Renna Communications

IN THE LIFE INVESTIGATES LAWS CRIMINALIZING HIV AND AIDS: A Special Report On Positive Women Stigmatized & Prosecuted

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Eleanor Moonier
212-255-6012 ×321
emoonier@itlmedia.org

IN THE LIFE INVESTIGATES LAWS CRIMINALIZING HIV AND AIDS:
A Special Report On Positive Women Stigmatized & Prosecuted

February 1, 2012 – Tonight, public television stations across the country will begin airing Perpetuating Stigma, an episode from the award-winning documentary series IN THE LIFE. This special report investigates the injustices that arise when a person’s HIV status becomes a crime, with a focus on how women have been stigmatized and prosecuted under these laws.

ALI FORNEY CENTER DIRECTOR REACTS TO NEW NYS BUDGET

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

ALI FORNEY CENTER DIRECTOR REACTS TO NEW NYS BUDGET

The following statement, released in response to the budget for New York submitted by Gov. Cuomo today, can be attributed to Carl Siciliano, Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center:

“Governor Cuomo’s budget proposal is bad news for the 1600 homeless LGBT youth stranded on the streets of New York each night without access to a shelter bed. These youth, who suffer horribly and whose lives are in danger, deserve the attention and concern of their governor no less than the other members of our community. With marriage equality expected to bring in over 100 million dollars in additional economic activity and tax revenue for the state, the LGBT community has a moral obligation to demand that our tax dollars protect the most vulnerable and desperate members of our community.”

GREEN CHIMNEYS, SCO FAMILY OF SERVICES LAUNCH NEW APPROACH TO WORK WITH FAMILIES OF LGBTQ YOUTH; EVENT AT LGBT CENTER JANUARY 10

If you would like more information or to RSVP as media, please contact cathy@rennacommunications.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR JAN. 10, 2012

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

GREEN CHIMNEYS, SCO FAMILY OF SERVICES LAUNCH NEW APPROACH TO WORK WITH FAMILIES OF LGBTQ YOUTH; EVENT AT LGBT CENTER JANUARY 10

WHAT: On the evening of Tuesday, January 10, New York’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Community Center will host an event titled Families: The Missing Link in Reducing Risk & Promoting Well-Being of LGBT Youth. This event, convened by Green Chimneys and SCO, will be a community forum on a groundbreaking new approach to working with families of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth to solve the tragic problem of family rejection of these youth that results in homelessness, family disruption and serious related health and mental health problems.

IN THE LIFE WELCOMES THE NEW YEAR WITH FIRST CLASS CITIZENS:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Chuy Sánchez
212-255-6012 ×307
csanchez@itlmedia.org

IN THE LIFE WELCOMES THE NEW YEAR WITH FIRST CLASS CITIZENS:
Honoring the groundbreaking work of LGBT & ally pioneers

January 3, 2012 – Tonight, public television stations across the country will begin airing First Class Citizens, an episode of the award-winning documentary series IN THE LIFE honoring the groundbreaking work of pioneers in the pursuit of LGBT civil rights. As the United States remembers Martin Luther King’s vision of equality and the African American civil rights movement, IN THE LIFE looks back at inspiring portraits of LGBT people and allies who stood up, spoke out and made a difference in the fight for full LGBT equality.

ALI FORNEY CENTER LAUNCHES “HOMELESS FOR THE HOLIDAYS” CAMPAIGN FEATURING FACES, STORIES OF LGBT YOUTH ON THE STREETS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

DONATION OF $100K BY LONGTIME NY ACTIVISTS FRANK SELVAGGI AND BILL SHEA

NEW YORK, NY – December 5, 2011 – The Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization working on behalf of homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, today announced the launch of an Internet-based campaign, “Homeless for the Holidays,” featuring the faces and stories of diverse New York LGBT youth forced to spend the winter without shelter. Beginning today, a new photo of one of these youth and his or her first-person story will be released every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday through the month of December. Each one of these photos was taken in November and December of this year, at a time when the youth photographed did not have access to a shelter bed due to all youth shelters being at capacity. The series can be viewed at: http://www.aliforneycenter.org/HFTH.html

PROP 8 STANDING DECISION: EXPERTS FROM LEADING UCLA RESEARCH INSTITUTE ON LGBT LAW & POLICY AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA AVAILABILITY FOR NOVEMBER 17, 2011

TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW, CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

PROP 8 STANDING DECISION: EXPERTS FROM LEADING UCLA RESEARCH INSTITUTE ON LGBT LAW & POLICY AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW

LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 17, 2011 – Today at 10 AM PST (1 PM EST), the California Supreme Court will issue its opinion on the standing of proponents of Proposition 8, the initiative passed in 2008 that bans same-sex couples from marrying. The Court’s ruling, a response to a certified question sent to it by the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, will determine whether the proponents have “particularized interests” in the case, and whether the proponents are allowed under state law to act in place of state officials, who have declined to defend Proposition 8. If the proponents ultimately are found not to have standing to press their appeal of Judge Walker’s decision that Prop 8 is unconstitutional, that ruling would stand as the last word in the case. In light of the significance of the standing issue, the Williams Institute, a leading research institute on sexual orientation and gender identity law and policy, will make one of its leading scholars, Jennifer Pizer, available for interview.

“ANDERSON” TO FEATURE VOICES OF TRANSGENDER CHILDREN, FAMILIES, LEADING EXPERT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: For questions or to arrange an interview with Dr. Ehrensaft, contact Cathy Renna at 917-757-6123 or cathy@rennacommunications.com.

“ANDERSON” TO FEATURE VOICES OF TRANSGENDER CHILDREN, FAMILIES, LEADING EXPERT

NEW YORK, NY – November 15, 2011 – On Wednesday, November 16, Anderson Cooper’s new daytime talk show, Anderson, will focus on transgender children – children whose gender behavior, expression, or identity does not comport with their biological gender – and their families. The episode will feature Diane Ehrensaft, PhD, a developmental psychologist and one of the nation’s leading experts on parenting of transgender and gender-nonconforming children. Dr. Ehrensaft’s appearance coincides with the release of her new book, Gender Made, Gender Born. Ehrensaft serves on the Board of Gender Spectrum (www.genderspectrum.org), a national organization offering educational, training and advocacy services to promote acceptance for transgender and gender-nonconforming children.

STUDY: GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCES IN SCHOOL BENEFIT HEALTH, EDUCATION OF LGBT YOUNG ADULTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

SAN FRANCISCO – NOVEMBER 15, 2011 – New research has found that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth who attend middle or high schools with Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) have better mental health as young adults, are less likely to drop out of high school, and more likely to attend college. Published in the current issue of Applied Developmental Science, this is the first study to show that GSA participation is related to long-term benefits. The study, High School Gay–Straight Alliances (GSAs) and Young Adult Well-Being, is based on data from the Family Acceptance Project’s survey of LGBT young adults, which examined the school-related experiences of 245 LGBT young adults, ages 21 to 25.

NEW BOOK DOCUMENTS DIVERSE TRANSGENDER EXPERIENCES IN FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND DEPTH, DATA MOVES CONVERSATION BEYOND GENDER BINARY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123
Genny Beemyn, genny@stuaf.umass.edu, (413) 545-4826

NEW BOOK DOCUMENTS DIVERSE TRANSGENDER EXPERIENCES IN FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND DEPTH, DATA MOVES CONVERSATION BEYOND GENDER BINARY

RELEASE COINCIDES WITH “TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBERANCE,” MEMORIALIZING VICTIMS OF ANTI-TRANSGENDER VIOLENCE

AMHERST, MA – November 14, 2011 – On November 20, The Lives of Transgender People, a new book detailing the experiences of thousands of transgender Americans, will be released by Columbia University Press. The book, by Genny Beemyn and Sue Rankin, is based on a survey of nearly 3,500 self-identified transgender individuals and follow-up interviews with more than 400 of the participants, making it one of the largest studies involving transgender people in the United States. The book’s release coincides with the International Transgender Day of Remembrance, an event held every November 20 to recognize individuals who have been murdered in the previous year because of their gender identity or expression.

New Williams Institute study finds that same-sex couples prefer marriage over other legal relationship statuses; Over 140,000 have formalized their relationships under state law in the U.S.

November 9, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

LOS ANGELES, CA – Over 140,000 same-sex couples have formalized their relationship under state law in the United States. Nearly 50,000 same-sex couples have married. These findings from a new Williams Institute study, Patterns of Relationship Recognition by Same-Sex Couples in the United States, are based on state administrative data from those states where same-sex couples can marry, enter civil unions or domestic partnerships, or enter other legal relationship statuses. The study also finds that same-sex couples prefer marriage over other non-marital legal relationship statuses.

“We see a lot of evidence that same-sex couples strongly prefer marriage over civil unions or domestic partnerships. Same-sex couples marry at higher rates in the first year they have the option than we see in civil union states, for example,” M.V. Lee Badgett, Research Director of The Williams Institute and professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. “Our findings are consistent with other research showing that couples value marriage more for its social meaning than for its practical benefits.”

ALI FORNEY CENTER ANNOUNCES OPENING OF 20-BED BROOKLYN SHELTER FOR NYC’S HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: For more information or for photos of the new shelter, contact Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

NEW YORK, NY – November 8, 2011 – On the evening of Monday, November 7, The Ali Forney Center (AFC), the nation’s largest organization working on behalf of homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, reopened a 20-bed emergency shelter in Brooklyn as a shelter specifically for this population. The reopening was made possible by a $620,000 grant from the New York City Council, turned over to the AFC by the New York City Dept. of Youth and Community Development.

As the shelter is an existing shelter, previously operated by an organization that failed to comply with licensing requirements, it does not add to the city’s total number of shelter beds, which currently stands at around 250. However, it does increase the percentage of such beds set aside for LGBT youth, and brings the total of AFC-operated beds to 77. Nonetheless, the AFC’s waiting list currently stands at 199 youths – a figure which has grown by 40 percent in the last year alone.

First Longitudinal Study on Dissolutions Among Lesbian Couples Suggests Importance of Co-Parent Adoption For Both Parents and Children

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com; Nanette Gartrell, ngartrell@nllfs.org, 415-519-0841

LOS ANGELES, CA – November 6, 2011 – This week, Family Relations, an interdisciplinary journal of the National Council on Family Relations, published the first longitudinal study on dissolutions among lesbian couples whose children had been born after their relationships were formed. The study, based on interviews with 40 separated lesbian couples and their 17-year old adolescents, found no difference in the well-being between children who had been adopted by their co-mothers and those who had not.

However, the study did find that the mothers were more likely to be sharing custody if there had been a co-parent adoption, which provides legal recognition of the parental rights of both the biological and non-biological mothers. The former couples with co-parent adoptions also remained in their relationships significantly longer – on average four years longer — than those without co-parent adoptions.

Asst Sec. of Defense to Keynote Gay Armed Forces Leadership Summit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact
Sue Fulton, 908-256-6727, sue.fulton@outserve.org

HIGH-RANKING DEFENSE OFFICIAL TO SPEAK AT OUTSERVE SUMMIT
Assistant Secretary Douglas Wilson Will Keynote Historic OutServe Armed Forces Leadership Summit

WASHINGTON, Oct 13, 2011 – OutServe has announced that this weekend’s OutServe Armed Forces Leadership Summit will welcome Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Douglas B. Wilson as the Keynote Speaker. Wilson will headline the OutServe National Dinner Saturday night in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Nominated by President Obama on December 2, 2009 to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, Douglas Wilson was confirmed to the position by the U.S. Senate on February 11, 2010. As the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, Mr. Wilson serves as the principal staff advisor and assistant to the United States Secretary of Defense for public information, internal information, community relations, information training, and audiovisual matters in support of DoD activities, leading a worldwide public affairs community of several thousand military and civilian personnel. A full bio of Wilson is below.

EXPERTS: SUPREME COURT ADOPTION DECISION RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT 90,000 ADOPTIONS BY U.S. UNMARRIED COUPLES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com
Jennifer Pizer, 213-590-5903, pizer@law.ucla.edu

EXPERTS: SUPREME COURT ADOPTION DECISION RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT 90,000 ADOPTIONS BY U.S. UNMARRIED COUPLES
Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court declining to hear a case in which Louisiana refused to recognize an adoption by an unmarried gay male couple could potentially affect over 90,000 adopted children in the United States, according to research by The Williams Institute, a leading think tank producing research on issues of law and public policy related to sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Supreme Court decision in Adar v. Smith leaves in place a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that upheld the right of the Louisiana state registrar to refuse to issue a birth certificate for the child adopted in New York by the gay male couple because Louisiana prohibits adoption by unmarried couples, including both different-sex and same-sex couples, within its borders. The 5th Circuit decision is a departure from a well-established line of cases interpreting the federal Constitution’s “Full Faith and Credit” clause as requiring that the judgments issued by a court in one state, including adoptions, must be honored and enforced in other states.

HISTORIC MILITARY SUMMIT STARTS FRIDAY, WELCOMES LGBT AND STRAIGHT MILITARY MEMBERS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sue Fulton, 908-256-6727, sue.fulton@outserve.org

OutServe Armed Forces Leadership Summit to Address Diversity as a Way to Strengthen Military

WASHINGTON, Oct 11, 2011 – In the wake of DADT repeal, an historic, first-ever conference sponsored by active-duty LGBT military members takes place this weekend. The OutServe Armed Forces Leadership Summit will welcome over 200 currently serving LGBT and straight military members, veterans, spouses/partners, and allies to join workshops and meetings. Topics include leadership, family, faith, unique challenges faced by servicewomen, and lessons on open service from military allies, all with the objective of strengthening the US military.

“Diversity is rightly viewed by the military as a force multiplier,” said Air Force 1st Lt. Josh Seefried, OutServe co-director. “All of us in the Armed Forces share the same mission, and by taking advantage of our unique differences and points of view, we become stronger.”

CENSUS 2010 DATA SHOWS SAME-SEX COUPLES IDENTIFIED AS SPOUSES IN EVERY STATE; FIRST REVISED ESTIMATES OF SAME-SEX COUPLES FOR CITIES AND COUNTIES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com Gary Gates, 310-825-1868, gates@law.ucla.edu

LOS ANGELES, CA – October 5, 2011 – Same-sex couples identified as spouses on Census 2010 in every state, even though they can currently only marry in six states and the District of Columbia, according to reports released by the Williams Institute for all 50 states and DC. The reports are based on recently revised Census 2010 data on same-sex couples and are the only source of revised estimates of same-sex couples for cities and counties across the U.S. (the Census Bureau only revised state-level estimates).

NEW VIDEO PUTS A FACE ON NEW YORK’S HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH IN ADVANCE OF OCT. 24 RALLY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

NEW VIDEO PUTS A FACE ON NEW YORK’S HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH IN ADVANCE OF OCT. 24 RALLY

NEW YORK, NY – October 4, 2011 – The Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization working on behalf of homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, today released a compelling new video viewable online in support of the Campaign for Youth Shelter. The video, outlining the stark facts of the plight of LGBT homeless youth in New York, was released to promote an October 24 rally in Union Square, at which New York’s LGBT community will demand shelter for all youth in the city. The video can be viewed at:
http://vimeo.com/29990372

CENSUS 2010 DATA SHOWS NEARLY 132,000 SAME-SEX COUPLES IDENTIFIED AS SPOUSES; 31% OF SUCH COUPLES RAISING CHILDREN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

CENSUS 2010 DATA SHOWS NEARLY 132,000 SAME-SEX COUPLES IDENTIFIED AS SPOUSES; 31% OF SUCH COUPLES RAISING CHILDREN

LOS ANGELES, CA – September 28, 2011 – A new Williams Institute analysis of Census 2010 data shows that nearly 132,000 (20%) of the nearly 650,000 same-sex couples in the U.S. identified as spouses. Data further show that 31% of couples who identified as spouses and 14% of unmarried partners are raising children.

“This marks the first time in the decennial Census tabulations that the Census Bureau has released counts of same-sex couples who identify as spouses, providing important new insight into this population,” said Williams Institute demographer Gary Gates. While same-sex couples can currently marry in only six states and the District of Columbia, Census statistics suggest that some same-sex couples in every state said they were spouses. The five states with the highest percentage of same-sex couples who identified as spouses are all states that allow same-sex couples to marry: Massachusetts (44%), Vermont (35%), Connecticut (34%), Iowa (34%), and New Hampshire (31%).

LGBT COMMUNITY RALLIES TO DEMAND SHELTER FOR ALL HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH IN NYC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR OCTOBER 24, 2011

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WHAT: On October 24, 2011, the Ali Forney Center – the nation’s largest organization working on behalf of homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth – will hold a rally advocating for shelter for these youth, who are among the most vulnerable in New York City’s homeless population.

WHY: As LGBT youth come out at younger ages, thousands face homophobia from their families. Many are rejected by their families and driven from their homes. In New York City, an LGBT teen is eight times more likely to experience homelessness than is a straight teen. LGBT youths suffering homelessness on the streets face terrible risk of HIV infection, physical and sexual assault, and suicide.

NEW E-BOOK FROM HUFFINGTONPOST.COM: THE END OF "DON'T ASK DON'T TELL"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com
“Aaron Belkin’s account of the hard-won effort to overturn ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ is a fascinating and timely read.” – Arianna Huffington, Huffington Post

“Part analysis and part memoir, Aaron Belkin provides an insider’s guide to the fascinating story of how the effort to end “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” first changed public opinion and then military policy. A key guide to anyone hoping to understand this amazing moment in American history.” — P.W. Singer, Senior Fellow and Director, 21st Century Defense Initiative, The Brookings Institution

The End of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell: The Huffington Post’s Second eBook LAUNCHING SEPT. 20

Tuesday September 20, will mark a civil rights milestone for the United States. By order of Congress, the 17-year ban on gay men and lesbians serving in the military — commonly known as “don’t ask, don’t tell” — will be overturned.

But how did this historic change come about? And why did it take so long?

LAWRENCE KING MURDER TRIAL: EXPERTS AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA AVAILABILITY FOR AUGUST 30, 2011

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

LOS ANGELES, CA – This week, the trial of Brandon McInerney continues for the 2008 murder of his 15-year-old, openly gay classmate Lawrence King. King was openly gay, but was also known for his gender non-conforming behavior, mannerisms and dress, all of which has been the focus of much attention and prompted the use of the “gay panic” defense by the attorney’s for the alleged murderer. In light of this trial, which has national relevance to the status of gay lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, three experts on bullying and gender nonconformity are available for interview throughout the week.

JONATHAN CAPEHART AND ABSOLUT VODKA TO BE HONORED AT IN THE LIFE MEDIA’S 20th ANNIVERSARY RED CARPET SEASON PREMIERE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:
Chuy Sánchez
212-255-6012 ×307
csanchez@itlmedia.org

Cathy Renna
917-757-6123
cathy@rennacommunications.com

New York, August 22, 2011 – In The Life Media, the organization that pioneered lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) visibility on television, today announced it will honor Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post writer Jonathan Capehart and ABSOLUT Vodka at In The Life Media’s 20th Anniversary Red Carpet Season Premiere.

Jonathan Capehart and ABSOLUT will receive In The Life Media’s Pioneer Awards on Monday, September 26 at The Times Center in New York City. Hundreds of prominent figures from across the political, ideological and cultural spectrum will come together to salute equal rights trailblazers and bring renewed focus to the issues facing LGBT communities.

A Groundbreaking Guide to Caring for Children Who Live Outside Binary Gender Boxes

Contact: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

“Gender Born, Gender Made brings to our homes, schools, and clinicians’ offices a wealth of ideas and tools that will prove invaluable as we move toward a more empathetic, just, and inclusive society.”
—from the foreword by Edgardo Menvielle, MD, MSHS

**A Groundbreaking Guide to Caring for Children Who Live
Outside Binary Gender Boxes**

GENDER BORN, GENDER MADE
Raising Healthy Gender-Nonconforming Children
By DIANE EHRENSAFT, PHD • Foreword by EDGARDO MENVIELLE, MD, MSHS

In a society where gender boundaries are clearly marked, we are still only beginning to understand children who bend the “rules” of gender. Now, in GENDER BORN, GENDER MADE: Raising Healthy Gender-Nonconforming Children (The Experiment, dist. by Workman Publishing/Pub date: May 31, 2011/$16.95), Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a developmental and clinical psychologist, and specialist in child development and gender, presents a pioneering resource for parents whose children live outside preconceived gender norms and for professionals working with those families.
Increasing awareness of gender-nonconforming children, including episodes of 60 Minutes, The Oprah Winfrey Show, a Newsweek cover story, a two-part, 45-minute NPR report, and articles in the New York Times, The Atlantic, and Slate, again and again make this point: In a strongly heteronormative society, children blurring predefined gender lines need support to thrive.

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN DC, FL, MA, MI, SC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell)
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN DC, FL, MA, MI, SC

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related issues in law and public policy, today released statistical snapshots of new Census 2010 data on same-sex couples living in the District of Columbia and the states of Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, and South Carolina. The snapshots can be downloaded at the following link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?bsc15u6kkpd0k0r

The Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy advances law and public policy through rigorous, independent research and scholarship, and disseminates its work through a variety of education programs and media to judges, legislators, lawyers, other policy makers, and the public. For more information, please visit www.law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute.

AR, IA, LA, MD, NJ, TX SAME-SEX COUPLES: WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES NEW CENSUS 2010 DATA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell)
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN AR, IA, LA, MD, NJ, TX

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related issues in law and public policy, today released statistical snapshots of new Census 2010 data on same-sex couples living in the states of Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas. The snapshots can be downloaded at the following link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?k9lb1503zuggk9v

IL, IN, NV, OR, SD, WA: WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES NEW CENSUS 2010 DATA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell)
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN IL, IN, NV, OR, SD, WA

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related issues in law and public policy, today released statistical snapshots of new Census 2010 data on same-sex couples living in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, and Washington. The snapshots can be downloaded at the following link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?xy7ie7fsygm7jvq

UCLA’S WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES NEW STUDY SHOWING RATES OF EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGB EMPLOYEES SIMILAR IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS

Complaint rates also similar for sexual orientation, race, and sex discrimination

Press Release – For Immediate Release
Media Contacts:
Brad Sears, sears@law.ucla.edu, (310) 794-5279
Christy Mallory, mallory@law.ucla.edu, (310) 794-9469

LOS ANGELES- Today, the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law released a new study supporting that the level of employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is similar in public and private sectors. The study analyzed discrimination complaints filed with administrative agencies in those states that prohibit sexual orientation discrimination, and adjusted the filings by the number of LGB employees in each state that work in each sector.

Overall, the study finds that sexual orientation complaint filings are slightly lower, but similar, for employees in the public sector when compared to the private sector. The filing rate for state and local employees is 3 for every 10,000 LGB employees compared to 4 for every 10,000 LGB employees in the private sector. Currently, there are not enough data to do a similar analysis of gender identity discrimination complaints and federal employees are not covered by these state anti-discrimination statutes.

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN IDAHO, MISSOURI, OHIO, UTAH, W. VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell) Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN IDAHO, MISSOURI, OHIO, UTAH, W. VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related issues in law and public policy, today released statistical snapshots of new Census 2010 data on same-sex couples living in the states of Idaho, Missouri, Ohio, Utah, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The snapshots can be downloaded at the following link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?q9cba64imsw5ulw

The Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy advances law and public policy through rigorous, independent research and scholarship, and disseminates its work through a variety of education programs and media to judges, legislators, lawyers, other policy makers, and the public. For more information, please visit www.law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute.

For First Time, Bureau of Labor Statistics Releases Data on Domestic Partner Benefits: 30% of Workers Have Access To Domestic Partner Benefits for Same-Sex Partners

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WASHINGTON, DC – July 26, 2011 – Today, for the first time, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released data on employer-provided domestic partner benefits. The data was from the National Compensation Survey, which collected data on the employment benefit policies from more than 15,000 employers in the public and private sectors. The new questions added this year to the National Compensation Survey will provide annual measures of employees’ access to benefits for unmarried domestic partners.

“We commend the Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics for adding questions to measure the growing access of same-sex and different –sex unmarried couples to employee benefits,” said Williams Distinguished Scholar Gary Gates. “These data are important to measuring both the promising growth in these benefits and the continuing inequality that unmarried couples face in obtaining access to them.”

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES CENSUS 2010 STATISTICS ON SAME-SEX COUPLES LIVING IN GA, KY, ME, NH, VA, PR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell)
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related issues in law and public policy, today released statistical snapshots of new Census 2010 data on same-sex couples living in the states of Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, New Hampshire, and Virginia. These snapshots can be downloaded at the following link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?q7lbaygbqudhbok

Data on same-sex couples in the territory of Puerto Rico can be downloaded from the link below:

http://www.mediafire.com/?1qkoayms5q1boia

DOMA REPEAL TESTIMONY SUBMITTED BY LEADING LGBT THINK TANK

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

DOMA REPEAL TESTIMONY SUBMITTED BY LEADING LGBT THINK TANK

WASHINGTON, DC – July 20, 2011 – Today, the Williams Institute submitted written testimony to the United States Senate Committee on the Judiciary for its Hearing on “S.598, The Respect for Marriage Act: Assessing the Impact of DOMA on American Families.” The testimony summarizes demographic data about same-sex couples and the serious financial, legal, social and health consequences of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) for them and their families.

DADT DISCHARGES SUSPENDED: PALM CENTER RESPONDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Los Angeles, CA — The following statement about today’s Army Times announcement that the Pentagon has suspended discharges under “don’t ask, don’t tell” can be attributed to Palm Center director Aaron Belkin:

“The Pentagon is lawfully and properly responding to a federal court’s ruling, and today’s news may bring some relief to gay and lesbian service members who continue to fear that they could be fired for who they are. The last year has been an unnecessary and unhelpful roller coaster ride for the military and for gay troops and I do not believe that it is an overstatement to posit that with the exception of a tiny fringe, almost all Americans will welcome the permanent repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ when it comes.”

The Palm Center, a part of the Williams Institute of the University of California, Los Angeles, is committed to sponsoring state-of-the-art scholarship to enhance the quality of public dialogue about critical and controversial issues of the day. For the past decade, the Palm Center’s research on sexual minorities in the military has been published in leading social scientific journals. The Palm Center seeks to be a resource for university-affiliated as well as independent scholars, students, journalists, opinion leaders, and members of the public. For more information, see www.palmcenter.org.

BREAKING NEWS RE:DADT: PALM CENTER STATEMENT ON NINTH CIRCUIT'S REINSTATEMENT OF INJUNCTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

Los Angeles, CA — Palm Center director Aaron Belkin issued the following statement on the Ninth Circuit’s reinstatement of the injunction against enforcing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”:

“All three branches of government appear to have reached the same conclusion about military discrimination against gays and lesbians — it is unconstitutional, harmful to individuals, and does not serve the purposes of the U.S. military. While it is yet to be determined whether the final decision will be made by the courts or the Congressionally-mandated certification process, the end of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ is close at hand. More work remains to be done on behalf of transgendered troops and the provision of equal benefits to all service members, but that said, we are on the precipice of achieving an historic victory.”

The Palm Center, a part of the Williams Institute of the University of California, Los Angeles, is committed to sponsoring state-of-the-art scholarship to enhance the quality of public dialogue about critical and controversial issues of the day. For the past decade, the Palm Center’s research on sexual minorities in the military has been published in leading social scientific journals. The Palm Center seeks to be a resource for university-affiliated as well as independent scholars, students, journalists, opinion leaders, and members of the public. For more information, see www.palmcenter.org.

VICTORY: NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL RESTORES OVER $7 MILLION IN FUNDING TO RUNAWAY AND HOMELESS YOUTH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna (917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

NEW YORK, NY – July 5, 2011 – The New York City Council has restored $7,170,000 of funds for Runaway and Homeless Youth Programs in the budget agreement with the Mayor that was reached this week. Following a cut of $7.3 million proposed by Mayor Bloomberg, the restoration negotiated by the City Council has prevented the loss of numerous beds and support services. LGBT youth, who make up 40% of New York City’s homeless youth population, would have been disproportionately harmed had these restorations not been achieved.

Carl Siciliano, Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center, said: “The budget proposed by the Mayor, following a 50% in state support, would have devastated the meager infrastructure of support for our youth. Hundreds of shelter beds would have been lost, and countless young lives would have been endangered. I am deeply grateful to City Council Youth Services Chair Lew Fidler for his determined and passionate advocacy for homeless youth, and to Speaker Christine Quinn for her steadfast support. In the context of a very difficult budgetary climate, this is a terrific victory for our youth.”

FENWAY HEALTH STATEMENT RE: HHS LGBT DATA COLLECTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

FENWAY HEALTH STATEMENT RE: HHS LGBT DATA COLLECTION

Boston, MA – June 29, 2011 – United State Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced that sexual orientation measures would begin to be included in the federal government’s National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) in 2013 and gender identity measures are being tested for addition when ready. NHIS is the major tool that the Department of Health and Human Services uses to keep tabs on the health of the nation. HHS also announced their intent to convene community researchers to ensure further testing builds on the work already done.

Staff from The Fenway Institute’s Center for Population Research in LGBT Health and Network for LGBT Health Equity, and Fenway Health’s Office of Government Affairs all worked closely with HHS staff to craft the new data collection policy for NHIS.

HHS ANNOUNCES INCLUSION OF GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER QUESTIONS IN NAT'L SURVEY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2011

Contact:
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Williams Institute Applauds HHS Plans for LGBT Inclusion in National Health Interview Survey

Los Angeles, CA – June 29, 2011 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced a plan to include sexual orientation and gender identity on the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a key source of information about the health and well-being of all Americans.

Williams Distinguished Scholar Dr. Gary Gates notes, “Today’s announcement solidifies the commitment that Secretary Sebelius made last week to provide more and better data about the health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans. As was clearly stated in the findings from the recent Institutes of Medicine report on LGBT health disparities, the need for more data is acute. I urge HHS to move as quickly as possible to include sexual orientation and gender identity questions on the NHIS.”

UPDATED: LGBTQ Activists, Allies to Launch Campaign for Shelter for Every Homeless Youth in New York

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

WHAT/WHY: On Friday, June 24th, at 5:30 PM, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) advocates, providers, and allied politicians and celebrities will be joining homeless LGBTQ youths in front of the Stonewall Inn to announce the launching of a campaign calling on New York City and the State of New York to commit to providing shelter to every homeless youth in New York.

The event will follow a June 17 meeting between 30 Rock star and comedian Tracy Morgan and several homeless LGBTQ youths from the Ali Forney Center. At the June 17 meeting, coming after Morgan’s anti-gay remarks at a performance in Nashville, Morgan had the opportunity to learn from these youths and their experiences of rejection at the hands of homophobic family members.

NEW STUDY SHOWS INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTS FOR LGBT EMPLOYEES ARE CRUCIAL FOR CAREER PROGRESSION AND BOTTOM LINE SUCCESS

FOR JUNE 21, 2011

Contact: Cathy Renna, Renna Communications, 917.757.6123 or cathy@rennacommunications.com

“THE POWER OF OUT”

New York, NY: June 21, 2011 – A new study by the Center for Work-Life Policy, featured in the July/August issue of the Harvard Business Review, quantifies the loss to individuals and to the bottom line when organizations fail to create a workplace hospitable to their lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) employees. The data, based on a survey of 2,952 respondents, show the consequences when LGBT employees are forced to keep their lives and loved ones a secret from colleagues. Among the findings:

COMEDIAN TRACY MORGAN MEETS WITH HOMELESS GAY TEENS, SCHEDULES RETURN TO TENNESSEE; ALI FORNEY CENTER YOUTH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESPOND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Rich Ferraro, Director of Communications
(646) 871-8011
ferraro@glaad.org

Cathy Renna, Managing Partner, Renna Communications
(917) 757-6123
cathy@rennacommunications.com

New York, NY, June 17, 2011 – The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, today convened a meeting between actor/comedian Tracy Morgan and LGBT youth from the Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization serving homeless LGBT youth. Morgan also met with Elke Kennedy, whose 20-year-old son, Sean, was killed in an anti-gay hate crime. Photos of the meeting are available at www.glaad.org.

Last week, GLAAD, HRC, Truth Wins Out and bloggers called on Morgan to apologize and speak out against anti-LGBT violence after he went on an anti-gay rant during a June 3 comedy performance in Nashville, Tenn. GLAAD also called on Morgan to meet with LGBT youth shunned by their families, as well as families who have lost loved ones to anti-LGBT hate violence.

Press advisory/FAQ: Same-sex couples in Census 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Gary J. Gates, PhD
Williams Distinguished Scholar, Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
(310) 825-1868 (office), (202) 257-6400 (cell)
Cathy Renna, Renna Communications, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Historically, US Census Bureau data on same-sex couples have been a critical resource for informing the many national, state, and local debates about lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights. The Williams Institute has been a leader in disseminating and analyzing these data from Census 2000 and will continue to do so with the release of data from Census 2010. This press advisory/FAQ summarizes the time table for data releases and explains Census procedures regarding data on same-sex couples.

How does the Census Bureau identify same-sex couples?

Same-sex couples are identified in households where Person 1 describes his or her relationship with another adult of the same sex as either a “husband/wife” or “unmarried partner.”

Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin on Secretary Gates’ Remarks about “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin on Secretary Gates’ Remarks about “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

The Associated Press has suggested that Defense Secretary Robert Gates could certify that the Pentagon is ready for the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” before he resigns, but that his endorsement is contingent on the approval of the Service Chiefs. According to the AP’s report, Gates “sees no roadblocks to ending the ban on openly gay military service, and if the top officers of each service recommend moving ahead on the repeal before the end of the month, he will endorse it.”

Said Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center: “The fact that the Defense Secretary does not see any roadblocks to the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ is very important. Although he is not quite saying whether or not he will proceed with certification before he resigns, this seal of approval is significant.”

The Palm Center, a part of the Williams Institute of the University of California, Los Angeles, is committed to sponsoring state-of-the-art scholarship to enhance the quality of public dialogue about critical and controversial issues of the day. For the past decade, the Palm Center’s research on sexual minorities in the military has been published in leading social scientific journals. The Palm Center seeks to be a resource for university-affiliated as well as independent scholars, students, journalists, opinion leaders, and members of the public. For more information, see www.palmcenter.org.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH ORGANIZATION RESPONDS TO TRACY MORGAN'S ANTI-GAY REMARKS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

NEW YORK, NY – June 10, 2011 – The following statement can be attributed to Carl Siciliano, Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center:

“At the Ali Forney Center, we work with hundreds of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youths who have endured violent rejection from parents. It is a tragedy that so many parents in our society are so infected with homophobia that they are unable to accept their gay children, and cast them out onto the streets. We appreciate Tracy Morgan’s apology, but wish to invite him to meet with some of our young people who have endured violence and rejection from their families for being LGBT, so that he can better understand the human suffering caused by those who promote homophobia against youths.”

The Ali Forney Center’s mission is to help homeless LGBT youth be safe and become independent as they move from adolescence to adulthood. Too many of these youth are rejected by their families and the broader community, and are thus forced to survive on the streets, facing the dangers of violence, HIV infection and homophobia. AFC is committed to providing homeless LGBT youth with the services they need to thrive, including shelter, HIV prevention and vocational training. For more information, go to http://www.aliforneycenter.org.

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INDEPENDENT LENS SEASON CONCLUDES WITH PREMIERE OF TWO SPIRITS ON TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2011 AT 10 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT

Voleine Amilcar, ITVS 415-356-8383 × 244 voleine_amilcar@itvs.org

Mary Lugo 770-623-8190 lugo@negia.net

Cara White 843-881-1480 cara.white@mac.com

For downloadable images, visit pbs.org/pressroom/

For the program companion website, visit pbs.org/two-spirits

Fred Martinez was a Navajo boy who was also a girl. In an earlier era, he would have been revered. Instead, he was murdered.

(San Francisco, CA)— Two Spirits interweaves the tragic story of a mother’s loss of her son with a revealing look at the largely unknown history of a time when the world wasn’t simply divided into male and female, and many Native American cultures held places of honor for people of integrated genders. Powerful and moving, Lydia Nibley’s Two Spirits explores the life and death of Fred Martinez and the ancient Native American two-spirit tradition. Two Spirits will premiere on the Emmy® Award-winning PBS series Independent Lens, hosted by America Ferrera, on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 10 PM (check local listings).

Fred Martinez told his mother that he felt as if he was both a boy and a girl, and she explained that this was a special gift, according to traditional Navajo culture. But the place where two discriminations meet is a dangerous place to live, and Fred became one of the youngest hate crime victims in modern history when he was brutally murdered at 16. Between tradition and controversy, freedom and fear, lies the truth — the bravest choice you can make is to be yourself.

STONEWALL FOUNDATION TO HOLD “VISION DINNER” JUNE 15, RAISING FUNDS TO MAKE LGBTQ GRANTMAKING POSSIBLE

WE WILL RELEASE A LIST OF CELEBS/BOLD FACE NAMES THE DAY OF THE EVENT, TO RSVP CONTACT CATHY@RENNACOMMUNICATIONS.COM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY for June 2, 2011

CONTACT: For press inquiries, contact Cathy Renna (cathy@rennacommunications.com; 917-757-6123). For questions or inquiries about the event, contact Hany Awadalla (hany.awadalla@stonewallfoundation.org; 917-817-1264).

WHAT: On June 15, 2011, the Stonewall Foundation, a foundation at the forefront of grantmaking to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) organizations, will hold its 2011 Stonewall Vision Dinner. The event will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by a dinner and program that will include the presentation of the Stonewall Visionary Award.

New Study Finds No Link Between Homophobic Stigma & Substance Use in Adolescents Raised by Lesbians

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 26, 2011

Contact: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications
Naomi Goldberg, Williams Institute, 734-277-4575, GOLDBERGN@law.ucla.edu

New Study Finds No Link Between Homophobic Stigma & Substance Use in Adolescents Raised by Lesbians

Los Angeles, CA – May 26, 2011 – The Williams Institute, a research center on sexual orientation law and public policy at UCLA School of Law, announces new findings from the U.S. National Longitudinal Lesbian Family Study (NLLFS), the longest-running study ever conducted on American lesbian families (now in its 25th year). In an article published in the Journal of Health Psychology, 17-year-old daughters and sons of lesbian mothers in the study who reported experiences of homophobic stigmatization did not report higher levels of substance use.

HHC Will Adopt Mandatory Cultural Competence Training for Staff to Improve the Health of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender New Yorkers

For Immediate Release
May 25, 2011
Contact: Ana Marengo (HHC): ana.marengo@nychhc.org; 212.788.3339; 646.773.9795
Cathy Renna (LGBT Cancer Network): cathy@rennacommunications.com ; 917.757.6123

__First Public Healthcare System in U.S. to Mandate Comprehensive Training Program to Address LGBT Health Disparities;
HHC Responds to Recent Policy Recommendations by Institute of Medicine and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services__

May 25, 2011 – New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC) President Alan D. Aviles, Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs and National LGBT Cancer Network Executive Director Liz Margolies today announced the launch of a mandatory employee training program that will improve access to healthcare for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals and help to reduce health disparities related to sexual orientation and gender identification. The training will teach staff to provide respectful, patient-centered and culturally competent healthcare services to thousands of LGBT New Yorkers who are served by the public hospitals, community health centers and nursing homes every year. The landmark curriculum was launched at Bellevue Hospital at a presentation and special screening of a new training video, “To Treat Me, You Have to Know Who I Am,” before LGBT consumers, LGBT community advocates, healthcare providers and elected officials.

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE: NEW INFORMATION ON IMPENDING RELEASE OF CENSUS DATA ON SAME-SEX COUPLES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Los Angeles, CA – May 17, 2011 – The Williams Institute, a leading think tank in the field of law and public policy relating to sexual orientation and gender identity, will continue its leading role in disseminating US Census data on same-sex couples with the impending release of the 2010 Census data. Beginning in the month of June and continuing throughout the summer, the Institute will regularly release state-level data on same-sex couples as it becomes available.

This month, the US Census Bureau began the process of releasing its “Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics” for individual states. Historically, US Census Bureau data on same-sex couples have been a critical resource for informing the many national, state, and local debates about lesbian and gay rights. The below questions and answers summarize the timetable for data releases and explain Census procedures regarding same-sex couple data.

SCHOOL BULLYING, VIOLENCE AGAINST LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL & TRANSGENDER YOUTH LINKED WITH RISK FOR SUICIDE, HIV & STDs IN YOUNG ADULTHOOD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

SCHOOL BULLYING, VIOLENCE AGAINST LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL & TRANSGENDER YOUTH LINKED WITH RISK FOR SUICIDE, HIV & STDs IN YOUNG ADULTHOOD

MAY 16, 2011 – Critical new research has found that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth who experience high levels of school victimization in middle and high school report impaired health and mental health in young adulthood, including depression, suicide attempts that require medical care, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and risk for HIV. This is the first known study to examine the relationship between school victimization during adolescence – specifically related to sexual orientation and gender identity – with multiple dimensions of young adult health and adjustment. The study demonstrates the importance of addressing and preventing anti-LGBT victimization at the structural or school level to reduce health disparities among LGBT young people. The study is published in the Journal of School Health, the journal of the American School Health Association.

PALM CENTER STATEMENT ON HOUSE REPUBLICAN INTERFERENCE WITH 'DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL' REPEAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

PALM CENTER STATEMENT ON HOUSE REPUBLICAN INTERFERENCE WITH ‘DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL’ REPEAL

LOS ANGELES, CA — May 10, 2011 — The following statement about House Republicans’ efforts to intervene in the “don’t ask, don’t tell” repeal process can be attributed to Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin:

“The full House Armed Services Committee is scheduled to mark up this year’s Defense Authorization bill on Wednesday. House Republicans oppose the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ as well as the recent Navy statement allowing chaplains to determine what religious ceremonies they will or will not perform.

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE TO HOLD CONFERENCE ON EQUALITY FOR SEXUAL MINORITIES IN THE BALKANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR MAY 9, 2011

CONTACT: For media inquiries or to arrange an interview with Jovan Kojičić, Nan Hunter, or Gary Gates, contact Cathy Renna (cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123). To RSVP or for additional information, contact Jovan Kojičić at kojicic@law.ucla.edu.

EVENT TO FEATURE DISTINGUISHED JUDGES, OFFICIALS, HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISTS FROM MULTIPLE COUNTRIES

WHAT:

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank on law and public policy concerning issues of sexual orientation and gender identity, will host a conference, Justice in the Balkans: Equality for Sexual Minorities, in Belgrade from May 27-30, 2011. This year’s conference will focus on the challenges and perspectives related to human rights in the Balkans on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. The principal organizer is the current Williams Institute Visiting International Scholar Dr. Jovan Kojičić. In 2009, the Williams Institute co-sponsored the first conference on LGBT rights in the Western Balkans in Podgorica, Montenegro.

PALETTE FUND ANNOUNCES NEW DETAILS ON 2011 GRANTEES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

New York, NY – May 3, 2011 – Today, The Palette Fund, a philanthropic organization honoring the legacy of the late Rand Harlan Skolnick by emphasizing collaborative grantmaking and programming centered around human rights and education, announced full details on its 2011 slate of grants, and expanded its previously released list to include several additional organizations, including The Sylvia Center, Family Acceptance Project, and Bailey House. This year’s grantees comprise a wide variety of organizations in each of The Palette Fund’s three program areas: Nutrition and Wellness; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Youth; and Patient Navigation. These organizations will collectively receive grants totaling approximately $800,000, to be distributed over the course of 2011. A list of the 2011 grantees is below, including details on the purposes to which The Palette Fund’s grants will be used.

Said Terrence Meck, President and Executive Director of The Palette Fund: “From schools and homes to hospitals and homeless shelters, this year’s grantees impact almost every sector of our society. There could be no better testament to Rand’s legacy than the collective work of these organizations, which will be greatly enriched through our funding. Our grantees are moving us closer to a world in which child obesity is far less of a risk; where LGBT youth can live their lives safely while being who they are; and where patients facing difficult medical decisions can more easily navigate the complex web of medical programs, options, and facilities.”

CAITLIN RYAN, EXPERT ON FAMILY ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT YOUTH, TO DELIVER KEYNOTE AT AFSP’S “CALL TO ACTION” SYMPOSIUM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR MAY 6, 2011

CONTACT: For questions or to arrange an interview with Dr. Ryan, contact Cathy Renna (917-757-6123; cathy@rennacommunications.com). For more information on the events, please contact Melanie Varady at mvarady@afsp.org or 617-439-0940 or visit the AFSP Boston Chapter’s web site at www.afsp.org/greaterboston.

LEADING SUICIDE PREVENTION ORGANIZATION HOLDS EVENT FOCUSED ON COMBATING LGBT SUICIDE

WHAT: On June 18, 2011, at Bentley University in Waltham, MA, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) will hold a symposium on suicide prevention in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, “A Call to Action.” As the title indicates, the symposium is a call to action to educate attendees and implement interventions aimed at reducing suicidal behavior and suicide risk in the LGBT community. The symposium will also call to reduce the stigma against seeking mental health services, as well as for the funding necessary for health research and for changes in discriminatory laws that stigmatize people based on their LGBT identities.

ALI FORNEY CENTER-SPONSORED FORUM ON HOMELESS YOUTH DRAWS CROWD AT NEW YORK’S LGBT CENTER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: For inquiries, to request photos from the event, or to arrange an interview with one of the panel’s participants, contact Cathy Renna (917-757-6123; cathy@rennacommunications.com).

NEW YORK – MAY 4, 2011 – On May 3, the Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization working on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) homeless youth, hosted a forum, Sleeping in the streets or walking down the aisle? Prioritizing LGBT youth in our struggle for equality, at New York’s LGBT Community Center. The forum, which was preceded by a rally and march which commenced at Congregation Beth Simchat Torah, the city’s largest LGBT synagogue, drew a packed crowd of hundreds in one of the Center’s largest rooms.

PALETTE FUND SPONSORS URBAN ZEN WORKSHOP ON FIGHTING CHILD OBESITY, DIABETES WITH NUTRITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR APRIL 21, 2011

CONTACT: For more information, contact Cathy Renna (cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123).

WHAT: On May 11, the Urban Zen Foundation will hold a workshop, Diabesity: Changing the Palate of America’s Children. The workshop, made possible by the support of The Palette Fund, is the latest in Urban Zen’s Food Solutions, a series of events which gives attendees the tools to make food lifestyle changes that lead to better health.

Diabesity will begin with a presentation by pediatrician Stephen Cowan, M.D. on the titular issue of “diabesity,” the epidemic of diabetes caused by obesity. Following the presentation, Culinary Nutritionist Stephanie Sacks, M.S., will provide a hands-on cooking and learning experience, which will allow attendees to explore ways of addressing this health crisis amongst American children. Attendees will be able to enjoy their own culinary efforts at lunch. A panel discussion and Q&A featuring medical, nutrition, and culinary experts will close the day.

GENDER TRANSITION EXPERTS TO SPEAK AT NEW YORK’S LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY CENTER MAY 20, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR APRIL 25, 2011

CONTACT: For more information or to RSVP to attend, contact Cathy Renna (cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123).

WHAT: On May 20, Drs. Randi Ettner, Fred Ettner, and Loren Schechter, of the Chicago Gender Center, will speak at a panel at New York’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center. The Chicago Gender Center is one of the world’s foremost clinics specializing in gender reassignment surgery. At the panel, the doctors will speak about their multidisciplinary approach to the care of male-to-female transgender persons, including single-stage vaginoplasty, facial feminization and breast surgery, hormonal therapy, and mental health counseling.

ALI FORNEY CENTER TO HOLD COMMUNITY FORUM ON HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR APRIL 19, 2011

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

ALI FORNEY CENTER TO HOLD COMMUNITY FORUM ON HOMELESS LGBT YOUTH

Sleeping in the streets or walking down the aisle? Prioritizing LGBT youth in our struggle for equality

WHAT: The Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, will host a forum on May 3 at New York’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. The forum follows the recent budget put forth by New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo and the state legislature, which would cut funding for homeless youth services by 50 percent, potentially forcing the closure of a number of youth shelter beds, putting vulnerable youth on the street, and disproportionately harming vulnerable LGBT youth.

New Research Answers Question: How Many LGBT People Are There In the United States?

Los Angeles, CA | Vocus/PRWEB | April 7, 2011

The Williams Institute, a leading think tank dedicated to the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related law and public policy, released new research that estimates the size of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in the United States. Drawing on information from four recent national and two state-level population-based surveys, the analyses suggest that there are more than 8 million adults in the US who are lesbian, gay, or bisexual, comprising 3.5% of the adult population. There are also nearly 700,000 transgender individuals in the US. In total, the study suggests that approximately 9 million Americans – roughly the population of New Jersey – identify as LGBT. The study was released coinciding with the Institute’s 10th anniversary, to be honored at UCLA Law School from April 7-9. It can be viewed online at: http://www2.law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute

PALM CENTER DIRECTOR NOMINATED FOR COMMUNITY GRAND MARSHAL OF SF PRIDE PARADE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 6, 2011

Contact: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Dr. Aaron Belkin, Director of the Palm Center, has been nominated along with a group of diverse LGBT people and allies as a Community Grand Marshal for the San Francisco Pride parade, one of the largest in the world.

“I am humbled that the work of the Palm Center and our contribution to the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ last December is being recognized in this way,” said Belkin. “I would be thrilled to participate and would do so in honor of all those who have served in silence in our armed forces, and who will soon be able to serve openly as lesbian, gay and bisexual service members when the policy is fully dismantled,” concluded Belkin.

Ballots can be cast – one vote per person – until Sunday April 10, 2011.

To cast a vote for Dr. Belkin, go to: “http://www.sfpride.org“http://www.sfpride.org

The Palm Center is a think tank at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Since 1998, the Center has been a leader in commissioning and disseminating research in the areas of gender, sexuality, and the military. For more information, visit www.palmcenter.ucsb.edu.

NYC COMMISSION ON LGBTQ RUNAWAY AND HOMELESS YOUTH SPEAK OUT AGAINST GOV. CUOMO'S FUNDING CUTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2011

Contact: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

The following is a statement from members of the New York City Commission on LGBTQ Runaway and Homeless Youth:

“We, the undersigned members of the New York City Commission on LGBTQ Runaway and Homeless Youth call on Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature to restore the funds cut from Runway Homeless Youth services. These cuts will result in the loss of urgently needed youth shelter beds in New York City and across the state, and significantly undermine our efforts to improve the safety and welfare of homeless LGBTQ youth. As providers and advocates for homeless LGBT youth, we know too well that their lives will be endangered by these cuts; homeless LGBTQ youth are documented to face greatly escalated risk of violent abuse, HIV infection, and suicide.

ALI FORNEY CENTER TO GOV. CUOMO, N.Y. STATE LEGISLATURE: RESTORE HOMELESS YOUTH SHELTER FUNDING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

NEW YORK, NY – March 28, 2011 – The Ali Forney Center, New York City’s largest shelter for LGBT homeless youth, today called on Gov. Cuomo and the New York legislature to reject proposed funding cuts to homeless youth shelters.

According to The National Center on Family Homelessness, New York currently is the twelfth-worst state for youth homelessness, with over 45,000 homeless youth. New York State has funded programs through the Runaway Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) since 1978. This funding has made it possible for youth shelters to provide outreach, crisis intervention, case management, basic needs such as food and clothing, and many other services for homeless youth across the state. In 2007, the state was supporting services for approximately 70 programs with an appropriation of $6.8 million. Between 2007 and 2010, the amount was reduced 30 percent due to state budget problems, to the current $4.7 million. The budget agreement that was reached yesterday slashes that amount to $2.355 million. This brutal funding reduction will cause programs across the state to either cut their beds or shut down entirely, forcing thousands of homeless children out of shelters and into the streets.

CUOMO BUDGET PROPOSAL WOULD ELIMINATE 34% OF SHELTER BEDS FOR HOMELESS YOUTH IN NYC; LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER YOUTH DISPROPORTIONATELY HARMED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

ALI FORNEY CENTER DIRECTOR: “IT IS OUTRAGEOUS THAT THE GOVERNOR WOULD THROW HOMELESS KIDS OUT OF SHELTER BEDS AND BACK ONTO THE STREETS. OUR COMMUNITY CANNOT ALLOW HIM TO RESOLVE THE BUDGET CRISIS ON THE BACKS OF HOMELESS YOUTH.”

**CHANGE.ORG PETITION GATHERS
NEARLY 13,000 SIGNATURES**

New York, NY, March 21, 2011 – According to an analysis by the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, Governor Cuomo’s proposed budget would drastically reduce support from New York State for homeless youth, with 37 shelter beds for youth facing closure. Currently New York State and New York City combine funds to support 108 youth shelter beds, even though a recent census indicated that over 3,000 youth are without shelter every night.

The Governor’s budget proposal of a new Primary Prevention Incentive Program (PPIP) would consolidate a variety of child welfare, juvenile justice, and youth development programs into a competitive block grant. This proposal eliminates $85 million in existing youth and family services to create the new PPIP block grant, to be funded at $35 million. The grant will be allocated to local social services districts on a competitive basis forcing different localities to compete for vastly reduced funds for the protection of disadvantaged youth. State funds previously dedicated to homeless youth would be eliminated.

UCLA-Based Think Tank on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Policy Marks 10 Years of Work

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-717-6123

10th Anniversary Gala to Feature Rep. Judy Chu, U.S. Census Director Robert Groves, More

WHAT:

The Williams Institute, a leading legal and public policy think tank addressing issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity, will hold a 10th Anniversary Celebration as part of its Annual Update Conference. The conference will be held April 7-9, 2011 at the UCLA School of Law.

Highlights of this year’s conference include keynotes by Rep. Judy Chu (CA-32) and U.S. Census Director Robert M. Groves, as well as expert panels on employment discrimination, parenting, health disparities, same-sex marriage and social movements.

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES RICHARD TAYLOR LAW TEACHING FELLOW

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, cathy@rennacommunications.com, 917-757-6123

Scholar Luke Boso to Explore Legal Issues Surrounding Queer Identity in Rural Communities

LOS ANGELES, CA – March 8, 2011 – Today, The Williams Institute, a leading think tank dedicated to the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related law and public policy, announced that UCLA School of Law graduate Luke Boso will be the Institute’s Richard Taylor Law Teaching Fellow.

In this newly endowed position at the Williams Institute, Luke will be part of the two-year Law Teaching Fellowship program that prepares young scholars for academic careers in sexual orientation and gender identity law and public policy. Specifically, Luke’s research will focus primarily on queer identity in rural communities.

PALETTE FUND ANNOUNCES 2011 GRANTEES

New York, NY – March 2, 2011 – Today, The Palette Fund, a philanthropic organization honoring the legacy of the late Rand Harlan Skolnick by emphasizing collaborative grantmaking and programming centered around human rights and education, announced its 2011 slate of grantees. This year’s grantees comprise a wide variety of organizations in each of The Palette Fund’s three program areas: Nutrition and Wellness; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Youth; and Patient Navigation. These organizations will collectively receive grants totaling approximately $800,000, to be distributed over the course of 2011. A complete list of the 2011 grantees, with descriptions, is below.

Said Terrence Meck, President and Executive Director of The Palette Fund: “From schools and homes to hospitals and homeless shelters, this year’s grantees impact almost every sector of our society. There could be no better testament to Rand’s legacy than the collective work of these organizations, which will be greatly enriched through our funding. Our grantees are moving us closer to a world in which obesity is far less of a risk; where LGBT youth can live their lives safely while being who they are; and where patients facing difficult medical decisions can more easily navigate the complex web of medical programs, options, and facilities.”

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE’S BRAD SEARS AND NAN HUNTER AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW ON DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE DOMA DECISION

Media Availability
For Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Contact:
Cathy Renna, Renna Communications, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommuncations.com

WILLIAMS INSTITUTE’S BRAD SEARS AND NAN HUNTER AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW ON DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE DOMA DECISION

LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, Attorney General Eric Holder announced that the Department of Justice will no longer defend the constitutionality of Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) against challenges in court. While the Obama administration has always been officially opposed to DOMA, the Department of Justice has previously defended Section 3, which bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages, in multiple cases. In light of this development, the Williams Institute, a leading think tank on LGBT issues, has made its Executive Director R. Bradley Sears and Legal Director Nan Hunter available for interviews.

GAY GROUPS TO MEET WITH PASTOR LOU ENGLE, PRESENTED 70K PETITIONS AT VIGIL 2/20 IN KANSAS CITY

FOR HIGH-RES PHOTOS CONTACT CATHY@RENNACOMMUNICATIONS.COM OR NATHAN@RENNACOMMUNICATIONS.COM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOULFORCE CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

HRC CONTACT: Michael Cole-Schwartz, 202-716-1651, michael.cole-schwartz@hrc.org

GAY UGANDANS, AMERICAN ALLIES TO LOU ENGLE: TIME HAS COME TO STAND AGAINST HATRED IN UGANDA

FEBRUARY 22, 2011 – KANSAS CITY – On Sunday, February 20th, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, in partnership with Soulforce, a civil rights organization seeking freedom from religious and political oppression of LGBTQQ people, held a vigil outside fundamentalist pastor Lou Engle’s International House of Prayer.

The vigil was held in protest of Engle’s anti-LGBT rhetoric, which has played a key role in escalating the climate of anti-gay hatred in Uganda that most recently led to the murder of leading gay activist David Kato. More than 70,000 people have signed a petition asking Engle to immediately halt such rhetoric, and to travel to Uganda to denounce the criminalization of homosexuality. Immediately after the vigil, a group including Rev. Dr. Cindi Love, Executive Director of Soulforce, and Moses Kushaba, a gay Ugandan forced to flee the country and seek asylum in the United States, delivered this petition to leading members of Engle’s staff. Engle has agreed to meet with Rev. Love, Kushaba, and other allies at a date to be determined.

HRC & Soulforce to Pastor Lou Engle: Stop Exporting Hate to Uganda in the Name of Religion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 16, 2011

Soulforce contact: Cathy Renna | cathy@rennacommunications.com | 917-757-6123
HRC contact: Michael Cole-Schwartz | michael.cole-schwartz@hrc.org | 202-716-1651

Organizations to hold vigil and deliver 70,000 petition signatures to Rev. Engle calling on him to engage in dialog on anti-LGBT sentiment in Uganda

KANSAS CITY – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, in partnership with Soulforce, a civil rights organization seeking freedom from religious and political oppression of LGBTQQ people, will hold a vigil outside the International House of Prayer in Kansas City on Sunday, February 20, and ask fundamentalist pastor Lou Engle to abandon his hateful and dangerous anti-LGBT rhetoric and actions. Prior to the brutal murder of Ugandan civil rights leader David Kato, Engle called LGBT people a threat to Uganda. Engle has publicly defended the Ugandan government’s efforts to pass the “Kill the Gays” bill, a measure that would have made homosexuality a capital crime.

UGANDAN BISHOP CHRISTOPHER SENYONJO BREAKS SILENCE ON MURDER OF DAVID KATO

This letter comes as a Congressional Briefing on Violence Against Sexual Minorities in Uganda is scheduled for this Friday, February 11, 2011 from 10:00am – 11:00am at 2168 Rayburn House Office Building (RHOB) and more and more international attention is directed at the death of David Kato and the connections between U.S. evangelicals and the persecution of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Uganda.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEBRUARY 9, 2011

Contact:

Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com
Rev. Canon Albert Ogle, aogle@stpaulsfoundation.com, 949 338 8830

FOR A COPY OF THE FULL LETTER GO TO SOULFORCE.ORG

The Rt. Rev. Christopher Senyonjo, retired Anglican bishop of West Buganda issued his first public statement today on the recent murder of human rights advocate David Kato. The bishop worked with Kato through Integrity Uganda and the Civil Society Coalition (composed of 34 human rights organizations including the St. Paul’s Centre for Reconciliation and Equality, headed by the bishop). Both men were pictured on the front page of the controversial Ugandan tabloid “Rolling Stone” where the names and addresses of leading LGBT Ugandans and allies were exposed and called for their execution. Kato was one of the plaintiffs in the case that successfully brought a court injunction to stop the paper’s publication.

SOULFORCE PRAISES UGANDAN BISHOP'S DENUNCIATION OF RELIGIOUS HOMOPHOBIA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-717-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Soulforce Executive Director Rev. Dr. Cindi Love today released this statement in response to Bishop Christopher Senyonjo’s letter to Archbishop Rowan Williams and the Anglican Communion. The letter, which called for the “demoli[tion] of all forms of institutional homophobia,” can be viewed on Soulforce’s site here.

Injustice at Every Turn

Mara Keisling | Huffington Post | February 4, 2011

Until now, we haven’t really known just how bad it is or how strong we are.

As we release the findings from the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, the levels of discrimination documented are shocking for two reasons — first, they so clearly chronicle the incredible devastation that occurs in the lives of people who are discriminated against. But second, they also shows the incredible resiliency of people so marginalized, but so determined. I wonder if Americans still realize that this kind of prejudice continues to flourish in our country. And that yet another group of people stands strong in the face of it, waiting for recognition.

Transgender Activists Face Multiple Challenges

David Crary | Associated Press | February 4, 2011

Many transgender Americans face intolerance in almost every aspect of their lives, contributing to high levels of homelessness, unemployment and despair, according to a comprehensive survey being released Friday.

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality say their survey of 6,450 transgender people is the largest of its kind. It details discrimination encountered “at every turn”  in childhood homes, in schools and workplaces, at stores and hotels, at the hands of doctors, judges, landlords and police.

“Their lives are just a crapshoot,” said Rea Carey, executive director of the task force. “They don’t know from one interaction to the next whether they will be treated with respect and dignity. It’s not the way people should be living their day-to-day life.”

GROUNDBREAKING STUDY FINDS PERVASIVE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST TRANSGENDER PEOPLE

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR ADDITIONAL MATERIALS, CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

GROUNDBREAKING STUDY FINDS PERVASIVE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST TRANSGENDER PEOPLE

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – February 4, 2011 – The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) today released a comprehensive new report, “Injustice at Every Turn,” revealing the depth of discrimination against transgender and gender non-conforming people in a wide range of areas, including education, health care, employment, and housing. The study, based on the results from the National Transgender Discrimination Survey (NTDS), was based on responses from over 6,450 participants. The NTDS is the first large-scale national study of discrimination against transgender and gender non-conforming Americans, and paints a more complete picture than any prior research to date.

MARINES COMMANDANT SENDS STRONG SIGNAL OF INCLUSION OF GAYS AND LESBIANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

MARINES COMMANDANT SENDS STRONG SIGNAL OF INCLUSION OF GAYS AND LESBIANS

Santa Barbara, Calif. (January 30, 2011) – The following statement can be attributed to Aaron Belkin, Director of the Palm Center, concerning the January 28 release of a video featuring Marine Commandant General James Amos and Sergeant Major Carlton Kent. The video may be viewed at the following URL, with a transcript below.

http://www.marines.mil/news/pages/marinestv.aspx?pid=d9p4g5vJWiQll4bLGacNt1d1BTDx1vus

“General Amos’ video statement to the Marines shows that he is keeping his promise to lead the implementation of openly gay and lesbian service personally. The General’s statement is unambiguous that he ‘value[s] the diversity’ of all Marines, whether they are straight or gay. The signal this video sends to all troops is profound: the Marines are now setting the pace to repeal ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ for all military branches.”

CAROLYN WAGNER, LGBT ADVOCATE AND CIVIL RIGHTS PIONEER, DIES AFTER DECADES OF ACTIVISM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO FAMILIES UNITED AGAINST HATE (FUAH) AND FRIENDS OF CAROLYN WAGNER:

“On January 18, 2011 the world lost a civil rights pioneer and strong voice for equality. Carolyn Wagner fought every day to create a world where equality would become a reality for all, no matter their sexual orientation, gender identity, race or life circumstances. Her path in life was difficult but she never wavered in her dedication and love for the many communities she advocated so powerfully for until she took her last breath. Nothing could ever stop her from fighting for her family, her friends and her community. Plenty of people tried to stop her, but never with any success. Carolyn’s heart, mind and arms were always open and we will miss her powerful embrace, we know her legacy will never die as long as we carry the spirit of her love within us, and take action with as much courage, humor, and wisdom as she did. Our thoughts and prayers are with her husband and children and the hundreds and thousands of people whose lives she touched. She will always be with us.”

Bill Wagner said: “Carolyn will be remembered as an activist and civil rights hero to many, but for me she was simply the love of my life, my best friend and an amazing mother to our children. I will miss her beautiful smile, her raucous and infectious laugh and most of all her loving heart. “

UCLA’S WILLIAMS INSTITUTE RELEASES NEW STUDY FINDING 44% OF LGB PEOPLE AND 66% TRANSGENDER PEOPLE IN UTAH REPORT EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION

Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 18, 2011

Media Contacts:
Clifford Rosky, clifford.rosky@law.utah.edu, (801) 581-7352

Christy Mallory, mallory@law.ucla.edu, (310) 794-9469

LOS ANGELES – Today, the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law released a new research study providing evidence of employment discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Utah. The study analyzes data from a 2010 survey conducted by Equality Utah, the state’s first survey on employment discrimination against LGBT Utahns. The study shows that substantial percentages of LGBT people in Utah have experienced discrimination and continue to fear discrimination in the workplace.

New Resources for Same-Sex Couples Looking to Start or Build Their Families

The Seattle Lesbian | January 11, 2010

Family building options have expanded for same-sex couples in recent years, in part because of increased fertility treatment options. Every family is different and no rules apply to all families and circumstances.

According to the 2000 U.S. Census, there are approximately 600,000 same-sex couples in the United States and many same-sex couples want the experience of having children. Are you one of them? If so, you may want to check out some new resources available for same-sex couples.

ALI FORNEY CENTER'S CARL SICILIANO RESPONDS TO MAYOR BLOOMBERG'S "IT GETS BETTER" VIDEO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

The following statement can be attributed to Carl Siciliano, Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center:

“Two days after slashing support to homeless youth programs in New York City, Mayor Bloomberg has the gall to release a video telling LGBT youth that ‘It Gets Better.’ Mayor Bloomberg, your cruel and reckless cuts to the meager support system for homeless LGBT youth in New York City just made things for them much worse! On January 1st, Bloomberg cut support for outreach to homeless youth in half, cut most drop-in centers for homeless youth by a third, and cut support for the two LGBT homeless youth drop-in programs in half. In New York City there are over 1,000 LGBT youth suffering on the streets every night without access to safe shelter. The drop-in centers and outreach are their only support. Homeless LGBT youth are at incredible risk of suicide with 62% reporting that they have considered or attempted suicide.

The LGBT community needs to recognize these cuts as an attack against our most vulnerable youth, and against us as a whole. We pay just as much taxes as anyone, and there are far too few City-funded programs that support our most vulnerable youth. If we can be treated like this in a city with as strong an community as NYC, how will our youth ever get their fair share of the resources they need and deserve? I cannot speak strongly enough about what a horror it is to have LGBT youth who have been discarded by homophobic parents flock to us for help, and to have to counsel them to sleep in the subways because there are not nearly enough beds for them.”

Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth at UMDNJ Present Statewide Conference on Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT) Youth

News Advisory

January 3, 2011

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Jeff Tolvin, 973-972-4501, tolvinjr@umdnj.edu
Zeneida Mendez, 973-972-7273, mendezze@umdnj.edu

Family-Focused Approach Reduces Risk for Suicide, Other Health Problems

SOMERSET, N.J. – Caitlin Ryan, Ph.D., social worker, researcher and national expert on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth and the impact of family acceptance and rejection, is the chief presenter at a conference to be convened by the Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth at UMDNJ–University Behavioral HealthCare at 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 6, at the Imperia, 1714 Easton Ave. Given the recent national attention on risk for LGBT youth, this conference will provide a wealth of information, context, and guidance on reducing risk and promoting well being for anyone who works with youth and families.

LGBT HOMELESS YOUTH CENTER, NYCC ASST. MAJORITY LEADER LEW FIDLER TO HOLD CITY HALL PRESS CONFERENCE DENOUNCING CUTS TO SUPPORT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DECEMBER 21, 2010

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

**LGBT HOMELESS YOUTH CENTER, NYCC ASST. MAJORITY LEADER LEW FIDLER TO HOLD CITY HALL PRESS CONFERENCE
DENOUNCING CUTS TO SUPPORT**

COUNCILMEMBERS ROSIE MENDEZ, DANIEL DROMM, JIMMY VAN BRAMER, GAIL BREWER, AND ANNABEL PALMA TO ATTEND

MANHATTAN BOROUGH PRESIDENT SCOTT STRINGER : “Slashing the funding for these programs in half may seem like a quick financial fix now, but the long-term negative effects of this decision will resound.”

NYS SEN TOM DUANE: “We simply cannot afford to further slash the funding for these critical social services.”

[Full statements from Stringer and Duane below]

WHAT: New York City Council Assistant Majority Leader Lew Fidler and the Ali Forney Center, an organization providing shelter and services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) homeless youth in New York City, will host a press conference on the steps of City Hall on Tuesday, December 21st at 3pm to speak out against the Bloomberg Administration’s plan to slash support to homeless youth.

IN WAKE OF SENATE DADT VICTORY, EXPERTS SAY LENGTHY TRAINING PERIOD FOR TROOPS IS UNNEEDED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

IN WAKE OF SENATE DADT VICTORY, EXPERTS SAY LENGTHY TRAINING PERIOD FOR TROOPS IS UNNEEDED

Today, Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin released this statement following the Senate’s passage of legislation to conditionally repeal “don’t ask, don’t tell”:

“Today, the Palm Center salutes the U.S. Senate for this courageous vote, which will improve national security and allow gay and lesbian troops to be treated with the same dignity as their straight counterparts. This is a historic day for the military and for the American tradition of civil rights, but this process does not end here. We expect the Pentagon to shortly announce its demand for a lengthy period of training and education to prepare the troops for open gay service, possibly lasting though much of 2011, before repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ can be certified.

Historic Senate Vote on Gay Troops May Align U.S. with Foreign Allies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

Historic Senate Vote on Gay Troops May Align U.S. with Foreign Allies

Today, Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin released a statement following the successful cloture vote in the Senate on stand-alone legislation to conditionally repeal “don’t ask, don’t tell,” and pending the procedural vote that will follow cloture as well as any debate:

“When President Obama signs repeal legislation, he will pave the way for the U.S. to join its NATO allies in allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly. It has long been clear that there is no evidence that lifting the ban will undermine the military, and no reason to fear the transition to inclusive policy. Research shows that moving quickly is one of the keys to a successful transition. If the President and military leadership quickly certify the end of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ they will ensure an orderly transition with minimal disruption.”

The Palm Center is a think tank at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Since 1998, the Center has been a leader in commissioning and disseminating research in the areas of gender, sexuality, and the military. For more information, visit www.palmcenter.org.

World AIDS Day: New treatments help HIV/AIDS patients live longer, causing surge in patients over 50

Heidi Evans | New York Daily News | December 1, 2010

When Lee Chew tested positive for HIV in 1987 at age 38, the former actor never thought he’d be around in 2000, let alone 2010.

He was convinced of that in 1996, when he was hospitalized with AIDS-related meningitis.

But with the discovery of new antiviral drugs that year, he slowly went from a wheelchair, to a walker, to a cane to riding his bicycle and reclaiming his life.

Now 61, he is among the fastest-growing population of the city’s AIDS epidemic – HIV positive New Yorkers over 50.

Groundbreaking Study Finds Family Acceptance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Adolescents Protects Against Depression, Substance Abuse and Suicidal Behavior in Early Adulthood

December 6, 2010

Contact: Cathy Renna, Renna Communications, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

“…our findings that family acceptance protects against suicidal thoughts and behaviors, depression and substance abuse offer a gateway to hope for LGBT youth and families that struggle with how to balance deeply held religious and personal values with love for their LGBT children…” – Dr. Caitlin Ryan

San Francisco, CA –– For the first time, researchers have established a clear link between accepting family attitudes and behaviors towards their lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) children and significantly decreased risk and better overall health in adulthood. The study shows that specific parental and caregiver behaviors — such as advocating for their children when they are mistreated because of their LGBT identity or supporting their gender expression — protect against depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts in early adulthood. In addition, LGBT youth with highly accepting families have significantly higher levels of self-esteem and social support in young adulthood. The study is published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing, a journal of the International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses, in a peer-reviewed article titled “Family Acceptance in Adolescence and the Health of LGBT Young Adults.”

NEW STUDY SHOWS 9 % OF ADULTS HAVE HAD SAME-SEX EXPERIENCES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contacts:

Gary J. Gates, 310.825.1868 (O) or 202.257.6400 ©, gates@law.ucla.edu
Cathy Renna, 917-757-6123, cathy@rennacommunications.com

October 11, 2010, LOS ANGELES — The Williams Institute for Sexual Orientation Law and Public Policy at the UCLA School of Law issued results of a new study showing that only 1/3rd of adults who have had same-sex sexual experiences identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. While 3% of adults identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB), an additional 6% identify as heterosexual but say that they have had same-sex sexual partners since age 18.

Study author and Williams Distinguished Scholar Dr. Gary Gates notes that, “These provocative findings demonstrate the challenge in understanding the complex relationship between sexual orientation identity and behavior. Given that nearly half of Americans still believe that homosexual relationships are morally wrong, it is not surprising to find ambiguity between how people behave sexually and how they identify their sexual orientation.”

ST. CHARLES YOUTH HONORED AS HERO BY NATIONAL HOMELESS YOUTH ORGANIZATION IN DC

NN4Y | February 21, 2010 | Washington, DC

National Recognition for Danny Holmes, St. Charles’ digital artist honored by National Network For Youth with hero for homeless youth award.

Award received at National Symposium on January 26, 2010 in Washington, D.C. During Awards Dinner at the Omni Shoreham Hotel

(Washington, D.C.)—National Network for Youth, a national organization that has been championing the needs of runaway, homeless and other disconnected youth for 35 years, is proud to honor Danny Hommes as a “Hero for Homeless Youth.”

PALM CENTER ISSUES KEY RECOMMENDATIONS ON GAY BAN TO PENTAGON WORKING GROUP

The Palm Center | February 17, 2010| Santa Barbara, CA

(Santa Barbara, CA) — The Palm Center has released eight key recommendations to the Pentagon Working Group on gays in the military. These recommendations are intended as a first step in providing full support to the Working Group and acknowledging the importance of a thorough and timely process.

HHS Awards Major Grant to SAGE to Create First-Ever National Resource Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Elders

New York, NY | SAGE | February 10, 2010

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and the Administration on Aging have awarded Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders (SAGE) a three-year, $900,000 grant to create the nation¹s only national resource center on LGBT aging.

PFLAG Releases “Straight for Equality in Healthcare,” Gives Providers Keys to Much-Needed Inclusion Strategies for LGBT Patients

PFLAG | February 1, 2010 | Washington, D.C.

“This resource can transform the experiences of LGBT people in the healthcare system.” —-Jody M. Huckaby, Executive Director, PFLAG National

While affordable healthcare continues to be a major national issue, this is only one of the challenges facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people when it comes to their medical care. Too often, providers’ lack the basic cultural competency on LGBT issues, rely on misinformation or simply do not have access to simple and effective resources, creating barriers to adequate healthcare access for their LGBT patients. The release of Straight for Equality in Healthcare aims to change this trend.

Courage Campaign Institute responds to Complaint and Motion for Temporary Restraining Order by Prop 8 supporters

Courage Campaign | January 20, 2010 | Los Angeles

Jacobs: “The Courage Campaign Institute will continue to focus our energy on this historic trial and the rights and protections at stake for loving, committed same-sex couples. ‘ProtectMarriage.com’ can continue to expend time, energy and resources on a logo. Frankly, I think that says a lot about our respective priorities.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Courage Campaign Institute responded this morning to a complaint and temporary restraining order delivered yesterday by lawyers for ProtectMarriage.com and announced it will continue to refuse to remove a logo on their Prop 8 Trial Tracker website that parodies the ProtectMarriage.com logo.

Author Justin Reed Early to Receive National Network for Youth’s Golden Pen Media Award

National Network for Youth | January 4, 2010 | Los Angeles

Justin Reed Early, author of StreetChild: An Unpaved Passage will be honored at the National Network for Youth’s Annual Awards Dinner on January 26, 2010 with the prestigious organization’s annual Golden Pen Award.

Church Aids Expansion of Shelter for Gay Youths

Bao Ong | The New York Times | December 8, 2009

Since 2002, when he opened the Ali Forney Center, which helps homeless gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth, Carl Siciliano says he had regularly heard stories about priests verbally or physically abusing youngsters who had come out to their parents, urging them to suppress their sexuality and telling parents to disown their children. So when the Episcopal Community Services of Long Island contacted Mr. Siciliano about creating a shelter for homeless gay youths, he paused.

Gay Native Americans Reclaim Two-Spirit Culture

Adam Amel Rogers | Change.org | November 24, 2009

Seasoned two-spirit activist Richard LaFortune, who is featured in a new documentary entitled “Two Spirits,”, reveals that many Native cultures enjoyed marriage equality for same-sex couples well before European settlers arrived. It isn’t surprising that anti-gay activists didn’t bother to consult Native American history before constantly regurgitating “marriage has always been between one man and one woman” talking points.

Film about Cortez Youth Explores Gender

Joe Hanel | The Durango Herald | November 22, 2009

‘Two Spirits’ tells story of murder of Fred Martinez

Fred Martinez was anything but simple.

He was, at various moments, a boy, a girl, a Navajo, a Montezuma-Cortez High School student, gay, transgendered, nadleehi.

In June 2001, in a ravine just south of Cortez, he became a murder victim.

Now, he’s the subject of a movie, and, if the filmmakers have their way, he will become a window onto a view of gender that is at once new to American society and older than America itself.

Outing Age 2010 shines spotlight on challenges facing millions of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people as they age

SAGE | The Task Force | November 23, 2009

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders) today jointly released Outing Age 2010: Public Policy Issues Affecting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Elders, an update to the groundbreaking Outing Age report issued in 2000. Like its predecessor, Outing Age 2010 presents an in-depth look at public policy issues and challenges facing millions of aging LGBT people in the United States.

DC board won't allow gay marriage ban on ballot

Jessica Gresko | Associated Press | November 17, 2009

WASHINGTON — A measure to let voters decide whether to ban same-sex marriages in D.C. cannot go on the ballot because it would violate a city human rights law, the Board of Elections and Ethics ruled Tuesday.

The D.C. City Council is expected to approve gay marriage next month, but opponents wanted voters to weigh in.

Help for Gay Caregivers Who Look After Elderly

Bao Ong | The New York Times | November 16, 2009

When Michelle Obama pitched the president’s health care reform efforts to a room of women at the White House last week, one group of New Yorkers present clung to every word.

And when Mrs. Obama mentioned that “families come in many different configurations,” Karen Taylor, the director of advocacy and training at Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders, nodded in approval.

SAGE, a New York-based nonprofit group that supports gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender caregivers, this week is beginning a “Caring and Preparing” initiative to provide such caregivers an array of resources: assistance with insurance benefits and entitlements, counseling, legal assistance, and various outreach and support programs.

D.C. CLERGY RESPOND TO CATHOLIC CHURCH THREATS TO REMOVE SERVICES

Rev. Dennis Wiley | D.C. Clergy United for Marriage Equality

“The Catholic Church hierarchy is at a crossroads: they must decide whether they are in the charity business for charity¹s sake, or if imposing their will on the DC City Council and the citizens of the District is their primary interest.”

D.C. COUNCIL BALANCES RESPECT FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AND SAME-SEX COUPLES' CIVIL RIGHTS

STRONG PROTECTIONS FOR BOTH CREATE A BILL WORTHY OF FULL SUPPORT

WASHINGTON – D.C. Clergy United For Marriage Equality, a coalition of nearly 200 Washington, D.C.-based clergy and religious leaders of many faiths, races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations who represent religious organizations in every ward of the District, applauds the D.C. Council for fairly balancing the interests of the D.C. religious community and the D.C. lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Tuesday, the D.C. Council revised the language of the proposed marriage bill to clarify religious protections.

TODAY, (11/10): D.C. COUNCIL ADDRESSES DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS AND RELIGIOUS PROTECTIONS IN MARRIAGE EQUALITY ACT

(Washington, D.C.) ­ Proponents and supporters, including D.C. religious leaders, will attend the scheduled mark-up of the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009 TOMORROW, Tuesday, November 10, 2009. The Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary, chaired by Councilmember Phil Mendelson, will review the text of the current bill for changes and amendments stemming from the 269 testimonies submitted during
public hearings on October 26th and November 2nd, 2009. Over 80% of those who testified at the council hearing testified in support of marriage equality.

'The Laramie Project,' 10 years later

Matt Joyce | Associated Press | October 1st, 2009

LARAMIE, Wyo. – Ten years after bringing the story of Matthew Shepard’s murder to the stage, creators of “The Laramie Project” have produced an epilogue about the lingering aftermath of the savage attack and its effect on a Western town.

U.S. ADMIN ON AGING GIVES FIRST-EVER GRANT TO GAY AGING SERVICES PROGRAM AT L.A. CENTER

New York, NY, October 8, 2009.

Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders (SAGE) today celebrated a decision by the U.S. Administration on Aging to award a highly competitive new grant to a local lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) aging services program at the Los Angeles LGBT Community Service Center. This grant was one of over a dozen distributed by the Administration on Aging to community organizations serving diverse older adult communities and the first ever for an LGBT service provider.

RESPONSE TO DISCRIMINATORY ANTI-MARRIAGE AD CAMPAIGN IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Michael Crawford | D.C. for Marriage | November 6, 2009

“…A public vote to force second class on a minority is not only morally wrong, it would also violate the D.C. Human Rights Act and goes against the intentions of our Founding Fathers. People from outside the District may not understand it, but those of us who live in D.C. don’t believe in discriminating against our neighbors, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.”

Gay leaders blame TV ads, Obama for loss in Maine

Lisa Leff and David Crary | The Associated Press | November 4, 2009

In Washington, D.C., conservatives are trying to force a popular vote on a bill headed toward City Council approval that would legalize gay marriage. Michael Crawford, one of the leaders of the local pro-gay marriage campaign, said the result in Maine increased his determination to avoid a ballot measure.

“The same cabal of anti-gay groups who stripped away marriage equality from our families in California and Maine now have their sights on D.C.,” he said.

Crawford was among numerous gay rights leaders complaining about the campaign tactics of the groups that opposed same-sex marriage in Maine and California.

NEW BOOK: “TRANSGENDER EXPLAINED FOR THOSE WHO ARE NOT" - AUTHOR JOANNE HERMAN DEMYSTIFIES TRANSGENDER ISSUES

Relying on accessible, unpretentious language, personal references and anecdotes, and current, comprehensive information about transgender issues, author Joanne Herman has organized an ideal reference and informed read in Transgender Explained.

SAGE’s 14th ANNUAL AWARDS & GALA ENTERTAINS WITH COMEDY AND SONG

SAGE | New York, NY

The 14th Annual SAGE Awards and GALA, which took place on Monday, November 2nd at the Metropolitan Pavilion, celebrated champions of the older lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, including community leader and LGBT activist, Herbert I. Cohen, M.D.; Comedienne and author, Kate Clinton; James C. Hormel, the first openly gay U.S. Ambassador; and New York City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn.

DC FOR MARRIAGE ON MAINE REPEAL AND LOCAL FIGHT FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY

Michael Crawford | DC for Marriage | November 4, 2009

Let’s be clear: while they frame their call for discrimination as a voting rights issue, it is nothing more than a manipulative and politically motivated attack on same-sex couples and our families.

WORLD PREMIERE OF “TWO SPIRITS” AT STARZ DENVER FILM FESTIVAL (Nov. 21)

LA Weekly says TWO SPIRITS is, “Riveting . . . a crash course on Navajo history and culture while illuminating the struggles of [Fred] Martinez, whose detailed murder and mother’s grief are devastating.” (July 7, 2009.)

How Equality Can Help Save Our Children

Rev. Irene Monroe | The Afro American | October 13, 2009

(October 13, 2009) – Recently, I had the opportunity to reflect on the strengths of the Civil Rights Movement that allowed so many of us to exercise our full freedom under the law. The success of that movement is tied so closely to the Black Church that it is nearly impossible to separate the political from the spiritual effort. This weekend as part of the National Equality March, I participated and preached at events in support of full civil equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. It was a wonderful to see that I numbered among several powerful African-American faith voices who gathered in the spirit of our civil rights leaders.

The Family Acceptance Project Featured on Blooming Out Radio

WFHB | October 8, 2009

Click here to listen to bloomingOUT’s interview with the Family Acceptance Project’s Caitlin Ryan.

Pioneer in LGBT health research and founder/director of the Family Acceptance Project Caitlin Ryan talks about the importance of family dynamics and support in the health and welfare of queer youth.

Religious Leaders March for Gay Rights

KSRO Newstalk 1350 AM | October 13, 2009

Gay rights takes on new steam this week across the country as tens of thousands of gay activists marched on Washington Sunday. What’s unique to this march is that more than 100 religious leaders endorsed the National Equality March on behalf of gay rights. For some religious leaders, the journey for gay rights was a step of faith from bigotry, to gay activism.

Guest: Brent Childers, the executive director of Faith in America. After changing his views on homosexuality, he left the Southern Baptist Church and now attends a nondenominational church in North Carolina. He marched in the pro-gay march on Washington Sunday.

Listen to KSRO’s interview with Brent Childers here.

Faith Leader Demands an End to Religion-based Bigotry

Rev. Irene Monroe, board member of Faith in America, debates Bishop Harry Jackson and demands an end to religion based bigotry.

Rev Irene Monroe on News 8

OBAMA SPITS IN THE EYE OF ANTI-GAY RELIGION BASED BIGOTRY

Mitchell Gold | Faith in America | October 11, 2009

President draws a line in the sand and spits in the eye the religious bigotsthat do us harm, says founder of Faith In America

President Obama’s speech last evening at the HRC dinner drew a clear line inthe sand for the world to see: this administration believes in and will work with the LGBT community and our allies to achieve full equality under the law for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. President Obama’s presence and words represented his recognition that LGBT people are a normal part of our diverse society.

A Step in Faith

Mitchell Gold | Newsweek | October 8, 2009

Evangelical Christian Brent Childers explains his journey from believing that homosexuality was an abomination to marching in a pro-gay march on Washington. Childers is the executive director of Faith In America, an organization dedicated to ending the harm to LGBT Americans caused by religion-based bigotry and prejudice.

ON EVE OF MARCH, FAITH DRIVES ACTIVISM FOR GAY RIGHTS SUPPORTERS

Michelle Minkoff | Religion News Service | September 30, 2009

Brent Childers, an evangelical Christian, said he once used religious tenets to support prejudice toward the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, but “I realized those attitudes were not in keeping with my religious values by causing harm using religious teaching.”

He said supporting same-sex marriage is in keeping with his faith because “what’s essential is those core principals of love, compassion and respect for others.”

COMING OUT IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Benoit Denizet-Lewis | The New York Times Magazine | September 27, 2009

This New York Times Magazine cover story features the work of the Family Acceptance Project.

Thirteen-year-old Austin is an openly gay student at his Oklahoma middle school. “I’m kind of scared,” he confessed. “Who am I going to talk to? I wish my boyfriend could come.” But his boyfriend couldn’t find anyone to give him a ride nor, Austin explained, could his boyfriend ask his father for one.

Back to Laramie

Bruce Shenitz | THE ADVOCATE | October 2009

Eleven years after Matthew Shepard’s murder, the creators of The Laramie Project take a look at everything that’s happened in the town since in a new play that will premiere in more than a hundred theaters worldwide on the same night.