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[jarsofwind]

I'm involved in an organization called Triangle Speakers. TS sends panels to middle schools, high schools, college classes and student group meetings, religious organizations, health organizations, etc. The panelists are all volunteers, and each panel has someone who is gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and an ally. Each person shares a 3-

Comments

[phillipalden]

I think what you're doing is great, and you should just speak from your heart.

I was a member of ACT-UP Golden Gate and I currently work with the San Mateo County HIV/AIDS Program. I used to go into the local schools to talk to the kids about AIDS, (before our funding disappeared.)

So it gladdens my heart there are people like you carrying on the good work. Just encouraging an open mind about GLBT people is a great thing!

Keep up the good work!

[jarsofwind]

Thank you! Sorry to hear the funding disappeared. Keep up your own good work with San Mateo County HIV/AIDS!

[jarsofwind]

Hey, I just skipped over to your LJ. I was/am a writer/journalist (creative writing/history majors, 2 yrs writing a monthly column and assorted other goodies for a local weekly). I'm currently running a Jewish non-profit, and I live in Santa Cruz. I'd really like to add you. Want to add me?

[phillipalden]

Yes, please do add me, and I'll do the same.

[jarsofwind]

You explained it just fine - that's a great point. I'll definitely share your advice at my next panel. Thanks!

[tko_ak]

The panel seems like a cool program, although I imagine most schools that would welcome are those who least need them.

I think the hate-free zone signs can go a long way.

[jarsofwind]

Yeah, that's one of my only issues with the TS program. It's still effective, though. There are these evaluations that the students fill out, and one of the questions is "Before the panel I did/did not/was unsure if I supported LGBT people" and "Now that I have heard the panelists, I do/do not/am not sure if..." etc. Or something along those lines. And a good number of them change from "did not" or "was unsure" to "do." Even if the schools welcome TS panels, it doesn't mean the students are tolerant. I wish panels like this could go to the schools that need them the most!

Yeah, the "Safe Person, Safe Space" signage is the same idea as the "Hate-Free Zone" sign. I've got both on my office door. I'll keep passing that advice along to people.

[destructzero]

Awesome stuff! I always LOVE when I see people wearing ally pins or safe zone stickers. They make me feel so much better about myself. I'm glad you mention those to the students because they really, really help. I also like that you teach them phrases like "Are you with someone?" It's much more comforting to hear that than "Do you have a girlfriend?"

Anyway, I guess one thing you could mention is for people to not pressure others who they may suspect to be LGBT. Its rarely happened in college for me, but I remember from high school when people would ask me if I was gay. It hurt every time, especially since I was still in denial up until graduation.

I'm in the process of coming out. I've told 10 people so far, with the last one being my roommate who I told him on Monday. It gets easier each time :). This last part isn't relevant...I'm just really excited to say it over and over again.