie@cuav.org

back to top

Jobs
*********************************************
17. Transgender Law Center Policy Advocate (San Francisco)

The Transgender Law Center (http://www.transgenderlawcenter.org), founded in 2002, is a multi-disciplinary social justice organization working throughout California to ensure that all of us are able to fully and freely express our gender identities. Our Transforming Institutions Project is one of TLC's core means of achieving this goal. Through community organizing, public policy and media advocacy, and public education, TLC engages with institutions in order to make them more transgender friendly. Currently, our work is divided up into programs related to: economic empowerment, health care access, leadership development, safe bathrooms, student safety, and transitioning the bar. TLC also works on other important policy issues on an ad-hoc basis.

The Policy Advocate will work primarily on expanding our health care access work into different counties around California, but also on our projects related to leadership development, safe bathrooms, and student safety. The Policy Advocate will work with TLC staff, consultants, partners, and volunteers to carry out these transformative social change initiatives. Because TLC is a statewide organization, this position will include some amount of travel throughout California (including availability to travel on weekends).

Responsibilities:

·Coordinate TLC's statewide organizing and advocacy campaign to increase access to transgender specific health care in county and community clinics. In addition to assisting with existing efforts, the Advocate will help expand TLC's existing county specific organizing and advocacy efforts into several additional counties.
·Work with students, parents, student safety advocates, and school personnel to advance adoption and implementation of California's Student Safety law on local and statewide level.
·Continue TLC's ground-breaking work on bathroom safety through educating business owners, public officials, and employers about need for supportive policies related to bathroom use and gender-neutral bathrooms.
·Participate in expanding TLC's leadership development program beyond our annual work on the California Transgender Leadership Summit, including possibly initiating a year-long leadership fellows program.
·Translate our policy and advocacy work into written publications similar to Beyond the Binary and Peeing in Peace (both are available on our website).

Required Qualifications:

·Demonstrable cultural competency in working with transgender communities
·Minimum of two years of experience in a paid or volunteer position advocating for the rights of transgender people or other underserved communities.
·Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write clearly, speak in public, and facilitate large and small meetings. Demonstrated experience tailoring messages to different types of audiences is also necessary.
·A degree in law, public policy, public health, social change OR substantial and related real world experience.
·Proven ability to work with a group to plan and implement social change strategies to address a pressing problem of systemic discrimination, isolation, and/or oppression.
·Ability to work without close supervision on both assigned and self-initiated tasks.
·Commitment to a multi-disciplinary approach to social change.

Preferred Qualifications:

·Spanish proficiency and experience working with native Spanish speaking activists and community members.
·Experience creating publications that explain policy proposals in easily understood language.
· Experience creating and implementing media campaigns to support public policy efforts.

Annual salary range: $37,000 - $42,000 DOE

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume as Word attachments to Chris Daley at mailto:chris@transgenderlawcenter.org. Competitive candidates will be invited for first-round, telephone interviews beginning sometime after December 15th.

Feel free to email questions not answered by this posting to the same address. No phone calls, please.

Anticipated start date: February 1, 2007 (earlier and later start dates will be considered)

The Transgender Law Center is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

back to top

News
********************************************
18. NEWS: Florida School District Sued For Refusing Gay Club

by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff
November 15, 2006

(Okeechobee, Florida) The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida today filed a federal lawsuit against the School Board of Okeechobee County after school district administrators allegedly prevented students who formed the Gay-Straight Alliance of Okeechobee High School (GSA) to meet on high school grounds.

The school recognizes other extracurricular clubs - including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Key Club, and the Rodeo team - all of which meet regularly on school grounds.

According to students, anti-gay harassment and discrimination are serious problems at Okeechobee High School. Students Yasmin Gonzalez, Amber Sewell and Erica Rodriguez say school officials have made the problem worse by discriminating against LGBT students.

Gonzalez, Sewell, Rodriguez and others decided to form the GSA to discuss problems caused by anti-gay bias at OHS after school officials refused to allow Gonzalez and her girlfriend to attend the prom as a couple.

They say they hoped the GSA would promote equality and open-mindedness among students, administrators and staff of the high school.

"Straight kids cannot turn their backs on the plague of violence and discrimination against gay and lesbian students," said Amber Sewell, one of the club's founders and straight members. "When students aren't safe, we can't learn. Only when we stand together will we find a solution."

The GSA, which currently meets at a local restaurant, has elected officers and adopted a constitution. The GSA now has approximately 50 members.

"The purpose of the GSA is to provide a safe, supportive environment for students to talk about anti-gay bias, harassment and violence and to work together to promote tolerance, understanding and acceptance of one another, regardless of sexual orientation," said GSA President Yasmin Gonzalez.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.365gay.com/Newscon06/11/111506school.htm

back to top

*********************************************
19. NEWS: Anti-Homophobia Play Could Bring Drama to Manteca School

By Christian Burkin
Stockton Record
November 15, 2006

MANTECA - Students at East Union High School might get a dramatic lesson in tolerance.

Principal John Alba wants to bring a play about homophobia and teenage coming-out to East Union. On Monday night, he sought advice from Manteca Unified School District's diversity advisory committee about the play, "The Other Side of the Closet."

The play is about five high school students who discover one of their group is gay. The San Francisco-based New Conservatory Theatre Center has been touring schools in Northern California since 2000 performing the piece.

At Monday's meeting, committee members supported the idea but worried about a possible backlash from parents over language used in the play.

"You may not want to offend one group while you defend another," committee member Paul Bennett said.

Jason Messer, district assistant superintendent for education, said that despite the potential for controversy, the play's subject matter is appropriate for high school students.

"It's about how people should be treated and how they actually are treated," he said.

The play's Manteca debut could still be a long way off. Alba said he hoped to bring the performance to East Union this season, but Sara Staley, the play's director, said the school isn't on its schedule, and the season ends Dec. 14th. The new season doesn't begin until next fall.

The price to schools for a performance of "The Other Side of the Closet" is just $250, which Staley said could be worked around through donors.

The idea to bring the play to Manteca came from East Union senior Dane McKinley, president of the school's Gay-Straight Alliance, which works to fight homophobia. McKinley praised the school's administration for its open-mindedness.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061115/A_NEWS/611150334/-1/A_NEWS01

back to top

*********************************************
20. NEWS: California Student Journalists Win Free-Speech Fight

November 16, 2006
www.gay.com

After an 18-month legal battle, students in Kern County, Calif., angered over suppression of gay-themed articles will "exercise freedom of speech and of the press," according to a court order obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union.

Superior Court Judge Sidney P. Chapin was expected to file a court order Thursday mandating speech and press rights for students and saying that "school officials may turn to censorship only as a last resort."

Students at Bakersfield's East High School sued the Kern School District after a series of articles that students wished to publish in the second-to-last 2005 edition of their award-winning paper, The Kernal, about gay student life were censored by their principal.

The students were careful to make sure that they had full consent of the students they interviewed and their parents, the ACLU argued. Administrators blocked publication, claiming vague threats against the LGBT students interviewed but not substantiating any such threats to the students, their parents or police.

Janet Rangel, who graduated from the high school in 2005, was interviewed for the series.

"When our principal said the articles on sexual orientation could not be published in The Kernal, it made me feel like I was back in the closet again, hiding," Rangel said Thursday in a written statement.

"I'm glad that because we didn't back down the articles will be printed. It's important for schools to be a place where students learn and feel comfortable," Rangel said.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.gay.com/news/article.html?2006/11/16/6

back to top

*********************************************
21. NEWS: A Stand Against Hate

Nov 17, 2006
By Jeff Hudson and Lauren Keene
Davis Enterprise

School board gets earful over anti-gay harassment at Harper

After hearing three hours of emotional testimony Thursday about recent incidents of anti-gay harassment at Harper Junior High School, the Davis Board of Education reaffirmed its commitment to safe schools.

A standing-room-only crowd turned out for the discussion, which stemmed from a case involving a 13-year-old Harper eighth-grader, Zachary Fischer, who last month revealed that, for about a year, he had been the subject of anti-gay harassment from other students because of his father's relationship with another man.

Several students have been disciplined for their role in the harassment, but Zachary's father Guy Fischer is asking for more.

Board members asked Mel Lewis, the district's school climate coordinator, to draw up an action plan designed to reduce or eliminate harassment not just at Harper but at all Davis schools.

Zachary's revelation followed an incident in which the family's South Davis home and car were toilet-papered and splattered with a dozen eggs on the morning of Oct. 21 - exactly a week after the family's Mercedes was torched in the driveway.

To read the full story, visit:
http://www.davisenterprise.com/articles/2006/11/19/news/044new0.txt

back to top

November 15, 2006

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

GSA Network Highlight
Creating Change Conference Underscores Importance of Inclusivity and Coalition Building
Go directly to GSA Network highlight

GSA Network Announcements
1. Don't miss the Youth Empowerment Summit (YES)! (Bay Area)
2. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)
3. Re-Register Your GSA Today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!
4. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)
5. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's Even Cooler! (Statewide)
6. Save the Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)
7. Save the Date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)
9. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School! (Bay Area)
10. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall Intern! (San Francisco)
Go directly to GSA Network announcements

Other Announcements
Southern California
11. LifeWorks Thanksgiving Dinner (West Hollywood)
12. ThanXgiving Youth Social (West Hollywood)
Go directly to Southern California listings

Northern California
13. November and December Programs at the DeFrank! (San Jose)
14. South Bay Transgender Day of Remembrance Ceremony (San Jose)
15. Free Money for LGBT Youth! (Bay Area)
16. Present an LGBT Speakers Panel At Your School! (Bay Area)
17. LGBT Literature Course Open to High School Students! (San Jose)
18. Making Substance Abuse Programs Work For LGBTQ Adolescents (Concord)
Go directly to Northern California listings

News
19. NEWS: East Bay Parents Gather to Discuss School Problems
20. NEWS: San Francisco School Board Votes to Dump JROTC Program
21. NEWS: South Africans OK Gay Marriage
Go directly to News listings

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

Creating Change Conference Underscores Importance of Inclusivity and Coalition Building

Every year, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force gathers together activists from across the country for a 5-day conference called Creating Change. The largest conference in the U.S. of its kind, it attracts thousands of participants. The 2006 Creating Change conference was held in Kansas City, Missouri. It was the 19th annual conference.

This year, the honored speakers discussed the current political landscape and focused on the need to build genuine coalitions among different identity groups and political organizations within our LGBTQ movement. For instance, one speaker discussed the importance of connecting the reproductive rights movement to sexual identity freedoms in general, and how the two movements are intertwined. After all, the critical freedom at stake in both of these movements is privacy. Others spoke to the fact that although we made political gains in some progressive areas this past election (such as stopping the ban on abortion in South Dakota, stopping parental notification for abortion in CA and Oregon, and stopping the anti-marriage equality constitutional amendment in Arizona), we suffered defeat in several key immigration and affirmative action measures. In addition, disability rights activists advocated for greater awareness of ableism and greater visibility within the LGBTQ movement. An HIV/AIDS activist (CEO of Gay Men's Health Crisis and the first African American to hold the position) spoke to the fact that the HIV epidemic is about poverty, racism, and the lack of adequate education. She called on those present to make connections between these forms of oppression and other social justice issues that affect the LGBTQ movement.

The take-home message from the conference speakers was that these and other social justice issues are all connected. To be truly progressive, the LGBTQ movement must not leave any of its members behind and must work to address all forms of oppression.

In addition to guest speakers, there were five days of workshops, film screenings, skills academies, and networking sessions for participants to attend. Many events focused on the rights of youth and subjects of interest to youth activists. For instance, workshops included: "A Dialogue With Youth: Talking About Sex and Sexual Freedom," "A Youth HIV Social Marketing Campaign," "An Interactive Poetry Workshop Featuring Alix Olson," "No Longer Alone: Serving Rural Youth," and "Youth in the Crosshairs: The 3rd Wave of Ex-Gay Activism."

The Gay-Straight Alliance Network was represented this year by Executive Director, Carolyn Laub, and Legal Fellow, Natalie Nardecchia, who co-led a seminar with GLSEN entitled "Making Schools Safe: Laws and Policies for Today's Classrooms." The Skills Academy emphasized that the passage and implementation of effective, comprehensive safe schools law and policy is the necessary foundation to ensure that all students have the right to an education.

"It was really inspiring to see the progressive and conscientious work of so many different individuals and organizations within our broad LGBTQ community," Nardecchia said. "There was a sense of hope, but also the call to work harder to make our movement more inclusive and stronger."

Next year, the Creating Change conference will be held in Detroit, MI from November 7-11. To learn more, visit http://www.creatingchange.org

back to top

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

*********************************************
1. Don't Miss the Youth Empowerment Summit (YES)! (Bay Area)

GSA Network's YES Conference is happening in the Bay Area on Saturday, November 18! YES is a FREE conference for LGBTQQI youth activists and their allies who are dedicated to defeating homophobia and transphobia and creating safe and supportive schools for everyone. The target audience is high school & middle school students. Teachers & GSA advisors are welcome.

Here are some of the workshops planned for that day:
o Transgender Rights: Overview and Discussion of Inclusion in Activism
o Regina Antiqua: An Album of Old Queens
o Breaking Free: GSAs in Religious Schools
o Beyond the Binary: Gender Campaigning
o Flaming Legal Activism
o Do You Know that You Are an Expert?: Speaking Truths to Create Social Change
o How to Have a Kick-Ass GSA
o Queerspawn: In a Queer Movement
o 'Zine-Making Workshop
o "Know Dope": An Open Conversation about Substance Use and Abuse Within or Around the LGTBIQQ Youth Community
o Life in the Central Valley
o How to be an Ally to Queer People of Color
o Coming out: Tips and Strategies
o Peace Talks: Building Bridges Between Queer Youth Activists and Their Allies
o Safer Sex
o Resources, Tools and Networks for Safe Schools Advocates
o And many more!

WHO: LGBTQQI youth activists & their allies
WHERE: Everett Middle School, 450 Church Street, San Francisco
WHEN: Saturday, November 18, 9:00am-5:00pm
WHY: To meet other youth leaders, learn new skills, and share strength!
COST: Everything, including food, is FREE!
WHAT ELSE: Get down & dance with everyone you've just met at a special, youth-only (23 and under) dance at SF LGTB Center (1800 Market Street @Octavia Street, San Francisco) from 8pm-11pm!

The YES Conference is a chance for LGBTQQI and straight ally youth to network and enjoy free workshops on activism and topics related to queer life.

Pre-register for the GSA Network's YES Conference at http://www.gsanetwork.org/yes

For more info, email mailto:yes@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
2. CONTEST: Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & Pin Design Contest! (Statewide)

MAKE YOUR MARK ALL OVER CALIFORNIA!
Enter the GSA Network T-shirt & pin design contest!

We have re-opened the design contest due to lack of submissions!! Send us all of your artistic and creative designs for a chance to win money and free T-shirts and pins!!

Can you draw, design, or paint? Can you capture a thousand words with just a single image? Do you want to see your artwork worn by hundreds and hundreds of students all over the state? If so, please submit your designs to our contest today!!!

The GSA Network is currently looking for individual artists or GSAs who want to impress everyone with their artistic skills and earn some cash! We need designs for two things: One design is for a GSA Network T-shirt, and the other is for a GSA Network button.

These designs should represent a strong, fierce message about youth activism and the GSA Network mission statement: "Empowering youth to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools." Show us what you see when you think about the power of coming together and creating change! For more information about GSA Network's mission statement and our work, please visit http://www.gsanetwork.org/about/index.html

The T-shirts and buttons will be distributed state-wide. Yes, this is your chance to get your artwork worn by many, many GSA members and other LGBTQ youth supporters all over California.

The winner for the T-shirt design will receive $100 + 5 free T-shirts!!!
The winner for the button design will receive $50 + 25 free buttons!!!

Rules…rules…there are always rules…
1) No profanity
2) No more than 3 colors for the T-shirt (It helps keep costs low so we can print up more shirts for everyone!)
3) Email your designs as JPEG or Adobe Photoshop attachments to mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org, or mail them to our office: 1550 Bryant St, Ste 800, San Francisco, CA 94103
4) Designs will not be returned
5) The original artwork becomes property of GSA Network
6) Submission deadline: Friday, December 1, 2006.

Remember, the button designs should be tiny enough to show up easily on a small pin. T-shirt designs can be larger with more details. Words and phrases can also be used by themselves or incorporated with the artwork!

Again, these designs are due NO LATER THAN Friday, December 1, 2006. If you are sending them to us via snail mail, make sure to do so early enough so that we receive them by December 1! GSA Network Youth Council members will then vote on the most amazing images, and we will notify the winners!

Good luck!

back to top

*********************************************
3. Re-Register Your GSA Today - Get New Resources & Keep Informed!

Before you plan any events for your GSA, remember to register or re-register your group with 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.php

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

back to top

*********************************************
4. Apply for GSA Network Youth Council! It's Cool! (Statewide)

GSA Network is accepting applications for new Youth Council members.
Go to the website and apply: 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 and helping to guide the programs of GSA Network. 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 movement
* 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 and suggesting ideas to strengthen GSA Network
* 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:m arco@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
5. Apply for GSA Network Advocacy Committee! It's even Cooler! (Statewide)

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will learn skills to become a stronger advocate to create statewide change and safer, more supportive schools for all students. Members are also responsible for providing input towards the planning of Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD). QYAD is an annual, all-youth lobbying day held at the Capitol in Sacramento that brings hundreds of youth together to speak to lawmakers about the needs of LGBTQ students. In addition, members are responsible for giving input that will guide GSA Network's advocacy program and for providing feedback and recommendations on legislation being considered by GSA Network for future support, endorsement, or other kinds of action.

The Advocacy Committee generally meets once per month with GSA Network's Advocacy Coordinator via a toll-free telephone conference line.

As a member of the Advocacy Committee, you will have monthly opportunities to:
* Network with youth from throughout California
* Get peer and staff support and feedback on your GSA's advocacy efforts
* Give input on GSA Network's statewide advocacy program
* Learn about and discuss legislation and policies affecting LGBTQ youth in schools
* Help plan Queer Youth Advocacy Day and recruit youth in your area to participate.

In addition, you may have an opportunity to:
* Become an Advocacy Day Leader and train youth in your assigned district in advocacy skills
* Lead lobbying visits to lawmakers' offices
* Lobby lawmakers during visits to their district offices in your area
* Become a youth media spokesperson on advocacy issues for GSA Network.

Requirements:
* Willingness to commit to serving on the Advocacy Committee for one year
* Commitment to creating statewide and local change for LGBTQ youth and to fighting homophobia and transphobia in schools all over California, specifically with a focus on legislative advocacy and policy change
* Interest in developing and suggesting ideas on how to strengthen the GSA Network's advocacy program
* Must be a student in a public or private middle school or high school in California.

For more info or to apply, email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
6. Save The Date! GSA Network Leadership Training! (Oakland)

You are invited to a GSA NETWORK LEADERSHIP TRAINING!

This FREE event will be held on December 9 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 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.

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, December 9, 2006, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Oakland Public Library
125 14th Street
Oakland, CA 94612
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:
* Marco Castro-Bojorquez, GSA Network Northern California Program Coordinator, at 415-552-4229 or mailto:marco@gsanetwork.org
* Jessi Snow, Teen Outreach Librarian, Oakland Public Library, at 510-238-7233 or mailto:jsnow@oaklandlibrary.org

back to top

*********************************************
7. Save the date! Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007! (Sacramento)

Mark your calendars for March 26, the date of Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2007!

Queer Youth Advocacy Day (QYAD) is a youth-led lobby day at the Capitol in Sacramento where hundreds of youth activists come together and educate lawmakers about the need for statewide policy that will make schools safer and more supportive for LGBTQ youth.

QYAD 2006 was huge success that brought 500 people to the Capitol, showed California legislators the power of youth activism, and opened a lot of people's eyes to the kind of harassment and discrimination still faced by many students. Now, it's time to go back to the Capitol and show them that we're still fighting for safer schools!

WHO: LGBTQ youth & their allies
WHERE: Crest Theater & the Capitol (Sacramento)
WHEN: Monday, March 26, 2007
WHY: To network with other youth activists, learn important advocacy skills, and help make change for schools all over California

Informational packets with additional details will be mailed out later this fall to all GSAs registered with GSA Network. Keep an eye on your mailboxes!

For more info, email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org or call 415-552-4229.

back to top

*********************************************
8. Liberation Ink Posters - Free For GSAs! (Statewide)

LIBERATION INK POSTERS AVAILABLE
FREE FOR GSAs IN CALIFORNIA!

You can view the designs and order posters on the Liberation Ink website: www.gsanetwork.org/freezone/liberation
Please note that we are currently out of POSTER #6. We should have this poster by late November.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO USE LIBERATION INK TO MAKE CHANGE AT YOUR SCHOOL:

* Attach information about your GSA to the posters to advertise and recruit members
* Encourage teachers to hang the posters in their classrooms
* Have GSA members lead discussions and activities related to the posters
* Use the posters as part of an anti-slur campaign
* Put the posters up in the courtyard with easels and/or use them while you're tabling
* Get the posters printed in your school or community newspaper with an article or announcement about your GSA
* Create an agreement for teachers to sign, and give them posters to symbolize their support
* Display the whole Liberation Ink series in one place, or fill a whole wall with posters in a grid
* Use the posters in conjunction with GLSEN'S Day of Silence (April), Transgender Day of Remembrance (November), LGBT History Month (October), LGBT Pride Month (June), National Coming Out Day (October 11), and/or Diversity Day or Week at your school.

Liberation Ink was a collaborative project of GSA Network, LYRIC, and Mission Grafica at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco. It was supported by Youth Initiatives Program of the Open Society Institute, San Francisco Arts Commission, and Walter and Elise Haas Fund.

back to top

*********************************************
9. Sign-up for the High Contrast Photo Exhibit at Your School (Bay Area)

GSA Network's High Contrast, a photo-narrative exhibit by youth for youth, is on the move again!

In this exhibit we bring you our voices with hopes that you will hear us, see us... and identify. We use art as a means for change -- to show people what they might not choose to see, to incite dialogue, and to inspire transformation. We want to make schools free from harassment, discrimination, and violence. We don't want anyone to leave thinking, "This isn't my issue." Because all kinds of people are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. Because there are so many shades to our identities. Because we all deserve to be safe enough to learn. - High Contrast

High Contrast is now available for circulation. If you are a GSA in the Bay Area interested in bringing the High Contrast photo exhibit to your school, email mailto:highcontrast@gsanetwork.org

For more information on and pictures of High Contrast, go to www.gsanetwork.org/highcontrast/index.html

back to top

*********************************************
10. GSA Network is Seeking a Fall Intern! (San Francisco)

Intern Call Outs!

WHAT IS 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.

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
GSA Network
1550 Bryant Street, #800
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone - 415-552-4229
Fax - 415-552-4729
mailto:kiely@gsanetwork.org
http://www.gsanetwork.org

back to top

++++++++++++++++ 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
*********************************************
11. LifeWorks Thanksgiving Dinner (West Hollywood)

You are invited to the 2nd annual LifeWorks ThanksGiving Dinner!

WHEN: Thursday, November 16, 7:30pm
WHERE: Metropolitan Community Church
8714 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
WHY: In celebration of all we have to be thankful for.
COST: FREE!!

Please RSVP to mailto:dgarcia@lifeworksmentoring.org or for more information give us a call: (310) 724-6300

Hope to see you there!

back to top

*********************************************
12. ThanXgiving Youth Social (West Hollywood)

We are just 10 days away from this year's "ThanXgiving Youth Social"!

This will be a free event for LGBTQ youth (ages 14-24) and their allies. There will be free food, live youth performances, special guests, surprises, and more! And this year, we're bringing Turkey back!

When: Saturday, November 18th, 2006
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: MCCLA in West Hollywood (8714 Santa Monica Blvd.).
Why: Why Not!?
Web Site: http://www.cityx1.com/thanx

Please forward this information to any and all youth who might be interested in attending!

back to top

Northern California
*********************************************
13. November and December Programs at the DeFrank! (San Jose)

Q-Kids Shout
Wednesday Nov. 15th 5:30pm-7pm
Cassie Out of Town! This will be an opportunity for you all to facilitate a meeting. Please be sure to pass around the sign-in sheet (to be found at the front desk). Have fun!

1st Youth Slam Poetry Workshop
Thursday Nov. 16th 4:30-6pm
Learn to express yourself through spoken work art, meet new people, hear guest poets, and be introduced to the San Jose Slam Scene. Other workshop dates are: