RU12? Community Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Vermont

Some thoughts from RU12?'s ED, Kim Fountain

On Thursday I watched a video of Washington state Governor Christine Gregoire advocating for same sex marriage.  Many of her arguments have been in circulation for well over a decade. While I listened with a bit of jaded happiness, because I am always amazed by the glacial pace of cultural transformations, I found myself listening much more closely and hopefully as she began to shift from the political rhetoric to her description of her personal journey.

For her first seven years in office, Gregoire publically opposed same sex marriage on the basis of her personal religious beliefs. Throughout the speech she gave in support, her delivery was steadfast and resolute. Toward the end, she became much softer and more emotive, even tearing up a bit as she described what moved her to shift her position. She said,  “It’s time for us to stand up and understand that the state cannot be in the business of discrimination…It was that and it was my children, it was the children of friends, friends, it was leaders…I finally said to myself, it’s time to do the right thing and let me tell you I feel so much better today than I have in the last seven years.”  At the center of her transformation was a part of her community that knew the importance of equality and respect for LGBTQ people and who chose to share those views with her. Governor Gregoire needed to see a thriving and engaged LGBTQ culture with people from various parts of her life that supported this culture. 

I hope that we can continue to so move our political and community leaders. To do so will mean that we must continue to see the importance of LGBTQ visibility and we must continue to contribute to the building of community, not just during political struggles, but on a daily basis. 

In solidarity,

Kim Fountain

 

Work In Progress Screening Feb. 4th

On March 6, 1971, International Women’s Day marchers turned LEFT ON PEARL and took over a Harvard University Building at 888 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, declaring it a Women’s Center.  The women occupied the building for 10 days.  

In commemoration of this important event, the 888 Women’s History Project is producing a documentary film, LEFT ON PEARL, which highlights this significant but little-known chapter in women’s history.

The Women’s Freedom Center invites you to attend a free

WORK IN PROGRESS SCREENING

of this landmark film.  Join us in celebrating our foremothers, and looking ahead to discuss how our own community can help women achieve freedom and equality.  We’ll be joined by the film-maker and one of the original participants in the take-over.

Date:  SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2012

Time:  7 PM    Doors open & light refreshments served at 6:30

Location:  NEW ENGLAND YOUTH THEATER, Brattleboro, VT      

For more info, call 802-257-7364

 

Film Series

RU12? Community Center, VGSA, and Truth Wins Out host a film and discussion series once a month on Sundays at 2:00 pm in the Pickering Room on the 2nd Floor of the Fletcher Free Library, Burlington.

UPCOMING SCREENINGS

Feb. 12th 2:00 pm
Edie and Thea: A Very Long Engagement

After 42 years, feisty and delightful lesbian couple Edie and Thea are finally getting married. From the early '60s to the present day, the tireless community activists persevere through many battles, both personal and political.

March 11th 2:00 pm
Out of Respect: A Story of Five

Out ofRespect follows five homeless queer youth as they hustle and struggle to survive on the streets of Milwaukee.  

April 1st 2:00 pm
Dangerous Living: Coming Out in the Developing World

In this film After Stonewall director John Scagliotti approaches the issue of international gay rights. With the 2001 police raid on an Egyptian disco at its center, the film explores several global instances of mistreatment against homosexuals.

May 13th 2:00 pm
Leslie Jordan: My Trip Down the Pink Carpet

Widely regarded as one of the funniest men in show business, and also a fixture of gay culture, Leslie Jordan spent his first few decades in the industry racking up droll tales of his life and experiences.

United States Declares Support for LGBTQ Rights Worldwide

Last Tuesday, Hillary Clinton delivered a powerful speech to the United Nations in support of ending violence and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals on a world-wide basis. The speech followed an announcement by President Obama stating that the United States would use its foreign aid money to support the advancement of gay rights.Clinton stated, “Like being a woman, like being a racial, religious, tribal, or ethnic minority, being LGBT does not make you less human. And that is why gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.” She not only took a stand for our community, but also declared to the world that, on a policy level, the United States supports equal protection for LGBTQ individuals. Clinton admitted, however, that the United States own record on LGBTQ rights was “far from perfect,”  but this speech still represents what could prove to be a major turning point in policy around LGBTQ issues world-wide. In fact, it has already begun to have an impact.

Anti-LGBTQ laws and practices in Africa are well-known. Uganda has shaped it’s LGBTQ policy around the 7 verses in the Christian Bible that address homosexuality, Nigeria recently proposed a bill that will punish any same-sex romantic interactions with a jail sentence of up to 14 years, and Malawi treats acts of “sodomy” as a criminal offense; however, following Clinton’s speech, the Malawi government is “reviewing” the anti-gay laws on the books. Though government officials are making it clear that they are not rescinding the laws just yet, it seems like the country is moving in that direction.

By taking a stand for the rights of our community over seas, the current administration seems to finally be trying to keep the campaign promises made in 2008- to fight with us for equality. We can only hope that President Obama and the leaders of this country will continue to fight for equality for us in this country, as well, and not view the strides that have already been made as “good enough.”

If you would like to see Clinton’s speech in full, visit this link: http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1857622883?bckey=AQ~~,AAAAAGWqYgE~,KxHPzbPALrFGi6o0QhQY9IxyliWBJ3Vq&bctid=1312977734001

Vermont Freedom to Marry Offers Free Legal and Financial Planning Workshop for Same-Sex Couples

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Alexia Venafra, Langrock Sperry & Wool, LLP
Phone: 802-864-0217
Email: avenafra@langrock.com 

ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. – Vermont Freedom to Marry, which spearheaded the successful statewide effort to secure the freedom to marry for same-sex couples and continues to provide resources to Vermont individuals, couples, and families grappling with inequality on the federal level, announced today that it will hold a free workshop, entitled “Legal & Financial Planning Strategies for Same-Sex Couples and LGBTQ Individuals,” on Wednesday, January 4, 2012. This important interactive event will take place at the Vermont Interactive Television studios (http://www.vitlink.org/location) in Williston, Brattleboro, White River Junction, and Montpelier from 5:30-7:00 p.m. 

Within Vermont same-sex couples have civil marriage equality, adoptive parent recognition, and other important safeguards. However, their families face a complicated and confusing legal patchwork across the US and abroad and remain vulnerable whenever they travel to places that lack these crucial legal recognitions. Furthermore, because of discriminatory federal laws like the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), same-sex spouses are denied over 1,000 federal benefits available to opposite-sex spouses, including Social Security benefits, job protection while caring for a sick spouse, and a multitude of tax-saving opportunities.

U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Passes LGBTQ-Inclusive VAWA (S. 1925)

SafeSpace and NCAVP Commend the introduction of LGBTQ-inclusive Senate Bill 1925 to re-authroize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which for the first time ever includes explicit sexual orientation and gender identity protections. The Bill was introduced into the Judiciary Committee of the United States Senate on November 30^th, 2011. This historic legislative action for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) communities comes as a direct result of tireless efforts on the part of NCAVP members, who since the summer of 2009 have advocated, along with the National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (NTF), for explicit protections for LGBTQ survivors of intimate violence, dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.  NCAVP was the first LGBTQ organization to join NTF’s VAWA re-authorization steering committee and, in coalition with other national LGBTQ organizations, has been leading the efforts to ensure that the next version of VAWA that will be re-authorized will include protections for LGBTQ survivors.

Since its passage in 1994, VAWA funding has provided billions of dollars for life saving services that support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking across the nation, however these services are not consistently available to LGBTQ survivors. NCAVP’s recent national report Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and HIV-Affected Intimate Partner Violence in the United States in 2010 showcases the critical need for an LGBTQ-inclusive VAWA.  In 2010, NCAVP programs received a total of 5,052 reports of intimate partner violence, an increase of 38.1% from the 3,658 reports in 2009.  These reports documented 6 homicides, and in 2011 NCAVP has already tracked 7 LGBTQ intimate partner violence homicides. More survivors in 2010 (44.6%) were turned away from shelter than in 2009 (34.8%).  Additionally, NCAVP saw that 54.4% of LGBTQ survivors seeking an order of protection were denied one. 

An LGBTQ-inclusive VAWA is essential to ensuring the LGBTQ survivors have access to life saving services, continued advocacy and support.  While Senate Bill 1925’s introduction into the Judiciary Committee of the Senate is cause for celebration, more action is needed to ensure its passage. 

ACTION STEPS

Support Commitment to LGBTQ Survivors: Contact Senator Patrick Leahy (VT) 202-224-4242 and Senator Mike Crapo (ID) 202-224-6142 and let them know you appreciate their leadership on introducing VAWA and their commitment to including LGBTQ people.

Report Violence: SafeSpace encourages anyone who identifies as LGBTQH and has experienced violence to contact SafeSpace- 863-0003 to receive support and advocacy services.  SafeSpace contributes data to NCAVP's annual national reports helping to clarify the scope of violence experienced in the LGBTQH community.

VT CARES and Chandler Pride host "The Normal Heart" in Randolph

Vermont CARES is excited to partner with Chandler Pride this year to host a reading of Larry Kramer's fiery play, "The Normal Heart," in Randolph, VT. Produced by Dan Butler, this reading will benefit Vermont CARES and our colleagues at the HIV/HCV Resource Center. Please join us, and call ahead for tickets at (802)863-2437.

World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day, a day meant to raise awareness of the AIDS Pandemic around the world. Over 25 Million people died between 1981 and 2007 due to AIDS and, unfortunately, many of those lost were members of the GLBTQ community. Thankfully, with increased education and preventative methods, the number of people who've newly acquired HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) in our community has significantly dropped, but there is still a lot of judgement and misconception around the issue of HIV and AIDS. Many still hold very prejudice views of people living with HIV/AIDS and attribute it to “immoral” behavior. Stigma and shame are a barrier to testing and can be major challenges in the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS.

World AIDS Day exists to educate people on the truth of AIDS and to allow people to work together to try to erase AIDS from our society. Are you interested in doing something today to help? If you would like to take action today, there are some very easy things that you can do:

• Join the Facing AIDS Initiative, an online photo project to raise awareness of AIDS and how it impacts people.
• Locate a local HIV testing and prevention services. Get yourself tested. The Center will be testing today until 7pm and offering small gifts cards to those coming in. RU12? regularly offers free, anonymous HIV testing and counseling by appointment Monday to Friday or during drop-in hours every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 am to 6 pm and Wednesday 10am-1pm.
• If you would like to learn what the Federal Government plans to do to fight AIDS, you can read The National AIDS Strategy.
• Post a Facebook status, Tweet, or blog post about this issue and about today.

Many of us dream about a day when AIDS will be nothing but a sad, tragic memory. And that is possible. Raising awareness is the first step. We must continue to educate ourselves and others on the topic of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. We must advocate for ourselves and for those in our community who live with HIV/AIDS. We don’t deserve to be stereotyped or judged- which brings me to the most important thing that we must do today and everyday- celebrate ourselves and our wonderful, beautiful, vibrant community.

 

The Respect for Marriage Act (S.598)

The Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy, is set to vote this Thursday, November 10, on The Respect for Marriage Act (S.598). The Respect for Marriage Act would repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, allowing the federal government to provide crucial protections and benefits to married same-sex couples, including Vermont couples.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

1. Listen to the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Thursday, November 10, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.: http://cs.pn/uJkQxh
2. Click here to thank Sen. Leahy for his leadership on moving The Respect for Marriage Act forward: http://leahy.senate.gov/contact/
3. Read the rest of this important story at our website:  http://vtfreetomarry.org
4. Stay informed!  Like us on Facebook (https://facebook.com/VTFreeToMarry) and follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/vtfreetomarry)
5. Contact us to volunteer!  Vermont Freedom to Marry is working to defeat DOMA. We'd like to hear from you if you'd like to help:info@vtfreetomarry.org

 

Help repeal the Defense of Marriage Act!

RU12? wanted to make you aware of the significant work currently being taken up by the Human Rights Campaign--this an issue of great import to same sex couples across the country. We're hoping you will let your voice be heard in support of the proposed Respect for Marriage Act, which would end the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and its institutionalized discrimination. Read below and follow the embedded link to sign their petition. In solidarity, RU12?.

Tell the Senate: Push forward DOMA repeal!

House Republicans are dumping more and more money into their fight to uphold DOMA, but the Senate Judiciary Committee is pressing ahead with the Respect for Marriage Act – historic legislation that would repeal DOMA once and for all.

DOMA deprives same-sex couples of over 1,100 federal rights, benefits, and responsibilities of marriage. It's not right, and it's time for repeal.

HRC will hand-deliver your signed petition to the U.S. Senate on Wednesday – the day before the first-ever debate on this bill – to remind lawmakers that we're counting on them to act. Sign the petition now!

 

Check out our temporary new space!

‎**IMPORTANT UPDATE**

The elevator in the Champlain Mill is out of service for the next several weeks. In order to remain accessible, all public meetings, support groups and HIV testing services will now occur in the RU12? Community Center Annex located on the second floor (accessible from the 2nd fl ramp) The temporary space that the staff affectionately calls "Narnia" is located one floor above our current space, on the left side of the building if you are facing the entrance from the outside. Stay tuned as we will provide more detailed information developes.

We still have use of the full community center but the accessible 2nd floor location will be the entry point for almost all center activities. Please call if you have questions: 802.860.7812

Check out the video to see where the RU12? Community Center Annex is located. 

 

 

 

Queer Kids in America

Transgender Day of Remembrance November 20th at the BLOCK GALLERY

Facebook Event Page

New RU12? Program: LGBTQ Military Service Members Social Support Group

6-8pm 1st & 3rd Thursdays, in the library at the RU12? Community Center in the Champlain Mill (1st floor).

 

This is a Support Group for LGBTQ active and non-active military service members. If you'd like more information or would like to get involved please contact: Angela@ru12.org or call 802-860-RU12 (7812)

Full list of RU12?'s Support Groups

 

Transgender Day of Remembrance Planning Meeting

Every Thursday 7pm Outright Vermont (241 N Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT) What do you want from this year's Transgender Day of Remembrance event? If you've got ideas or just want to help, come on out to the next planning meeting! Everyone interested in helping with the event is welcome! If you have any questions or would like any other information visit our or contact angela@ru12.org or dawn@outrightvt.org.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Candlelight Vigil and Speakout tomorrow!

PLEASE join us!!!! RU12? and SafeSpace staff will be joining forces with Women Helping Battered Women, community members and survivors tomorrow, Thursday October 27, at 6:30pm to raise awareness about domestic violence at the DVAM Candlelight Vigil in front of Burlington’s City Hall on Church Street. This powerful event will then followed by WHBW's Speakout at the Lake & College’s Boardroom on the 2nd Floor. From WHBW's website: This year, Diana V. Perez, J.D., a part-time WHBW Legal Advocate, will facilitate the Speakout ceremony by promoting inspiration, empowerment and motivation to help participants work on areas of personal development. It will be a night of experimenting with sound and storytelling to elevate the spirit. Diana facilitates a weekly support group with men and women, and provides extensive knowledge and understanding in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which gives her a unique perspective on the brain, disease and the origins of anger, trauma, shock, fear, addiction and depression within the body. She also relates to circumstances of addiction, emotional imbalance and trauma, listens to others' stories with empathy and compassion, and will speak of her own personal struggles and transcending obstacles.

Domestice violence knows no boundaries--individuals of every race, class, age, religion, gender, sexual identity, education level and ability have been impacted in some way. This is an important way for those of us whose lives have been touched by the issue to come together, to stand in solidarity and educate our community. RU12?'s SafeSpace program provides support to GLBTQQ folks who have experienced DV (as well as SV, hate violence and discrimination). We will be there, and hope to see you there as well!

Call to Artists: Transgender Day of Remembrance

RU12? Community Center Announces New Executive Director

 

Media Contact:

Shawn Lipenski: (802)578-9110

Ilisa Stalberg: (802)343-8125

For Immediate Release

 

RU12? Community Center Announces New Executive Director

 

Winooski, VT (10/3/11) – The RU12? Community Center Board of Directors has appointed Kim Fountain as its new Executive Director. Kim joins The Center with vast experience as an  advocate, educator and leader in LGBTQ

LGBTQ History Month 31 Days 31 Icons

We need Volunteers! TDOR Meeting on Thursday Sept 29th 5PM

Transgender Day of Remembrance Planning Committee Meets Thursday September 29th, 5pm at the RU12? Community Center

The Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) memorializes those who have been killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. This event occurs annually on November 20th as part of an international movement for awareness of transphobic violence. It is an opportunity to increase visibility in our community and show solidarity for our transgender friends, families, and neighbors. Join us in building awareness and community!

If you can’t make it to one of these dates or want to help in any other way, please contact angela@ru12.org or dawn@outrightvt.org.

More information about TDOR: http://www.transgenderdor.org/

 

Social and Support Group for LGBTQ Military Service Members!

New Group Forming for LGBTQ Military Service Members!

RU12? Community Center is forming a Support Group for LGBTQ active and non-active military service members. If you'd like more information or would like to get involved please contact: Angela@ru12.org or call 802-860-RU12 (7812)

 

Burlington SLUTWALK Saturday 9/24 12pm-3pm

Official Notice: Announcing The End of DADT 9/20/11

September 20, 2011

Don't Ask Don't Tell Repealed

Social Security Administration No Longer Notifying Employers About Gender

Obama administration ends practice that led to job loss and outing of transgender workers

Washington, D.C. - The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that it has ended the practice of allowing gender to be matched in its Social Security Number Verification System (SSNVS). This will result in the immediate cessation

Transgender Day of Remembrance Planning Committee

 

The Transgender Day of Remembrance memorializes those who have been killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. This event occurs annually on November 20th as part of an international movement for awareness of transphobic violence. It is an opportunity to increase visibility in our community and show solidarity for our transgender friends, families, and neighbors. Join us in building awareness and community! If you would like to be a part of the planning committee or help in any other way, please contact angela@ru12.org or dawn@outrightvt.org.

Mark Bingham- Hero of Flight 93

Mark Bingham died Sept. 11, 2001, while saving countless lives. Just how many will never be known. 

The openly gay rugby player was one of the heroic passengers who led a revolt against the terrorists on United Airlines Flight 93. The hijackers planned to slam the plane into the White House or the U.S. Capitol, according to the 9/11 Commission Report. Instead, the plane crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pa., killing the terrorists and passengers – but nobody else. 

The most visible torchbearer of Bingham’s legacy is Alice Hoagland, his mother. After losing Bingham -- her only child -- Hoagland became a tireless advocate for issues that were important to her son. Now 61, the retired United flight attendant is a proponent of aviation safety, a spokesperson for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community, and an avid supporter of rugby.

Alice Hoagland and her son Mark Bingham.

Flight 93 passengers learned from cell phone conversations that the World Trade Center and Pentagon had already been attacked. Bingham – along with Todd Beamer, Tom Burnett, and Jeremy Glick – formulated a game plan of sorts to overtake the hijackers, according to accounts from the phone calls. All four men were athletes.

Westboro Baptist Church Picketing VT State House on Labor Day

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Westboro Baptist Church Picketing Vermont State House on Monday September 5th, 2011

9/3/11

As Vermont’s LGBT community center and advocacy organization, we wanted to alert the community that we’ve received news that the Westboro Baptist Church is coming to Montpelier with their “God Hates Fags” and anti-Semitic messages on Labor Day, Monday September 5th. (Read More About Their Visit Here). This isn’t the first time that the WBC has come to Vermont to spread words of bigotry and intolerance, but this time their scheduled protest comes at a time when our region is recovering from a natural disaster, proclaiming that the loss of lives is proof that God punishes those permitting same-sex marriage.

The RU12? Community Center staff and board are encouraging folks to avoid giving this hateful group the attention they are seeking. Instead of participating in an in-person counter protest in Montpelier, we are asking the community to consider directing their focus towards helping Vermont recover from the devastating storm last week. By getting involved in the recovery efforts, we can turn this hate filled message into something positive for our communities.

Here are some links to help victims of Irene:

• VTResponse.com
• http://www.vermont211.org
• American Red Cross: http://bit.ly/oFVBUR
• Text FOODNOW to 52000 to donate $10 to Vermont Foodbank. The Foodbank will turn each donation into $60 for families in need.
• The Intervale Center: http://www.intervale.org/support/index.shtml  
• A more complete list can be found on the Seven Days Blog: http://bit.ly/pA55KV

You can also counter the Westboro Baptist Church’s message by helping Vermont LGBT organizations end hate and build community: Pledge a dime, a quarter, a dollar or two dollars, (or however much you can!) to the RU12? Community Center, Outright Vermont, or Vermont Fund For Families for every minute WBC is picketing in Vermont.Email these groups with your name, phone number, mailing address, and the amount per minute you’d like to pledge at TheCenter@ru12.org, info@outrightvt.org, or info@vermontfundforfamilies.org.

You can also donate directly on the Network for Good website:

Outright Vermont

RU12? Community Center

 

If you or someone you know needs disaster assistance please contact:

http://www.disasterassistance.gov/

1-800-621-FEMA(3362)

 

In solidarity and pride,

The Board and Staff of RU12?

20 Winooski Falls Way

Suite 102 Winooski, VT 05404

802.860.7812

Celebrate. Educate. Advocate.

TheCenter@ru12.org

www.ru12.org

 

 

Help Vermont Recover from Irene

RU12? Provides a Weekly Snapshot of LGBT Events & Announcements Throughout the State

Did you know that RU12? sends out the "What's UP", a weekly e-newsletter that provides a snapshot of all the LGBT events and announcements throughout the state and region?

Don't miss out! Included in each issue you'll find:

• LGBTQ Related News
• List of Events and Programs offered each week at The Center
• Events offered by other organizations in Vermont that provide services to LGBTQ Vermonters
• LGBT Social Calender for Vermont and neighboring regions.
• Job Opportunities
• Call to Action
• and much more!

If you have something that you feel needs to be included in the "What's UP" please email calendar@ru12.org

Sign Up for the RU12? Weekly Newsetter

Join Truth Wins Out in Protesting Exodus in New Hampshire 9/17

Saturday, September 17
8:00am – 11:00am
Event Facebook Page

Exodus International is the leading proponent of reparative therapy, the quack pseudo-science that purports to turn gays and lesbians into straights.

They are gathering at 45 Myles Drive in Auburn, NH and we will be there to convey a message of affirmation and hope to LGBT youth.

Condemned by the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, reparative therapy has been linked by the American Psychiatric Association to anxiety, depression, and suicide. We promote the alternative of self-acceptance and love.

Contact Join the Impact at info@jointheimpactma.com or dgorton@verizon.net to coordinate your participation in this important public testimonial.

If you live in Vermont and want to join the protest, please contact me, wbesen@truthwinsout.org.

Want to see why we are protesting? Please read the story of “ex-gay” survivor Sam Brinton in today’s Bay Windows.

 

Goodbye Kara!

Thanks for the 11 years...

 
Good luck!

Our hearts, thoughts and compassion go out to the family and friends of Ralph Bell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Ann Atkins 802.863.0003

SafeSpace is the anti-violence/anti-discrimination program of the RU12? Community Center located inthe Champlain Mill in Winooski, Vermont. SafeSpace provides support and advocacy services to Lesbian,Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) survivors of violence. Although located in ChittendenCounty, SafeSpace is available to LGBTQ victims of violence statewide.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that one person uses to gain and maintain power and control over another person. Often the world is reminded about domestic violence as a result ofsomething tragic happening. When tragedy strikes news media outlets report on domestic violence andas a society we become aware and are reminded again of this often silent epidemic.

SafeSpace condemns the use of violence. Our hearts, thoughts and compassion go out to the family of Ralph Bell, a recent victim of domestic violence homicide. Ralph’s death, like so many others ended suddenly and tragically and we mourn the loss of lives to this senseless act of violence.

The rate of violence in same sex relationships occurs at the same rate as heterosexual relationships,one in every four relationships will experience some form of domestic violence. Each year the numberof LGBTQ survivors served continues to grow. The SafeSpace Program provides support and advocacyservices, resource and referrals, court and hospital advocacy and training opportunities for the greatercommunity to learn more about the issues of domestic, sexual and hate violence and how it impacts anLGBTQ person and the larger community.

If you or someone you know is in need of support please contact the SafeSpace Program at 802-863-0003. Advocates are available Monday through Thursday from 9am until 6pm, and on Friday’sfrom 10am until 2pm. If there is a crisis emergency and immediate help is needed outside of regularSafeSpace office hours Vermont has a 24 hour domestic violence hotline that can be reached by calling1-800-228-7395 and a 24 hour rape crisis hotline available at 1-800-489-7273. Advocates are available

VPR Today: Vermont Ahead Of The Curve On Transgender Rights

Today at noon RU12?'s Jean-Denis Couillard and Outright Vermont's Morganne Ray will be talking with VPR's Jane Lindholm.

"Two laws that passed this spring may make some aspects of life easier for transgender people in the state. One allows trans people born in Vermont to change their gender on their birth certificate, and obtain a new, clean copy, rather than an amended one. Another requires that single-stall bathrooms in state buildings be gender neutral. But there are still many other significant issues facing the trans community in the state, including trans-inclusive health care.

We discuss these and other issues with Jean-Denis Couillard, the HIV prevention program coordinator at RU12? Community Center, Morganne Ray, the Director of Client Services at Outright Vermont, and Kelly Riel, the founder of Vermonters Ending Transgender Oppression. And they share their experiences of being trans in Vermont."

Email your questions and comments to vermontedition@vpr.net.

 

This show will be on at noon today, and will rebraodcast at 7pm tonight.  It should be avalable for free download around 3pm. 

Petition Campaign for Vermont Lesbian Couple

At approximately 11:30am ET this morning, CNN Newsroom will be airing a new segment from Soledad O’Brien focusing on the obstacles and discrimination that LGBT immigrant couples face under current immigration laws.

 

Soledad will be profiling Frances Herbert (an American citizen from Vermont) and her Japanese partner, Takako Ueda.  Frances and Takako first met in 1980.  In 2000, they held a commitment ceremony with their family and friends.  And earlier this year, they legally married in Vermont.

 

Despite all of that – and because of DOMA – they are still facing imminent separation very soon.

 

Takako, who has been in the U.S. legally on a student visa, is scheduled to go out of status on July 4^th.  She and Frances turned to Immigration Equality’s legal team for help, and we are in the process of fighting their separation. 

 

Frances and Takako are an amazing couple.  And their story underscores why marriage equality at the state level – while a significant step forward, and a wonderful sign of progress – isn’t enough for LGBT couples. Until DOMA falls, or immigration laws are amended to include LGBT families, couples like them continue to face separation every day.

 

In conjunction with the the CNN broadcast, we have also launched a petition on their behalf at www.imeqactionfund.org/francesandtakako.  We’re asking the community, our friends and allies to stand with Frances and Takako, and send a strong message – directly to President Obama – that he must stop deporting LGBT spouses and place a moratorium on those deportations until the courts, or Congress, have settled DOMA’s fate.

National HIV Testing Day

Today is National HIV testing Day! 

 

RU12? has walk-in testing hours for OraSure (the test sent to the lab, you come back for results in about two weeks) today from 11am-4pm. 

 

We also have walk-in testing for OraQuick (the rapid test where you can receive results in the session) from 4pm-6pm

Good news for Vermont birth certificates

On Wednesday the House (but not the Senate...yet) passed a bill that will make birth certificates easier to change.  If you were born in Vermont you can be issued a new certificate with your correct gender listed after a physician signs off on your transition.  You don't have to have surgery for the signature, but must have undergone,"...treatment appropriate for that individual for the purpose of gender transition..."  

 

The full text is avalable here on page 7 of the pdf.

SEXY BRUNCH Sunday, 4/17

New Group Creating a Quarterly LGBTQ Magazine for Vermont

All Interested parties are encouraged to attend next meeting:

 

Sunday, April 17th 6:30pm 

RU12? Community Center

Champlain Mill, Winooski

A group of LGBTQ folks of all ages are coming together to produce a new quarterly print magazine for Vermont. The magazine will be a full color, glossy, colaborative production of unique persectives throughout Vermont's queer and allied communities. Your involvement is important and can be anything - articles, photos, advertising, columnist, to name a few. The first magazine is due to release July 16, 2011 that is 1 week before Vermont Pride!!! Come be a part of something amazing!!!!

First order of business: Come up with a name!!! 

If you have questions please email brinizzle@gmail.com

 

Making a better world for all kids

On Thursday, February 17th at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Montpelier from 4:00-6:00pm there will be a forum discussing bullying based on gender identity and/or sexual orientation.  Even the perception of difference, as a lot of us know, can lead to harassment.  This workshop will discuss how bullying and other forms of abuse can impact all youth.  Panelists will talk about personal experiences and best practices before opening the room for questions and discussion.

"Panelists Saben Littlefield, Outright Vermont; Jacqueline S. Weinstock, The University of Vermont; Ace McArleton; Christopher Janeway; and an Outright youth will offer a brief 'Gender Identity 101' educational session, speak to their experience and expertise, and facilitate a discussion about how adults can best support and create safe and inclusive communities in which all young people can thrive."  Vermont Public Radio’s Jane Lindholm will moderate the forums.

This is a free and open event, no registration needed!  For more info, contact Janet Bullard at the Vermont Commission on Women at 802-828 2851 or janet.bullard@state.vt.us about Gender Identity, Harassment and Creating Positive Communities for Youth.

Sheila's Take: Remembering Matthew Shepard and Taking Action

As you probably know, today is the 12th anniversary of the murder of Matthew Shepard. It was a milestone in LGBTQ visibility to have so much coverage of his death, but the truth is that for every hate crime reported and covered by the media, there are hundreds that get little to no attention. In fact, just a month after Matthew's death, Rita Hester was brutally stabbed in her Boston apartment because she was a transgendered woman. Rita's death was barely mentioned on the news.

Homophobia is still a huge issue in our country. In the past month and a half, there have been five reported suicides of LGBTQ youth who felt that there was no other escape from the bullying and harassment that they faced on a daily basis.

But, good can come out of these horrible acts. Because of Matthew Shepard, the issue of homophobia was brought to national attention. Because of Rita Hester, the Transgender Day of Remembrance was formed, giving us all a way to come together and remember our dead and honor their lives. The five suicides have exposed the homophobia and harassment still prevalent in our society, and, hopefully someday soon, the country will say "enough is enough!"

As a BSW student at the University of Vermont, I frequently hear abou the injustice in America, and nothing bothers me more than hearing about the wrongs in the world and not hearing about how to take acion. So, if you would like to take a stand to work to end not just homophobia, but all of the discrimination that pervades our country, here are some options for action:

You can contact Bernie Sanders and tell him that this is an issue of importance to you. To contact him go to http://sanders.senate.gove/contact. Click on the Legislative Comment link and send him a message. If you are unsure about what to say, here is a sample text (feel free to completely ignore it, use pars of it, or add to it if you would like.)

"Dear Mr. Sanders,

I am writing to inform you that the recent LGBTQ youth suicides have deeply disturbed me. It is clear that the current method of handling these problems is not enough! These individuals are our family members, our friends, and our co-workers. They were driven to suicide by homophobia and harassment. If there is anything that you can do to rectify this problem, it could mean the difference between life and death for the people who are faced with homophobia on a daily basis. Bullying of any form is detrimental to a person's sense of self and sense of well-being. Please do whatever you can to bring these matters to the attention of the other men and women in our government and work to end this pointless violence."

You can get involved in the National Gay and Lesbian Taskforce. Their website is: http://www.thetaskforce.org/

The easiest way to stop homophobia is to stay up to date on current LGBTQ affairs and share that information with the people around you. That is the purpose of this section of the RU12? blog. Check in as I will be posting updates on current policy issues frequently.

Finally, rest in peace, Matthew Shepard, Rita Hester, Tyler Clementi, Asher Brown, Seth Walsh, Justin Aaberg, Raymond Chase, Billy Lucas, Cody J. Barker, and everyone else who has been murdered or turned to suicide as a result of homophobia. If you or someone you know is currently dealing with issues of homophobia and would like to talk about it with someone, please call RU12?'s SafeSpace program at  802-863-0003 (local) or 866-869-7341 (toll free). And remember that you are not alone.