tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84919439021309542332024-03-21T11:12:42.956-07:00Spectrum LGBT Center News and Action AlertsNews and events from Spectrum LGBT Center, located in Marin County, CA and promoting acceptance, understanding, and full inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-84888137075229181382012-02-07T12:44:00.000-08:002012-02-07T12:44:57.113-08:00NEW FAIR HOUSING RULE PROTECTS LGBT RESIDENTS<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Palatino; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<span style="mso-tab-count: 7;">-</span>February 7, 2012</span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Palatino; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Contacts:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Palatino; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Nancy Kenyon, Executive Director, 457-5025</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;"><a href="mailto:nancy@fairhousingmarin.com"><span style="color: blue;">nancy@fairhousingmarin.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;"><a href="http://www.fairhousingmarin.com/">www.fairhousingmarin.com</a><br />
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">On March 5, 2012, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) individuals will be protected from housing discrimination under a new federal Rule posted by HUD, announced Fair Housing of Marin.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">The new rule “Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity” ensures that housing assisted or insured by HUD must be made available without regard to actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. The rule applies to FHA-insured loans and to HUD’s Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs, both popular programs in Marin County.</span><span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Consolas; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">California led the nation when it included discrimination based on sexual orientation in its Fair Housing law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Accordingly, Fair Housing of Marin has assisted LGBT Marin residents for more than two decades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some examples of the discrimination victims we have helped:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the gay man evicted from an apartment with his partner after the owner learned that one of them was HIV positive. A gay couple not allowed to move to a smaller one bedroom apartment: the Manager asked how they would “manage”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An apartment complex owner said that she would not rent to 3 men, one a minister with a child, because they might give AIDS to others in the complex.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Dan Nackerman, Marin Housing Authority Director, applauded the new HUD Rule:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">"Marin</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Housing Authority has accepted partners as the equivalent policy definition of a married couple for many years. However, this Rule gives us more power to prevent possible discrimination by the more than 1,400 private landlords we pay each month."</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Paula Pilecki, Executive Director, Spectrum LGBT Center, commented:<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b></span><span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 19.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">“It’s difficult for Marin residents to imagine the level of housing discrimination that occurs in this county. Thanks to our colleagues at Fair Housing of Marin, this injustice continues to be proactively addressed. And now, thanks to the leadership of HUD secretary Shaun Donovan, the federal government will no longer tolerate discrimination directed toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals who seek FHA-insured loans or public housing. Does it happen here? Yes. Will it continue to happen? Not on our watch.”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Palatino; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-font-family: Palatino;">Individuals who suspect discrimination in their housing should call Fair Housing of Marin and visit their website, <a href="http://www.fairhousingmarin.com/">www.fairhousingmarin.com</a>.</span>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-25108922867820268412012-02-06T16:04:00.000-08:002012-02-06T16:04:59.226-08:00PROP 8 DAY OF DECISION GATHERING PLACES<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-collapse: collapse; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 58pt; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; border-left: #ece9d8; border-right: #ece9d8; border-top: #ece9d8; height: 58pt; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-right: 5.4pt; padding-top: 0in; width: 7.25in;" width="696"><i><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 12pt;">Re-Posted from <a href="http://www.marriageequality.org/" target="_blank">Marriage Equality USA</a></div></span></i><strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
San Francisco, CA</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> -- Same-sex couples, friends, family and clergy will gather at the steps of the Ninth Circuit Federal Courthouse in San Francisco at 9:45 AM Tuesday, February 7th to receive the Ninth Circuit’s ruling on Proposition 8. The Court will release the ruling at 10:00 AM. Those gathered will then walk to the steps of San Francisco City Hall, where clergy will bless the unions of couples unable to marry because of Prop 8. <br />
<br />
At 5:00 PM, a community rally will be held at Market and 17th (across from Castro & Market) in San Francisco. Similar events will be held in communities across California, including Contra Costa County, Fresno, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and Santa Clara County. <br />
<br />
“We are very hopeful that the Ninth Circuit will rule in favor of fairness and equality, once and for all putting an end to Prop. 8’s exclusion of loving, committed couples from marriage,” said John Lewis, Marriage Equality USA’s Legal Director. <br />
<br />
"We are a loving couple who have committed our lives to each other for the past nine years, and we will be at the courthouse in the morning to receive the decision," said Thom Watson, who shares his life and a home in Daly City with his partner Jeff Tabaco. "We are a family and we want to be married. We are on pins and needles waiting to see if the Ninth Circuit will enable us to fulfill the American dream of marrying the one you love," added Tabaco. <br />
<br />
“Love is a blessing, and we will celebrate tomorrow’s ruling by blessing same-sex couples at San Francisco City Hall to recognize that love and commitment make a marriage,” said Rev. Roland Stringfellow, Director of Ministerial Outreach for the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies. <br />
<br />
A diverse coalition of community organizations came together to create events statewide <em><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">: </span></em><i><br />
</i><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Contra Costa County</span></strong> <br />
What: Community gathering at the Rainbow Community Center <br />
Where: Rainbow Community Center <br />
3024 Willow Pass Road, Suite 200, Concord, CA 94519 <br />
When: 6:00–7:00 PM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Contact: Leslie Stewart (925) 765-6064 <br />
<b><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Fresno</span></strong></b> <br />
What: Community Rally <br />
Where: Corner of N. Blackstone Avenue and E. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, CA 93726 <br />
When: 5:00-7:00 PM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Bring pro-equality, No on 8 signs. <br />
Contact: Jaymi Morgan (559) 704-7683 <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Los Angeles</span></strong> <br />
What: Community Rally, then a march down Santa Monica Blvd. <br />
Where: West Hollywood Park on N. Robertson Blvd. (next to the Abbey Bar),West Hollywood, CA 90069 <br />
When: 6:00 PM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Signs will be provided, but please bring your own as well. <br />
Contact: Tristan Blaine (805) 657-4150 <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Sacramento</span></strong> <br />
What: Informal gathering at The Cornerstone inside Headhunters in midtown Sacramento to await the posting of the decision to the 9th Circuit's website. <br />
Where: The Cornerstone inside Headhunters, 1930 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95816 <br />
When: 9:30 AM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Wear Marriage Equality USA, Equality Action NOW, No on 8 t-shirts and be prepared to talk with media. Bring $$ for coffee, etc. <br />
Contact: Ken Pierce (916) 718-3464 <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">San Diego</span></strong> <br />
What: Street Protest/Celebration, then proceed to Community Center Rally <br />
Where: Meet at 6th Avenue and University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103 <br />
Then proceed to the LGBT Community Center, 3909 Centre Street, San Diego, CA 92103 <br />
When: Time TBD; Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Bring signs to celebrate or protest the outcome of the case. <br />
Contact: Fernando Lopez (619) 861-7939 <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">San Francisco</span></strong> <br />
<strong><i><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Morning</span></i></strong> <br />
What: Gather on the steps of the Ninth Circuit Federal Courthouse, San Francisco to receive the ruling (anticipated at 10:00 AM). Afterwards, we will proceed to San Francisco City Hall, where clergy will be available to bless couples who are not able to marry because of Prop. 8. <br />
Where: Ninth Circuit Federal Courthouse, 95 7th Street at Mission, San Francisco, CA 94103 <br />
When: 9:30 AM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Signs will be provided – you’re welcome to also bring your own. <br />
Contact: Billy Bradford (415) 716-6315 <br />
<strong><i><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Evening</span></i></strong> <br />
What: Community Rally with music and speakers. We will either celebrate or protest the decision, and either way, re-dedicate our resolve to achieve full equality nationwide. <br />
Where: Market Street & 17th Street (across from Castro & Market), San Francisco, CA 94114 <br />
When: 5:00 PM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Wear your pro-equality, pro-marriage equality, or No on 8 t-shirts. <br />
Contacts: Rev. Kelly Rivera Hart (415) 260-5704 and Billy Bradford (415) 716-6315 <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Santa Clara County</span></strong> <br />
What: Community rally gathering to celebrate or protest the decision, and to rededicate our resolve to achieve full equality nationwide. <br />
Where: Mountain View City Hall, 500 Castro St, Mountain View, CA 94041 <br />
When: 6:00–7:00 PM Tuesday, February 7 <br />
Materials: Bring your pro-equality posters, banners, etc., wear pro-equality t-shirts <br />
Contact: Lisa Liu 408-741-4824 </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-51995810866459874492012-01-23T11:37:00.000-08:002012-01-23T11:59:13.258-08:00Get Your RED On! LGBT Valentine's Dance, 2/11Saturday, February 11<br />
Max's Café of Corte Madera<br />
60 Madera Blvd.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/216831258406352/" target="_blank">Facebook Event Page</a><br />
<br />
6:00 - 7:30 PM Dinner<br />
3-course prix fixe meal with glass of wine = $19.99, full menu also available<br />
<br />
7:30 - 11:00 PM<br />
V-Dancing with DJ Rosie = $20<br />
<br />
Cupids Inka and Katharine will have icebreakers for singles & singles tables for dinner<br />
<br />
Everyone welcome - couples and singles - all genders and identities!<br />
<br />
Produced by Katharine Holland and Inka Von<br />
A portion of net proceeds will be donated to <a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/">Spectrum LGBT Center</a><br />
<br />
RSVP, song requests and to buy advance tickets:<br />
415-378-2697 or email <a href="mailto:marindance2012@gmail.com">marindance2012@gmail.com</a>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-10336016192917520182012-01-10T09:11:00.001-08:002012-01-10T09:11:45.099-08:00COMMUNITY EVENTS ON DAY NINTH CIRCUIT ANNOUNCES PROP 8 DECISION<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix"><div><strong>From Marriage Equality USA - 1/10/12</strong><br />
<br />
Please join same-sex couples, LGBTIQ people, friends, family, and clergy for 2 events on the day that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals announces its decision regarding Proposition 8. The Ninth Circuit has completed all hearings and briefing in the case and could rule at any time.<br />
<br />
<strong>9:45 AM COURTHOUSE PROP 8 DECISION:</strong> Gather on the steps of the Ninth Circuit Federal Courthouse, 95 7th Street (at Mission), San Francisco to receive the ruling (anticipated at 10:00 AM). Afterwards, we will proceed to San Francisco City Hall, where clergy will be available to bless couples who are not able to marry because of Prop. 8. (Even if the Ninth Circuit rules in our favor, it is highly likely that there will be a stay on the decision so that no marriages could take place immediately.)<br />
<br />
<strong>5:00 PM COMMUNITY RALLY:</strong> Gather at Market & 17th (across from Castro & Market) San Francisco for a community rally. We will either celebrate or protest the decision, and either way, rededicate our resolve to achieve full equality nationwide.<br />
<br />
<strong>For further information contact:</strong> Billy Bradford at <a href="mailto:bbradford@marriageequality.org">bbradford@marriageequality.org</a> or (415) 716-6315.</div></div>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-7686070205440067162011-12-31T11:27:00.000-08:002011-12-31T11:27:23.511-08:00$34,315 and countingThank you! We have surpassed our year-end goal. Our current balance stands at $34,315. Is it possible to reach $35,000 by midnight, PST.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://npo1.networkforgood.org/Donate/Donate.aspx?npoSubscriptionId=1005033&code=YearendFB" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIF7ChmHIpc/Tv854a9QNKI/AAAAAAAAARQ/5TIXANnAdMA/s1600/Green.gif" /><span id="goog_1840094175"></span></a><span id="goog_1840094176"></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/donate" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxYqhB4UCqk/Tv9h34yYP0I/AAAAAAAAARc/phRAU9gCCaA/s320/Thermo1231.jpg" width="97" /></a></div><br />
If you have already responded to our year-end challenge, thank you.<br />
<br />
Your special year-end, tax-deductible gift is the foundation for our future. And, you'll receive the satisfaction of knowing that you are part of a corner of the world where - no matter what - LGBT people of all ages can always feel safe and at home. <br />
<br />
Now, get ready for a wonderful New Year!<br />
<br />
--Paula Pilecki, Executive Director<br />
Spectrum LGBT Center<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="108" src="http://free.timeanddate.com/countdown/i2wwcp7b/n137/cf111/cm0/cu4/ct0/cs0/ca0/cr0/ss0/cac000/cpc000/pc66c/tc66c/fs100/szw256/szh108/tatTime%20Left%20in%20Spectrum%27s/tac000/tptTime%20since%20Event%20started%20in/tpc000/matYear-End%20Giving%20Campaign/mac000/mpc000/iso2011-12-31T23:59:59" width="256"></iframe>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-5899065415285394812011-12-27T15:57:00.000-08:002011-12-27T16:01:50.897-08:00Spectrum Year-End Gift Appeal UPDATE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AikYQEKIj5E/TvpbCircGOI/AAAAAAAAARE/SuAooEIpSEs/s1600/ThermoAd21799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AikYQEKIj5E/TvpbCircGOI/AAAAAAAAARE/SuAooEIpSEs/s320/ThermoAd21799.jpg" width="97" /></a></div><b><a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/donate" target="_blank">Spectrum LGBT Center’s 2011 Year-End Gift Challenge</a></b><br />
<div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Invest in YOUR LGBT Community Center!<br />
<br />
Help us accomplish our year-end fundraising goal of<br />
$30,000 by December 31st.<br />
<br />
<b>Total raised as of December 27: $21,799 and counting!</b><br />
Now, more than ever, we need your support to help us continue our legacy of service and inclusion, awareness and action! Over 60% of Spectrum’s annual operating budget of $350,000 comes from individuals.<br />
<br />
Your financial gift, no matter how small or big, will provide the foundation for our future. And, you’ll receive the satisfaction of knowing that you are part of our corner of the world where – no matter what – LGBT people of all ages can always feel safe and at home.<br />
<br />
Spectrum provides community leadership in promoting acceptance, understanding, and full inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. Founded in 1982, we have touched the lives of over 250,000 people with a variety of education, outreach, and support programs and services. <br />
<br />
Your Gift Will Directly Fund Our Major Programs and Services Which Include: <br />
<br />
• Support for Youth and Seniors<br />
• Counseling Services <br />
• Discussion and Coming Out Groups <br />
• Support for Parents and Families of LGBT People <br />
• Training and Community Education <br />
• Advocacy and Community Organizing <br />
Make Your Pledge or Gift today by clicking on the thermometer.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Thank you for your support!</div>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-36196135171083133562011-12-06T13:50:00.000-08:002011-12-06T13:50:02.467-08:00Historic speech at the UN: LGBT Rights are Human Rights<a href="http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/12/178368.htm" target="_blank">Remarks in Recognition of International Human Rights Day</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Hillary Rodham Clinton<br />
Secretary of State<br />
Palais des Nations<br />
Geneva, Switzerland<br />
<br />
December 6, 2011<br />
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
Good evening, and let me express my deep honor and pleasure at being here. I want to thank Director General Tokayev and Ms. Wyden along with other ministers, ambassadors, excellencies, and UN partners. This weekend, we will celebrate Human Rights Day, the anniversary of one of the great accomplishments of the last century.<br />
<br />
Beginning in 1947, delegates from six continents devoted themselves to drafting a declaration that would enshrine the fundamental rights and freedoms of people everywhere. In the aftermath of World War II, many nations pressed for a statement of this kind to help ensure that we would prevent future atrocities and protect the inherent humanity and dignity of all people. And so the delegates went to work. They discussed, they wrote, they revisited, revised, rewrote, for thousands of hours. And they incorporated suggestions and revisions from governments, organizations, and individuals around the world.<br />
<br />
At three o'clock in the morning on December 10th, 1948, after nearly two years of drafting and one last long night of debate, the president of the UN General Assembly called for a vote on the final text. Forty-eight nations voted in favor; eight abstained; none dissented. And the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted. It proclaims a simple, powerful idea: All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. And with the declaration, it was made clear that rights are not conferred by government; they are the birthright of all people. It does not matter what country we live in, who our leaders are, or even who we are. Because we are human, we therefore have rights. And because we have rights, governments are bound to protect them.<br />
<br />
In the 63 years since the declaration was adopted, many nations have made great progress in making human rights a human reality. Step by step, barriers that once prevented people from enjoying the full measure of liberty, the full experience of dignity, and the full benefits of humanity have fallen away. In many places, racist laws have been repealed, legal and social practices that relegated women to second-class status have been abolished, the ability of religious minorities to practice their faith freely has been secured.<br />
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In most cases, this progress was not easily won. People fought and organized and campaigned in public squares and private spaces to change not only laws, but hearts and minds. And thanks to that work of generations, for millions of individuals whose lives were once narrowed by injustice, they are now able to live more freely and to participate more fully in the political, economic, and social lives of their communities.<br />
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Now, there is still, as you all know, much more to be done to secure that commitment, that reality, and progress for all people. Today, I want to talk about the work we have left to do to protect one group of people whose human rights are still denied in too many parts of the world today. In many ways, they are an invisible minority. They are arrested, beaten, terrorized, even executed. Many are treated with contempt and violence by their fellow citizens while authorities empowered to protect them look the other way or, too often, even join in the abuse. They are denied opportunities to work and learn, driven from their homes and countries, and forced to suppress or deny who they are to protect themselves from harm.<br />
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I am talking about gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people, human beings born free and given bestowed equality and dignity, who have a right to claim that, which is now one of the remaining human rights challenges of our time. I speak about this subject knowing that my own country's record on human rights for gay people is far from perfect. Until 2003, it was still a crime in parts of our country. Many LGBT Americans have endured violence and harassment in their own lives, and for some, including many young people, bullying and exclusion are daily experiences. So we, like all nations, have more work to do to protect human rights at home.<br />
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Now, raising this issue, I know, is sensitive for many people and that the obstacles standing in the way of protecting the human rights of LGBT people rest on deeply held personal, political, cultural, and religious beliefs. So I come here before you with respect, understanding, and humility. Even though progress on this front is not easy, we cannot delay acting. So in that spirit, I want to talk about the difficult and important issues we must address together to reach a global consensus that recognizes the human rights of LGBT citizens everywhere.<br />
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The first issue goes to the heart of the matter. Some have suggested that gay rights and human rights are separate and distinct; but, in fact, they are one and the same. Now, of course, 60 years ago, the governments that drafted and passed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were not thinking about how it applied to the LGBT community. They also weren’t thinking about how it applied to indigenous people or children or people with disabilities or other marginalized groups. Yet in the past 60 years, we have come to recognize that members of these groups are entitled to the full measure of dignity and rights, because, like all people, they share a common humanity.<br />
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This recognition did not occur all at once. It evolved over time. And as it did, we understood that we were honoring rights that people always had, rather than creating new or special rights for them. Like being a woman, like being a racial, religious, tribal, or ethnic minority, being LGBT does not make you less human. And that is why gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.<br />
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It is violation of human rights when people are beaten or killed because of their sexual orientation, or because they do not conform to cultural norms about how men and women should look or behave. It is a violation of human rights when governments declare it illegal to be gay, or allow those who harm gay people to go unpunished. It is a violation of human rights when lesbian or transgendered women are subjected to so-called corrective rape, or forcibly subjected to hormone treatments, or when people are murdered after public calls for violence toward gays, or when they are forced to flee their nations and seek asylum in other lands to save their lives. And it is a violation of human rights when life-saving care is withheld from people because they are gay, or equal access to justice is denied to people because they are gay, or public spaces are out of bounds to people because they are gay. No matter what we look like, where we come from, or who we are, we are all equally entitled to our human rights and dignity.<br />
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The second issue is a question of whether homosexuality arises from a particular part of the world. Some seem to believe it is a Western phenomenon, and therefore people outside the West have grounds to reject it. Well, in reality, gay people are born into and belong to every society in the world. They are all ages, all races, all faiths; they are doctors and teachers, farmers and bankers, soldiers and athletes; and whether we know it, or whether we acknowledge it, they are our family, our friends, and our neighbors.<br />
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Being gay is not a Western invention; it is a human reality. And protecting the human rights of all people, gay or straight, is not something that only Western governments do. South Africa’s constitution, written in the aftermath of Apartheid, protects the equality of all citizens, including gay people. In Colombia and Argentina, the rights of gays are also legally protected. In Nepal, the supreme court has ruled that equal rights apply to LGBT citizens. The Government of Mongolia has committed to pursue new legislation that will tackle anti-gay discrimination.<br />
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Now, some worry that protecting the human rights of the LGBT community is a luxury that only wealthy nations can afford. But in fact, in all countries, there are costs to not protecting these rights, in both gay and straight lives lost to disease and violence, and the silencing of voices and views that would strengthen communities, in ideas never pursued by entrepreneurs who happen to be gay. Costs are incurred whenever any group is treated as lesser or the other, whether they are women, racial, or religious minorities, or the LGBT. Former President Mogae of Botswana pointed out recently that for as long as LGBT people are kept in the shadows, there cannot be an effective public health program to tackle HIV and AIDS. Well, that holds true for other challenges as well.<br />
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The third, and perhaps most challenging, issue arises when people cite religious or cultural values as a reason to violate or not to protect the human rights of LGBT citizens. This is not unlike the justification offered for violent practices towards women like honor killings, widow burning, or female genital mutilation. Some people still defend those practices as part of a cultural tradition. But violence toward women isn't cultural; it's criminal. Likewise with slavery, what was once justified as sanctioned by God is now properly reviled as an unconscionable violation of human rights.<br />
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In each of these cases, we came to learn that no practice or tradition trumps the human rights that belong to all of us. And this holds true for inflicting violence on LGBT people, criminalizing their status or behavior, expelling them from their families and communities, or tacitly or explicitly accepting their killing.<br />
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Of course, it bears noting that rarely are cultural and religious traditions and teachings actually in conflict with the protection of human rights. Indeed, our religion and our culture are sources of compassion and inspiration toward our fellow human beings. It was not only those who’ve justified slavery who leaned on religion, it was also those who sought to abolish it. And let us keep in mind that our commitments to protect the freedom of religion and to defend the dignity of LGBT people emanate from a common source. For many of us, religious belief and practice is a vital source of meaning and identity, and fundamental to who we are as people. And likewise, for most of us, the bonds of love and family that we forge are also vital sources of meaning and identity. And caring for others is an expression of what it means to be fully human. It is because the human experience is universal that human rights are universal and cut across all religions and cultures.<br />
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The fourth issue is what history teaches us about how we make progress towards rights for all. Progress starts with honest discussion. Now, there are some who say and believe that all gay people are pedophiles, that homosexuality is a disease that can be caught or cured, or that gays recruit others to become gay. Well, these notions are simply not true. They are also unlikely to disappear if those who promote or accept them are dismissed out of hand rather than invited to share their fears and concerns. No one has ever abandoned a belief because he was forced to do so.<br />
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Universal human rights include freedom of expression and freedom of belief, even if our words or beliefs denigrate the humanity of others. Yet, while we are each free to believe whatever we choose, we cannot do whatever we choose, not in a world where we protect the human rights of all.<br />
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Reaching understanding of these issues takes more than speech. It does take a conversation. In fact, it takes a constellation of conversations in places big and small. And it takes a willingness to see stark differences in belief as a reason to begin the conversation, not to avoid it.<br />
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But progress comes from changes in laws. In many places, including my own country, legal protections have preceded, not followed, broader recognition of rights. Laws have a teaching effect. Laws that discriminate validate other kinds of discrimination. Laws that require equal protections reinforce the moral imperative of equality. And practically speaking, it is often the case that laws must change before fears about change dissipate.<br />
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Many in my country thought that President Truman was making a grave error when he ordered the racial desegregation of our military. They argued that it would undermine unit cohesion. And it wasn't until he went ahead and did it that we saw how it strengthened our social fabric in ways even the supporters of the policy could not foresee. Likewise, some worried in my country that the repeal of “Don't Ask, Don’t Tell” would have a negative effect on our armed forces. Now, the Marine Corps Commandant, who was one of the strongest voices against the repeal, says that his concerns were unfounded and that the Marines have embraced the change.<br />
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Finally, progress comes from being willing to walk a mile in someone else's shoes. We need to ask ourselves, "How would it feel if it were a crime to love the person I love? How would it feel to be discriminated against for something about myself that I cannot change?" This challenge applies to all of us as we reflect upon deeply held beliefs, as we work to embrace tolerance and respect for the dignity of all persons, and as we engage humbly with those with whom we disagree in the hope of creating greater understanding.<br />
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A fifth and final question is how we do our part to bring the world to embrace human rights for all people including LGBT people. Yes, LGBT people must help lead this effort, as so many of you are. Their knowledge and experiences are invaluable and their courage inspirational. We know the names of brave LGBT activists who have literally given their lives for this cause, and there are many more whose names we will never know. But often those who are denied rights are least empowered to bring about the changes they seek. Acting alone, minorities can never achieve the majorities necessary for political change.<br />
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So when any part of humanity is sidelined, the rest of us cannot sit on the sidelines. Every time a barrier to progress has fallen, it has taken a cooperative effort from those on both sides of the barrier. In the fight for women’s rights, the support of men remains crucial. The fight for racial equality has relied on contributions from people of all races. Combating Islamaphobia or anti-Semitism is a task for people of all faiths. And the same is true with this struggle for equality.<br />
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Conversely, when we see denials and abuses of human rights and fail to act, that sends the message to those deniers and abusers that they won’t suffer any consequences for their actions, and so they carry on. But when we do act, we send a powerful moral message. Right here in Geneva, the international community acted this year to strengthen a global consensus around the human rights of LGBT people. At the Human Rights Council in March, 85 countries from all regions supported a statement calling for an end to criminalization and violence against people because of their sexual orientation and gender identity.<br />
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At the following session of the Council in June, South Africa took the lead on a resolution about violence against LGBT people. The delegation from South Africa spoke eloquently about their own experience and struggle for human equality and its indivisibility. When the measure passed, it became the first-ever UN resolution recognizing the human rights of gay people worldwide. In the Organization of American States this year, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights created a unit on the rights of LGBT people, a step toward what we hope will be the creation of a special rapporteur.<br />
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Now, we must go further and work here and in every region of the world to galvanize more support for the human rights of the LGBT community. To the leaders of those countries where people are jailed, beaten, or executed for being gay, I ask you to consider this: Leadership, by definition, means being out in front of your people when it is called for. It means standing up for the dignity of all your citizens and persuading your people to do the same. It also means ensuring that all citizens are treated as equals under your laws, because let me be clear – I am not saying that gay people can’t or don’t commit crimes. They can and they do, just like straight people. And when they do, they should be held accountable, but it should never be a crime to be gay.<br />
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And to people of all nations, I say supporting human rights is your responsibility too. The lives of gay people are shaped not only by laws, but by the treatment they receive every day from their families, from their neighbors. Eleanor Roosevelt, who did so much to advance human rights worldwide, said that these rights begin in the small places close to home – the streets where people live, the schools they attend, the factories, farms, and offices where they work. These places are your domain. The actions you take, the ideals that you advocate, can determine whether human rights flourish where you are.<br />
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And finally, to LGBT men and women worldwide, let me say this: Wherever you live and whatever the circumstances of your life, whether you are connected to a network of support or feel isolated and vulnerable, please know that you are not alone. People around the globe are working hard to support you and to bring an end to the injustices and dangers you face. That is certainly true for my country. And you have an ally in the United States of America and you have millions of friends among the American people.<br />
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The Obama Administration defends the human rights of LGBT people as part of our comprehensive human rights policy and as a priority of our foreign policy. In our embassies, our diplomats are raising concerns about specific cases and laws, and working with a range of partners to strengthen human rights protections for all. In Washington, we have created a task force at the State Department to support and coordinate this work. And in the coming months, we will provide every embassy with a toolkit to help improve their efforts. And we have created a program that offers emergency support to defenders of human rights for LGBT people.<br />
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This morning, back in Washington, President Obama put into place the first U.S. Government strategy dedicated to combating human rights abuses against LGBT persons abroad. Building on efforts already underway at the State Department and across the government, the President has directed all U.S. Government agencies engaged overseas to combat the criminalization of LGBT status and conduct, to enhance efforts to protect vulnerable LGBT refugees and asylum seekers, to ensure that our foreign assistance promotes the protection of LGBT rights, to enlist international organizations in the fight against discrimination, and to respond swiftly to abuses against LGBT persons.<br />
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I am also pleased to announce that we are launching a new Global Equality Fund that will support the work of civil society organizations working on these issues around the world. This fund will help them record facts so they can target their advocacy, learn how to use the law as a tool, manage their budgets, train their staffs, and forge partnerships with women’s organizations and other human rights groups. We have committed more than $3 million to start this fund, and we have hope that others will join us in supporting it.<br />
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The women and men who advocate for human rights for the LGBT community in hostile places, some of whom are here today with us, are brave and dedicated, and deserve all the help we can give them. We know the road ahead will not be easy. A great deal of work lies before us. But many of us have seen firsthand how quickly change can come. In our lifetimes, attitudes toward gay people in many places have been transformed. Many people, including myself, have experienced a deepening of our own convictions on this topic over the years, as we have devoted more thought to it, engaged in dialogues and debates, and established personal and professional relationships with people who are gay.<br />
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This evolution is evident in many places. To highlight one example, the Delhi High Court decriminalized homosexuality in India two years ago, writing, and I quote, “If there is one tenet that can be said to be an underlying theme of the Indian constitution, it is inclusiveness.” There is little doubt in my mind that support for LGBT human rights will continue to climb. Because for many young people, this is simple: All people deserve to be treated with dignity and have their human rights respected, no matter who they are or whom they love.<br />
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There is a phrase that people in the United States invoke when urging others to support human rights: “Be on the right side of history.” The story of the United States is the story of a nation that has repeatedly grappled with intolerance and inequality. We fought a brutal civil war over slavery. People from coast to coast joined in campaigns to recognize the rights of women, indigenous peoples, racial minorities, children, people with disabilities, immigrants, workers, and on and on. And the march toward equality and justice has continued. Those who advocate for expanding the circle of human rights were and are on the right side of history, and history honors them. Those who tried to constrict human rights were wrong, and history reflects that as well.<br />
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I know that the thoughts I’ve shared today involve questions on which opinions are still evolving. As it has happened so many times before, opinion will converge once again with the truth, the immutable truth, that all persons are created free and equal in dignity and rights. We are called once more to make real the words of the Universal Declaration. Let us answer that call. Let us be on the right side of history, for our people, our nations, and future generations, whose lives will be shaped by the work we do today. I come before you with great hope and confidence that no matter how long the road ahead, we will travel it successfully together. Thank you very much. (Applause.)Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-15882982710815936452011-11-30T11:50:00.000-08:002011-11-30T11:52:05.578-08:00GEN SILENT SCREENING AT VINTAGE HOUSE, SONOMAThe insightful documentary, GEN SILENT, will be screened on Friday, December 2nd, 6:30 pm at Vintage House, 264 First Street East, Sonoma.<br />
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GEN SILENT is a powerful documentary that shines a light on the difficulties faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people as they grow older.<br />
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The fact of the matter is, many LGBT people who fought the first battles for equality are now facing the fear of being bullied, physically abused, and discriminated against by a system of care that is ill-prepared to accept them. In the face of this, LGBT older adults are hiding, living alone, and isolated from their community.<br />
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GEN SILENT is both a sad and joyful tribute to survival, and an eye-opening film.<br />
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Suggested donation: $5 at the door, though all are welcome and no one will be turned away. Following the film, there will be a facilitated discussion with the audience.<br />
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Sponsored by Vintage House, Sonoma Homecare, and Spectrum LGBT Center<br />
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For more information, call Gary Shepard at 707-583-2330 (24 hour voice message that is checked regularly).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_n_ZoVHb-FK7jYm7IiPqveEK3PqnQwqx-oZLzxOqEC6BOLqb6CBdhbuWPCpFC3O4L6K35eb3HK3WrrIew3McwSxETeGDoq8WEUxLbTTNglhffEc0bJk4lIrtIHNt6zLe0S-sPaEBD_Lg/s1600/GSFlyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_n_ZoVHb-FK7jYm7IiPqveEK3PqnQwqx-oZLzxOqEC6BOLqb6CBdhbuWPCpFC3O4L6K35eb3HK3WrrIew3McwSxETeGDoq8WEUxLbTTNglhffEc0bJk4lIrtIHNt6zLe0S-sPaEBD_Lg/s320/GSFlyer.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-51218267393554064682011-11-30T11:31:00.000-08:002011-11-30T11:31:33.321-08:00Are you 55 years of age or older? Read this.ATTENTION MARIN RESIDENTS: If you are 55 years or older, OR an adult family member, neighbor, or friend who provides unpaid help to an older adult or someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, this survey is for you. For the first time, the survey provides an opportunity for LGBT people to be counted. Let's make sure our voices are included in this survey! <br />
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<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AAA2011NA" target="_blank">ONLINE SURVEY HERE</a>.<br />
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If you can't take the survey online, <a href="mailto:pilecki@spectrumlgbtcenter.org" target="_blank">send an email</a> and we'll send you a paper version. Thanks!Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-39509104917222069532011-11-20T20:44:00.000-08:002011-11-20T20:44:38.733-08:00A Bump in the Road for Marriage Equality - by Ruth Dell<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In 2008,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>California voters enacted Prop 8,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>which banned state recognition of same sex marriages through an amendment<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to the state’s constitution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The American Foundation for Equal Rights subsequently filed a lawsuit ,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perry v. Schwarzenegger,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>which asserted that Prop 8 was unconstitutional,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and that banning<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>marriage equality violated the Fourteenth Amendment of the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>U.S. Constitution,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>which requires the equal protection of the law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our then governor,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arnold Schwarzenegger,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and our then attorney general,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>now governor,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jerry Brown,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>opposed Prop 8, and refused to defend the case on behalf of the state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The case proceeded with the anti-gay-marriage group that sponsored<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prop 8,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ProtectMarriage, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>representing the state to defend Prop 8. </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Judge Vaughn Walker,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>who heard the case in federal<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>court,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ruled in 2010 that Prop 8 violated the U.S. Constitution,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and that same sex couples had a constitutional right to marry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The case then went up on appeal to the Ninth Circuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ninth Circuit then asked the California Supreme Court the following question -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>do proponents of ballot initiatives have the authority to represent the state when the state’s public officials decline to do so?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the CA Supreme Court had ruled that ProtectMarriage did not have standing,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or the right to appeal the district court decision, Judge Walker’s decision would have stood, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as no party would have the right to appeal it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is not what happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Instead, on November 17,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2011,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the CA Supreme Court unanimously decided that proponents of ballot initiatives have the authority to represent<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the state of California when the state’s public officials decline to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The court ruled that ProtectMarriage has the right to defend the constitutionality of Prop 8 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and to appeal a judgment invalidating it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proponents of marriage equality were disappointed in the ruling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shannon Minter of the National Center for Lesbian Rights called the CA<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Supreme Court’s decision “terrible” and “dangerous”,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and that it gave “initiative proponents unprecedented and virtually unlimited<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>power…”</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since the Ninth Circuit asked the CA Supreme Court for its opinion on the standing question, it <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is most likely that it will accept this ruling of the CA Supreme Court</span><a href="" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and thus the Ninth Circuit will proceed to decide the constitutionality of Prop 8 on its merits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ninth Circuit is a progressive court, and advocates of marriage equality are hopeful that the court will rule in favor of the freedom to marry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both sides generally agree that whichever way the Ninth Circuit rules, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>there is a strong likelihood that the U.S. Supreme Court will eventually hear the case.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Ruth Dell volunteers for a number of non-profit organizations. She is Spectrum's Marriage Equality Correspondent.</em></span></div>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-76885972647607307442011-10-19T13:32:00.000-07:002011-10-19T13:52:12.807-07:00White House Inaugurates LGBT Update<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><img alt="The White House" border="0" height="114" id="_x0000_i1025" src="http://whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/header_daily_snapshot.gif" width="491" /></span><br />
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(Reposted from an email received today)<br />
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Good morning,<br />
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Welcome to the inaugural edition of the White House LGBT Update, where you'll hear from the White House Office of Public Engagement on President Obama’s continued commitment to progress for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.<br />
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We need your help to get the word out! Please encourage your friends and family to <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/webform/sign-updates-issues-impacting-lgbt-community">sign up for updates</a> and don’t hesitate to <a href="mailto:lgbt@who.eop.gov">drop us a line</a> with your comments, suggestions, and ideas.<br />
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All the best,<br />
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Gautam Raghavan<br />
Office of Public Engagement<br />
The White HouseAbouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-35690083399273906362011-10-12T13:51:00.000-07:002011-10-12T13:53:55.416-07:00FAIR Act opponents fail to meet signature requirementFAIR Act unchallenged - for now<br />
By Ruth Dell<br />
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In July 2011, Governor Jerry Brown signed the FAIR (Fair, Accurate, Inclusive, and Respectful) Act, which requires that students learn about the contributions of LGBT people and people with disabilities in social science instruction. <br />
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Opponents of the LGBT community immediately went to work opposing the FAIR Act, and vowed to gather enough signatures to qualify for a June 2012 initiative to vote on whether the FAIR Act should be repealed. <br />
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Today, the coalition fighting the FAIR Act announced that it did not have the 504,760 signatures required to get on the ballot. <br />
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While this is good news, we have no reason to assume our opponents will not fight us again. In fact, the leading organization against marriage equality, the National Organization for Marriage, announced that it was raising money for the November 2012 ballot. The Traditional Values Coalition, a virulent anti-gay group, led the fight in Sacramento opposing the FAIR Act, and shows no sign of backing down. <br />
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The FAIR Act, while not widely known, is incredibly important. As writer Adam Bink wrote, “It’s not just about history. It’s about role models. Looking up to Billie Jean King, or Walt Whitman..and finding out they were lesbian or gay means something to a child, including a potential bully…” <br />
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California is the first state to specifically include the contributions of LGBT people in public school materials, and that is a victory worth defending. <br />
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<em>Ruth Dell is a retired attorney who volunteers for a number of organizations, including Spectrum.</em>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-41880868411610088272011-09-21T16:53:00.000-07:002011-09-21T16:53:20.405-07:00Napa LGBTQ Community Forum, October 11th<strong>Napa LGBTQ Community Forum</strong> <br />
<strong>Tuesday evening, October 11, 2011, 6:30 - 8:30 PM<br />
McPherson Elem. School’s Multiuse Room</strong><br />
<strong>2670 Yajome Street, Napa</strong><br />
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</strong><a href="http://www.napalgbtqproject.org/">RSVP HERE</a><br />
<br />
We need your voice! For the first time ever, LGBTQ people (and straight allies) from across ages, races, identities and the length of the Napa Valley will gather together for an important conversation and sharing of our experiences of living as LGBTQ in the Napa Valley--that will ultimately guide the direction of our work in support of our Valley's LGBTQ people. Have thoughts or ideas on what Napa is doing well or could to improve the safety and well being for LGBTQ people? Who will make sure your voice is included if not you?<br />
<br />
Bringing together lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning people & straight allies:<br />
<br />
<br />
Across ages, races & identities, from all nooks & crannies of the Napa Valley<br />
...to answer the question, <b><span style="color: white; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: white; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">How do we create a healthier Napa Valley that is more inclusive, welcoming & safer for all of us? </span></span></span><br />
For more info, please contact Ian Stanley, Program Director: 707-251-9432 or <a href="mailto:ian.voices@gmail.com">ian.voices@gmail.com</a> <br />
<br />
To learn more about the Napa County LGBTQ PEI Project, <a href="http://www.napalgbtqproject.org/">visit our website</a>. <br />
<br />
Safe Space & Hate Free Zone: Please attend even if you’re not “out”. All our voices are needed! <br />
<br />
Co-sponsored by <a href="http://www.onthemovebayarea.org/">On The Move</a> and <a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/">Spectrum LGBT Center of the North Bay</a> with funding from the Napa County Mental Health Division's Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) Component. <br />
<br />
</b>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-86718928613893167622011-09-20T10:36:00.000-07:002011-09-20T10:36:03.009-07:00Statement by the President on the Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't TellTHE WHITE HOUSE <br />
<br />
Office of the Press Secretary<br />
<br />
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<br />
<br />
September 20, 2011<br />
<br />
Today, the discriminatory law known as ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ is finally and formally repealed. As of today, patriotic Americans in uniform will no longer have to lie about who they are in order to serve the country they love. As of today, our armed forces will no longer lose the extraordinary skills and combat experience of so many gay and lesbian service members. And today, as Commander in Chief, I want those who were discharged under this law to know that your country deeply values your service.<br />
<br />
I was proud to sign the Repeal Act into law last December because I knew that it would enhance our national security, increase our military readiness, and bring us closer to the principles of equality and fairness that define us as Americans. Today’s achievement is a tribute to all the patriots who fought and marched for change; to Members of Congress, from both parties, who voted for repeal; to our civilian and military leaders who ensured a smooth transition; and to the professionalism of our men and women in uniform who showed that they were ready to move forward together, as one team, to meet the missions we ask of them.<br />
<br />
For more than two centuries, we have worked to extend America’s promise to all our citizens. Our armed forces have been both a mirror and a catalyst of that progress, and our troops, including gays and lesbians, have given their lives to defend the freedoms and liberties that we cherish as Americans. Today, every American can be proud that we have taken another great step toward keeping our military the finest in the world and toward fulfilling our nation’s founding ideals.Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-2850658440809252012011-09-19T14:47:00.000-07:002011-10-10T16:47:15.514-07:00LGBT Meet-Up at Max's Every Sunday, 6-9 PMThe staff at Max's of Corte Madera is warmly reaching out to LGBT people and our community of friends with a weekly "happy hour". <br />
<br />
They have a lovely cocktail lounge which is separate from their main dining room. It will be a great venue to listen to the David's ensemble, The Rainbows and Rockets Band, shmooze with locals and enjoy Max's delicious deli foods and drinks. <br />
<br />
Max’s Deli Presents:<br />
<br />
Meet Me @ Max’s!<br />
60 Madera Blvd., Corte Madera, right off the 101.<br />
<br />
Welcoming the LGBT community and friends<br />
Every Sunday 6-9pm <br />
Live music by The Rainbows & Rockets Band<br />
<br />
Max’s will contribute 5% of sales to Marin AIDS Project & Spectrum LGBT Center.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzzxMFLjuKAxkar18GMCX91HulzGgCLMWHUh5uULFSrjI5vtiBS4SlEhh1gjI4l6H0QuaSutN2tFaDIplTmU08i8LTkxrs-lzc_KJEoIAnM5p4nL8_cxVKu7LGRTd_KR063hyCoeyjsk7/s1600/Maxmenu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzzxMFLjuKAxkar18GMCX91HulzGgCLMWHUh5uULFSrjI5vtiBS4SlEhh1gjI4l6H0QuaSutN2tFaDIplTmU08i8LTkxrs-lzc_KJEoIAnM5p4nL8_cxVKu7LGRTd_KR063hyCoeyjsk7/s320/Maxmenu.jpg" width="137" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>See you there!Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-60304593953536152282011-09-01T21:59:00.000-07:002011-09-01T21:59:53.710-07:00Kevin Meaney and Sue Murphy at the JCC, 9/17<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saturday Night A-list Stand-up Comedy in Marin with <br />
Kevin Meaney & Sue Murphy >>>The Dating Game</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Presented by The Osher Marin JCC <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>& The Other Café Comedy Showcase</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saturday, Sept 17 @ 8pm</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SPECTRUM E-LIST MEMBERS: USE THE DISCOUNT CODE:” bigpants” when secure your ADVANCE tickets and receive the members’ discount when purchasing tickets</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.marinjcc.org/index.php?src=events&category=Performing%20Arts&submenu=PerformingArts&srctype=detail&category=Performing%20Arts&refno=9232">MORE INFO AND PURCHASE TICKETS</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two headliners in one night </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This showcase brings two San Francisco A-List Comedy minds back to the Bay Area for One Night only. Plus a hilarious comedy club version of The Dating Game, hosted by Kevin and Sue </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For those familiar with the SF comedy scene you know these two comedians are among the most beloved comedic minds in SF comedy history. If you have never seen them work, don’t miss this rare chance and if you have – you know that no two shows are ever the same with these two. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since leaving SF, KEVIN has been one of the country's most popular standup comedians and has headlined clubs and theaters throughout the country, starred in the CBS sitcom Uncle Buck, and on Broadway in Hairspray.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUE has won 2 Emmys for her work writing and producing the Ellen Degeneres Show and has performed on numerous national television shows including her own half-hour special Comedy Central Presents Sue Murphy, and is currently the Co-Executive Producer on the hit nightly show on E! Network Chelsea Lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both artists have made numerous appearances on David Letterman and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TICKETS:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Limited RESERVED table seating available<br />
Advance: $30 OMJCC/Other Café Members* / $35 public<br />
Day of:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$40 </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">GENERAL admission<br />
Advance: $20 OMJCC/Other Café Members/ $25 public<br />
Day of: $30 </span></div>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-88868063123536700702011-08-24T15:54:00.000-07:002011-08-24T15:55:50.366-07:00Gays Struggling to Connect in Marin: A ResponseThanks to Paul Liberatore for shining a light on the LGBT community in Marin. Spectrum LGBT Center has been in Marin since 1982, providing programs and services for, and on behalf of, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in the North Bay.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.marinij.com/lifestyles/ci_18736256?source=most_viewed">http://www.marinij.com/lifestyles/ci_18736256?source=most_viewed<br />
</a><br />
Throughout my 13 years as executive director, I’ve heard many LGBT people lament that they cannot find other gay people in Marin. I believe that many LGBT people living in Marin actually LIKE the fact that there is no gay ‘scene’. They have escaped gay culture and are quietly living among their straight neighbors, raising families and hosting backyard barbeques. Older LGBT people in their 70s and 80s often tend to be less open about who they are, much like their peers throughout the U.S. This tendency, by the way, puts older LGBT people at great risk for isolation and depression.<br />
<br />
A sort of assimilation occurs in Marin County, not because it is such an open and accepting place for LGBT people, but because some LGBT people are reluctant to be completely out and visible here. Why?<br />
<br />
I offer this observation: It’s not cool to be blatantly gay here in Marin. A standard of conformity compels some to remove the rainbow bumper stickers from the cars, and keep the gay flag inside the house. Marin, after all, is a well-heeled county. We can’t have our glitter falling just anywhere. We’ve learned how to pass.<br />
<br />
We like to think of Marin as being progressive, fair-minded, and accepting of all people. But consider this: In 2008, 25% of Marin voters rejected gay marriage. The idea of incorporating gay people into middle and high school history lessons infuriates many in this county, and not just because it is now required by law. Many assisted living facilities in Marin prevent same-sex couples from occupying the same room, giving preference to married heterosexual couples. And, while there are a number of congregations that welcome LGBT people and families, Marin’s faith communities are divided on this issue. (A little-known fact: for nearly 40 years, San Rafael has been home to a prominent founder of the ex-gay movement, who advertises his ministry as ‘finding freedom from homosexuality’).<br />
<br />
Spectrum has long been involved with educating the community about acceptance, understanding, and full inclusion for LGBT people. We are making every effort to open doors among traditional communities to start dialog and raise awareness. It’s not always easy, but there have been positive shifts within our schools and community institutions since our founding in 1982.<br />
<br />
Here’s the good news: there are, in fact, a number of events that occur on a regular basis for the LGBT community. Spectrum keeps our website calendar updated with all that we know about at <a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org">www.spectrumLGBTcenter.org</a>. If you are one of those gays struggling to find your community in Marin, don’t expect to bump in to it on the street. You’re going to have to get out and find it. And, if you are willing to be out like Vincent and Douglass, give me a call. We need you to help us create the community you’re hoping to find.<br />
<br />
Paula Pilecki, Executive Director<br />
Spectrum LGBT Center<br />
(415) 472-1945, ext. 209<br />
www.spectrumLGBTcenter.org<br />
<br />
.Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-20497486556980839462011-08-10T11:16:00.000-07:002011-08-10T11:16:44.602-07:00Spectrum LGBT Center Brings GEN SILENT to Marin County in SeptemberSpectrum LGBT Center's SEEN THROUGH FILM Project is bringing GEN SILENT to Marin County on Thursday, September 8th<br />
<br />
This important new documentary by filmmaker Stu Maddux highlights the challenges facing aging lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.<br />
<br />
<b>TWO SCREENINGS:Both are free and open to the public<br />
</b><br />
Thursday, September 8, 10:00 am – 11:00 am<br />
Margaret Todd Senior Center<br />
1560 Hill Road, Novato<br />
Co-sponsored by the Marin County Division of Aging and Adult Services<br />
A short version of the film, followed by discussion, during the regular meeting of the Marin County Commission on Aging.<br />
<br />
Thursday, September 8, 7:15 pm – 9:00 pm<br />
The Redwoods - A Community of Seniors<br />
40 Camino Alto, Mill Valley<br />
Featuring the full-length film with discussion.<br />
<br />
<b>SPECIAL GUEST AT BOTH EVENTS: Award-winning director and filmmaker, Stu Maddux<br />
</b><br />
RSVP requested to<br />
(415) 472-1945 x209<br />
Please state which date(s) you will attend.<br />
<br />
GEN SILENT is a new documentary from award-winning director, documentary film¬maker, and Marin County resident, Stu Maddux. What would you do if you were old, disabled or ill ‐and the person feeding you put down the spoon and explained that you are going to hell unless you change your sexual orientation? Sound absurd? According to social workers, it’s happening every day.<br />
<br />
This hour-long film explores the challenges facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender older adults who must depend on a system of care that is reluctant to recognize their needs. As we witness the challenges that these men and women face, we also see hope as each subject crosses paths with an impassioned professional trying in their own way to change an entire care industry.<br />
<br />
For more information about the film, visit the <a href="http://stumaddux.com/GEN_SILENT.html">GEN SILENT</a> website.<br />
<br />
Spectrum LGBT Center’s Seen Through Film Project builds community among, and raises awareness about the real lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. Support for this project is provided by a grant from Marin Community Foundation, with additional funding from PG&E Corporation. For more information, visit Spectrum’s website at <a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org">www.spectrumLGBTcenter.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-77768723800484302572011-07-26T06:20:00.000-07:002011-07-26T06:23:14.581-07:00"History Should Be Honest" - The FAIR Act<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Vg_e2cJ7A9nS4RUcpXgyD78kUrTGSJwFoklMyEtmq3u1BrPb053q9tD25fitLyfjang4XOKQPvtMN9bWGU_Xe0X9S_rQKer65Bv-2ftabiPYO1QqLgCBUScX3whM51EUioXPTnA0d8Ky/s1600/Ruth+Dell+Portrait+7-25-11+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Vg_e2cJ7A9nS4RUcpXgyD78kUrTGSJwFoklMyEtmq3u1BrPb053q9tD25fitLyfjang4XOKQPvtMN9bWGU_Xe0X9S_rQKer65Bv-2ftabiPYO1QqLgCBUScX3whM51EUioXPTnA0d8Ky/s200/Ruth+Dell+Portrait+7-25-11+001.jpg" /></a></div>History Repeats Itself with The FAIR Act by Ruth Dell<br />
<br />
On July 13, 2011, Governor Jerry Brown signed the FAIR (Fair, Accurate, Inclusive and Respectful) Education Act, authored by our state senator, Mark Leno. The law provides that the historical contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and disabled individuals be accurately and fairly portrayed in public school instructional materials. LGBT and disabled people are being added to an existing list of underrepresented cultural and ethnic groups that California already requires to be recognized in instructional materials, including Native Americans, Mexican Americans, African Americans and Asian Americans. In his signing statement, Governor Brown said, “History should be honest.”<br />
<br />
In 1966, California conservatives were outraged when our state board of education adopted a new junior high school textbook. They claimed that the book’s inclusion of a discussion of the civil rights movement and an expanded section on important African Americans would indoctrinate students undermine religious values, and politicize the curriculum. Now, of course, it is commonplace and non-controversial in California for schools to recognize the contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other African Americans and to celebrate Black History Month.<br />
<br />
Sadly, on July 15, 2011, the Capitol Resource Institute (CRI), a Sacramento-based right-wing organization that has long opposed gay rights, announced its intention to start a voter referendum to repeal the bill. Whether or not CRI can garner the 500,000 signatures required for the ballot remains to be seen. But the institute is acting within a dangerous tradition that seeks to promote to schoolchildren a vision of America that is both inaccurate and harmful. <br />
<br />
The arguments for excluding LGBT history simply do not withstand scrutiny. The Traditional Values Coalition stated that the FAIR Act will be a “pro homosexual promotion tool” and be used to “indoctrinate children.” Teaching history, of course, is not indoctrination. How does studying the life and accomplishments of San Francisco politician Harvey Milk constitute indoctrination? How would learning that Aaron Copland, composer of such American classics as “Appalachian Spring” and “Rodeo” is gay, indoctrinate students? There is no reason for students not to learn about the Proposition 8 case, which addresses the constitutionality of prohibiting gay marriage and is currently on appeal in the 9th Circuit. <br />
<br />
In contrast to the unpersuasive arguments against the FAIR Act, there are compelling reasons to support it. Inclusive history lessons may lead to safer outcomes for students. Our state and country has tragically seen an upsurge in the number of bullied LGBT teens who have committed suicide. Hopefully, a complete teaching of history can help these students feel a greater part of their schools and communities. Shannon Minter, legal director at the National Center for Lesbian Rights, stated that the FAIR Act “is about breaking a very damaging cycle of silence and stigma… for the first time, we will have a generation of LGBT youth who are growing up seeing themselves reflected and included in public institutions.”<br />
<br />
Opposition to acknowledging LGBT rights in instructional materials rarely stands alone as an issue; it is usually linked to an extreme right wing agenda. Texas exemplifies this. In 2010, Texas adopted the following social studies standards: Jefferson Davis (president of the Confederacy) deserves equal billing as President Abraham Lincoln; the National Rifle Association deserves praise for upholding the U.S. Constitution (no discussion of a contrary view of the Second Amendment), all references to President Obama should include his middle name, Hussein. The guidelines took out references to Thurgood Marshall (the first African American U.S. Supreme Court Justice) and Cesar Chavez (Hispanic farm worker and community leader) - this in a state where the majority of students are of color. The guidelines were primarily written by a dentist, and derided by conservative and liberal historians alike. Texas guidelines for health are also historically inaccurate - Texas is required to teach that marriage is only between a man and a woman; this in a country where six states and Washington, D.C. recognize marriage equality. <br />
<br />
Californians should be proud that we are the first in the nation to specifically include the contributions of LGBT people in public school materials. We were also one of the first states, in 1948, to recognize that people of different races had the right to marry one another. The U.S. Supreme Court did not reach this conclusion until 1967; today, one in fifteen married people in this country is married to someone of a different race. Someday, hopefully soon, the inclusion of LGBT history will be the standard everywhere and seen for what it is - acknowledging ALL the people that contribute to our great nation, gay and straight. <br />
<br />
<i>Ruth Dell (pictured) is a retired attorney who volunteers for Spectrum and other nonprofit organizations.</i>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-16500963184345782752011-05-18T15:02:00.000-07:002011-05-18T15:46:50.591-07:00Marin Youth Photovoice Campaign<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8fP9NYLEyNvLLFrXWKKsEd-oqkCIXUIAcXylR3JS-0LG1BIP2pzIfZlwM5QFgd0FIzUW_lR9ZxcFQlvqsdBcGFUVhyphenhyphenhu6okCBOi5Sq5QPD0USI2MszKbZHSmxHVEii75XOvDVKrd7nXg/s1600/YLI-Marin-photovoice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8fP9NYLEyNvLLFrXWKKsEd-oqkCIXUIAcXylR3JS-0LG1BIP2pzIfZlwM5QFgd0FIzUW_lR9ZxcFQlvqsdBcGFUVhyphenhyphenhu6okCBOi5Sq5QPD0USI2MszKbZHSmxHVEii75XOvDVKrd7nXg/s200/YLI-Marin-photovoice.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Youth Leadership Institute is now seeking high-school age youth<br />
participants for a summer-long project using photography to build<br />
awareness of current social justice issues. This is a special invitation to encourage LGBTQQ*-identified youth to participate!<br />
<br />
Orientation and Kick-Off Meeting Tuesday, May 24, 4 - 8 PM; dinner provided. San Rafael location (call for address).<br />
<br />
To sign up or get more info, contact Kristen Law, MA, klaw@yli.org or (415) 836-9160, ext. 225.<br />
<br />
Meeting a few hours every other week throughout the summer, Photovoice Campaign participants will:<br />
<br />
*Advocate for social justice and accepting school environments by photographing and documenting your own experiences<br />
*Work collaboratively with other youth<br />
*Have an opportunity to learn social justice photography and get your work displayed in a community exhibit<br />
*Promote positive change and acceptance in your school and community<br />
*Gain skills in photography, research, and public speaking<br />
<br />
Photovoice is for everyone - no experience needed.<br />
<br />
*Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/images/stories/yli-marin-photovoice.pdf">DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE FLYER HERE</a>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-3216564918423601592011-05-06T11:14:00.000-07:002011-05-06T11:14:21.372-07:00SB 5 Defeated; Legislative Victory for Marriage Equality in CAOn May 3, SB 5, the Automatic Proposition Standing Bill, which would have required the state of California to defend ballot measures adopted by voters, including Prop 8, was defeated. The bill never made it out of the Senate Judiciary Committee; the five Democrats on the committee voted against the bill, the three Republicans voted for it. Anti-marriage equality advocates were solidly behind the bill; had it passed, it would have required the Attorney General to defend Prop 8. Former Attorney General (now governor) Jerry Brown and current Attorney General Kamala Harris refuse to defend Prop 8 on the basis that it is unconstitutional. The defeat of SB 5 was a legislative victory for the marriage equality movement in California. <br />
<br />
Posted by Ruth Dell, Spectrum's Marriage Equality CorrespondentAbouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-6226014759879859612011-05-06T09:51:00.000-07:002011-05-06T09:52:51.515-07:00A Personal Invitation from Kate Clinton: Watch the Vlog!Watch this video of Kate Clinton, in her personal invitation to The Glee Party on Sunday, May 22nd.<br />
<br />
Kate Clinton brings her Glee Party to Marin County on Sunday, May 22nd, 1 PM at Hoytt Theater, Osher Marin Jewish Community Center, 200 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael. Tickets: $45. A benefit for Spectrum, the North Bay's LGBT center.<br />
<br />
<object style="height: 193px; width: 298px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mT_Aiu9qWOk?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mT_Aiu9qWOk?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="298" height="193"></object>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-5569217259241950622011-05-05T21:15:00.000-07:002011-05-05T21:15:41.896-07:00LA MISSION - THE MOVIE at Pickleweed Community Center, 6/8Spectrum LGBT Center, in partnership with Canal Alliance, invites you to the first movie of the Seen Through Film Series: LA MISSION<br />
<br />
Wednesday, June 8, 6:00 - 8:00 PM<br />
Pickleweed Community Center<br />
50 Canal Street, San Rafael, CA<br />
<br />
FREE EVENT - Food will be provided<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/images/stories/Events/mission_flyer_eng_spanish.pdf">DOWNLOAD SPANISH/ENGLISH FLYERS HERE</a> (pdf)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXu918Gsd8zSkm0Y5z_lKQKbZgZnhFsu1TQGE9nNW0MVGRt9Db6ZmqdEmytwFJ_gAWhz65aR_FYlqm2yM4Eb5LHnOCPGqEKUmmmR1s3O_i_2kJqr3KfXHHImLpf07jeMJftwaWT6J4wzxg/s1600/pro4md.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXu918Gsd8zSkm0Y5z_lKQKbZgZnhFsu1TQGE9nNW0MVGRt9Db6ZmqdEmytwFJ_gAWhz65aR_FYlqm2yM4Eb5LHnOCPGqEKUmmmR1s3O_i_2kJqr3KfXHHImLpf07jeMJftwaWT6J4wzxg/s320/pro4md.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Growing up in the Mission district, Che Rivera has always had to be tough to survive. He’s a powerful man respected throughout the Mission barrio for his masculinity and his strength, as well as for his hobby building beautiful lowrider cars. A reformed inmate and recovering alcoholic, Che has worked hard to redeem his life and do right by his pride and joy: his only son, Jes, whom he has raised on his own after the death of his wife. Che’s path to redemption is tested, however, when he discovers Jes is gay.<br />
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To survive his neighborhood, Che has always lived with his fists. To survive as a complete man, he’ll have to embrace a side of himself he’s never shown. Rated R. Starring Benjamin Bratt.<br />
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Film Presentation Supporters: Adopt A Family, Asian Advocacy Project, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the North Bay, Brazilian Alliance, Marin Child Care Council, Parent Voices/Parent Services Project<br />
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Media Sponsors: Univision Channel 14, Community Media Center of Marin, Nuestras Voces, Avance News, La Voz Bilingual Newspaper<br />
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Food Sponsor: Claudia Cardoza, LUSO-American Life Insurance<br />
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SEEN THROUGH FILM is a project of Spectrum LGBT Center. It explores the lives of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people. The series includes films that will educate, provoke conversation, entertain and appeal to a diverse population.<br />
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<strong>SEEN THROUGH FILM is funded by a grant from the Marin Community Foundation.</strong>Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-62528170155341226532011-05-05T11:03:00.000-07:002011-05-05T11:03:18.515-07:00Sonoma County Gatherings for LGBT Older AdutsJoin Spectrum for lively discussions, mutual support, sharing information, and all the while celebrating who we are. <br />
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Spectrum's social support groups for LGBT older adults have been meeting in Sonoma for nearly three years. Everyone is welcome; there is no charge. Whether you're in the closet or out, you are welcome!<br />
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The Santa Rosa Group: Meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation (Glaser Center), Santa Rosa. <br />
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The Sonoma Valley Group: Meets on the 3rd Friday of the month, 10:30 am - 12 noon, at Vintage House Senior Center, Sonoma.<br />
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For more information, call Gary Shepard, Spectrum's Sonoma Project Coordinator, at 707-583-2330 (message line, checked frequently).Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8491943902130954233.post-32062310658855404412011-05-04T17:27:00.000-07:002011-05-04T17:27:21.243-07:00A Gleeful Kate Clinton Slated to Perform at Spectrum BenefitKate Clinton is coming to San Rafael and bringing her Glee Party with her. <br />
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In a tour that she describes as "part glee and part tea" she looks at the expectation in society that all problems can be solved in one hour minus commercial breaks with a few song and dance numbers thrown in. Her performance at the Hoytt Theater will benefit Spectrum's advocacy programs for LGBT youth.<br />
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Clinton is a wise cracking politically minded comedian whose swift wit has been entertaining audiences for over 25 years. Her shows are a mix of news of the day, commentary and observational humor covering religion, politics and LGBT issues.<br />
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Humor has long been a tool in creating political change. From court jesters and Jonathan Swift in the past to Steven Colbert and John Stewart today, comedy can say things about a society that cannot be said in other ways. Clinton is part of this tradition, asking the hard questions and as she says, ãtelling the truth no on would say.ä<br />
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Comedy also breaks down the barriers between people. "People hear each other in a light moment," Clinton said. Sometimes after a show she will be approached by a member of the audience who says, "I am a Republican but I still laughed." She laughs, "Should I congratulate them?"<br />
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According to Kate we all have the opportunity to make a difference but we need to realize that political action is sexy.<br />
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"Have you gone door to door with a friend?" She quips and continues say that we need to get out and do more then just send emails. "Moving your body around" is important, create community, have potlucks, get people together she advises starting a book club where ideas are exchanged and taken out into the world.<br />
The creation of community is part of what Spectrum is doing in San Rafael. Their programs offer support groups for LGBTQ youth ages 14-19, GSA clubs and a new collaborative project with Youth Leadership Institute to create positive high school environments for LGBT youth. <br />
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The importance of community in creating political change is not lost on Paula Pilecki, Executive Director Spectrum LGBT Center. "We can provide support for kids who have been bullied in school; we can educate parents and guardians whose kids are gay; we can work with schools to be proactive about enforcing zero tolerance anti-bullying policies; and we can advocate for legislation that will protect all students, regardless of real or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity. None of these activities can stand alone; we need all of it to make a difference, and we need many voices in order to be heard", Pilecki said.<br />
Kate will be performing on May 22 at, 1:00 PM in the Hoytt Theater, Osher Marin Jewish Community Center, 200 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael. Tickets are available exclusively through Spectrum at <a href="http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/">http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/</a>. (415) 472-1945, ext. 209.<br />
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Reposted from <a href="http://www.gaysonoma.com/">Gaysonoma.com</a><br />
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Quinn Conklin 03 May 2011Abouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17306425298574073768noreply@blogger.com