(11)
- News: Washington DC legalized gay marriage yesterday :)
- More news: on Monday, there was an openly-gay government official-person elected in Houston, Texas
- Today, there’s a speaker from Wayside Trauma Intervention Services [www.waysideyouth.org]. She talked about dating violence - or, more specifically, teen dating violence. GLBTQO people included.
- From now on, it’s mostly just notes on what she said. I tried to take as much notes as possible during her speech, but I’m sorry if I missed anything. 1st, it’s 10 true/false questions. Then, we just kind of talked about stuff in general.
- True or False? It’s normal for one person to make decisions in a relationship – false [this is the ideal situation. And it’s okay if you think otherwise]
- True or False?Abusers cut off their victims by isolating them from others – true.
- True or False? Abuse isn’t only physical – true.
- True or False? Only guys are the abusers – false.
- True or False? Therapy can help you with the abusive situation – true [but I guess it really depends on the person]
- True or False? The victim is to blame for the abuse he or she endures – False [the victim is never to blame. It might seem like they’re enabling their abuser, but the latter is just very controlling. Plus, it’s often that the victim can’t get out of the relationship]
- True or False? Abuse escalates as times goes on – true [see “Cycle of Violence” notes later on]
- True or False? If you see abuse signs, then give it time to see if person will change for better – false [this depends on your view; if you see the signs building up, keep track of them!!]
- True or False? Once you say “I love you” it’s too late to break up – false [we all agreed on this unanimously by saying, “FALSE!!!” all together xD]
- True or False? You should definitely talk to someone you trust about the abuse – true [side note: when someone comes to you with something like this, and you’re giving them advice, be as NOT judgmental as possible and show you care for and support them]
- http://www.breakthecycle.org/ [“Break the Cycle” website. It has some misconceptions of abuse and other interesting information]
- Signs of an unhealthy relationship: isolation, when one person becomes needy, obsessive-ness, constant nagging, physical abuse, threat of isolation of victim if something isn’t done right [ie. The abuser stops talking to victim], criticism, intimidations, put-downs, guilt-tripping, manipulation, MAKING the victim enable the abuser, peer pressure [ie. Sex, drugs, alcohol], embarrassment in front of others, gender roles [in both heterosexual and GLBTQO relationships], and the threat of being outed [either by the partner OR if they speak up, someone will find out]
- Types of abuse: physical, emotional, mental, sexual [this includes spreading rumors and sexting], financial/economical, social, religious, and cyber
- There is a rise in teen abusive-relationships but there is just as much adult abusive-relationships as teen ones.
- 20-50% of GLBTQO relationships could potentially be abusive [SAME EXACT STATS FOR HETEROSEXUAL COUPLES!!]
- Cycles of Violence --> the honeymoon stage, tension building stage, outburst stage, and repeat the process.
- Methods of control [some of these are similar to the signs of an unhealthy relationship]: criticism, possessiveness, blaming the victim, intimidation, threats, threat of abuser’s suicide, isolation, setting up rules, power and control, humiliation, hurting animals [it’s true!]
- Just FYI, if the abuser says “I’ll kill myself if you leave” then TELL SOMEONE O_o
- People make assumptions that just because it’s an abusive relationship that it’s a heterosexual one >__<
- There are domestic violence shelters set up that accept women who have been abused, and are possibly hiding from abuser
- There is a project in Boston --> “Gay Men Domestic Violence Project” that seeks to make shelters available for men as well
- What sets up the field for abuse? Well, tension may build up after some times. But it’s NOT “once an abuser, always an abuser.” Typically, the abuse is just a cycle, and it may not happen with one person as opposed to the other.
- See the information below if you have any questions. A HUGE thank you to Rebecca McCall, who gave the presentation!! ^__^ Her extension is attached after the telephone number.
- Then, we went back to out “regular” GSA discussion for a few minutes. We brought up why we think our high school is more of a safe zone for GLBTQO than the middle school [we’re older and more accepting. Oh, and most of us are mature as well ^__~]
- I think I might have mentioned this before, but here’s a fun fact: the existence of a GSA lowers the rate of suicide in the area ^__^
- This is off topic, but the GSA room was FILLED today! Great job, guys. Thanks for coming!! It was an amazing meeting and I’m glad so many of us could make it :)
Wayside Trauma Intervention Services
Youth and Family Support Network
[“Building Strength, Hope, and Resiliency”]
10 Asylum Street
Milford, MA 01757
T --> 508-478-6888 [x117]
F --> 508-478-9042
www.waysideyouth.org
Some ideas:
- Perhaps we could take a field-trip to Gibbons and have one of our GSA meetings there?
- What if the middle school students took the 1st wave of busses to our school to join us for our meetings? That’s a very good idea!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Wed., December 9th, 2009
No meeting today :( because of the snow-day, which means we have no time at all to plan what we’re going to ask Dykema. Please try to think of something and jot it down, alright? I hope you enjoyed your snow-day.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Wed., December 2nd, 2009
(10)
- We had a few technical difficulties, so we didn’t start watching the movie up until maybe half-way through the meeting. We will probably finish “Straightlaced” next time, though :)
- Recommendation: the movie “Angels in America” although it’s hard to watch
- Another one: watch “Milk.” If you haven’t already done so, check it out of the library.
- Jake said one of our state representatives would probably be able to come in on Wednesday, December 16th. We have to think of a few questions that we might use. Any ideas? Oh, and supposedly they’re going to give about a 10 minutes speech on GLBTQO right.
- It was World Aids Day yesterday [There are currently about a million people in the US with HIV / AIDS]
- In Utah conservative town, at Syracuse College, women held up a sign with the words “Homosexuality is a sin, Christ can set you free” written on it. She was wearing up a hideous skirt that day and, soon, a student walked up to stand next to her with another sign. On it were the words “Corduroy skirts are a sin.” A lot of people came up to him for pictures and he gained fame quickly. At the end of the day, he had a big crowd behind him, standing sportingly. It’s great that Syracuse is gay-friendly :) [For a picture and the student’s comment, go here: http://www.boingboing.net/2009/11/30/gay-bashing-woman-hu.html]
- Okay, now for the questions / topics to ask about. We came up with a few, but we NEED MORE.
• Transgender issues in the federal government
• Specifics about the trans-bill
- We had a few technical difficulties, so we didn’t start watching the movie up until maybe half-way through the meeting. We will probably finish “Straightlaced” next time, though :)
- Recommendation: the movie “Angels in America” although it’s hard to watch
- Another one: watch “Milk.” If you haven’t already done so, check it out of the library.
- Jake said one of our state representatives would probably be able to come in on Wednesday, December 16th. We have to think of a few questions that we might use. Any ideas? Oh, and supposedly they’re going to give about a 10 minutes speech on GLBTQO right.
- It was World Aids Day yesterday [There are currently about a million people in the US with HIV / AIDS]
- In Utah conservative town, at Syracuse College, women held up a sign with the words “Homosexuality is a sin, Christ can set you free” written on it. She was wearing up a hideous skirt that day and, soon, a student walked up to stand next to her with another sign. On it were the words “Corduroy skirts are a sin.” A lot of people came up to him for pictures and he gained fame quickly. At the end of the day, he had a big crowd behind him, standing sportingly. It’s great that Syracuse is gay-friendly :) [For a picture and the student’s comment, go here: http://www.boingboing.net/2009/11/30/gay-bashing-woman-hu.html]
- Okay, now for the questions / topics to ask about. We came up with a few, but we NEED MORE.
• Transgender issues in the federal government
• Specifics about the trans-bill
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wed., November 25th, 2009
Happy [almost] Turkey Day ;] Or Thanksgiving ^__^
Because of the Thanksgiving break, we get an extra 2.5 days off, making Wednesday a half day. Which means one less GSA meeting... again >.<
Hope you have plans for the holidays. If you don't, I hope some last-minute ones comes up!! ;] Have fun and stay safe ^__^
Because of the Thanksgiving break, we get an extra 2.5 days off, making Wednesday a half day. Which means one less GSA meeting... again >.<
Hope you have plans for the holidays. If you don't, I hope some last-minute ones comes up!! ;] Have fun and stay safe ^__^
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Wed., November 18th, 2009
(9)
- What was an off-topic conversation became the subject of our small discussion – Why is it that most people in GSA’s read manga and/or watch anime??
- The theory we came up with – GLBTQO people [and our allies] are more open-minded and can accept the broad-range of topics within manga/anime.
- Then, we watched “Straightlaced, How Gender’s Got Us All Tied Up” – COOL MOVIE :)
NOTE: We won't have a meeting next week either *sigh* (because of the half-day). Happy Thanksgiving though!! ^__^
- What was an off-topic conversation became the subject of our small discussion – Why is it that most people in GSA’s read manga and/or watch anime??
- The theory we came up with – GLBTQO people [and our allies] are more open-minded and can accept the broad-range of topics within manga/anime.
- Then, we watched “Straightlaced, How Gender’s Got Us All Tied Up” – COOL MOVIE :)
NOTE: We won't have a meeting next week either *sigh* (because of the half-day). Happy Thanksgiving though!! ^__^
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wed., November 12th, 2009
No Gay-Straight Alliance today...
no school, for that matter!! ^__^
It's Veteran's Day!!
Enjoy your day off, everyone :)
no school, for that matter!! ^__^
It's Veteran's Day!!
Enjoy your day off, everyone :)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wed., November 4th, 2009
(8)
- Last night, the state of Maine voted on the gay-marriage law. Sadly, it didn’t go through!! We lost with 47 to 53 percent. It would have been great to have another state with marriage equality rights (to join the 5 we already have the support of).
- 30 states (not including Maine) have voted to ban same-sex marriage and lost marriage equality. For more info on this topic, follow the 1st link below.
- Last meeting, we brought up the Kinsey Scale and someone asked what it was. As promised, we discussed it and answered questions. Here’s the basic idea:
• In the early 1900’s Alfred Kinsey conducted research on human sexuality and came up with a theory that the human sexuality could be measured by a scale
• This scale ranges from 0 to 6, where 0 signifies that the person in mind is exclusively heterosexual and 6 signifies that the person is exclusively homosexual.
• More recently, Kinsey’s associates added a new value on the scale: 7, or X. This signifies that the person is asexual, or not interested in either sex and there is a lack of sexual attraction.
• Links 2 and 3 have slightly-more detailed descriptions of the number on the Kinsey Scale and more information about Alfred Kinsey, respectively.
- It’s the beginning of November, where we will discuss bullying and similar topics.
- Naomi provided us with some activities and information about bullying.
• Bullying is when one person or a group of people treat another / others in an overbearing or intimidating manner. These include (but aren’t limited to) harsh and degrading language, shunning or purposely isolating someone, physical harassment, etc…
• Bullies are insecure, mean, want to feel more powerful / in control, and sometimes have emotional problems. More often than not, they're bigger than their victims. Sometimes they bully others to not get bullied themselves. Girls have a tendency to fight with words, gestures, and in cliques.
• There are 3 parties that are often present: the bully/ies, the victim/s, and the bystander/s. Bystanders’ reactions often play a big part in the bullying situation – they have the power to stand up to the bully and do something
• Connection to the GLBTQO community: we’re bullied a lot as a group. A pretty big reason for that is because we’re different. People fear the differences between us because of their own insecurities.
- There were 2 role-plays where people were bullied for their physical appearance and disabilities. Thanks Naomi!! ^__^
- There was a LOT of talking going on today. Can we try to keep the side conversations to a minimum?? Thanks.
1 -- http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=293976&ac=PHnws
2 -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinsey_scale
3 -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfred_Kinsey
PLEASE NOTE: We will not be having a meeting next week as this upcoming Wednesday is Veteran's Day. Enjoy your day off!
- Last night, the state of Maine voted on the gay-marriage law. Sadly, it didn’t go through!! We lost with 47 to 53 percent. It would have been great to have another state with marriage equality rights (to join the 5 we already have the support of).
- 30 states (not including Maine) have voted to ban same-sex marriage and lost marriage equality. For more info on this topic, follow the 1st link below.
- Last meeting, we brought up the Kinsey Scale and someone asked what it was. As promised, we discussed it and answered questions. Here’s the basic idea:
• In the early 1900’s Alfred Kinsey conducted research on human sexuality and came up with a theory that the human sexuality could be measured by a scale
• This scale ranges from 0 to 6, where 0 signifies that the person in mind is exclusively heterosexual and 6 signifies that the person is exclusively homosexual.
• More recently, Kinsey’s associates added a new value on the scale: 7, or X. This signifies that the person is asexual, or not interested in either sex and there is a lack of sexual attraction.
• Links 2 and 3 have slightly-more detailed descriptions of the number on the Kinsey Scale and more information about Alfred Kinsey, respectively.
- It’s the beginning of November, where we will discuss bullying and similar topics.
- Naomi provided us with some activities and information about bullying.
• Bullying is when one person or a group of people treat another / others in an overbearing or intimidating manner. These include (but aren’t limited to) harsh and degrading language, shunning or purposely isolating someone, physical harassment, etc…
• Bullies are insecure, mean, want to feel more powerful / in control, and sometimes have emotional problems. More often than not, they're bigger than their victims. Sometimes they bully others to not get bullied themselves. Girls have a tendency to fight with words, gestures, and in cliques.
• There are 3 parties that are often present: the bully/ies, the victim/s, and the bystander/s. Bystanders’ reactions often play a big part in the bullying situation – they have the power to stand up to the bully and do something
• Connection to the GLBTQO community: we’re bullied a lot as a group. A pretty big reason for that is because we’re different. People fear the differences between us because of their own insecurities.
- There were 2 role-plays where people were bullied for their physical appearance and disabilities. Thanks Naomi!! ^__^
- There was a LOT of talking going on today. Can we try to keep the side conversations to a minimum?? Thanks.
1 -- http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=293976&ac=PHnws
2 -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinsey_scale
3 -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfred_Kinsey
PLEASE NOTE: We will not be having a meeting next week as this upcoming Wednesday is Veteran's Day. Enjoy your day off!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wed., October 28th, 2009
(7)
- Jake gave a very detailed summary of an article. Basically, though, President Obama signed into the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act :) The Democrat vote was 281 to 146!!! ^__^ This provide the GLBT community with protection against hate crimes
- We were brain-storming themes of the month:
• November: Bullying
• December: Gender Identity
• January: GLBTQ History Month
• February: Stereotypes and effect of media on people’s viewpoints
• March: Discrimination in the workplace
• April: GLBT celebrities / people in the arts
[[http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/icon.cfm?id=51]]
• May: GLBT parents / families
• June: Our allies
- Also, a reminder!! Begin discussing the Day of Silence sometime in March, at the latest
- For the themes of the month, the group leaders will come up with some ideas for what activities we will do during that month. However, this doesn’t mean that you cannot step up and help us out by giving us an idea for a discussion topic!! We’d appreciate the help :)
- Jake mentioned that he can ask his sister’s boss to come in and talk to us ^__^ That would be really good!! :]
- On this upcoming Tuesday, on November 3rd, Maine will vote on Question 1. If that is passed, gay-marriage won’t be “allowed” anymore. Therefore, VOTE “NO” ON 1!! :D
- Did an activity – and placed terms in order from the most negative connotation [repulsion] to the most positive [nurturance].
- Oh, and another thing – we might be joining the Multi-Cultural Council’s Buffet after the New Year’s :)
Next time: mention the Kinsey Scale?? Some people had a few questions.
- Jake gave a very detailed summary of an article. Basically, though, President Obama signed into the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act :) The Democrat vote was 281 to 146!!! ^__^ This provide the GLBT community with protection against hate crimes
- We were brain-storming themes of the month:
• November: Bullying
• December: Gender Identity
• January: GLBTQ History Month
• February: Stereotypes and effect of media on people’s viewpoints
• March: Discrimination in the workplace
• April: GLBT celebrities / people in the arts
[[http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/icon.cfm?id=51]]
• May: GLBT parents / families
• June: Our allies
- Also, a reminder!! Begin discussing the Day of Silence sometime in March, at the latest
- For the themes of the month, the group leaders will come up with some ideas for what activities we will do during that month. However, this doesn’t mean that you cannot step up and help us out by giving us an idea for a discussion topic!! We’d appreciate the help :)
- Jake mentioned that he can ask his sister’s boss to come in and talk to us ^__^ That would be really good!! :]
- On this upcoming Tuesday, on November 3rd, Maine will vote on Question 1. If that is passed, gay-marriage won’t be “allowed” anymore. Therefore, VOTE “NO” ON 1!! :D
- Did an activity – and placed terms in order from the most negative connotation [repulsion] to the most positive [nurturance].
- Oh, and another thing – we might be joining the Multi-Cultural Council’s Buffet after the New Year’s :)
Next time: mention the Kinsey Scale?? Some people had a few questions.
Wed., October 21, 2009 [Update]
Oooh, I forgot to mention this --
Happy Ally Week everyone!! [http://www.allyweek.org/]
The month of October is also GLBT History Month. 31 days, 31 great achievements by GLBT icons, new icon every day. Read what they did!!
http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/icon.cfm?id=51
And Guys [and girls]?? PLEASE attend the meetings?? I mean, c’mon! We had SIX people today. I KNOW people have stuff to do [like that chorus rehearsal, for example] and that we all have other prior commitments, but if you joined a club, you should attend probably the majority of the meetings. Coming in at the beginning of the year, and then once at the end of the year doesn’t make you a member. Make a commitment.
Happy Ally Week everyone!! [http://www.allyweek.org/]
The month of October is also GLBT History Month. 31 days, 31 great achievements by GLBT icons, new icon every day. Read what they did!!
http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/icon.cfm?id=51
And Guys [and girls]?? PLEASE attend the meetings?? I mean, c’mon! We had SIX people today. I KNOW people have stuff to do [like that chorus rehearsal, for example] and that we all have other prior commitments, but if you joined a club, you should attend probably the majority of the meetings. Coming in at the beginning of the year, and then once at the end of the year doesn’t make you a member. Make a commitment.
Wed., October 21, 2009
(6)
- We went over what happened this Monday for the WHS Coming Out Day [We passed out info about National Coming Out Day and our GSA]
- Sadly, apparently, not many people noticed our table. I myself, had I not been RIGHT NEXT TO IT, would have walked by without noticing it.
- Overall, the whole event didn’t go as planned majorly because we didn’t get the news out sooner [Give me a big sarcastic “thanks!” because I was in charge of making the posters. So I’m sorry that I messed up. I was busy >.<]
- We had the elections for 2 positions. Well, two positions that were already filled, but now it’s all official and stuff :) Jake is our Assistant Fearless Leader [vice-president] and I’m your Secretary.
- We read a packet called “the Gay and Lesbian Students Rights Law.” You, too, can read it here: http://www.mass.gov/cgly/TheGayandLesbianStudentsRightsLaw.html
- After reading it, we had a discussion about it and talked about the suggestions that were brought up in the packet.
We should think about:
- We seriously NEED to make a large GSA poster on one of those tri-board things. My poster fails at being big, sturdy, and visible.
- At some point we can perhaps type us the mission statement of the Westborough Schools and post it up on the GSA board. To clarify for those of you who don’t read your handbook, that mission statement says, “Westborough Public Schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.” You can find that on the first page of your handbook, down at the bottom.
- get a speaker to come in and speak about the law. It would only be for the GSA though. Some possible ideas for speakers: someone from the GLSEN, or if we could get a congressman to somehow come in that would be great!
- I don’t know if this would be possible, but maybe David T. can write about this law in the school newspaper for the November-December edition? ^__^ Just a suggestion.
- And finally, we should ask the principal to send out / forward an email to all the teachers that could ask them to look out for derogatory remarks made in the halls towards anyone. So basically, we want him to tell all the teachers to be stricter about enforcing the mission statement and try to discourage slurs, innuendos, and other unwelcome remarks.
- Anything you guys want to talk about – assuming it’s a relevant topic, of course!
Thanks to all who attended~!! :)
- We went over what happened this Monday for the WHS Coming Out Day [We passed out info about National Coming Out Day and our GSA]
- Sadly, apparently, not many people noticed our table. I myself, had I not been RIGHT NEXT TO IT, would have walked by without noticing it.
- Overall, the whole event didn’t go as planned majorly because we didn’t get the news out sooner [Give me a big sarcastic “thanks!” because I was in charge of making the posters. So I’m sorry that I messed up. I was busy >.<]
- We had the elections for 2 positions. Well, two positions that were already filled, but now it’s all official and stuff :) Jake is our Assistant Fearless Leader [vice-president] and I’m your Secretary.
- We read a packet called “the Gay and Lesbian Students Rights Law.” You, too, can read it here: http://www.mass.gov/cgly/TheGayandLesbianStudentsRightsLaw.html
- After reading it, we had a discussion about it and talked about the suggestions that were brought up in the packet.
We should think about:
- We seriously NEED to make a large GSA poster on one of those tri-board things. My poster fails at being big, sturdy, and visible.
- At some point we can perhaps type us the mission statement of the Westborough Schools and post it up on the GSA board. To clarify for those of you who don’t read your handbook, that mission statement says, “Westborough Public Schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.” You can find that on the first page of your handbook, down at the bottom.
- get a speaker to come in and speak about the law. It would only be for the GSA though. Some possible ideas for speakers: someone from the GLSEN, or if we could get a congressman to somehow come in that would be great!
- I don’t know if this would be possible, but maybe David T. can write about this law in the school newspaper for the November-December edition? ^__^ Just a suggestion.
- And finally, we should ask the principal to send out / forward an email to all the teachers that could ask them to look out for derogatory remarks made in the halls towards anyone. So basically, we want him to tell all the teachers to be stricter about enforcing the mission statement and try to discourage slurs, innuendos, and other unwelcome remarks.
- Anything you guys want to talk about – assuming it’s a relevant topic, of course!
Thanks to all who attended~!! :)
Wed., October 14, 2009
(5)
- News: On Saturday, October 10th, HRC [Human Rights Campaign, one of the largest GLBT* civil rights organizations] released a segment of President Barak Obama’s speech at the 13th Annual National Dinner. It’s official now: he has promised to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. He also talked about DOMA [Defence of Marriage Act] and the Employment Act.
- Obama’s one of the only presidents to support gay civil-rights. Although no changes have taken place yet, Obama confirms that he’s going to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy **
- The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act is one of the only bills protecting GLBT rights
- National March for Equality was this weekend. A little under 50,000 people showd up for this event!! Successful :)
- Jake thinks he might be able to get his sister to get someone to come and talk to us / she might come and talk to us herself?
- National Coming Out Day was this Sunday, the 11th.
- WHS Coming Out Day will be on October 19th (Day 7) and we have to prepare. The lunch schedule for that day is below.
- Reminder to all who will be helping out at the tables: it’s suggested that you walk around and talk to the people and invite them to come by the table. Let the people know we’re there. Also, hand out the flyers!
- Anna will be making posters (bring in draft, get it signed, and then print out on colored paper).
- Naomi and Jake are in charge of making the flyers (?)
- Played more of the “Cross the Line” Game. [Reminder: what happens in the room, stays in the room! Respect Everyone's privacy.]
* GLBT = one of the most common acronyms for “gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered members of the gay-community. Sometimes, other acronyms are used like GLBTQO. In our case, we use the term “Alphabet” to describe the GLBT-Communty because there’s just too many letters to list off (the acronym sounds something like this: GLBTQIAAPOM. That’s a mouthful, isn’t it? Much easier to say “alphabet”) ^__~
**To find out more, go to the following site: http://www.hrc.org/13652.htm
WHS Coming Out Day Lunch Schedule:
1st Lunch: Natalie and Mary
2nd Lunch: Gaby, Naomi, Jake, Evan, Anna
3rd Lunch: Lauren, David
- News: On Saturday, October 10th, HRC [Human Rights Campaign, one of the largest GLBT* civil rights organizations] released a segment of President Barak Obama’s speech at the 13th Annual National Dinner. It’s official now: he has promised to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. He also talked about DOMA [Defence of Marriage Act] and the Employment Act.
- Obama’s one of the only presidents to support gay civil-rights. Although no changes have taken place yet, Obama confirms that he’s going to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy **
- The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act is one of the only bills protecting GLBT rights
- National March for Equality was this weekend. A little under 50,000 people showd up for this event!! Successful :)
- Jake thinks he might be able to get his sister to get someone to come and talk to us / she might come and talk to us herself?
- National Coming Out Day was this Sunday, the 11th.
- WHS Coming Out Day will be on October 19th (Day 7) and we have to prepare. The lunch schedule for that day is below.
- Reminder to all who will be helping out at the tables: it’s suggested that you walk around and talk to the people and invite them to come by the table. Let the people know we’re there. Also, hand out the flyers!
- Anna will be making posters (bring in draft, get it signed, and then print out on colored paper).
- Naomi and Jake are in charge of making the flyers (?)
- Played more of the “Cross the Line” Game. [Reminder: what happens in the room, stays in the room! Respect Everyone's privacy.]
* GLBT = one of the most common acronyms for “gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered members of the gay-community. Sometimes, other acronyms are used like GLBTQO. In our case, we use the term “Alphabet” to describe the GLBT-Communty because there’s just too many letters to list off (the acronym sounds something like this: GLBTQIAAPOM. That’s a mouthful, isn’t it? Much easier to say “alphabet”) ^__~
**To find out more, go to the following site: http://www.hrc.org/13652.htm
WHS Coming Out Day Lunch Schedule:
1st Lunch: Natalie and Mary
2nd Lunch: Gaby, Naomi, Jake, Evan, Anna
3rd Lunch: Lauren, David
Wed., October 7, 2009
(4)
- Homecoming Festival profits were $14.79, and we had at least 4 people give donations ^__^ Pamphlets weren’t very effective – most either didn’t want to look at them or put them back. We were had some really supportive people come up to us, though!!
- We're going to do a WHS National Coming Out Day event on Monday the 19th -- at lunch. We'll be giving out pamphlets and making bracelets :P Again.
- Naomi read a great article from the NY Times -- "Coming out in Middle School" *
- Today is the 11th anniversary of the hate-crimes committed against Matt Shepard (that eventually led to his death)**
- This upcoming Columbus Day weekend, there's a "National March for Equality" in DC. Big event, and LOGO channel will be showing info about it
- We discussed the fact that Obama hasn't done what he's promised about the Gay-Rights issues. But then again, he has other issues at the moment...like the economy, for example O_o Some of us are holding him to his word though :)
- Played the "Cross the Line" game, where you step forward if the statements apply to you. We didn’t get far though -- left off at “Cross the line if you wish you attended religious services more often.”
* To read the full article, go here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/magazine/27out-t.html
** More info on Matt Shepard: http://www.matthewshepard.org/site/PageNavigator/Matthews%20Place/Learn/Matthews%20Story/Learn_MS_Matthews_Life
Next meeting:
- Remember to discuss and plan the WHS Coming Out Day
- Assign “shifts” for those who will have to set up a table at lunch
- Ask people to spread the word somehow / make and post up flyers?
- Prepare pamphlets, beads, string, and possibly posters? [make new ones?]
- Continue with “Cross the Line” [Stopped at “Cross the Line if you wish you attended religious services more often”]
- Anything on the News?
- Did anyone attend that National March for Equality?
- Talk about ways to contact members of the GSA, even those who are not attending the meetings
- Homecoming Festival profits were $14.79, and we had at least 4 people give donations ^__^ Pamphlets weren’t very effective – most either didn’t want to look at them or put them back. We were had some really supportive people come up to us, though!!
- We're going to do a WHS National Coming Out Day event on Monday the 19th -- at lunch. We'll be giving out pamphlets and making bracelets :P Again.
- Naomi read a great article from the NY Times -- "Coming out in Middle School" *
- Today is the 11th anniversary of the hate-crimes committed against Matt Shepard (that eventually led to his death)**
- This upcoming Columbus Day weekend, there's a "National March for Equality" in DC. Big event, and LOGO channel will be showing info about it
- We discussed the fact that Obama hasn't done what he's promised about the Gay-Rights issues. But then again, he has other issues at the moment...like the economy, for example O_o Some of us are holding him to his word though :)
- Played the "Cross the Line" game, where you step forward if the statements apply to you. We didn’t get far though -- left off at “Cross the line if you wish you attended religious services more often.”
* To read the full article, go here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/magazine/27out-t.html
** More info on Matt Shepard: http://www.matthewshepard.org/site/PageNavigator/Matthews%20Place/Learn/Matthews%20Story/Learn_MS_Matthews_Life
Next meeting:
- Remember to discuss and plan the WHS Coming Out Day
- Assign “shifts” for those who will have to set up a table at lunch
- Ask people to spread the word somehow / make and post up flyers?
- Prepare pamphlets, beads, string, and possibly posters? [make new ones?]
- Continue with “Cross the Line” [Stopped at “Cross the Line if you wish you attended religious services more often”]
- Anything on the News?
- Did anyone attend that National March for Equality?
- Talk about ways to contact members of the GSA, even those who are not attending the meetings
Wed., September 30, 2009
(3)
Thanks to all who showed up for this meeting :D
- Our main goal for this meeting was to discuss Homecoming and make some bracelets.
- At Homecoming, we will have pamphlets (from HRC), bracelets, and materials for making bracelets (for anyone who wants to create one of their own design)
- The schedule for helping out at the Homecoming Booth is attached below.
- Anna will be making the poster and flyers for the GSA table
- We all worked together to make rainbow bracelets. We made a total of 22 bracelets.
- Bracelets prices will be as such: 25¢ per bracelet or 5 for $1.00
Homecoming Schedule: [10ish A.M. until 4 P.M.]
Set-up: Naomi
11-12: Naomi, Mary, Natalie
12-1: Naomi
1 - 2: Naomi, Jacob
2 - 3: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
3 - 4: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
Clean-up: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
Thanks to all who showed up for this meeting :D
- Our main goal for this meeting was to discuss Homecoming and make some bracelets.
- At Homecoming, we will have pamphlets (from HRC), bracelets, and materials for making bracelets (for anyone who wants to create one of their own design)
- The schedule for helping out at the Homecoming Booth is attached below.
- Anna will be making the poster and flyers for the GSA table
- We all worked together to make rainbow bracelets. We made a total of 22 bracelets.
- Bracelets prices will be as such: 25¢ per bracelet or 5 for $1.00
Homecoming Schedule: [10ish A.M. until 4 P.M.]
Set-up: Naomi
11-12: Naomi, Mary, Natalie
12-1: Naomi
1 - 2: Naomi, Jacob
2 - 3: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
3 - 4: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
Clean-up: Naomi, Jacob, Anna
Wed., September 23, 2009
(2)
Hello to all, and welcome to our first official meeting!! :)
- Tons of possible members showed up, a lot of them freshmen. It seems our efforts last year weren’t for nothing!! News got around about our group: some people noticed our table at the Homecoming Festival last year, while others found out about our GSA from the Freshman Orientation.
- We did the introductions and explained what some of the events we participate in during the year: Homecoming Fair / Festival, National Coming Out Day, Day of Silence, Movie Night, and (possibly / hopefully) Boston Youth Pride.
- Someone made the suggestion that we could sell our GSA t-shirts, we just have to advertise! Good idea.
- Ms. Vorkink brought up the topic of grants again. Someone will have to try to look into that this year.
- Small note: today’s Bisexuality Day!!
Contact Info:
Facebook group: “WHS Gay-Straight Alliance”
Hello to all, and welcome to our first official meeting!! :)
- Tons of possible members showed up, a lot of them freshmen. It seems our efforts last year weren’t for nothing!! News got around about our group: some people noticed our table at the Homecoming Festival last year, while others found out about our GSA from the Freshman Orientation.
- We did the introductions and explained what some of the events we participate in during the year: Homecoming Fair / Festival, National Coming Out Day, Day of Silence, Movie Night, and (possibly / hopefully) Boston Youth Pride.
- Someone made the suggestion that we could sell our GSA t-shirts, we just have to advertise! Good idea.
- Ms. Vorkink brought up the topic of grants again. Someone will have to try to look into that this year.
- Small note: today’s Bisexuality Day!!
Contact Info:
Facebook group: “WHS Gay-Straight Alliance”
Wed., September 16, 2009
(1)
First meeting of the year for regular members. We planned out our first “official” meeting on next Wednesday. Everyone please remember to bring food!!
First meeting of the year for regular members. We planned out our first “official” meeting on next Wednesday. Everyone please remember to bring food!!
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