San Diego The Center News and Events

News from The Center

March 21, 2016

In the Know with Ian The 8th Annual Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast will be held on Thursday, May 19. The event will feature former Houston mayor Annise Parker, who will receive the Harvey Milk Lifetime Achievement Award, and Alberta Legislative Assembly member Michael Connolly.  The breakfast sells out every year and we currently have table sponsorships available – but they won’t last long. The Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast brings together San Diegans – business, labor, Democrats, Republicans and all communities who support equality and justice. You never know who you might see! Join us to celebrate the memory of influential civil rights activist Harvey Milk and his spirit of coalition building. For more information or questions, contact me at ijohnson@thecentersd.org or visit Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast. Your Vote Matters Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote. Presidential Primary Election: June 7  Presidential Election: Nov. 8 Check Out Our New Testing Hours! Free HIV testing is available at The Center Monday-Friday 9am-8pm (last test at 7pm) and Saturday 10am-2pm (last test at 1pm). On Fridays only, the early test is available 12 noon-4pm (last test at 3pm) and couples testing is available 4-9pm (last test at 8pm). For more information, call 619.692.2077 x101.

Spotlight Events Tuesday, March 22, 1pm, Senior Food Bank The Senior Food Bank Program provides food and nutrition education to eligible low-income seniors 60 years or older on the 4th Tuesday of the month.  Eligible applicants can enroll in the program by applying in person at our site on the day of the event or call the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank at 866.350.3663. For more information, visit the San Diego Food Bank website at www.sandiegofoodbank.org or contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Tuesday, March 22, 5pm,  HYC Open House for Youth Ages 10-13 and Families The Hillcrest Youth Center is hosting an open house for LGBTQ+ youth ages 10-13 and their families on Tuesday, March 22 from 5-7 pm. Visit and learn about our new program just for  you! Explore our safe space, meet the staff and connect with other LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Refreshments will be served. For more information and to RSVP (by March 18) Contact Courtney at cware@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x113. Tuesday, March 22, 7:30pm, Young Men’s Discussion Group Connect to The Center and the community. Join other 18-35 year olds to talk about relationships, sexual health, activism, community building and more. The young men’s group meets at The Center on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm. For more information, contact Aaron Heier at 619.692.2077 x211, or aheier@thecentersd.org. Wednesday, March 23, 12 noon, Diamonds in the Rough: Etiquette with Miss Pepper Project TRANS invites you to join Miss Pepper Price every other Wednesday for a fun and informative class on etiquette designed especially for trans women. The group meets from 12 noon-1:30 pm in Latino Services. For more information, contact Connor Maddocks at trans@thecentersd.org or call 619.692.2077 x109. Friday, March 25, 10am, Home Network Security Basics Join us this Friday at the David Bohnett Cyber Center to learn the basics of home network security. We will cover the basic configuration of cable modems, routers, and wireless extenders. For more information, or to reserve a spot for this class, please send your contact infomation to hroman@thecentersd.org or call 619.692.2077 x111.

You Should Know PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN! If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated The Persistence of HIV Fear in the Age of PrEP. “Breathe. Relax. Learn the facts about PrEP. Get support from others in your community, as well as social media. Find a sex-affirmative therapist who understands PrEP and the impact of HIV and AIDS on learned helplessness. Eventually with time, experience and willingness, you will also come to relearn that your body can be a way to experience much joy without fear.” READ MORE… Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: Families @ The Center The families program at The Center is designed to provide resources, education, support and opportunities for community engagement for LGBT-community families of all kinds. Find out more on our website or contact us at families@thecentersd.org. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Bilingual On Duty Counselor Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events Friday, April 29, 5pm, ‘An Act of Love’ Screening This compelling documentary follows Rev. Frank Schaefer as he was put on trial in the United Methodist Church for officiating his son’s same-sex wedding. The Schaefer family was pulled into a movement for LGBTQ equality in the nation’s second largest protestant denomination. “An Act of Love” follows Rev. Schaefer’s journey from small-town minister to outspoken advocate, as well as the ongoing debate in the United Methodist Church over LGBTQ inclusion. See it at the First United Methodist Church, 1200 East H St, Chula Vista. For more information, visit www.fumccv.org/church-calendar. Report School Bullying! San Diego Unified School District has a new online bullying reporting system. Search “bullying” on your school’s website or visit the link at https://www.sandiegounified.org/forms/online-bullying-reporting-form. Nominations Open for the Benjamin F. Dillingham & Bridget Wilson LGBT Veterans Wall of Honor The Benjamin F. Dillingham and Bridget Wilson LGBT Veterans Wall of Honor recognizes LGBT veterans with ties to San Diego who have taken the oath to serve our country and have done so honorably, and with distinction, acting as role models in advancing equality. Nominations are now open for induction in 2016 and must be submitted by July 31. This year’s induction ceremony will be held on Thursday, Nov. 10 at The Center. The nomination requirements and additional information are online here. Update Your Info We want to make sure we get the details right! If you’re moving, changing your email, or if we got your contact info wrong, let us know! You can update everything online here or contact us at 619.692.2077 x107 or vcosio@thecentersd.org if you’d like us to do it for you.

San Diego Center, Events and Announcements

News from The Center

February 22, 2016

Victory Starts with Voting – Your Vote Matters! Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote.   Presidential Primary Election: June 7  Presidential Election: Nov. 8 In the Know with Ian Another amazing Tantrums and Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens has come and gone. What a show and what a spectacle! It’s not very often you attend a production that includes a live cow with a drag queen singing “Climb Every Mountain.”  Thank you to all those that attended. We hope you thoroughly enjoyed it. Many thanks to the cast and the many people behind the scenes – a true testament of the amazing people in our community. Once again, we’re so grateful to Matt Ramon, Chris Barone and Brian Bond for so much dedication. For those of you who couldn’t make it, please give a huge congrats to the new Queen of Tantrums and Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens, Joey Adams from Gossip Grill as Marlena Von Tramp. Looking for something fun to do next month? Thursday, March 10, MARYAH (Metro Area Real Estate Professionals for Young Adult Housing) is hosting their annual Casino Night and Poker Tournament to support The Center’s Youth Housing Project. The evening will include a Vegas style Poker Tournament, Player’s Lounge, Blackjack, Craps, valuable grand prizes and giveaways. Tickets and sponsorship info are available at MARYAH.org or by contacting Ian Johnson at ijohnson@thecentersd.org. Thank You to the S. Mark Taper Foundation We are delighted to announce that The Center has received a $50,000 grant from the S. Mark Taper Foundation in support of our Youth Housing Project. Our youth are some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and those who are homeless – many as a result of family rejection – are particularly at risk. The generosity of the S. Mark Taper Foundation helps us provide critical housing and support services that can change the lives of these youth. We can’t thank them enough! Get Help with Immigration! ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Para más información: 619.363.3423 Attend this series at The Center, All sessions will be in Spanish, with English translation available if needed. For more information or to RSVP, call 619.363.3423 or email itzel@alliancesd.org. Jueves, 25 de Feb., a las 6pm: Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA. Consultation on DACA, DAPA, Visas for victims of crimes, VAWA. Jueves, 10 de Marzo, a las 5:30pm: Preparando su documentación para DACA. (Reciba ayuda en la preparación de su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Get help with your DACA packet (by appointment only). Sábado, 2 de Abril, a las 9:30am: Taller para reniovar DACA y DAPA. (Reciba ayuda de abogadas/os de inmigración, para completar su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Meet with immigration attorneys to complete your DACA packet (by appointment only).

Spotlight Events Tuesday, Feb. 23, 1pm, Senior Food Bank The Senior Food Bank Program provides food and nutrition education to eligible low-income seniors 60 years or older on the 4th Tuesday of the month.  Eligible applicants can enroll in the program by applying in person at our site on the day of the event or call the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank at 866.350.3663. For more information, visit the San Diego Food Bank website at www.sandiegofoodbank.org or contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Tuesday, Feb. 23, 7:30pm, Young Men’s Discussion Group Connect to The Center and the community. Join other 18-35 year olds to talk about relationships, sexual health, activism, community building and more. The young men’s group meets at The Center on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm. For more information, contact Aaron Heier at 619.692.2077 x211, or aheier@thecentersd.org. Wednesday, Feb. 24, 12 noon, Shades of Color Join us at The Center every Wednesday from 12 noon to 1:30pm for Shades of Color, an empowerment group for Black men (MSM).The group covers a variety of topics, including dating, healthy relationships, spiritual awareness, living with HIV and more. For more information, contact Ricardo Gallego at 619.692.2077 x116 or rgallego@thecentersd.org. Friday, Feb. 26, 10am, Microsoft Excel Basics Please join us this Friday in the Cyber Center to learn the basics about Microsoft Excel, such as formatting text and numbers, using Excel menus and toolbars, creating formulas, creating and editing charts and graphs, and more.  For more information or to register for this class, please contact Hector Roman at hroman@thecentersd.org or call 619.692.2077 x111

You Should Know PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN! If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated With a little pill, could one city’s AIDS epidemic be ending? READ MORE.. Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight   Program Spotlight: Senior Services The Center’s Senior Services has opened up worlds previously thought impossible for some. Our program, and “50 and Better Together,” strives to create a safe place for those 50 and up to access important resources and referrals related to health care, social services and other community activities. As San Diego continues to see a continually increasing number of LGBT seniors, it is vitally important that we are able to provide services to the more than 1,000 seniors who access our program each year. For more information, visit our website or contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Aries Data Specialist Bilingual Information & Referral Specialist Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events Jueves, 25 de Febrero, 10 de Marza y 2 de Abril, Get Help with Immigration! ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de cuatro presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm: Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA. Jueves, 10 de Marzo, a las 5:30pm: Preparando su documentación para DACA. (Reciba ayuda en la preparación de su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Sábado, 2 de Abril, a las 9:30am: Taller para reniovar DACA y DAPA. (Reciba ayuda de abogadas/os de inmigración, para completar su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Para más información: 619.363.3423 ¡Adquiera la Ciudadanía y Vote en las Próximas Elecciones! ¡Reciba ayuda gratuita en solo 2 pasos! Paso #1: Venga para que determinemos si califica (consulta) Jueves, 11 de febrero, 2016 a las 6pm y 6:45pm Paso #2: Venga para que llenemos su solicitud Sábado, 20 de febrero de 2016 de 9-11am Alliance San Diego, 4443 30th St, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92116 Regístrese llamando: 619.363.3423

San Diego The Center: Events, Announcements

News from The Center

February 16, 2016

In the Know with Ian So much is happening for The Center this week! This Friday, February 19 from 6-8 pm is the Bayard Rustin Civil Rights Honors to be held at The Center. The evening celebrates the many accomplishments of our five fantastic honorees. Guests will enjoy a soul food buffet, cocktails and refreshments. A $15 donation at the door supports the programs of The SD LGBT Black Coalition, The Center and the Bayard Rustin National Stamp Campaign. Find out more on Facebook. Then on Sunday, February 21, it’s here, it’s finally here – the annual Tantrums and Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens at the Observatory Theatre in North Park. As we head into the event I’d like to express thanks to Mo’s Universe and Matt Ramon for all their hard work on this event. There’s no doubt it will be amazing! As they say, “Break A Leg” to the entire cast. Don’t miss the show everyone will be talking about! Tickets are available at www.tantrumstiaras.org. Get yours today! Looking for something fun to do next month? Thursday, March 10, MARYAH (Metro Area Real Estate Professionals for Young Adult Housing) is hosting their annual Casino Night and Poker Tournament to support The Center’s Youth Housing Project. The evening will include a Vegas style Poker Tournament, Player’s Lounge, Blackjack, Craps, valuable grand prizes and giveaways. Tickets and sponsorship info are available at MARYAH.org or by contacting Ian Johnson at ijohnson@thecentersd.org. Congratulations Aaron! Aaron Heier is the new director of front desk and room scheduling services! Aaron has been at the front desk for more than 15 years, first as a volunteer, then as a staff member – always as a valuable Center team member. His role ranges from HIV testing, to facilities support, providing information and linking community members to all programs, help with BHS referrals and schedules, social media and communications, volunteer management and generally ensuring that the vital “first point of contact” for community members is welcoming, encouraging, supportive and efficient. Get Help with Immigration! ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Para más información: 619.363.3423 Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm: Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA. Jueves, 10 de Marzo, a las 5:30pm: Preparando su documentación para DACA. (Reciba ayuda en la preparación de su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Sábado, 2 de Abril, a las 9:30am: Taller para reniovar DACA y DAPA. (Reciba ayuda de abogadas/os de inmigración, para completar su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.)

Spotlight Events   Wednesday, Feb. 17, 7pm, Bi Coming Out Group Join The Center’s discussion group on bisexuality on the third Wednesday of every month from 7-8:30 pm. It’s a welcoming space to share your experiences, ask questions, discuss community issues and meet like-minded people. This group is open to all persons who are sexually and/or emotionally attracted to more than one gender. For more information, contact Aaron Heier at aheier@thecentersd.org. Friday, Feb. 19, 6pm, Bayard Rustin Civil Rights Honors Join us on Friday, Feb. 19 from 6-8pm for the annual Bayard Rustin Civil Rights Honors. This year’s honorees include the Hon. Tony Young, Vernita Gutierrez, Camille Davidson, Dwayne Crenshaw and Dion Brown. For a $15 donation you will enjoy a soul food buffet, entertainment and the formal program. Proceeds benefit The Center, the San Diego LGBT Black Coalition and the Bayard Rustin National Stamp Campaign. For more information, visit the Facebook event. Saturday, Feb. 20, 6pm, Queer People of Color Mixer Join us at The Center for the next Queer/Trans People of Color Mixer on Saturday, Feb. 20 from 6-9 pm. For a $5 donation, guests will enjoy drinks, dancing, and mingling. Partners are welcome and the event is open to those 21 years and older. For more information, contact Carolina Ramos at cramos@thecentersd.org. Sunday, Feb. 21, 7pm, Tantrums and Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens Don’t miss Tantrums & Tiaras on Sunday, Feb. 21 – things are shaping up for it to be one of the best shows yet! Contestants are all staff members from Baja Betty’s, Flicks, Gossip Grill, Martinis Above Fourth Table + Stage, and Richs, all with little or no drag experience. But they can’t compete for a crown without judges to critique their every step – or fall! This year’s judges include recent Project Runway winner Ashley Tipton, Shelley Dunn from the Shelley and Chainsaw show, TV show host Sam the Cooking Guy, columist Barbarella Fokos and The Queen Mother of the Americas, Nicole Murray-Ramirez. Tickets are selling fast at http://www.tantrumstiaras.org/

You Should Know Victory Starts with Voting – Your Vote Matters! Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote.   Presidential Primary Election: June 7  Presidential Election: Nov. 8 PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN! If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated With a little pill, could one city’s AIDS epidemic be ending? READ MORE.. Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: Project TRANS All of The Center’s programs are transgender-inclusive and supportive, but we also offer services designed specifically for the transgender community through Project TRANS, our Transgender Services Program. Project TRANS (Transgender Referrals, Assistance, Networking and Services) offers discussion groups, behavioral health services, HIV prevention services, youth services and more. In addition, the program focuses on advocacy, referrals, outreach, sensitivity trainings, social activities and events, workshops and networking with community agencies. For more information, visit us online or contact Connor Maddocks at trans@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x109. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Aries Data Specialist Bilingual Information & Referral Specialist Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events Jueves, 25 de Febrero, 10 de Marza y 2 de Abril, Get Help with Immigration! ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de cuatro presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm: Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA. Jueves, 10 de Marzo, a las 5:30pm: Preparando su documentación para DACA. (Reciba ayuda en la preparación de su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Sábado, 2 de Abril, a las 9:30am: Taller para reniovar DACA y DAPA. (Reciba ayuda de abogadas/os de inmigración, para completar su documentación para DACA. SOLAMENTE CON CITA PREVIA.) Para más información: 619.363.3423 ¡Adquiera la Ciudadanía y Vote en las Próximas Elecciones! ¡Reciba ayuda gratuita en solo 2 pasos! Paso #1: Venga para que determinemos si califica (consulta) Jueves, 11 de febrero, 2016 a las 6pm y 6:45pm Paso #2: Venga para que llenemos su solicitud Sábado, 20 de febrero de 2016 de 9-11am Alliance San Diego, 4443 30th St, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92116 Regístrese llamando: 619.363.3423 Sunday Feb 21 & 28, Join America’s Finest City Softball League Are you interested in joining a fun softball family? Come out and meet other new players and experienced members, and start playing with us this Spring! For full information on locations and times, please visit the League Calendar on www.afcsl.org and click on the date of interest. ALL SKILL LEVELS are welcome and encouraged to come out and play! Monday, Feb. 29, Deadline for Students for Economic Justice Fellowship SEJ fellows learn the skills and tools that talented, passionate young people need to lead the fight for economic justice in San Diego. It is an intensive 6-week full-time paid summer fellowship that gives students organizing training through skills building, educational workshops and hands-on in-the-field experience working on campaigns for economic and social justice. For information and application, visit www.cpisandiego.org/sej_2016_fellowship. Tuesday, March 15, Deadline for PFLAG San Diego Scholarship Applications Once again, PFLAG San Diego County is partnering with the San Diego Human Dignity Foundation for another successful scholarship program. The application and scholarship requirements are online at www.pflag.com. Scholarship amounts usually range from $1,000 – $2,000. LGBT high school seniors, full time undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. The deadline for the scholarship applications is Tuesday, March 15, 2016. For scholarship questions: scholarships@pflag.com.

Williams Institute: News and Events

More than two-thirds of residents in every state support protecting transgender people from employment discrimination. Thirteen states, however, are at or near the level of support needed to adopt such laws, but haven’t yet. This infographic shows levels of support for transgender-inclusive employment protections in each state, as well as which states do and do not have such laws. READ THE REPORT Extending marriage to same-sex couples has generated more support for LGBT rights – not backlash. In the last 10 years, public support for marriage for same-sex couples has increased across the United States. But the most dramatic drop in anti-gay attitudes occurred in states that legalized marriage equality from November 2012 through July 2013, when study participants were recontacted. In fact, 47% of residents who initially were opposed changed their minds. That’s almost double the percentage seen in states where marriage equality was not legal during that period. In those states, 24% of residents who were initially opposed changed their minds. The findings are discussed in a report co-authored by Public Opinion and Policy Analyst Andrew R. Flores and published in Political Research Quarterly. The paper received the 2015 Best Paper Award in LGBT Politics by the LGBT Caucus of the American Political Science Association. The study answers lingering questions about whether extending marriage to same-sex couples would create backlash against the LGBT community. Instead, the policy actually increases support. READ THE REPORT

Join Us Coming Out As… Co-hosted by the Williams Institute and the UCLA Center for the Study of Women, this colloquium will explore how the phrase “coming out” has expanded, migrated, and been re-purposed by various marginalized groups, such as transgender individuals, undocumented immigrants, or the plural marriage rights movement. Monday, February 8, 2016 2-5 p.m. Charles E. Young Research Library RSVP NOW Join Us The Public Professor: How to Use Your Research to Change the World Williams Distinguished Scholar M.V. Lee Badgett, and UCLA professors Paul Ong and Chris Tilly will discuss how researchers can engage in public debates. Lunch will be provided to those who RSVP. Wednesday, February 17, 2016 12:20-1:30 p.m. UCLA School of Law RSVP NOW

PFLAG Omaha February Newsletter 2016

Well, February is upon us, and that means it’s time for the annual Pride Players show/fundraiser (Feb. 7), for news about this year’s PFLAG Omaha scholarship and a nice message about Valentine’s Day from PFLAG board member Charlotte Rannells. For that and more, access the newsletter by clicking in this link. Bob Dorr, Newsletter Editor

San Diego The Center: Events, Announcements, and Action Alerts

Get ready for February events!

News from The Center January 25, 2016 In the Know with Ian Join us for Masquerade, a Mardi Gras celebration on Thursday, Feb. 11 at The Brick in Liberty Station. It’s an amazing venue! There’s no program, just an evening of amazing aerial performances, live music, fabulous food, cocktails, mild mayhem, mystery and more (including a chance for an incredible trip to Andaz Penisula Papagayo Costa Rica). Masks are strongly encouraged, but not required – and you can even purchase one at the event, for a little last-minute mystique! Tickets are on sale now, so buy yours today at http://events.thecentersd.org/masquerade. Tantrums and Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens is up next on Sunday, Feb. 21 and things are shaping up for it to be one of the best shows yet. Contestants are all staff members from Baja Betty’s, Flicks, Gossip Grill, Martinis Above Fourth Table + Stage, and Richs. But they can’t compete for a crown without judges to critique their every step – or fall! This year’s judges include recent Project Runway winner Ashley Tipton, Shelley Dunn from the Shelley and Chainsaw show, TV show host Sam the Cooking Guy, columist Barbarella Fokos and The Queen Mother of the Americas within the Imperial Court System, Nicole Murray- Ramirez. Tickets are selling fast at tantrumstiaras.org. Welcome Alex! Alex Ordoubegian is The Center’s new full-time facilities manager. He is a long-time Center volunteer and comes to us with experience in contract management, vendor relations and facilities improvement. Help us welcome him to The Center! Friday, Feb. 5, 7pm,Vivienne Ming: Engineering Superpowers to Maximize Human Potential Project Trans  is  extremely proud to present an evening with Vivienne Ming. Having undergone a gender transition, Dr. Ming has the unique experience of engaging in the professional world as both a male and female theoretical neuroscientist, technologist and entrepreneur. During this presentation, Dr. Ming will speak about her work to create inclusive environments for success, technology she has developed based on her research, and her latest educational technology aimed at improving the lives of children. Join us in The Center’s auditorium for a thought-provoking discussion on how to maximize human potential, with a Q&A to follow.  For more information, contact Connor Maddocks at trans@thecentersd.org. Saturday, Feb. 6, 10am, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day The Faith-Based Action Coalition of San Diego will host their annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 10am to 2pm at the Malcolm X Library, 5148 Market St. The event will include free confidential HIV testing (provided by San Ysidro Health Place), free refreshments, entertainment and presentations, including information and testimonials. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 619.527.3405. For more information, visit the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day website at: http://nationalblackaidsday.org. Your Health Matters – Your Vote Matters – You Matter! Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote. Spotlight Events Tuesday, Jan. 26, 1pm, Senior Food Bank The Senior Food Bank Program provides food and nutrition education to eligible low-income seniors 60 years or older on the 4th Tuesday of the month.  Eligible applicants can enroll in the program by applying in person at our site on the day of the event or call the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank at 866.350.3663. For more information, visit the San Diego Food Bank website at www.sandiegofoodbank.org or contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Tuesday, Jan. 26, 6pm, LGBT Military Support Group The Center and Fleet and Family Support Services are excited to provide this support/education group for LGBT active duty service members. The group meets the 4th Tuesday of every month from 6-7:30 and is for both individuals and couples with or without children. For more information, contact Caroline Bender at 619.222.5586 or caroline.bender.ctr@navy.mil. Childcare is available upon request sent to families@thecentersd.org. Miércoles, Jan. 27, 6:30pm, Grupo de Apoyo Las Manzanitas Las Manzanitas es un grupo de apoyo LGBT que provee información y apoyo para los que viven infectados/afectados por el VIH. No es necesario ser VIH+ para participar. El grupo se reúne semanalmente cada Miércoles de 6:30 a 9pm y se proveen bocadillos. Amigos y parientes de la comunidad LGBT son bienvenidos el ultimo Miércoles del mes. Para más información, por favor póngase en contacto con Rogelio Sanchez al 619.203.5125 or rsmoa@sbcglobal.net. Thursday, Jan. 28, 12 noon, LGBTQ Fair Housing The right of same sex-couples to rent or purchase a home is not specifically protected under Federal Law. California is one of only 21 states with a law banning housing discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression. Branden Butler, Senior Attorney with the Fair Housing Center of the Legal Aid Society of San Diego, will share information about what this means for the LGBTQ community. If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination, learn about your options. For more information or to RSVP, \contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Friday, Jan. 29, 10am, Mobile Device Configuration Basics Join us this Friday in the David Bohnett Cyber Center for a period of instruction that will cover the basic configurations of your mobile devices. Please feel free to bring your android phones, iPhones, iPads, tablets, and other mobile devices. For more information or to RSVP for this class, please contact Hector Roman at hroman@thecentersd.org or 619-692.2077 x111. You Should Know PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN! If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated “No more excuses. We have the tools to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic.” READ MORE … Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: Sunburst Youth Housing Project The Center’s Youth Housing Project provides safe and supportive housing for homeless youth, ages 18-24. The 23-unit facility is located in downtown San Diego, close to City College, public transportation, community health facilities and other essential resources. A major goal of YHP is to ensure that youth have easy access to needed services that will support them in maintaining stable housing. For more information, contact Beth Davenport at bdavenport@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x125. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Bilingual Information & Referral Specialist Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events  Jueves, 4 y 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de cuatro presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Presentación 1: Jueves, 4 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Información sobre DACA, DAPA y otros beneficios a los que podría tener derecho. Presentación 2: Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA.

Iranian Railroad for Queer Refugees – IRQR Annual Report 2016

Annual Reports Today, IRQR membership approved the finnacal statmenst from April1, 2014 to December 31, 2015 Click Here

IRQR’s Annual General Meeting Today IRQR hold its AGM for 2015 and the financial statmenst and annual reports were approved by its members. Also a new board of diretors were elected to lead the IRQR in order to continue its mission. Please review our annual report to find out more about what we have done in 2015. You will find more information on ourRefugee Program, Fieldwork in Turkey, Refugee Support Portal, our Counselling sessios for refugees and website visits and social media.

Meet the New Board Members A new board of diretors were elected today and you may meet them online in our website. Click Here

ual P.O.Box 72604 Greenwin Sq. Toronto, ON, M4W 3S9 Canad www.irqr.ca        info@irqr.ca +1-416-985-7456

The LGBTI San Diego Center: Events, Announcements

Get ready for February events!

News from The Center January 19, 2016 In the Know with Ian Got masks? Thursday, February 11, brings The Center’s premiere Masquerade, a Mardi Gras-themed event with amazing live entertainment, fine food and fantastic craft cocktails. And, as if mystery and mild mayhem weren’t enough, you could walk away with a trip to the truly fabulous Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort Costa Rica.The buzz is building for this evening of mystery and intrigue and you don’t want to miss out! Masks are highly encouraged, but not required. Get your tickets today at events.thecentersd.org/masquerade. Welcome Tyler! Tyler Renner has joined The Center as our new Development Associate. A University of California, Santa Barbara, graduate he comes to us with two years’ experience as the LGBTQ Program Coordinator with the Pacific Pride Foundation in Santa Barbara and the Project manager for the national Self-Evident Truths Project. Help us welcome him to San Diego! Saturday, Feb. 6, 10am, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day The Faith-Based Action Coalition of San Diego will host their annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 10am to 2pm at the Malcolm X Library, 5148 Market St. The event will include free confidential HIV testing (provided by San Ysidro Health Place), free refreshments, entertainment and presentations, including information and testimonials. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 619.527.3405. For more information, visit the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day website at: http://nationalblackaidsday.org. Spotlight Events Wednesday, Jan. 20, 12 noon, Lunch & Learn: Opera Exposed! With Nic Reveles  Opera Exposed is a partnership between San Diego Opera and universities in the area that have wonderful vocal studies programs for undergraduate students. Join 50 and Better Together to hear them perform music by Mozart, Rossini, Donizetti, Puccini and others, with commentary by Education and Community Engagement Director Nicolas Reveles. Join us for this exciting introduction to opera! For more information on this event or to RSVP, contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x205. Miércoles, Jan. 20, 6:30pm, Grupo de Apoyo Las Manzanitas Las Manzanitas es un grupo de apoyo LGBT que provee información y apoyo para los que viven infectados/afectados por el VIH. No es necesario ser VIH+ para participar. El grupo se reúne semanalmente cada Miércoles de 6:30 a 9pm y se proveen bocadillos. Amigos y parientes de la comunidad LGBT son bienvenidos el ultimo Miércoles del mes. Para más información, por favor póngase en contacto con Rogelio Sanchez al 619.203.5125 or rsmoa@sbcglobal.net. Wednesday, Jan. 20, 7pm, Bi Coming Out Group Join The Center’s discussion group on bisexuality on the third Wednesday of every month from 7-8:30 pm. It’s a welcoming space to share your experiences, ask questions, discuss community issues and meet like-minded people. This group is open to all persons who are sexually and/or emotionally attracted to more than one gender. For more information, contact Aaron Heier at aheier@thecentersd.org. Saturday, Jan. 23, 11am, Spectrum: Women of Color United Spectrum is for women of color 18 and up looking to engage in positive, stimulating conversations and activities with like-minded multicultural LGBT women. The group normally meets on the first and third Saturdays monthly from 11am-1pm (dates have been changed for January). SOFFAs (significant others, friends, family, allies) are welcome to attend with their loved ones. For more information, contact us at 619.692.2077 x202, or smerkbenitez@thecentersd.org. You Should Know Your Health Matters – Your Vote Matters – You Matter! Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote. PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN! If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated “No more excuses. We have the tools to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic.” READ MORE … Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: Families at The Center The families program at The Center is designed to provide resources, education, support and opportunities for community engagement for LGBT-community families of all kinds. Find out more on our website or contact us at families@thecentersd.org. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Bilingual Information & Referral Specialist Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events  Jueves, 4 y 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de cuatro presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Presentación 1: Jueves, 4 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Información sobre DACA, DAPA y otros beneficios a los que podría tener derecho. Presentación 2: Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA. Update Your Info We want to make sure we get the details right! If you’re moving, changing your email, or if we got your contact info wrong, let us know! You can update everything online here or contact us at 619.692.2077 x107 or vcosio@thecentersd.org if you’d like us to do it for you.

Williams Institute: Report and Events

A new report and data interactive by policy analyst Angeliki Kastanis breaks down regional differences in the socioeconomic well-being of LGBT people in California. In the Central/Southern Farm region of California (Fresno, Imperial, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Stanislaus, Tulare counties), LGBT people have a lower college completion rate than in the Southern and Midwestern regions of the United States. In the North and Mountain regions of California, the proportion of LGBT people earning less than $24,000 per year is similar to the rate in the Southern and Midwestern regions of the United States. READ THE REPORT We’d like to see you this spring. The next few months are full of quality educational and fundraising events at the Williams Institute. Save the dates for our upcoming events as we celebrate our 15th anniversary. In February, we have a symposium at UCLA on the ways the phrase “coming out” has been used by various marginalized groups, our annual Winter Salon in Washington, D.C., a talk with M.V. Lee Badgett on her new book The Public Professor: How to Use your Research to Change the World, and our 12th Annual Moot Court Competition. MORE INFO ON OUR EVENTS RSVP NOW

Apply Now 2016 Summer Law Fellowships The Williams Institute Summer Fellowship program provides a $5,000 stipend for current and recent law students to work for a national LGBT organization. The Gleason/Kettel Summer Law Fellowship will support one fellow to work at the Williams Institute. The Williams Institute will support one or more fellows to work at the Institute or an eligible organization focused on sexual orientation or gender identity law or public policy. Deadline: February 29, 2016 APPLY NOW Call for Attorneys Judge the 12th Annual Williams Institute Moot Court Competition The Williams Institute is seeking attorneys to judge the morning rounds of the only national competition dedicated exclusively to topics in sexual orientation and gender identity law. All judges will be offered one hour of MCLE credit and a complimentary ticket to the Williams Institute’s 15th Anniversary Gala and Awards Reception on April 8, 2016. Saturday, February 27, 2016 UCLA School of Law SIGN UP TO JUDGE

Share Tweet Forward The Williams Institute UCLA School of Law Box 951476 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1476williamsinstitute@law.ucla.edu williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu

News from The Center San Diego

Happy 2016

News from The Center January 4, 2016 In the Know with Ian Thank you to all of the amazing #CenterSupporters who help make our work possible! Whether you attended an event, made a wreath, registered to walk, dined out, danced at Frida, joined us for a breakfast (or lunch or dinner) or donated, you are the heart of The Center and we are truly blessed by your donations of time and resources. Now it’s the first Monday of the New Year and we’re already in full swing! Join us for Masquerade, a Mardi Gras celebration on Thursday, Feb. 11 at The Brick in Liberty Station. It’s an amazing venue! There’s no program, just an evening of amazing aerial performances, live music, fabulous food, cocktails, mild mayhem, mystery and more. Various sponsorship levels are available and individual tickets start at $125. Purchase tickets at events.thecentersd.org/masquerade. Spotlight Events Tuesday, Jan. 5, 9am, Community Food Bank The San Diego LGBT Community Center hosts a distribution site once a month for the Community Cares Project of the San Diego Food Bank. On the first Tuesday of every month, 9-10:30 am, visit The Center’s parking lot for emergency food. For more information, visit the San Diego Food Bank website at www.sandiegofoodbank.org. Wednesday, Jan. 6, 6pm, Guys, Games & Grub Guys, Games & Grub, presented by Men @ The Center, is a fun, free monthly social event designed for men – where everyone is welcome. Dozens of men gather at The Center on the first Wednesday of each month for free pizza, beer, wine, soft drinks, games, prizes, and more. Also, check out the popular Live Trivia game, hosted each month by community favorite John Lockhart. A donation of $5 is suggested at the door to support men’s programming at The Center. Bring friends or come alone and meet new friends! For more information, contact Aaron Heier at aheier@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x211. Thursday, Jan. 7, 12 noon, Senior Advisory Committee Meeting The Coordinator of Senior Services facilitates this group of senior community members who advises her on the 50 & Better Together program here at The Center.   These meetings are for anyone interested in providing input on senior services at The Center.  For more information, please contact LaRue Fields at seniors@thecentersd.org. Thursday, Jan. 7, 7pm, Sisters In Support SIS welcomes all women who are affected by breast cancer either currently or in the past. This includes all women patients and partners that are facing any issue with breast cancer, want support and are looking for other women that can relate. The group meets on the 1st Thursday of every month from 7-8:30pm in the Community Resource room at The Center. For more information, contact us at 619.692.2077 x212, or women@thecentersd.org. You Should Know Holiday Hours:  The Center will be closed Saturday through Monday, Jan. 16-18 for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Regular hours resume Tuesday, Jan 19 at 9am. Your Health Matters – Your Vote Matters – You Matter! Are you registered? Recently moved? Make sure you’re up to date! Register at events.thecentersd.org/vote. PEP – (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Another tool in the tool box against HIV  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN!If you think you’ve been exposed, head to any emergency room or urgent care center and ask for PEP within 3 days! PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) prevents HIV from making copies of itself and turning into infection if taken within 72 hours. PrEP – Get Educated “Now that I’m taking the daily pill, the only thing I worry about is the next time I am going to be slut-shamed by another gay man for being on PrEP.” READ MORE … Check out our list of San Diego medical professionals who provide PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). We recommend that you call before making an appointment to confirm details such as insurance coverage. Know a provider who should be added to this list? Contact us at outreach@thecentersd.org. View the list here. Want your own Center #BeTheGeneration shirt? Just make a $20 minimum donation to benefit The Center’s #HIV/AIDS services. Donate today to help us end new cases of HIV/AIDS! Follow Us! Be sure to follow The Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more #LGBT news around the world, special events, news from The Center, and happenings around the community! Find us on Instagram and Twitter at LGBTCenter, on YouTube at LGBTCenterSD and on Facebook at facebook.com/At.The.Center. Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: Project TRANS All of The Center’s programs are transgender-inclusive and supportive, but we also offer services designed specifically for the transgender community through Project TRANS, our Transgender Services Program. Project TRANS (Transgender Referrals, Assistance, Networking and Services) offers discussion groups, behavioral health services, HIV prevention services, youth services and more. In addition, the program focuses on advocacy, referrals, outreach, sensitivity trainings, social activities and events, workshops and networking with community agencies. For more information, visit us online or contact Connor Maddocks at trans@thecentersd.org or 619.692.2077 x109. Program Info 50 and Better Together Families at The Center HIV Services Project Trans Discussion Groups Find Out More Jobs at The Center Admin Assistant, Planning Council Staff Bilingual Information & Referral Specialist Bilingual Staff Counselor Community Events Through Jan. 10, California Youth Conservatory Theatre presents ‘Rent’ The Award-winning California Youth Conservatory Theatre (CYC)  will present a special holiday engagement of the brilliant and controversial hit musical RENT Dec. 26 through Jan. 10. Join them at the Lyceum Theatre in Horton Plaza for this life-changing story about community, friendship, love and overcoming life. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the website at www.cyctheatre.com. Jueves, 4 y 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm ¡Recibe ayuda sobre inmigración! Participa en esta serie de cuatro presentaciones en Centro Comunitario LGBT de San Diego (3909 Centre St., San Diego). Todas las presentaciones serán en español, con traducción al inglés si fuera necesario. Presentación 1: Jueves, 4 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Información sobre DACA, DAPA y otros beneficios a los que podría tener derecho. Presentación 2: Jueves, 25 de Febrero, a las 6pm, Consulta sobre inmigración. Consultas personalizadas sobre DACA, DAPA, visas para víctimas de crímenes, VAWA.