ISU Alliance Blog

Well hello, I hope you had a good weekend and enjoyed some of the festivities of National Coming Out Week.

So a long time ago I tried to write a weekly blog catered to lesbian and bi women around ames/iowa with info about all sorts of queer things that are going around Ames, Des Moines and the Midwest.

Tonight starting at 9pm till 2am. We're tranforming the M-Shop into a dance club. $5 general admission. $3 for due paying members.

The All 1 Dance Party is a once a month [held on the 2nd Saturday of each month this semester]. We will be playing the hottest tracks, mash-ups, rare remixes, and occational performances. Tell all of your friends about it.

And I am for sure will be playing this song.

Campus Pride Issues Warning regarding the Princeton Review’s Top 20 “Gay Community Accepted” College Ranking

National nonprofit organization states that the educational preparatory company's college ranking is "erroneous & potentially misleading, harmful to LGBT youth & families"
(CHARLOTTE, NC, Thursday, August 13, 2009) -- Campus Pride issues a warning regarding the Top 20 “Gay Community Accepted” and “Alternative Lifestyle Not an Alternative” rankings in the 2010 edition of the Princeton Review’s annual college guide The Best 371 Colleges (Random House/Princeton Review, $22.99). The national nonprofit organization believes that not only is the use of “alternative lifestyle” problematic when referring to the lives of LGBT people, but the methodology Princeton Review used to garner their findings is too simplistic and could potentially lead to harmful, unsafe choices for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) students looking for acceptance and support during college.

The criteria that Princeton Review used to determine the best LGBT “acceptance” at colleges was not based on significant LGBT student opinions or research related to inclusive LGBT policies, programs or practices as one might expect. Their rankings were based off one single question asked to 122,000 students at the 371 top colleges -- whether they agreed or disagreed with the following statement: “Students, faculty, and administrators treat all persons equally regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity/expression.”

“This list is an erroneous, misleading indicator of acceptance for LGBT youth and their safety on campus,” said Shane Windmeyer, founder and executive director of Campus Pride and the author of The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students, the first-ever guide profiling the 100 Best LGBT-Friendly Colleges, released in 2006 by Alyson Books. “The majority of students responding to such a question – irrespective of response – will be straight. Their perceptions of equality are likely quite different from those of LGBT students.”

While Princeton Review— a widely trusted company—believes that their rankings are created to help parents and students determine which school is right for them, Campus Pride believes that parents who are truly concerned for their children’s safety and well-being will be misled by these particular findings. Campus Pride strongly believes that given the rise in violence and harassment among LGBT students, there are serious issues to consider when looking for the right college.

Another reason for concern is the dated use of the words ‘alternative lifestyle’ when referring to the lives of LGBT people. “It’s disrespectful and out of touch because it alludes that being gay is a choice and something that can be cured,” Windmeyer said. “The insensitivity to language is a major warning sign that this guide does not have the nuanced perspective to be a trusted resource and to truly understand the complexity of LGBT students’ lives and needs.”

Campus Pride believes that LGBT students deserve better. “Today more and more LBGT high school youth are making life decisions on the college that not only best fits their academic needs, but also a college where they can live and learn openly in a safe and welcoming environment,” says Windmeyer. “If students and families do decide to use the Princeton Review as a resource, I would encourage them to compare its rankings for LGBT schools with those available from the Campus Climate Index (http://www.campusclimateindex.org) – plus, it’s free.”

The Campus Climate Index, developed by Campus Pride in 2007, is an online educational research tool for LGBT students and their families with over 200+ colleges and universities with inclusive LGBT policies, programs and practices. In 2010, Campus Pride’s National LGBT College Climate Survey (http://www.campuspride.org/research) will share the attitudes and perceptions of LGBT students, faculty and staff in a report titled “The State of Higher Education for LGBT People.”

For more information on Campus Pride, please visit www.campuspride.org.

Outsiders will be visiting the Ames community to spread hate and lies, so we're coming together to share food, socialize and celebrate equality & respect for all in spite of their efforts. Help us call Iowa voters and have productive conversations about marriage equality, spreading understanding and protecting our newly recognized freedoms.

Staff from One Iowa and local volunteers will be present to provide callers with all the training they need to have a great time talking to Iowa voters about marriage equality!

** Please bring your cell phone and charger to use for the phonebank **

Doors will open at 6:00pm, with phonebank training at 6:00pm & 7:15pm. The meal starts around 6:30pm (or when food & tables are set up)!

The event is open to all community members (including ISU students). If bringing food isn't convenient, just show up! There are plenty of ways to contribute (e.g. helping with set-up and clean-up). There is always enough food to share.

For questions about the phonebank event, please call or email Matt Fender (mfender@lambdalegal.org) or (646)752-5932. Please contact Joel Geske (curlyjoe1955@yahoo.com) with any questions about the location or meal.

Fred Phelps and his posse over at the Westboro Baptist Church will be in town on July 24 from 4:45-5:00 pm.

This is from their press release:
Iowa State University - We're back to tell you God H8s You! SW corner of W. Lincoln Way & University Blvd What's up ISU? Long time, no see. While we are in the area to picket Marshalltown, we thought we'd stop by and say "God Hates You"; "You're Going To Hell" and "God Hates Fags" Iowa says "It's Okay To Be Gay", and was the first to begin giving $ to little perverts for no other reason than they brag about being little perverts. God Hates Iowa, and all who live there are cursed. Deuteronomy 11:26 Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; 27 A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you this day: 28 And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known. 29 And it shall come to pass, when the LORD thy God hath brought thee in unto the land whither thou goest to possess it, that thou shalt put the blessing upon mount Gerizim, and the curse upon mount Ebal. 30 Are they not on the other side Jordan, by the way where the sun goeth down, in the land of the Canaanites, which dwell in the champaign over against Gilgal, beside the plains of Moreh? 31 For ye shall pass over Jordan to go in to possess the land which the LORD your God giveth you, and ye shall possess it, and dwell therein. 32 And ye shall observe to do all the statutes and judgments which I set before you this day. Obama's gonna destroy your State with his "economic program" and then you are going to eat you little babies - you heard it here FIRST. AMEN!

Too bad we won't be there. Summer session ends on the 10th of July. I'm not wasting my summer vacation dealing with them. I have more important things to do like solving the middle east crisis, alternative energy, global warming, world hunger, and world peace.

Naked Pride
Friday, June 12, 2009 7:30 p.m.
Sheslow Auditorium, Drake University, 25th & University, Des Moines

The Chorus finds just the right mix of songs for a free-spirited Capital City Pride weekend and songs from a cycle called Naked Man. Composer Robert Seeley says, "Naked Man not only addresses experiences in Gay culture, it celebrates the human condition. We all go through life shedding layers of ourselves, our masks and our insecurities, in order to express our true selves." Experience a powerful night of pride with the Des Moines Gay Men's Chorus.

N.B. Unfortunately, no men will actually be naked in this choral performance

Interfaith Brunch for Pride
Saturday, June 13, 2009 10:30 - Noon
FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH, 1800 Bell Ave., Des Moines

An opportunity for LGBT folks and their allies from different faith communities and the larger community, too, to come together for food, fun, and fellowship! Enjoy a bountiful brunch buffet that will include vegetarian options. Free will offering welcome.

RSVP to Mark at 274-0925 or scorpiored48@yahoo.com .

Childcare is also available upon request.

Pride Street Party!
6/13/09 6:00pm

The street Party will start at 6pm in the heart of the Historic East Village with entertainment and dancing until midnight. Headliner Kristine W. performs!
The cost is $3 for a wristband to drink if you are over 21. (Passes for both the street party and Sunday’s festival are $5).

Pride Brunch
6/14/09 9:00am

Pride Brunch this year will be at the Grand Piano Bistro on Grand Avenue between East 5th and East 6th St. $20 before and $25 at the door. For information email info@capitalcitypride.org

Pride Fest 2009
6/14/09 12:00 noon

Starts at noon with entertainment until 6pm. $3 for a wristband to drink if you are over 21. (Passes for both Saturdays Street Fest and Sundays Fest are $5)

Gay Day at Adventureland Park
6/15/09 10:00am

Join all your friends for a family fun day at our local amusement park. Each year we all try to coordinate matching colors so we can find one another. This years color is Purple. If you haven’t been before - Catch the wave! Discount tickets available at the Capital City Pride booth at the Street fest on June 13th and the festival on June 14th or by emailing vice_moderator@capitalcitypride.org. Save $10 off the regular admission price by purchasing through Capital City Pride

Hey guys.

Marshalltown Community Theatre is presenting "The Laramie Project" on July 24-26, July 30 and Aug. 1.

Sources claim that the Westboro Baptist Church will be picketing the show.

The theater would be willing to offer group discount tickets.

You can learn more about the Marshalltown Community Theatre by going to their website.

You can also contact Tom LaVille (the director) for additional information or tickets at 641-752-0153 or email at tlaville@earthlink.com

Congratulations are in order for the following LGBTA Alliance cabinet members for recieving honors and recognition during the Lav Grad & Small Victories ceremony.

• Leah, our out-going Secretary was honored with the Academic Execellence Award.
• Marisol, our out-going Logistics Chair was honored with the Community Development Award.
• Kelly, our Vice President won the Emerging Leader Award and the Walter J. Allen & Shaun B. Keister Scholarship.
• Callen, our President was named Student of the Year (Undergradute), and also the recipient of Scott Rohlf Presidential Leadership Initiative Award and scholarship.

Congrats!

Also, we are pleased to announce the LGBTAA cabinet for the fall 2009- spring 2010 school year.

Historians: Curt P. & Amy B.
Logistics: Kay W.
PR/Advertising: Mike A.
Fundraising: Holland D.
Treasurer: Anna H.
Secretary: Stephanie I.
Vice President: Kelly M.
President: Callen U.

Good luck!

Have a great summer. Don't forget to add us on Twitter, and Facebook.

Opponents of equality are at it again! Once again on Monday, extremists will protest the unanimous Iowa Supreme Court decision and push additional measures to undermine the Court's historic decision! Monday's protest follows a similar protest last Thursday that saw opponents of equality disrupt the House Chambers with chants and political gamesmanship.

In response, One Iowa is calling on Iowans across the state to participate in a virtual rally asking our elected officials to continue work on issues of common concern to all Iowans. In the midst of a budget shortfall, job losses, and last year's devastating floods, our elected officials should put aside divisive politics and continue to work for all Iowans!

TAKE ACTION ONLINE!
Sign the Rally for Common Concern petition. Signatures will be delivered to House leadership later in the day.

"Defendant appeals from district court summary judgment ruling holding state statute limiting civil marriage to a union between a man and a woman unconstitutional. AFFIRMED." read the rest of the 69 page court ruling here.

There are still federal laws that make same-sex couples second class citizens when it comes to issues like tax law, veterans' entitlements, health care subsidies, aged care, immigration law, etc. Given the positive progression of laws that have, in the past, discriminated against gender, race and age, it's disappointing same-sex couples' rights still have a long way to go. I think we need to look at how equality is reserved for only the 'right' kind couples under current laws.

Simple changes to the way we define de facto relationships in the legislation would make life fairer for thousands of same-sex couples and their families, and make it easier to access rights accorded to them under the law.

These laws are about basic personal rights and should be available to all couples and families.

Amy Higgins, an LAS Career Services intern will be delivering her semester project in the form of a workshop on Thursday April 30 from 4:00-5:00 in 353 Catt. Her topic is: LGBT Graduates and the Job Search. She will address: legal issues, the job search and personal issues. You are welcome and encouraged to attend.

An Awesome Day
I'm lovin' that my quote made it to the front page.

Take note of same-sex ruling, Midwest and US.
Editorial that's clear and consise. This serves as a good talking-points.

It is a historic day not only for the lgbt community but for all Iowans. This is not a small victory, but a monumental one.

Marriage legitimizes the love and commitment of couples, same-sex or otherwise. Legally recognized marriage gives couples over a thousand rights that would otherwise not be available to them, not to mention the social equity that the word marriage gives.

As we rejoice, let us not forget those who had fought for our equality and our rights. Even in the face of adversity, we continued to live our lives with dignity and hope that someday the future would be brighter and that our goal for equality would be realized. Today, it did.

I am lucky to be alive and witness this joyous occasion. No longer will we doubt the legitimacy of our existence and the validity of our relationships.

The ISU LGBTA Alliance will continue to promote, support and advocate equality for all.

Sincerely ,
Callen Ubeda
President, ISU LGBTA Alliance

read the pdf of the court ruling here.

check out the kinsey scale and its ok with me buttons. only $1/ea. produced in limited quantity. buy one during our spring benefit, throughout awareness week, and during viesha.

The ISU LGBTA Alliance will be hosting Dr. Davina Kotulski, a national speaker on Prop 8, this Thursday March 26th from 5-6 pm. Eaton Hall 1132.

Dr. Kotulski, clinical psychologist and a nationally recognized leader, speaker and writer within the marriage equality movement. Davina has been a leader in the marriage equality movement for over a decade dating back to her efforts to support the Hawaii Marriage Project, pass a pro-marriage equality initiative with Californians for Same Sex Marriage (CASSM) in 1999, and her work to defeat Prop 22, the Knight Initiative. She joined Marriage Equality USA in 2001 and began the marriage license counter actions with her wife Molly McKay. The couple joined with fellow activists to run the Marriage Equality USA California chapter and launched a pro-active effort to raise awareness for the need for equal relationship recognition for LGBT people and win marriage equality in the state of California.

Her book, Why You Should Give A Damn About Gay Marriage, is used as a teaching tool and activist handbook within progressive communities of faith, LGBT organizations, political clubs, and universities.

She will speak about Prop 8 and why it matters to everyone, not just the LGBT community. Q&A will follow.

I hope you can make it or advertise this to your students, friends, and colleagues.

Hey all!

For March 25th I'm putting together a panel of people over topics such as mental health and sexual health/wellness/awareness. It's going to be an interactive panel so come with questions that you may have. So far, it looks like we may, (not for sure yet) have a representative from ACCESS and ISU Student Counseling services and possibly from Planned Parenthood. These are excellent agencies that provide terrific services to either the ISU or Ames communities. I am going to try to have some refreshments at the meeting as well.

This will be an excellent opportunity to learn more resources that are available if needed. Be sure to mark your calendars!

1. have at least a 2.0 gpa.


2. be a due paying member.


3. be able to fulfill the duties and obligations of their desired post.


4. for president and vice president, have served at least one semester on the lgbtaa cabinet.


5. engaging, fun, likable and has genuine passion for the lgbta cause.
   

Kelly Moeller is our new Vice President. She was affirmed during last night's general assembly.

Bryce Johnson is out new Web Master.

LGBTA Student Day at the Capitol
March 4th.
Let a member of the Alliance cabinet know if you are interested in participating and we'll arrange a carpool.

Iowa Pride Network
Central GSA Coalition Meeting
Thursday March 5th. 5-7pm
Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ- Youth Room
4126 Ingersoll Ave.
Des Moines.


Seeking lesbian and bisexual women

Are you...
A lesbian or bisexual woman?
Age 18 or older?

If this sounds like you, then we invite you to participate in a study focusing on your life experiences as a lesbian, bisexual, or queer woman. Participants will have the opportunity to enter a drawing for one of several cash prizes of $50.

The goal of the Rainbow Women’s Project is to better understand and promote the well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer women. Results of this study will be used to improve our newly developed survey for future use in our efforts to understand identity and experiences in our communities. We are especially interested in hearing the diverse voices within our communities.

This is an anonymous, web-based study run through the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington. For more information, please go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=furX9b2KKmEGmDeyHgb3aw_3d_3d,

or contact the Rainbow Women’s Project at wproject@u.washington.edu or (206) 543-9151. Please remember that we cannot guarantee the confidentiality of any information sent by email.

• Read the Ames Tribune's coverage of our Valentines Kiss-Out.
• Alliance president, Callen Ubeda was appointed as the state's representative for MBGLTACC's oversight committee, along with Drake University's LaCee Groetken .
• ISU & Ames are preparing for MBGLTACC's return in 2012.
• Pictures from MBGLTACC 09 coming soon.
• Soap's first lesbian wedding. [source]

Kiss your boyfriend. Kiss your girlfriend. Kiss your bff. Kiss your frienenemy. Kiss your significant other, or your insignificant other. Kiss someone. Kiss anyone. Kiss everyone!

We are encouraging every couple, specially our straight allies, to show their support for our marriage equality campaign.

We asked that participants wear their It's OK With Me t-shirts on this day and to gather at the Campanile at noon on Feb. 13th to kiss the one they love.

Don't have an It's OK With Me t-shirt yet? Stop by the LGBTAA Office to purchase one.

They are only $5.00!

Time and Place Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Time: 8:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Martin Hall 2121
City/Town: Ames, IA
Contact Info Email: alliance@iastate.edu

Please join the Alliance as we host LGBT educational, social, political, and religious groups of Ames & Des Moines to talk about what their organization and events they have planned for 2009.

Scheduled to appear:
Des Moines Pride Organization
Iowa Pride Network
Lambda Legal
Belonging
One Iowa
PFLAG Ames
Women's Cultural Collective

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender student services has a new coordinator who is hoping to improve an already solid program at Iowa State.

Brad Freihoefer previously worked with the LGBT center at Minnesota State University in Mankato, but starts his career at Iowa State on Monday. He said he has been working the last five years for this type of opportunity.

“For me, this is really a dream job,” Freihoefer said.

He received a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies from Minnesota State University in Mankato and worked as a sexual violence advocate, responding to crisis situations in his home county. He also served as a community adviser in the residence halls, where he said he learned a lot about leading students.

At Minnesota State, Freihoefer said he worked with the second-oldest LGBT program in the country and served as a face and name for LGBT issues on campus.

He said he hopes to make LGBT students feel more at home at Iowa State.

“I’m going to bring excitement to talk about these issues,” Freihoefer said. “I want to change the atmosphere of the LGBT student services office and make sure all students feel that they’re welcomed there.”

He said his first goal is to make sure students know where the LGBT student services office is and what they do. He said he will primarily serve as support for students, but will also be creating programs to educate people about LGBT issues.

“I want to help students, that’s what it really comes down to. Students coming out, especially, is a difficult process and I want to help students get through that process. I want to help them feel safe,” Freihoefer said.

Upon first visiting Iowa State, Freihoefer said he was impressed with the LGBT program, although there is still room for improvement. He said Iowa State’s strong foundation is thanks in part to the work of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Ally Alliance and a supportive faculty and staff.

“That’s one thing I noticed when I was coming in for the interview. There’s really been support for this position and support for LGBT issues,” Freihoefer said. “That’s really helpful, I’m really excited to work with a population that is welcoming — and even for those who may not be, I’m willing to engage in conversations.”

He said he moved to Ames over the weekend, and because he grew up in rural Wisconsin and has spent the last five years in rural Minnesota, should feel right at home at Iowa State.

“From what I’ve seen of the Ames community and Iowa State campus, I’m going to fit right in. I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

Freihoefer invites any students to meet with him and introduce themselves at the LGBT student services office, located in the first floor of the Student Services building.

“Even though this is an LGBT-specific position, I’m here for all students, regardless of their race, class, gender, sexuality or ability level,” Freihoefer said. “I think we’re all going to try to grow together.”

If you are interested in attending the MBGLTACC 09, please let us know no later than Friday, January 28th. Space are limited and it is on a first come first serve basis (assuming that you've met the initial requirements: must be due paying member and in good academic standing).

Just a reminder that if you haven't made your payment for the conference, please stop by the office tomorrow or Friday to drop off your payment.

Office hours are:
Thursday 10-12:30 and Friday noon-3:00

Important message from the president of GSB:

Iowa State Students,

This is another reminder that the Iowa Department of Revenue offers tax rebates on all books purchased at the University Book Store for up to three years from the date of purchase. To receive your rebate, please save your receipt and go to www.gsb.iastate.edu/tax to download forms and instructions to receive your rebate. The receipt from your purchases will need to be included with the forms that are being sent in. This rebate, which will be sent
6-8 weeks after submission, will save you approximately seven percent on your purchase.

This year, the Government of the Student Body and ISU Ambassadors are working with State legislators on proposals to help you save even more on textbooks. GSB is continually aware of the high expenses of education, and we will be working on other proposals to help students. Feedback is always welcome and appreciated.
Please contact your representatives at http://www.gsb.iastate.edu with any concerns.

Have a great semester!

Daniel Fischer
President
Government of the Student Body

Gay/Bi Men's Group
Sunday Nights at 6:30-8:00 PM
Sloss House

Gay/Bi Men's Group is your chance to just chill with other gay, bi, and questioning men at Iowa State University. Join facilitators Zack Ford and Clayton Johnson for relaxing evenings of conversation about life and culture.

The group is very loose and flexible, so come and go as you're able! We talk about whatever is on the minds of the group, whether it's television, movies, news, politics, LGBT issues, or just personal issues that individuals want to discuss. You get to just be yourself and connect with others who have similar experiences.

Lez Bi Real
Wednesday 5:00-7:00PM
Sloss House

These meetings are your chance to socialize with other lesbian, bi, queer, and questioning women in a casual setting. The purpose of this group is to provide confidential, unqualified support in an atmosphere that feels safe for asking questions and sharing stories, and to make time for a bit of socializing.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Iowa GSA Day is a day which is meant to honor of the students, teachers, community members and organizations that have shown their dedication for keeping all students safe, and insuring a quality education for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For more information please visit our website: http://www.iowapridenetwork.org/

GSA DAY KICK-OFF PARTY

Wednesday, January 27th - 5-7pm

Ritual Cafe - Des Moines

To celebrate this amazing day Iowa Pride Network will be holding a GSA Day kick-off party on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 in honor of Iowa's Gay-Straight Alliances! The party will be held from 5-7pm at Ritual Cafe, located on 13th St. between Locust & Grand--Downtown Des Moines. Food and beverages will be provided. All students, parents, teachers, and faculty advisors are welcome to attend! Iowa's Lt. Governor, Patty Judge has been invited to this event, as well as the local Des Moines press to interview students about their plans for GSA day 2009!

STUDENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY JOIN TOGETHER IN THE HUMAN RIGHTS MOVEMENT TOWARDS LGBT EQUALITY.

On January 27th, 2009, high school and college students across the country will participate in "Equality on Campus Day" by wearing the same shirt to school as a way to show unity within the community in the fight towards LGBT equality, particularly marriage equality. This is a visibility/fundraiser event geared towards achieving the following goals:

* Get students more involved in the fight towards LGBT equality.
* Raise the visibility of the LGBT movement towards equality by having everyone wear the same shirt on the same day.
* Have the event one week after the inauguration to remind Obama that we are not going away. We are expecting him to address same-sex marriage, and LGBT rights in general.
* Raise money towards fighting for the legalization of same-sex marriage in the courts.

Students for Equality , who is organizing Equality on Campus Day, will be donating a portion of the proceeds to Lambda Legal since they are currently fighting the state of California to repeal Proposition 8. Lambda Legal has also fought for LGBT equality in many other cases, including overturning sodomy laws in the United States on a federal level. To see more landmark cases fought by Lambda Legal, go to http://www.lambdalegal.org/our-work/in-court/cases/landmark-cases.html.

For the first time in history, The Lesbian and Gay Band Association (LGBA), a musical organization comprised of marching and concert bands from across the United States and around the world, has been chosen to perform in the parade for the inauguration. Again, this is the first time in history that a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender group will march in a Presidential Inaugural Parade.

The 177-piece LGBT band will join groups from across the country as well as from the Armed Forces in the historic parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, which follows President-elect Barack Obama’s swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the Capitol.

“I am honored to invite these talented groups and individuals to participate in the Inaugural Parade,” Obama said in a news release. “These organizations embody the best of our nation’s history, diversity, and commitment to service. Vice President-elect (Joe) Biden and I are proud to have them join us in the parade.”

Hello Cyclones,

Whether it’s the economy, the presidential polls, the Olympics, showbiz, etc. there is no denying that 2008 was a year of highs and lows. All the trials, tribulations, tragedies and triumphs of this past year reminded me that despite our fundamental differences, we all share the same basic hopes and fears. We want to be accepted, to be understood, and most importantly to be loved.

I hope that you’ll be able to join us at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Ally Alliance meetings and events this semester. During this exciting time we are focused on creating the changes that we need in order to eliminate hate, fight homophobia, and to create a safe and supporting environment for everyone—gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or ally.

Join us this Saturday January 17th as we co-present Leslie & The Ly’s at the M-Shop. The show starts at 9pm.

Stop by at our table at Club Fest II on January 21st from 5-9pm.

As always, the ISU LGBTA Alliance meetings are on Wednesday nights at 8pm in Martin Hall 2121. Come as you are. Everyone is welcome. Our first meeting is on January 21st.

Welcome back, and best of luck in 2009!

Sincerely,
Callen Ubeda
President ISU LGBTA Alliance

Only 8 days left before Spring semester starts. Don't forget that our first general assembly will be on Jan 21st (that's the Wednesday after the first week of classes). As a preview of what we're doing for the reminder of the year, check out the Leslie Hall concert at the M-Shop that the Alliance is co-sponsoring on Jan 17th.