purpose of mbgltacc what does mbgltacc mean to us? The Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Ally Conference offers a rich dialogue among Midwest student leaders, higher education professionals and community members. In this ever-growing space of acceptance, education and security, attendees are able to open their minds to topics outside of their day-to-day exposure. In the ultimate journey for acceptance and visibility, many institutions are behind what resources and pedagogies they offer students, faculty and staff. Through MBLGTACC, attendees who are unable to have these exciting, life-changing experiences in the comfort of their home Universities are able to engage with LGBTQIA-identified peers for the first time. The Midwest does not always top the rankings when it comes to LGBTQIA acceptance and support. MBLGTACC is integral to starting conversations of activism and social justice at the core—in our schools and with our leaders.
this year, we’re jazzin’ it up! Our conference theme is multi-faceted. The origin of this theme is rooted in the rich Jazz culture Kansas City is known for. With the implications of the care-free, soulful music genre, we also interpret this theme for our LGBTQIA community. This conference weekend is all about acknowledging and celebrating our accomplishments. As student leaders and activists, we deserve to take a moment and commend ourselves on the work we’ve done. Although there are always steps to be taken and changes to be made, assessing how we’ve reached each milestone is paramount to understanding how to continue moving forward. To support our theme, we’ve constructed four pillars emphasizing the messages MBLGTACC 2014 wishes to convey. We’ve implemented these concepts into every component MBLGTACC. Empowerment: Attendees should feel a sense of pride and motivation. Learning Objectives: Being empowered to step up, be a leader, and make change. Introspection: Understanding our own identities and emotions are a priority to understanding the community around us. Learning Objectives: Being comfortable in our skin, thinking beyond boundaries, and internalizing how we wish to express ourselves. Connectivity: Networking and forming relationships is key to initiating alliances and united fronts. Learning Objectives: Being present on social media, engaging with politicians or college administrators, and forming working relationships with people who possess valuable skill sets. Community: Feeling a sense of belonging either in the greater LGBTQIA community or intersecting sub-identities gives people a sense of worth. Learning Objectives: Being involved in a supportive environment, establishing a presence on campus, and establishing common ground with those around you.
pillars / legend Empowerment Community
Introspection Connectivity Identity Forum
Featured Presenter
HOT 100 Chart Jazzin’ it up : Mblgtacc 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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University of Missouri-Kansas City Welcome from MBLGTacc 2014, MEET THE PLANNING COMMITTEE welcome letters Patrons of mblgtacc 2014
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special thanks Etiquette for inclusion, ETIQUETTE GLOSSARY celebrating 10 years of lgbtqia programs and services, FEATURE SPREAD FROM UMKCʼS UNIVERSITY NEWS schedule of events
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Advisor tract, Advisor Workshops Heartland Men’s chorus, ENTERTAINMENT Chely Wright, KEYNOTE SPEAKER Jazzin’ it up panel, MEET THE EXPERTS Workshop session 1 Katie Wirsing and Andrea Gibson, ENTERTAINMENT Workshop session 2 list of exhibitors the venue: MAPS OF THE KANSAS CITY CONVENTION CENTER workshop session 3 rob smith, KEYNOTE SPEAKER explanation of the oversight committee, state/Regional caucuses workshop session 4 sexual identity forums janet mock, KEYNOTE SPEAKER j mase III, ENTERTAINMENT workshop session 5 workshop session 6 workshop session 7 kara laricks, KEYNOTE SPEAKER, ANNOUNCEMENT OF VOICE AND ACTION AWARD
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welcome to mbgltacc 2014 On behalf of the MBLGTACC 2014 Planning Team, we would like to welcome you to Kansas City, Mo! It certainly doesn’t feel like it’s been 2 years since UMKC braved the bitter cold of Ames, Ia., and was chosen as the hosting university of MBLGTACC 2014. This has been an incredible and exhausting journey, but we’re ready to unveil the final product. For those of you who have attended MBLGTACC in the past, welcome back! For those of you new to the conference, welcome home! As veterans of the biggest LGBTQA regional college conference in the country, we’re ecstatic to set your first impression of MBLGTACC. There is a lot to be learned about the LGBTQIA community, the struggles, milestones and topics that impact us on a daily basis, but most importantly about ourselves. We want to ensure that each attendee is EMPOWERED to take back this knowledge to their own campuses. We encourage everyone to CONNECT with other student leaders and professionals. We are hopeful that all of you will feel a sense of belonging to the COMMUNITY. And most of all, we advocate that each conference attendee take some time for INTROSPECTION, to reflect on how their lives, views and emotions have changed once this conference has adjourned. For many of us, MBLGTACC has provided a place of safety and security not found in our homes, schools or immediate surroundings. For us, this is a time to absorb as much valuable information as possible before we’re submerged back into our close-minded environments. Overall, we want everyone to take this time and celebrate our accomplishments. Student leaders oftentimes neglect self-care, or fail to pause and commend themselves on a job well done. We congratulate you on all that you’ve done, and know that there is plenty of work still to do. This weekend our one request is that you thank someone, praise someone, affirm in someone that they’ve contributed, that they’ve made a difference. It’s a way of letting yourself know you’ve done the same. This weekend, help us Jazz It Up, and let the Midwest know that Kansas City, Mo., is a place that offers open arms to the LGBTQIA community. Thank you for your support of the conference, and our dream, and enjoy your MBLGTACC 2014. With Pride, Roze Brooks, Bradley Cantu and the MBLGTACC 2014 Planning Team
roze brooks, conference chair
Roze Brooks, a Saint Louis native, transferred to UMKC in 2011. Graduating in Spring 2014 with a BA in English and Communication Studies with a minor in Women and Gender Studies, she intends to pursue a Masterʼs in Higher Education- Administration. She served as Pride Alliance Secretary and a studentrepresentative on UMKCʼs LGBTQIA Partnership Committee for two years. She currently serves as Editor-In-Chief of the University News. She was a 2014 recipient of Campus Prideʼs Leader in Action Award.
bradley cantu, asst. conference chair
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Bradley Cantu is a senior studying Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, he moved to Kansas City in 2011. He works part-time and is the business manager of the University News. He is a member of the LGBTQIA Partnership Committee and the Deanʼs Student Advisory Council for the Henry W. Bloch School of Management. Bradley received the 2013 LGBTQIA Student of the Year award at UMKC. After graduation, Bradley intends on pursuing a career into corporate finance.
Committee Biographies
jonathan pryor, director of volunteers
Jonathan Pryor proudly serves as the Coordinator for LGBTQIA Programs and Services at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. . 2014 marks his seventh MBLGTACC (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, & 2014). He is currently completing work towards his PhD in Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis at the University of Missouri, where his research focuses on LGBTQ student leadership, involvement and campus experiences. He also holds an M.Ed in Student Affairs from the University of Missouri, and Bachelors in Communication and Religious Studies from the University of Kansas. Go Roos!
brent husher, conference advisor
Brent Husher serves as the Oversight Committee (OC) Treasurer. 2014 marks his sixth MBLGTACC (1998, 1999, 2000, 2012, 2013 & 2014). In May, Brent will receive his Masterʼs in Public Administration (nonprofit management emphasis) from UMKC. He holds a Masterʼs in Library Science from the University of Missouri – Columbia and a Bachelorʼs in Socio Political Communications from Missouri State University in Springfield. Brent enjoys walking with Kansas City Frontrunners & Walkers and helping program Kansas Cityʼs annual LGBT Film Festival. His workdays are spent at UMB Financial Corporation.
kynslie otte, Director
Kynslie Otte is a senior at UMKC majoring in English Creative Writing with a minor in Print Culture and Editing. Kynslie plans to pursue a career as an editor for a major publishing company. She is a member of UMKCʼs LBGTQIA student organization Pride Alliance and currently serves as the Production Manager for UMKCʼs independent student newspaper, University News.
tanner jaeckel, Director
Tanner Jaeckel is currently a junior at UMKC pursuing a degree in Animal Sciences with an emphasis in Veterinary Medicine. He plans to complete a Masterʼs degree and become a small animal practitioner with his own clinic. Tanner is the current Treasurer of Pride Alliance. He is also a member of UMKCʼs LGBTQIA Partnership Committee.
kalaa wilkerson, director
Kalaaʼ Wilkerson is a sophomore in the University of Missouriʼs Nursing Program and a Saint Louis native. She also hopes to achieve two minors in Women and Gender Studies and Spanish. She serves as President of Pride Alliance, UMKCʼs LGBTQIA student organization. She plans to open her own practice as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Obstetrician and Gynecology.
amanda hinman, director
Amanda Hinman is a sophomore studying sociology at UMKC and will graduate in 2017. Amanda spends her time outside of class working as a Resident Assistant on campus, serving at her parentsʼ restaurant, spending time with her sorority sisters, and volunteering with Community360. In 2013, Amanda received the Advocate award at UMKC. After graduation, Amanda hopes to move to a rainy place, with many coffee shops, in which she can change the world.
alison ayers, asst. director of volunteers
Alison Ayers is currently pursuing her Masterʼs degree in Higher Education Administration at UMKC, and will be graduating May 2014. Through her graduate assistantship, she provides support to LGBTQIA Programs and Services and Student Organizations in the Office of Student Involvement. At UMKC she has been instrumental in implementing UMKCʼs Ally Campaign, an effort to increase the visibility of LGBTQIA allies at UMKC.
caleb-michael files, director
Caleb-Michael Files is a junior Political Science and Communication Studies major. The last bio on page number 3 should read Caleb-Michael Files is a junior Political Science and Communication Studies major. He currently serves as the Director of Outreach and Marketing for MBLGTACC 2014, as well as the Treasurer for Equality Missouri, a statewide LGBT advocacy organization as well as the Political and Community Outreach Co-Chair for the Kansas City Steering Committee of the Human Rights Campaign. Caleb-Michael is a 2013 recipient of the Jim Wanser award for his commitment to equality not only at UMKC but in the greater Kansas City community. When Caleb-Michael is not busy being an all around badass, he enjoys drinking craft beer and watching futbol.
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MICHAEL D. SANDERS Jackson County Executive
Greetings: On behalf of Jackson County, I want to welcome you to the 22nd Annual Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Ally College Conference. We are proud to support this year’s conference and its mission of supporting equality for our friends in the LGBT community. Hosting this event allows us the opportunity to showcase everything our thriving and diverse community has to offer including world class restaurants, a growing arts and culture scene, wonderful museums, and most importantly, friendly and welcoming people. While you are here, I hope you are able to experience some of our great neighborhoods and attractions. Please enjoy your stay and once again, welcome to Jackson County.
Very truly yours,
Michael D. Sanders Jackson County Executive
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sponsors fortissimo level
$5,000 +
forte level
$3,000 - $4,999
mezzo piano level$500 - $1,499
piano level
$250 - $499
Brent Husher | Stuart Hinds
Pianissimo level
$50 - $249
Central Presbyterian Church Bonnie Postlethwaite Tom Green
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special thanks
From top left: jonathan pryor, brent husher, amanda hinman, tanner jaeckel, bradley cantu, roze brooks, kynslie otte, alison ayers, kalaa wilkerson
Special Thanks from MBLGTACC 2014! Joey Hill- for hand-drawing the awesome cover. The Office of Student Involvement – Angie Cottrell, Richard Monroe, LaShaundra Randolph Dean of Students, Dr. Eric Grospitch Kristi Ryujin Shelby Coxon UMKC's Alumni Association UMKC's LGBTQIA Partnership Committee Stuart Hinds and Gay and Lesbian Archives of Mid-America – for housing all of our boxes of swag. Niki "Pocket" Jenkins – for the introduction video. UMKC Athletics and Kasey the Kangaroo
Central Ticket Office, Amanda Schuster and Ross Freese Westport Huddle House and Shawnee Mission Ihopfor letting us spend countless hours in their booths for meetings. MBLGTACC 2013's Planning Team- Kate, Justin, Travis, Erica, Michelle, Bishop Kansas City Convention Center and Downtown Marriott All of our Sponsors, exhibitors, vendors, presenters and volunteers. The University of Missouri-Kansas City as a whole for supporting us through this endeavor.
And most importantly, we'd like to thank YOU. Without great student leaders representing their institutions at MBLGTACC, this conference would not have reached this level of greatness. This is an experience that is impacted by the morale and enthusiasm of the attendees and we hope you enjoy your time in Kansas City and return to future conference years.
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etiquette for inclusion MBLGTACC provides an opportunity for student leaders, higher education professionals and community members to learn and grow through the knowledge and experiences of others. Conference weekend should serve as the ultimate safe space for all attendees. Ensuring that everyone feels a sense of support and security will ease the channels of communication, and ascertain that all attendees participate in a rich dialogue with their peers. In order to achieve these goals, attendees should focus on inclusion. The LGBTQIA community has the opportunity to set an example for all communities that work toward education and social justice. Please realize and respect that the experiences, realities or perspectives of others may differ from your own. Though we understand that being challenged or evoked to reassess our own ideals can sometimes cause discomfort, this is a safe space established for education purposes. It is still a best practice to not enforce opinions or judgments on those who’s backgrounds or perspectives contradict or vary from our own. Be sure to keep an open mind. Practice good will, and assume goodwill. We are here to support and learn from one another.
Language, pronouns, and terms PGP: Preferred Gender Pronoun. Examples include she/her/his and he/him/his, as well as gender-neutral pronouns such as ze/zir/zes, they/them/theirs, etc. We encourage participants to use inclusive language and avoid derogatory language. Be aware and considerate of pronoun usage. For example, if someone prefers gender-neutral pronouns, respect their wishes and use that type of pronoun when referring to them. If you are unsure about someone’s pronoun preference, simply ask. If you make a mistake, correct yourself and apologize. For most individuals, it is not a big deal if you slip up unintentionally. Also, diverse pronoun usage may be new and confusing to some, so be patient— this is a conference centered on learning. In general, if you are unsure of a particular term, please refer to the Glossary of this program guide or Google it.
gender neutral restrooms Gender-neutral restrooms are available at the Kansas City Convention Center. Respect that the gender-neutral restrooms are for the use of anyone, no matter their sex, gender, or gender identity. Gendered restrooms are also available. If you encounter issues with restroom facilities during your conference stay, please notify a volunteer.
(dis)abilities Be respectful of people with disabilities, and forgo using words such as retard(ed), cripple, gimp, downy, special ed, lame, crazy, etc. in a derogatory way. Words like these have been used to bully and oppress individuals with differing abilities for many decades. Please consider the implications of your words and do not use these words casually. In addition, be respectful of people with mental, hearing, sight, or other invisible disabilities and/or disorders. For example, if someone doesn’t respond to you, they may not be ignoring you— they may not be able to hear you. Calmly gain their attention, be patient, and find a means of communication. Be courteous to those with limited accessibility. Don’t block ramps, unnecessarily use accessible restroom stalls/accessible seating, or be inconsiderate of people with mobility restrictions. Please be willing and prepared to move chairs to make room for people using wheelchairs. Ask and wait for a response before assisting someone who may appear in need of help. What seems helpful may be disrespectful or even unhelpful.
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service animals When you encounter someone using a service/assistance or guide dog, it is expected you do not pet, offer food to, or interact with the animal in anyway. The safety of their owner may depend on the dog’s ability to focus. You are supporting the independence provided by the service animal by not distracting them.
allergies and scent sensitivity To promote a scent-safe environment for those with allergies or sensitivities, we ask that you use scent-free products or limit/forgo excessive usage of perfumes, lotions, scented hair products, etc. while at the conference. Additionally, some people may have food allergies that are very severe, so be self-aware when eating food in workshops or public areas. Try to keep it contained, and don’t leave food lying around.
smoking The city of Kansas City has enacted a law prohibiting smoking in all indoor public places and food service establishments. This includes your hotel rooms and the Kansas City Convention Center. The law is enforced by police and is meant to provide indoor comfort for all individuals. If you do smoke, please do so outside and at least 25-feet away from public entrances. Please be aware of who may be near or downwind of you.
sexual responsibility We encourage conference attendees who engage in sexual activity to be safe and responsible. We encourage the use of condoms (including female condoms), dental dams, water or silicone-based lube, or other forms of protection. Sexual assault is defined as performing a sexual act with or on a person who has not given, denied, or is unable to give consent. Consent, in regards to sex, is the voluntary approval of a person to engage in sexual activity. A person cannot give consent if they are severely intoxicated, unconscious, asleep or severely physically/mentally disabled. It is in all parties’ interest to specifically ask or clarify consent before any sexual act. If consent from both or multiple parties is given, we encourage them to be safe and use protection to prevent HIV/AIDS, STI/STDs and/or pregnancy. If you are sexually assaulted—or if you are the partner, friend or family member of a victim—contact the Kansas City Anti-Violence Project (816-561-0550) which has a 24-hour crisis response line for the Kansas City area. KCAVP is a local organization dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA community.
anti-lgbtqia protesters With the size and visibility of MBLGTACC 2014, we could illicit attention from people who do not support our identities or our cause. Our advice is to avoid interacting with anyone who wishes to espouse negativity and ignore any provocation. If an instance occurs that seems threatening or dangerous, please notify a volunteer or employee.
netiquette We encourage everyone to connect with attendees, make new friends and consensually exchange information for contact after the conference weekend. However, please be cognizant of social media use and photography. This is a safe space and individuals may not be comfortable with being tagged in photos or other posts in an online format. Please get permission from someone before including them in public media.
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etiquette glossary We fully acknowledge that this glossary may not speak for the experiences, realities, or perspectives of all individuals. We have tried to be open-ended and inclusive while simultaneously striveing to be as descriptive and useful as possible to those this conference serves. We recognize that it is impossible to capture the full range of experiences within our community, and we encourage you to explore each of these terms in greater depth. Ally: A person whose attitudes and behaviors who challenge heterosexism, cissexism, homophobia, and transphobia, both on a personal and institutional level. Most commonly used for those whod o not identify as LGBTQIA (A in this case meaning asexual), etc.—in other words, those who identify as straight and cisgender—however, anyone can be an ally. Aromantic: One who lacks a romantic orientation or is incapable of feeling romantic attraction. Aromantics can still have a sexual orientation (e.g., “aromantic bisexual” or aromantic heterosexual”). A person who feels neither romantic nor sexual attraction is known as an aromontic asexual. Asexual/Ace: An individual who does not experience sesxual attraction. Individuals may still be emotionally, physically, romantically, and/or spiritually attracted to others, and their romantic orientation may also be LGBTQIA (A in this case meaning ally). The prefixes of homo-, hetero-, bi-, pan-, poly-, demi- and a- have been used to form terms such as heteroromantic, biromantic, homoromantic asexual, and so on. Unlike celibacy, which people choose, asexuality is intrinsic. Some asexual people do engage in sexual activity for a variety of reasons, such as a desire to please romantic partners or to have children. Bigender: Refers to those who have masculine and feminine sides to their personality. This is often a term used by cross dressers. It should not be confused with the term two-spirit, which is specifically a term used by Native Americans. Bisexual / Bi: An individual who is physically, romantically, emotionally, and/or spiritually attracted to men and women. “Bisexual erasure/ invisibility” refers to the tendency for some people to forget about those who are attracted to more than one gender. Butch: An identity or presentation that leans towards masculinity. Butch can be an adjective (“she’s a butch woman”), a verb (“he went home to butch up”), or a noun (“they identify as a butch”). Although commonly associated with masculine queer/lesbian women, it’s used by many to describe a distinct gender identity and/or expression, and does not necessarily imply that one identifies as a woman. CAFAB and CAMAB: Acronyms meaning “Coercively Assigned Female/Male at Birth.” Sometimes AFAB and AMAB (without the word “coercively”) are used instead. No one, whether cis- or trans, has a choice in the sex or gender to which they are assigned when they are born, which is why it is said to be coercive. In the rare cases in which it is necessary to refer to the birth-assigned sex of a trans person, this is they way to do it. Cisgender / Cis: A prefix of Latin origin, meaning “on the sade side (as).” Cisgender individuals have a gender identity that is aligned with their birth sex, and therefore have a self-perception and gender expression that matches behaviors and roles considered appropriate for their birth sex: for example, a person who is femininely-identified that was born female. In short, cisgender is the opposite of transgender. It is important to recognize that even if two people identify as men (one being cis and the other being trans*), they may lead very similar lives but deal with different struggles pertaining to their birth sex. Cissexism: Synonymous with transphobia, this definition is associated with negative attitudes and feelings toward transgender people, based on the expression of their internal gender identity. Cissexism is also the belief that cisgender individuals are superior to trangender people and that a cisgender lifestyle is more desirable to lead. Crip: Increasingly used to refer to a person who has a disability and embraces it, rather than feeling sorry for themselves. Historically used as a disparaging term for a person that is partially disabled or unable to use a limb or limbs. It is similar to the word queer in that it is sometimes used as a hateful slur, so although some have reclaimed it from their oppressors, be careful with its use. Cross-dressing: the act of dressing and presenting as the “opposite” binary gender. One who considers this an integral part of their identity may identify as a cross-dresser. Transvestite is an obsolete (and sometimes offensive) term with the same meaning. Cross-dressing and drag are forms of gender expression and are not necessarily tied to erotic activity, nor are they indicative of one’s sexual orientation. Do NOT use these terms to describe someone who has transitioned or intends to do so in the future. Drag: Exaggerated or theatrical gender presentation and/or performance. Although most commonly used to refer to cross-dressing performers (drag queens and drag kings), anyone of any gender can do any form of drag. Doing drag does not necessarily have anything to do with one’s sex, gender identity, or orientation. Femme: An identity or presentation that leans towards femininity. Femme can be an adjective (he’s a femmeboy”), a verb (she feels better when she femmes up”), or a noun (“they’re a femme”). Although commonly associated with feminine lesbian/queer
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women, it’s used by many to describe a distinct gender identity and/or expression, and does not necessarily imply that one identities as a woman. Gay: A common word for a man who is physically, romantically, emotionally and/or spiritually attracted to similarly-gendered individuals. It is often used in reference to anyone attracted to similarly-gendered individuals. Gender: The set of social expectations for attitude, behavior, capability, dress, gender role, profession, etc. assigned to an individual at birth, usually based on sex. These expectations vary between cultures. While gender is said to be fluid, social expectations may be rigidly-defined, and those who violate these norms may face prejudice or discrimination. Related terms: genderqueer, woman, man. Gender Binary: A system of viewing gender as consisting solely of two categories (termed woman and man) which are biologically-based (female and male) and unchangeable, and in which no other possibilities for gender or anatomy are believed to exist. This system is oppressive to anyone who defies their birth assignment, but particularly those who are gender-variant people and do not fit neatly into one of the two categories. Gender Expression/Presentation: The physical manifestation of one’s gender identity through clothing, hairstyle, voice, body shape, etc., typically referred to as feminine or masculine. Many transgender people seek to make their gender expression (how they look) match their gender identity rather than their birth-assigned sex. Gender Fluid: A general term for non-binary gender identities. This term overlaps with genderqueer and bigender, implying movement between gender identities and/or presentations. Gender Identity: One’s internal sense of being man or woman, neither of these, both, etc. Genderqueer: A general term for non-binary gender identities. Those who identify as genderqueer may identify as neither woman nor man; may see themselves as outside of the binary gender boxes; may fall somewhere between the binary genders; or may reject the use of gender labels. Genderqueer identities fall under the “trans umbrella.” Gender Non-Conforming: A term for individuals whose gender expression is different from societal expectations related to gender. GSM: Gender and Sexual Minority. This is a basic catch-all for people who are not cisgender and/or heterosexual, and is sometimes used as a shorter and more inclusive alternative to “LGBTQIA” etc. Hate Crime: Any act of intimidation, harassment, physical force or threat of physical force directed against any person, or their property, motivated either in whole or in part by hostility toward their actual or perceived age, disability, gender identity, ethnic background, race, religious/spiritual belief, sex, sexual orientation, etc. Heteroflexible: Similar to bisexual, but with a stated heterosexual preference. Sometimes characterized as being “mostly straight.” Commonly used to indicate that one is interested in heterosexual romance but is “flexible” when it comes to sex and/or play. The same concepts apply to homoflexible. Heteronormative/Heteronormativity: A culture or belief system that assumes that people fall into distinct and complementary sexes and genders and that heterosexuality is the normal sexual orientation. A heteronormative view is one that involves alignment of biological sex, sexuality, gender identity, and gender roles. sexuality, gender identity, and gender roles. Heterosexism: The assumption that all people are heterosexual and that heterosexuality is superior and more desirable than non-heterosexual identities. Heterosexism is also the stigmatization, denial and/or denigration of anything non-heterosexual. Homonormative/Homonormativity: The assimilation of heteronormative ideals and constructs into LGBTQIA culture and identity. Homonormativity upholds neoliberalism rather than critiquing monogamy, procreation, normative family social roles, and binary gender roles. It is criticized as undermining citizens’ rights and erasing the historic alliance between radical politics and gay politics, the core concern being sexual freedom. Some assert that homonormativity fragments LGBTQIA communities into hierarchies of worthiness: those that mimic heteronormative standards of gender identity are deemed most worthy of receiving rights. Individuals at the bottom of the hierarchy are seen as an impediment to this elite class of homonormative individuals receiving their rights. Because LGBTQIA activists and organizations embrace systems that endorse normative family social roles and serial monogamy, some believe that LGBTQIA people are surrendering and conforming to heteronormative behavior.
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etiquette glossary Cont. Homosexual: A person who is physically, romantically, emotionally and/or spiritually attracted to a person of the same gender. Many prefer “gay,” “lesbian,” etc. because of the term’s origins as a medical term at a time when homosexuality was considered a disorder. Inclusive Language: The use of non-identity specific language to avoid imposing limitations or assumptions on others. For example, saying “you all” instead of “you guys” in order to not impose assumptions regarding a person’s gender identity. Intersex: Describes a person whose natal physical sex is physically ambiguous. There are many genetic, hormonal or anatomical variations which can cause this (e.g. Klinefelter Syndrome, Adrenal Hyperplasia, or Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome). Parents and medical professionals usually assign intersex infants a sex and perform surgical operations to conform the infant’s body to that assignment, but this practice has become increasingly controversial as intersex adults are speaking out against having had to undergo medical procedures which they did not consent to (and in many cases caused them mental and physical difficulties later in life). The term intersex is preferred over “hermaphrodite,” an outdated term which is stigmatizing and misleading. -isms: Ableism, ageism, cissexism, classism, heterosexism, mentalism, monosexism, racism, sexism, sizism, etc. See “Phobias.” Lesbian: A femininely-identified individual who is emotionally, physically, romantically, sexually and/or spiritually attracted to femininely- identified individuals. LGBTQQIAAP: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Ally, Asexual, Pansexual (and more) communities. While the acronym may get a little exhausting, this list is not exhaustive! Monosexual/Multisexual: Umbrella terms for orientations directed towards one gender (monosexual) or many genders (multisexual). Passing: A term used by transgender people to mean that they are seen as the gender with which they self-identify. For example, a transgender man (born female) who most people see as a man. Also a term used by non-heterosexual people to mean that they are seen as or assumed to be heterosexual. Pansexual/Omnisexual: “Pan,” meaning “all.” Someone who is emotionally, physically, romantically, sexually and/or spiritually attracted to all gender identities/expressions, including those outside the gender-conforming binary. Similar to bisexual, but different in that the concept deliberately rejects the gender binary. Polysexual people are attracted to “many,” but not necessarily all, genders. Phobias: Biphobia, heterophobia, homophobia, lesbophobia, transphobia, fat-phobia, xenophobia, etc. See “-isms.” Polyamory: Having more than one intimate relationship at a time with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. It is distinct from both swinging (which emphasizes sex with others as merely recreational) and polysexuality (which is attraction towards multiple genders and/or sexes). People who identify as polyamorous typically reject the view that sexual and relational exclusivity are necessary for deep, committed, long-term loving relationships. Queer: General term for identities, presentations, and sexual orientations that reject conventions and expectations. There’s a lot of overlap between queer and trans, but not all queer people are trans, and not all trans people are queer (many trans people do in fact conform to gender norms and expectations). The word queer is still sometimes used as a hateful slur, so although many have reclaimed it from their oppressors, be careful with its use. QPOC: “Queer People Of Color” or “Queer Person Of Color.” Romantic Orientation: A person’s enduring emotional, physical, romantic and/or spiritual — but not necessarily sexual — attraction to others. Sometimes called affectional orientation. “Romantic orientation” is often used by the asexual community in lieu of “sexual orientation.” Safe Space: A place where people who identify within the LGBTQIA communities feel comfortable and secure in being who they are. In this place, they can talk about the people with whom they are involved without fear of being criticized, judged or ridiculed. Safe spaces promote the right to be comfortable in one’s living space, work environments, etc. It is focused toward the right to use the pronoun of a significant other in conversation, and the right to be as outwardly open about one’s life and activities as anyone else.
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Same-Gender Loving: A term created by the African-American community that some prefer to use instead of “lesbian,” “bisexual” or “gay” to express attraction to and love of people of the same gender. SGL is an alternative to Eurocentric homosexual identities which may not culturally affirm or engage the history and cultures of people of African descent. Sex: Sex refers to the biological traits, which include internal and external reproductive anatomy, chromosomes, hormones, and other physiological characteristics. The assignment and classification of people at birth as male or female is often based solely on external reproductive anatomy. Related terms: intersex, female, male. Sexual Orientation: A person’s enduring emotional, physical, romantic, sexual and/or spiritual attraction to others. Gender identity and sexual orientation are not the same. Trans* people can be heterosexual, gay, lesbian, pansexual, queer, etc., just like anyone else. See affectional/ romantic orientation. Stealth: Going stealth means for a trans* person to live completely as their gender identity and to pass in the public sphere; when a trans* person chooses not to disclose their trans* status to others. This can be done for numerous reasons including safety, or simply because the person doesn’t feel others have the right to know. For transexuals, going stealth is often the goal of transition. Trans*: Prefix or adjective used as an abbreviation of transgender, derived from the Greek word meaning “across from” or “on the other side of.” Many consider trans* to be an inclusive and useful umbrella term. Trans (without the asterisk) is most often applied to trans men and trans women, and the asterisk is used more broadly to refer to all non-cisgender gender identities, such as agender, cross-dresser, bigender, genderfluid, genderfuck, genderless, genderqueer, non-binary, non-gendered, third gender, trans man, trans woman, transgender, transsexual and two-spirit. Trans Woman / Trans Man: Also, transwoman and transman. Trans woman refers to a woman of transgender experience. She might actively identify herself as trans*, or she might identify as a woman and simply consider being trans part of her medical history. Some say it is better to include a space between trans and woman/man so that trans* becomes an adjective rather than an all-encompassing noun ( just as it is better to say “gay men” rather than “gays” or “a disabled person” rather than “a handicapper”). Using trans as an adjective allows trans to be simply one of many components of a person’s identity. Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex or gender they were assigned at birth, and for those whose gender expression differs from what is culturally expected of them. The term transgender is not indicative of sexual orientation, hormonal makeup, physical anatomy, or how one is perceived in daily life. Transition: The complex process of leaving behind one’s coercively assigned birth sex. Transition can include: coming out to one’s family, friends, and/or co-workers; changing one’s name and/or sex on legal documents; hormone therapy; and possibly (though not always) some form of surgery. It’s best not to assume that someone will “complete” this process at any particular time: an individual’s transition is finished when they are finally comfortable with how their gender identity is aligned with their body, and may not include going through all of the aforementioned steps. Transsexual: Similar to transgender in that it indicates a conflict between one’s gender identity and sex assigned at birth, but with implications of hormonal/surgical transition from one binary sex to the other. Unlike transgender, transsexual is not an umbrella term, as many transgender people do not identify as transsexual. “MTF” indicates a person who has or intends to transition in some way from Mate-to-Female; “FTM” indicates a person who has or intends to transition from Female-to-Male. Two-Spirit: A contemporary term that references historical multiple gender traditions in many First Nations cultures. These individuals were sometimes viewed in certain tribes as having two spirits occupying one body; two-spirit indicates a person whose body simultaneously manifests both a masculine and a feminine spirit. Many Native/First Nations people who are LGBTQIA or gender non-conforming identify as Two-Spirit; in many Nations, being Two-Spirit carries both great respect and additional commitments and responsibilities to one’s community.
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UMKC celebrates 10 years of
LGBTQIA Programs and Services celebrates 10 years of dedication and advocacy for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual and ally students this year. Though this acronym may seem long and overwhelming to some, UMKC’s history of pride and progress has paved the way for the success of not only the decade-old resource center, but for underrepresented students across campus. The LGBTQIA Resource center, The Rainbow Lounge, boasts an expansive array of reading and study space. Orchestrating the center and all related “Forty years ago, I could have never imagined that we would have such an inclusive environment for our LGBTQIA students,” said Jim Wanser, associate director of Counseling, Health and Testing Services. “While we still have students that come from families and communities that are judgmental and not supported, they soon learn that when they come to UMKC, they are expected, welcomed and find community.” Wanser is one of few individuals at UMKC that remembers a time before programs for the LGBT community existed, especially in 1975 when Wanser became open on campus about his sexuality. “While there were various student support groups that formed throughout the 70s and 80s, Pride Alliance became the first recognized
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events on campus is a university position many campuses are fighting to acquire: Coordinator of LGBTQIA Programs and Services. This position, held by Jonathan Pryor, serves as the primary voice in the Office of Student Involvement, and the University, for keeping the LGBTQIA community prominent at UMKC. Events during Welcome Week brought a colorful set of programming, including Drag Queen Karaoke and an Ice Cream Social. T-shirts and a promotional “10-Years” logo aimed to reel incoming students into the celebration.
However, 10 years of LGBTQIA Programs and Services is just a small sampling of a rich University history of struggle, visibility and acceptance. Generations of UMKC faculty, staff and students have built a secure for the present and future, many never anticipating the University’s LGBT-friendly reputation. Scaling through the monochromatic pages of UMKC’s LGBT history, the facts clearly display a campus of growth and value.
Blast from the past: Celebrating from the Starting Line
1970s Gay Rights demonstrators.
student organization for gays and lesbians,” he said. Wanser served as the faculty adviser to the Gay and Lesbian Student Alliance, an LGBT organization co-founded in 1990 by Jim Giles, Reese Isbell, Julie Riddle and JJ’s restaurant explosion victim Megan Cramer.
U-News coverage of first LGBT organization at UMKC.
Photo // Kynslie Otte
Stuart Hinds, director of special collections and Pride Alliance co-advisor, oversees the Gay and Lesbian Archives of Mid-America in the Miller Nichols Library. Though most of Hinds’ duties involve collecting items to preserve Kansas City’s LGBT history, he’s
Photo // Kynslie Otte
also lived through much of it during his time at UMKC. “I came to this school in 1980 as an 18-year-old undergraduate,” Hinds said. “And there was no mention of L, G, B, or T at all. I mean, it was completely invisible.” Hinds explained several factors contributing to the ongoing development of the LGBT presence on UMKC’s campus. Then, the topic was considered taboo. There wasn’t as much of a presence or interest and it was much more of a commuter school then than it is today. Hinds reflected on how impressed he is with how far UMKC has come in just the span of his one adult life. “It just wasn’t visible like it is now,” Hinds said. “And to me, one of the most important things that resulted from the University’s support of this effort is just visibility. LGBT students coming in now know their options, and they can take advantage or not. It’s their choice, but those options are there.” However, support from the University hasn’t always been an identifiable sentiment. Opinions of the LGBT community were quite clear throughout the 70s when the UM Board of Curators were making statements encouraging identifying students to “seek medical treatment for the medical illness of homosexuality” and fearing they would enable “others who are similarly ill and abnormal” to share their sexual orientations. Within the same year, the board rejected proposals
for organizational status from LGBT groups at both UMKC and Mizzou. UMKC’s student group has been formed as early as 1971, but their attempts as recognition were foiled. A lawsuit was filed by members of the organizations in a case called Gay Lib et al, v. University of Missouri. The 8th District Court of Appeals ruled in favor
Stuart Hinds, founder of the GLAMA archives. Photo // Mal Hartigan
of the students, requiring the University to provide official recognition to LGBT student groups. Many petitions for appeal were submitted by the University system but were denied by the Supreme Court, forcing the decision of the lower court to be upheld. Through this newly acquired support, the first LGBT organization was officiated in 1978. However, this group still had hurdles in its attempt to be visible on campus and dissipated until 1990 when the Gay and Lesbian Student Alliance was established. As the student first group evolved, the acceptance and diversity on campus grew.
LGBTQIA Programs & Services The first official LGBT student group at UMKC was called “The Gay People’s Union”. In the ‘90s, it was the Gay and Lesbian Alliance, which was renamed the Queer Alliance, and finally the Pride Alliance, which is the still the name of the official LGBT student group today. “I can’t believe it’s been ten years,” Hinds said. “It’s changed a lot since then. You know, when I first came it was over in the ground floor of what’s now the Student Success Center— but it was the Student Union at that point—tucked back
in a corner, kind of hidden. And now, again, it’s much more visible. Of course, a lot of that has to do with the new building, but it’s more prominent.” The changes Hinds has witnessed range from the attitude toward LGBT issues to the location of their organization’s gathering places. Today, LGBTQIA Programs and Services is located in the Office of Student Involvement in the Student Union next to the Rainbow Lounge in Room 325, which is a safe space for any student believing in UMKC’s core values:
Each year, the Pride Empowerment Scholarship Breakfast raises thousands of dollars for students whose financial stability suffered after coming out to family, or other extenuating circumstances. In addition to this emergency fund, UMKC offers two other LGBT specific scholarships. One is housed through the College of Arts and Sciences and focuses on student’s personal accomplishments. However, the newest scholarship, the LGBTQIA Leadership Scholarship, was awarded for the first time this semester. The funds for this scholarship stem from an interesting source: ChickFil-A. At the suggestion of
Chick-Fil-A on campus, operated by Sodexo. After the announcement of this scholarship at last year’s Lavender Graduation, an award ceremony for LGBTQIA students and graduates, the scholarship was endowed, ensuring its accessibility for years to come. Few colleges provide official campus programming groups for the LGBT community. The New York Times covered this in a January article called “Generation LGBTQIA.” UMKC was mentioned as one of these colleges providing an LGBTQIA Resource Center along with many other resources such as gender-neutral restrooms on campus. UMKC is
Vice Chancellor Mel Tyler, this award was created out of funding funneled into the University through the
continually being recognized for efforts in the LGBTQIA community as a whole. In 2011, Newsweek
1977 Columbia Daily Tribune, front page.
diversity, inclusiveness and respect. Members of Pride Alliance, LGBTQIA students and allies alike are all welcome to come and
Hinds said. “Because with that recognition comes the ability to coalesce and chip away at those smaller things, like gender-neutral housing or preferred name policy or same sex benefits on the staff and faculty side. So I really think that’s your biggest hurdle, and then that provides the venue through which you work to implement additional change.”
Photo // Kynslie Otte
relax or socialize. “I think the biggest hurdle is just getting the recognition of the student group,”
Painting the Future: Sharing the Safe Space ranked UMKC the 5th most LGBT-friendly campus in the country. “It’s an amazing story,” Hinds said. “I mean, it’s really, really something. The language from the Board of Curators and representatives at the University was just harsh and ugly and hateful.And what I find really interesting now, 33 years later, is that it’s as unthinkable to not have an LGBTQIA Programs and Services Office as it is to not have a Women’s Center or to not have an Office of Multicultural Affairs. It’s so integrated and people are so conscious of this particular minority group that you just wouldn’t dream of not having services to provide for that population. It would have had to have happened somewhere. “It’s just interesting that it happened in Missouri.” In February 2014, UMKC will host the largest LGBTA regional college conference in the country. The Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Ally College Conference is expected to bring in more than 2,300 LGBTQIA identified students for a weekend of workshops, keynote speakers and networking. Janet Mock and Robyn Ochs are already listed as presenters at the event. Running for its 22nd
consecutive year, this will be the first time the conference will be held in Missouri. Although UMKC is making a name for itself, Wanser believes there is more that can be done. “We have an excellent LGBT Coordinator and
Illustrations // Joey Hill
many great activities, but do we have a stand-alone entity? That was the original intent of creating the LGBT Office and coordinator position,” he said commenting on the current position being housed in OSI. Wanser believes progression on campus would benefit specifically from more services being provided for the transgender community and from diversity-based groups garnering more LGBT students in its membership, and finally, eliminating institutionalized debate about LGBT students on campus. “The legitimacy of who we are as a community
should no longer be part of our academic debate” he said. Hate is hate. Oppression is oppression no matter how it is framed.” The climate for LGBTQIA students at UMKC has come a long way since 1975 and continues to evolve. An LGBTQIA Partnership Committee comprised of approximately 20 members from each facet of campus serves a similar charge as the Diversity in Action group Wanser was involved with 10 years ago. A climate study will be circulated throughout campus this semester to gather real statistics about student’s experiences on campus with LGBTQIA issues. Laverne Cox of Orange is the New Black has been announced as the Pride Keynote speaker sponsored by the Division of Diversity, Access and Equity. And the Martha Jane Starr Foundation has granted funds for programming in March 2014 for a speaker and breakout sessions revolving the topic of LGBTQI families to be held at UMKC. “Think of the future,” Wanser said, “When one’s sexual orientation or gender identity has no merit of conversation because it has been fully accepted as the normal that it is.”
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schedule of events friday 12:00p-8:00p Registration 5:00p-5:45p Opening 5:45p-6:45p Heartland Men’s Chorus 7:00p-8:30p Keynote 1: Chely Wright 8:45p-9:45p Workshop Session 1 10:00p-11:30p Entertainment: Katie Wirsing and Andrea Gibson
Identity forums: 8:45p-9:45p Polyamory Forum, (Dis)ability Forum
Saturday 8:00a-12:00p Registration 8:00a-9:00a Workshop Session 2 10:00a-6:00p Exhibitor Fair 9:15a-10:15a Workshop Session 3 10:30a-12:00p Keynote Session 2: Rob Smith 12:00p-1:15p Lunch 1:15p-2:30p State/Regional Caucuses & Advisor Keynote: Shane Windmeyer 2:45p-6:30p Oversight Committee Meeting 2:45p-3:45p Workshop Session 4 & Round Table Discussions 4:00p-5:00p Sexual Identity Forums 5:00p-6:30p Dinner 6:30p-8:00p Keynote 3: Janet Mock 8:15p-9:15p Workshop Session 5 & Spoken Word Showcase: J Mase III 9:30p-11:45p Drag Show & Dance
Identity forums: 8:00a-9:00a Military Forum, Body Image Forum 9:15a-10:15a Trans* Forum 2:45p-3:45p Greek Forum
sunday 8:00a-9:00a Workshop Session 6 9:15a-10:15a Workshop Session 7 10:30a-12:00p Keynote 4: Kara Laricks, Voice and Action Award Announcement 12:00p-1:00p Closing
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Identity forums: 8:00a-9:00a Spirituality Forum, Genderqueer Forum 9:15a-10:15a BDSM Forum
advisor tract MBLGTACC 2014 believes that advisers and higher education professionals are integral to the success and progress of LGBTQIA student leaders on campus. That’s why we’ve created a special tract of workshops, keynote and a social event to show you how much we appreciate the support and guidance you give. While everyone is welcome to attend these sessions, and inversely all advisers are welcome to attend any sessions offered throughout the weekend, the topics listed for this tract are geared towards LGBTQIA experiences in the classroom, on campus and in higher education.
friday 8:45p-9:45p Worskhop Session 1: Gayming The Classroom Life As We Know It
Saturday 8:00a-9:00a Workshop Session 2: Advising LGBT Student Groups Being a Queer Teacher 101 9:15a-10:15a Workshop Session 3: Leading by Creating Culture and Vision Getting The Most Out of Advising Talking Trans* 1:15p-2:30p Keynote: Shane Windmeyer, Executive Director of Campus Pride: “To Ask or Not to Ask: LGBT Identity Optional Demographic Questions on National Research and College Forms” 2:45p-3:45p Workshop Session 4: Allies in the Classroom 8:00p-11:00p Advisor Social: 12th Street Room in the main Marriott Lobby
sunday 8:00a-9:00a Workshop Session 6: Bullying and LGBT Suicide 9:15a-10:15a Workshop Session 7: Opening the Toolbox
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advisor tract workshops Gaming the Classroom: Use of queer-made video games in gender and sexuality classrooms 1
Room 2102A
How can video games be used to help students in gender and sexuality studies empathize with people who might be radically different than themselves? Traditionally, video games have been limited to telling the stories of predominantly heterosexual men due to assumptions about the audience. However, a queer trans game designer vanguard has emerged creating independent games to tell their own stories. This workshop demonstrates the use of these queer-made autobiographical video games in the classroom to place students in the first-person role of the queer subject, experiencing the lives and struggles of the games’ creators for themselves.
Presented by Autumn Nichole Bradley, Univeristy of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Advising LGBT Student Groups 3
Room 2102A
Life as we know it: LGBTQA Professionals Networking and Dialogue 2
Room 2102B
This session will be an opportunity to meet and interact with other LGBTQA Professionals working in Higher Education. The session will start with an introductory activity, and transform into a dialogue about the benefits and challenges of doing work we are passionate about, committed to, the blessings and benefits as well as provide an opportunity to share the challenges, frustrations and impact of our work in our lives and on our campuses, as LGBTQA professionals. Sharing our experiences and visions can facilitate networking and collaboration among professionals in a field where we are often “the” LGBTQA professional” on our campuses.
Presented by Pat Tetreault, University of Nebraska Lincoln
Being a Queer Teacher 101 4
Room 2102B
This is a workshop for faculty and staff advisers of LGBTQIA student groups and alliances. This is intended to be a facilitated open discussion that will address issues raised by participants. This session is designed for advisers to share the issues, questions and ideas they have for supporting strong campus groups.
Being a gay teacher is tough. Depending on the district, city and state you teach in, being fired for coming out is a true risk. That said, there is massive potential to support and enlighten gay and straight students. This workshop will scratch at the surface of the rights, responsibilities and challenges of LGBTQ educators. We’ll cover some real life examples, share resources and eat cookies!
Presented by William A. Mirola, Marian University
Presented by Blair Mishleau, Hamline University
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Talking Trans*: Navigating trans* identities in the classroom 5
Room 2102B
Getting the Most Out of Advising 6
Room 2102A
This workshop offers a closer look at how to navigate a trans* identity in the classroom. Participants will learn language tools that can be used to create safe spaces for trans* people. In addition, extra attention will be given to how teachers and classroom leaders can make their classrooms more trans* friendly: both through respective language and through taking action. Previous knowledge or experience is recommended, but not required.
New to advising an LGBTQA organization or center? This session is for any adviser who is looking for guidance on how to advise. Advising isn’t often taught— we learn advising by example. Sometimes those examples aren’t great, or we are advising in a whole new context. A dynamic team of a current student leader and adviser will share a model for great advising behaviors, practical take-away resources to use with a student group, and their own personal anecdotes of how to make the relationship productive and fun for both parties.
Allies in the Classroom
Presented by Robert Alberts and Jill Benson, Illinois State University
Presented by Benjamin Paul, Hamline University
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Room 2105
Since the mid-twentieth century, gay bars have served as one of the few and best known places of support for members of the queer community, and for many drinking and bars have become a part of queer culture. At the same time, research shows up to 25 percent of the queer community abuses drugs and alcohol--compared to only 5-10 percent in the general population. Why are these rates so high, and what can we do about it? Join us for a brief history on the ties between the alcohol industry and the queer community and discussion on what we can do next.
Presented by Mitchell and Megan Villegas, Ohio University
Opening the Toolbox: How to Use Your Story to Help Students 9
Bullying and LGBT Suicide: A Deadly Combination 8
Room 2503A
This presentation is full of facts and latest data specifically on LGBT suicide. This presentation is geared towards all audiences and helps the attendee understand the warning signs and general risks of suicide, identify factors that increase suicide in the LGBT population, identify ways to help reduce suicide, and list the protective factors against LGBT suicide.
Presented by Dr. Ron Holt, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and Kaiser Permanente
Room 2504B
How can we use our overlapping identities and personal narratives to guide students? What’s in our toolbox for engaging in these conversations? This session offers discussion and skill-building around the function of storytelling when working with students who share our identities or experiences.
Presented by Ellie Hail, University of Northern Iowa
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Entertainment
heartland men’s chorus friday • february 7th • 5:45 pm
ROOM 3501
Heartland Men’s Chorus is Kansas City’s 150-voice gay men’s chorus, singing out in the Midwest since 1986. HMC presents an annual three-concert season in Kansas City with seven mainstage performances at their performing home, the beautiful, historic Folly Theater in downtown Kansas City to an annual audience of more than 7,000. Recently, the Chorus debuted at the new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts to record-breaking audiences.
When I Knew is the fifth in HMC’s series of musical documentaries, an original program format created by former artistic director Dr. Joseph P. Nadeau that combines choral music, narration and visuals to confront societal issues relevant to the LGBT community. The Kansas City and Denver premieres of the program were narrated by Dan Savage, co-founder of the It Gets Better Project. Past programs have included And Justice for All (music of civil rights movements for women, African Americans, and LGBT rights--2009); The Pink Carpet (gays and lesbians in Hollywood and portrayal of LGBT people in film—2007) narrated by Leslie Jordan; All God’s Children (LGBT people and communities of faith--2005) narrated by the Rev. Dr. Mel White, founder of Soulforce; and The Few, The Proud (gays and lesbians in the U.S. Military—2003) narrated by Col. Margrethe Cammermeyer. More information about the Chorus, its programs and recordings is available on their website: hmckc.org.
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Keynote speaker
CHely wright
friday • february 7th • 10:00 pm
ROOM 3501
In the midst of a tumultuous political climate that has incited polarizing debates about the civil rights of the LGBT community, the 2011 documentary “Wish Me Away” was released to film festivals and won awards in Nashville, Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City. June 2012 marked the release of the film in theaters as well as on all cable carriers and iTunes. The film documents both the public and very private moments of Chely’s life as she bravely chose to risk all that was important to her – family, relationships, career, success, fans and image - to live her authentic life. The documentary charts her pursuit and rise to fame in Nashville, a hidden network of secrets and lies, her emotional unraveling and eventual rebirth. Chely Wright’s soul-searching has led to many rewards. The newly-minted LGBT role model serves as the national spokesperson for the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and speaks out against school bullying. Wright believes “that to whom much is given, much is required.I have lived a very blessed life and I know what it feels like to achieve goals. I want to do my part in helping others have as many opportunities to have milestones in their lives too.” Wright also founded The LIKE ME® Organization, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance, resources and education to LGBT individuals and their family & friends. LIKE ME® recently opened The Lighthouse, an education and community center for gay youth in Kansas City, MO.
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Workshop Session 1 friday • february 7th • 8:45 - 9:45 pm featured panel
jazzin’ it up jim wanser
brian ellison
jim giles
airick leonard-west
Accomplishments in Our Community 1
Room 1501B
In observance of the conference theme, Jazzin’ It Up, this panel aims to discuss some of the most prominent accomplishments for the LGBTQIA community to date. Surveying a wide array of topics including academia, spirituality, media, politics, sexual identity, youth, and more, each panelist will offer insight from their respective fields. Facilitated by KCUR personality Rev. Brian Ellison, panelists will discuss intersecting topics that have led to the monumental changes for the LGBTQIA community. Attendees will gain an understanding of how accomplishments were achieved and what current activity is paving the way for more accomplishments.
Presented by Jim Wanser, Robyn Ochs, Airick Leonard West, Jim Giles, facilitated by Brian Ellison.
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robyn ochs
featured presenter
randall jenson friday • february 7th • 8:45pm
Virtually Queer: Blogging Your Truth for the Masses 2
Room 2103B
This workshop will feature bloggers Zach Stafford, H. Alan Scott and Randall Jenson, who all contribute regularly to The Huffington Post, Thought Catalog and other popular online media. These panelists will read selections from their most popular writings and provide helpful tips and strategies to college students interested in branding their writing and diving into the world of queer media and blogging. The workshop will also focus on the benefits, dangers and troubles of maintaining your queer identity online.
Presented by Randall Jenson, H. Alan Scott, and Zach Stafford Social Scope
Randall Jenson is the Executive Director of SocialScope Productions, an award-winning multimedia non-profit focused on LGBTQ and gender documentaries. He also is the LGBTQ Youth Advocate at Safe Connections, a St. Louis anti-violence organization addressing intimate-partner violence and serving youth affected by trauma. Randall created the Memories of Violence multimedia project, collecting individual stories from LGBTQ survivors of violence, as well as the 50Faggots web series, which documents the lives of self-identified effeminate gay men in the U.S. At seventeen, he was a national speaker at the ACLU Membership Conference in Washington D.C., been featured on The Oprah Show, and awarded the “Youth Impact Award” by the National Youth Advocacy Coalition. His ethnographic approach in 50Faggots was recognized by the Association for Queer Anthropology as “outstanding anthropological work” in 2010. Randall is honored to serve on the board of The Breathe Network , a resource and referral network that educates survivors of sexual violence and the general public about holistic approaches to healing and connects survivors to healing arts practitioners who offer trauma-informed services.
You can follow Randall through his blogs at The Huffington Post, Twitter @randall_jenson and visit his projects at www.socialscopeonline.com and www.50Faggots.com.
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session 1 cont. friday • february 7th • 8:45 - 9:45 pm featured presenter
Struby Struble
Struby Struble is a graduate from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor Degree in English. Since her graduation in 2004, she has lived abroad in Spain, worked in the Department of Student Life at the University of Missouri in various positions, and played semi-professional soccer in San Francisco, CA. She is currently the Coordinator of the MU LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) Resource Center, and gives trainings on all manner of LGBTQ Issues, including but not limited to Safe Space Training, Coming Out Issues, and Transgender Identity Basics. She has also trained on Feminism, Gender, Body Image, Media Influence, Why Diversity Matters, and Intersectionality.
Where Feminism Fits 3
Room 2101
Join Struby Struble, University of Missouri LGBTQ Resource Center Coordinator and proud feminist, for an interactive session on how and where feminism can fit into the LGBTQIA community’s movement(s) and activism(s). We’ll debunk stereotypes, discuss prominent feminist issues, and define different forms of feminism.
Presented by Struby Struble, University of Missouri - Columbia
Creating Safe(r) Zones: Learn How to Launch A Safe Zone Program 4
Room 1501A
Learn how to develop a Safe Zone Program in this interactive workshop. Topics that will be addressed include developing a common language, assessment, resource packets, role play activities and the history of the Safe Zone program. Resource packets will be provided to participants offering materials to start designing their own program. The goal of the workshop is to empower people to develop programs that fit their specific needs, abilities and communities.
Presented by Dr. Wendy Weinhold and Sarah Self, Southern Illinois University
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Football Fairies and Drag Queen Gear Heads: Intersections of Masculinity and Sexuality 5
Room 1501C
“Masc 4 Masc ONLY” - “Straight Acting” - “NO FEMS” What does this all really mean? Where has the obsession with masculinity in the GBT community come from? What makes a person masculine or straight acting? Come learn a little and talk a lot about the intersection of masculinity and sexuality in today’s culture. Vegas Rules apply, what is said here stays here, what is learned here leaves here.
Presented by Barry Closser, Missouri University of Science and Technology
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2 3 4 5 6 7
friday • february 7th • 8:45 - 9:45 pm
Minorities Within The Minority: Exploring the Experiences of Ethnic Minorities Within the LGBTQ Community 6
Room 2502A
Mainstream narratives that dominate media and public discourse focus on White, middle class America and often ignore or de-emphasize diversity within the LGBTQ community. This panel will feature individuals whose ethnic minority identities intersect with their LGBTQ identities to make them minorities within a minority. The panelists will share their stories and reflect on the ways their multiple identities shape their daily lives.
Presented by Gaby Rodriguez and Quinton Neal, Southern Illinois University
Love Thy Neighbor: Making the Christian Case for LGBTQI Justice 8
Room 2503A
As the LGBTQ movements gain more acceptance and visibility, conversations about religion and sexuality have become more public. This tension can be seen in a variety of places, including college campuses. This workshop will cover christian scripture and sexual ethics and equip Christian and Non-Christian LGBTQ activists alike with the vocabulary and skills to build coalition with Christian communities.
Rainbows and Reslife 7
Room 2502B
Living in a Residence Hall can be challenging for students. It can be especially challenging for LGBTQA students. Often times the needs of LGBTQA students are forgotten and programming efforts take on a heteronormative tone. This can leave LGBTQA students feeling left out and make their living environment less than enjoyable. This session will examine how to include LGBTQA students in programing efforts and make for a more inclusive environment. Topics will range from Reslife specific examples to campus wide examples. Anyone and everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Come learn how to add a little more rainbow to your campus!
Presented by Sam Zeitner, University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Polyamory Forum 9
Room 2503B
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among polyamorous identified individuals. It is requested that attendees of this self-facilitated discussion posses a specific connection to this identity. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Self facilitated
Presented by Asher Kolieboi, Vanderbilt Divinity School, and Brian G. Murphy, GLSEN
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Session 1 Cont. friday • february 7th • 8:45 - 9:45 pm
“Born this Way”: Hurtful or Helpful? 10
Room 2504A
This workshop looks toward the future of queer activism and social change by exploring the culturally prominent “born this way” defense of queer identity. As scholarly and queer communities have increasingly recognized the complex interaction between the biological, social and psychological factors working to shape people’s changing identities, the mainstream message has remained the same. Discussion will revolve around theoretical problems with the popular framing of the debate around “born this way” vs. “it’s a choice” argumentation, as well as positive and negative implications of this over-simplification of the origins of orientation.
Presented by Zak Forde, University of Minnesota Morris
Lobbying isn’t a 4-letter word 12
Room 2505A
No matter where you live, communicating with elected officials is essential to creating and changing legislation and policy. This workshop will focus on best practices and suggestions for successfully working with elected local, state and federal officials. These tactics can also be applied to advocating for change on campus. No matter if you’re a rookie or a repeat activist who knows their stuff, this workshop covers all levels of engagement. Come learn how fun and effective these conversations can be.
Presented by Stephanie Perkins, PROMO
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(Dis)ability Forum 11
Room 2504B
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among LGBTQIA individuals living with disabilities. It is requested that attendees of this self-facilitated discussion posses a specific connection to this identity. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Self facilitated
Camp Pride: A How to Panel 13
Room 2505B
In this student facilitated panel attendees will learn about Camp Pride, a summer leadership camp for LGBTQ and allied student leaders coordinated by Campus Pride. Panelists will discuss applying, finding funding, preparing for camp, the experience, transitioning to post-camp life, and implementing what campers learn onto their own campus.
Presented by Sam Walburn, Purdue University, Bridget Venard, Notre Dame, and Joleen Kavaliauskas, William Patterson University
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2 3 4 5 6 7
friday • february 7th • 8:45 - 9:45 pm
Trans* 101 14
Room 2104
Luke Harness & Daniel English are two trans* men from the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area interested in providing more information for the LGB and allied facets of the community. This presentation will describe what it means to be transgender, and how you can be a better trans* ally. It will also include how to appropraitely use trans*-inclusive language. Luke & Daniel will be sharing their experiences of coming out/being out as transgender in the KCMO area. This workshop is intended for people who are allies or who may identify with other facets of the LGBT community, but do not know much about what it means to be trans*, want to know more about how they can be better allies to, and advocate for trans* folks.
Presented by Daniel English, University of Kansas, and Luke Harness, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Money Matters: Intro to LGBT Student Group Finance 15
Room 2105
Being a treasurer of a student organization can be an added burden to an already stressful college experience. It can be especially stressful for someone with minimal financial experience. This workshop will present the basics of organizational finance in a college environment and will offer an opportunity to learn how other organizations operate. This workshop is designed for current/future treasurers and other leaders within an LGBT student group who want to learn about effectively spending money, fund raising ideas, on/offcampus collaboration, and more!
Presented by Mike Theodore, Northern Illlinois University
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entertainment
katie wirsing & andrea gibson friday • february 7th • 10:00 pm
Katie Wirsing
Firmly believing the mouth is a speakerbox to whatever makes your heart sing most; Katie has opera lungs and a getaway car for anyone willing to pick up and move forward. Never afraid of the difficult truths, Katie has toured her way to stages around the world speaking on issues from gender, love, sexuality, and spirituality to jellowrestling and her Grandmother’s love of hot dogs. Member of the 2006 National Poetry Slam Championship team and Denver representative at the Women of the World Poetry Slam, Katie’s work has been featured on college campuses across the country, NPR, the BBC, and countless local radio stations. She performed as the opening act for the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, and Aquagirl, a queer women’s festival, as well as being the poetic voice on a national commercial.
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ROOM 3501
Andrea Gibson
Andrea Gibson is not gentle with her truths. It is this raw fearlessness that has led her to the forefront of the spoken word movement– the first winner of the Women’s World Poetry Slam –Gibson has headlined prestigious performance venues coast to coast with powerful readings on war, class, gender, bullying, white privilege, sexuality, love, and spirituality. Her work has been featured on the BBC, Air America, C-SPAN, Free Speech TV and in 2010 was read by a state representative in lieu of morning prayer at the Utah State Legislature. Now, on her fifth full-length album FLOWER BOY and her second book THE MADNESS VASE, Gibson’s poems continue to be a rally cry for action and a welcome mat at the door of the heart’s most compassionate room.
AT THE HEART OF THIS GREAT CITY...
You’ll find a vibrant community and a university focused on equality.
UMKC is ranked by Newsweek among the nation’s top gay-friendly college campuses. It’s a badge we wear with pride!
Workshop Session 2 Saturday • february 8th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
featured presenter
Robyn Ochs Robyn Ochs is an educator, speaker and workshop leader, activist, and the editor of the 42-country anthology Getting Bi: Voices of Bisexuals Around the World and the Bi Women quarterly. She has taught courses on LGBT history & politics in the United States, the politics of sexual orientation, and the experiences of those who transgress binary categories of identity. An advocate for the rights of people of ALL orientations and genders to live safely, openly, and with full legal equality, Robyn’s work focuses on increasing awareness and understanding of complex identities, and mobilizing people to be powerful allies to one another within and across identities and social movements. www. robynochs.com
Beyond Binaries: Identity and Sexuality 16
2103A
This program explores the landscape of sexual orientation, and how we “map” sexual orientation. No two people are exactly alike. Given that, how do we assign labels to our complicated and unique experiences? In this interactive workshop we will conduct an anonymous survey of those present, and we will look at the data. Where do we fall on the sexuality continuum? How do we label? In this fun and interactive program we explore different experiences of identity; the complexity of attraction and more.
Presented by Robyn Ochs Please Note this workshop runs 8-10:15am
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1
2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am Featured Workshops
Randall Jenson, J MAse III Queering Violence: Conversations about IPV and Sexual Violence in LGBTQ Communities 16
1501B
This interactive workshop, created by SocialScope Productions, uses multimedia clips from their “Memories of Violence” project, featuring stories from LGBTQ survivors of violence. Randall Jenson, Executive Director of SocialScope, as well as Jessica Farmer, the Youth Outreach Coordinator at the Kansas City Anti-Violence Project will presents this workshop for queer students and allies to understand the ongoing struggle on how we see and name violence on queer sexuality, bodies and spaces. This workshop has previously been hosted at the 2013 Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence Conference, by Brown’s School of Social Work at Washington University was awarded “outstanding student affairs program” by DePaul University in Chicago.
Presented by Randall Jenson , Social Scope, and Jessica Farmer, KCAVP Please Note this workshop runs 8-10:15am
Queering Disability 18
1501A
What is “normal?” It’s a word that’s been thrown at GLBTQAI and disabled folks alike, as we are told that our experiences are abnormal, weird or just wrong. In this workshop, we’re going to try to take back the normal by exploring how ‘queering’ the concept of disability can offer another understanding of disabled experiences and the disabled/able dichotomy, and what ramifications this has for where disabled folks fit in the GLBTQAI community.
Presented by Kate Loftur-Thun and Alex Anderson, Grinnell College
Even my Poems are Revolutionary 17
2502A
Performance poetry is a powerful vehicle for social justice. In just a few minutes time, a poet has the power to educate their audience on a new topic, make them sympathize with another’s struggle and/or give them an opportunity to laugh as part of a communal experience. This workshop will serve as a platform for participants to focus on creating one or more works that will speak to the movements they wish to build. Using movement, voice and writing exercises workshop members will be asked to think creatively about how to present social justice issues to an audience.
Presented by J Mase III
Coming Out and Coming Home: Homelessness in the Queer Youth Community 19
1501C
Professional estimates suggest the percentage of homeless youth who identify as LGB and/or T is between twenty and forty percent. Participants in this workshop will hear stories from the presenter’s work in housing justice in San Francisco, along with enough background information to serve as context. At the end, participants who have been touched by homelessness will be invited to share their stories. This workshop is geared toward youth who are homeless, formerly homeless, or facing homelessness, but it is open to anyone. What affects one of us affects us all.
Presented by Tobias Gurl, The Eviction Defense Collaborative
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Session 2 Cont.
Saturday • february 8th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
Body Image Forum 20
2502B
Join Theo and Joel for a facilitated discussion focusing on body positivity! The discussion will range from body positivity in relation to the LGBTQ community, pressure from the media and society, strategies for loving your body, and potential actions we can take. The discussion leaders will share their own experiences with body image issues, but focus the program on discussion and audience participation.
Presented by Theo Tushaus and Joel Dalton
Getting the Most Out of my Advisor 22
2503B
New to LGBTQA student leadership or trying to figure out how to work with the adviser to your student group or director of your LGBTQA center? This session is for any student who wants to get inside the head of their adviser, understand why the adviser does certain things, or remedy a student/adviser relationship that has deteriorated. A dynamic team of a current student leader and adviser will share guiding principles for a great advising relationship, practical take-away resources, and their own personal anecdotes of how to make the relationship productive and fun!
Presented by Robert Alberts and Jill Benson, Illinois State University
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Gender Variant Judaism 21
2503A
Welcome to all Jewish, and Jew-adjacent, people that want to learn about the history of trans* and intersex individuals within a Jewish context. We’ll be analyzing mishnah, language and the current trend of queering Jewish ritual.
Presented by Wolfgang Davidson, Kent State University
Trans* and Greek?: A Practical Discussion about Gender within Fraternities and Sororities 23
2504A
While fraternities and sororities offer their members many opportunities for personal growth and community involvement, the structure and traditions of many Greek letter organizations can be alienating for trans* and gender non-conforming students. This session will not only provide a space for discussion of these issues, but also give student activists realistic steps they can take towards creating a queer-friendly Greek system.
Presented by Samuel Teeple, Eastern Michigan University
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2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
The History of Queer Fandom: From Star Trek to Tumblr 24
2504B
This workshop provides a historical overview of queer fandoms. It explores the beginnings of slash fiction with Star Trek, the reading of “subtext” in televisions and films after, and how the introduction of the Internet changed how we interact with other queer fans. We’ll touch on issues like “queer baiting,” and also, whether Xena and Gabrielle were really together or not.
Presented by Cassie Peurala, Depaul University
Military Forum 26
2505B
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among individuals who have been involved with military life. It is requested that attendees of this facilitated discussion posses a specific connection to this identity. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Presented by Rob Smith
I Spilled Gay on My Ad 25
2505A
The LGBT community is a group sometimes targeted by advertisers, and they do that by featuring LGBT ideas and themes in the ads. But what if those ads were shown to everyone? Would it matter if a heterosexual couple in an ad was replaced with a gay couple? An undergraduate research project was conducted to understand the effectiveness of advertising using different LGBT themes to the general population of the Midwest.
Presented by Rachel Willson, South Dakota State University
Queer Buddies: Starting a Mentoring Program At Your University 27
2101
Want to build a better sense of community at your university? Want to find a way to welcome new students? If so, attend this workshop and learn about starting an LGBT mentoring program. The goal for this program is to help students transition into college and to become comfortable with themselves through help from a peer. This workshop will feature testimonials of students in the program at the University of Kansas and a plan of action for starting up your own program at your school.
Presented by Grace Long, University of Kansas
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Session 2 Cont. Saturday • february 8th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
Stand Out in the Job Market 28
2103B
If you’re engaged in an LGBTQIA activity your experiences have probably shaped who you are, your skills and how you work. Still, coming out on your resume or at work is an important personal decision for LGBTQIA professionals. Leadership positions, adaptable communication styles, organizational skills and problem solving are some of the experiences that your employer will value, but might never hear about unless you can present yourself and your identity-related projects as an asset. Participants will reflect on their fabulous experiences in LGBTQIA activities, learn to align them with business needs, and getting what you want from work.
Presented by Vince Tripi III, Independent Scholar
A Call for Activism: LGBT Rape Culture 30
2105
This workshop will identify Rape Culture and Rape Myths and how they affect the LGBT Community. This workshop will also address the lack of programming in Universities for sexual harassment training and consent training for students and employees. This will help establish a base of information to start activism at participants’ universities while keeping the LGBTQ community in mind. As a representative of F!@K Rape Culture, this workshop will address the progress this student-led organization has made at Ohio University.
Presented by Sarah Michelle Chadwell, Ohio University Allie Erwin, Ohio University, Claire Chadwick, Ohio University, Lacey Rogers, Ohio University
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The Colors of Us: A Dialogue on Race in the LGBTQ Community 29
2104
This workshop will allow participants to talk about race in an atmosphere that fosters learning and seeks to overcome stereotypes. This workshop will be led by a white facilitator and a facilitator of color to create a dialogue across races. The presenters will offer participants the language and resources necessary to becoming an anti-racist ally and discuss race effectively. This workshop seeks to create a deeper understanding of race within the LGBTQ community.
Presented by Liz Schoppelrei, Wright State University, Khadija Kirksey, Wright State University
exhibitor fair
Saturday • february 8th • 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
2500 LOBBY
tynan fox
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Convention Center
Stairs Elevator escalator help desk escalator to tunnel restroom gender neutral restroom
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featured presenters Saturday • february 8th • 9:15 am
stuart hinds
Stuart Hinds currently serves as the Director of Special Collections for the University Libraries at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, and he has been a local history librarian in the Kansas City area for nearly twenty years. A pioneer in digital conversion of historic content within libraries, he was instrumental in the development of several large-scale regional digitization projects. More recently, he was a cofounder of the Gay and Lesbian Archive of Mid-America, a collecting partnership between UMKC and the Kansas City Museum founded in 2009 that serves to preserve and make accessible the history of Kansas City’s LGBT communities. Out of that effort has come his research into the evolution of female impersonation in Kansas City from the pre-Civil War period to the current day.
From Blackface to Max Factor: the Evolution of Female Impersonation in Kansas City 31
2504A
An examination of an intriguing yet hidden aspect of Kansas City’s rich theatrical tradition that predates the Civil War and continues to impact the city into the 21st century. A presentation chock-full of compelling vintage images and surprising historical facts that will engage anyone interested in Midwestern LGBT history.
Presented by Stuart Hinds, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Dr. william Self
William Self is an Assistant Professor of Leadership and Organizational Behavior and the Director of Behavioral Research Programs and Initiatives at the University of Missouri–Kansas City’s Bloch School of Management. He received a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and an A.B. from Harvard University. Self’s research has been published in top academic journals, such as the Leadership Quarterly and the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. He has won numerous teaching awards and speaks and consults globally on the challenges of leadership in a diverse modern world. He is a member of the Academy of Management, the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, and the International Society for Justice Research.
Leading by Creating Culture and Vision 32
2103B
We usually are chosen to serve as leaders because we have been strong individual contributors. However, being successful as leaders requires a different approach and a different skill set than simply being successful individuals. In this workshop, we will focus on how you can become a leader who enhances your team’s effectiveness in pursuing its strategy and goals. To do this, we will analyze real-life organizations to identify how they created and sustain superior organizational cultures. We also will explore the science of leadership to reflect on how different leadership styles can be used in different organizational situations. Finally, we will provide a framework for creating a personal leadership development plan for yourself and your organization.
Presented by Dr. William Self, University of Missouri - Kansas City
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Workshop Session 3 Saturday • february 8th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
Featured Workshops
j mase III
Even my Poems are Revolutionary 33
2502A
Performance poetry is a powerful vehicle for social justice. In just a few minutes time, a poet has the power to educate their audience on a new topic, make them sympathize with another’s struggle and/or give them an opportunity to laugh as part of a communal experience. This workshop will serve as a platform for participants to focus on creating one or more works that will speak to the movements they wish to build. Using movement, voice and writing exercises workshop members will be asked to think creatively about how to present social justice issues to an audience.
Presented by J Mase III
GenEQ Entering the Workforce:
A Panel Discussion on What Every Queer and Ally Looking for a Job Should Consider 34
2104
Entering the workforce is a rite of passage for many Americans that involves unique challenges for LGBTQ people because there is no federal law that prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation created the GenEQ Guide to Entering the Workforce to help LGBTQ young people navigate the decisions you’ll make during the job search, such as finding employment policies and inclusive benefits, finalizing resume content, devising interview strategies and networking. Candace Gingrich moderates a panel of professionals offering Human Resources, Career Counseling, recruiting and recently-hired perspectives.
Presented by Candace Gingrich, HRC
At the Crossroads: Understanding the LGBT Immigrant Experience & Issues 35
1501A
This workshop will highlight some of the issues affecting LGBT immigrants— documented and undocumented. We will go over a legislative history of policies that have affected LGBT immigrants, and explore some of the current policies that continue to hinder LGBT immigrants. Come find out more about working with immigrants in your community!
Presented by Luis Roman, Lambda Legal
Gettin’ Jiggy With Porn: The Low-Down on the Lay-Down 36
1501C
Pornography: some say it’s why the Internet was born. But many conversations about the ethics of porn are explored through a heterosexist, male lense—what’s a queer gal to do? Are there ways to explore visual sexual relationships in an ethical, socially-conscious way? You bet there are! Come have a conversation about queer-friendly, feminist porn: why we need it, where to find it, and how its proliferation can have larger repercussions on society at large.
Presented by Skye Macrae Curtis, St. Olaf College
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Session 3 Cont. Saturday • february 8th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
Trans* Forum 37
2502B
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among Trans* identified individuals. It is requested that attendees of this facilitated discussion posses a specific connection to this identity. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Presented by Luke Harness
Sexual Diversity in Sports 39
2503B
This presentation is inttended for all audiences with an emphasis on collegiate athletes. The objectives of the presentation are to describe why it is important to respect all sexual orientations and gender identities of all athletes learn definitions for sexual orientation, transgender, and internalized homophobia describe the consequences of homophobia on individuals and teams, identify ways to make teams inclusive and respectful for all athletes regardless of sexual orientation and identify ways to make a safe and welcoming environment for all athletes regardless of gender identities.
Presented by Dr. Ron Holt, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and Kaiser Permanente
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Our Visual In/queer/y: An Examination of Queer Politics Through Art 38
2503A
There has been, for a long time, a stereotype that queer people are talented in the arts—but when you examine an art history book, there is seldom mention of them. This lecture style presentation re-examines what we have been told of twentieth century art, and analyzes the works of gay and lesbian artists in the political context in which they’ve made said art as a means of expressing what it meant to be queer throughout the twentieth century.
Presented by Arik, Saginaw Valley State University
Seita: Pride, allies, and all that jazz 40
2504B
This presentation focuses on LGBTQA students and the foster care system. The presentation will provide information about a tuition-based scholarship program at Western Michigan University called the Seita Scholars whose primary focus is alumni of foster care and highlight the experiences of student-run group within the Program for LGBTQA Scholars called Seita Pride.
Presented by Amber Finet, Cierra Paauwe,Tia Goodman, Dameika Merriwether, Western Michigan University
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2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
Hip Hop & Sexuality
Polyamory 201 41
2505A
A deeper look at consensual non-monogamy, this discussion-based session will give attendees the chance to do some peer-to-peer exploration of topics relating to polyamorous relationships such as conflict resolution, desire mapping, boundaries, and jealousy. Because this session will focus on deeper learning as well as the sharing and validation of emotions and experiences, it is recommended for those who are currently practicing Polyamory, or who identify as Polyamorous.
Presented by Eddie Rich, Kendall College of Art and Design
What does religion offer to the LGBT community? 43
2101
Often with religions, the focus is around what they say and how to fit an identity within them. However, the question of why people continue to identify with religion, or pursue no religion, is seldom answered. This workshop, presented as a facilitated discussion, will allow for attendees to share their personal experiences and discuss what it is that keeps them coming back to religion, which is often portrayed as unwelcoming or unfriendly thoughts.
Presented by Austin Schopper, Emporia State University
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2505B
n a day and age where coming out by an MC or R&B singer garners a few whispers instead of a thundering rumble what does that mean in regards to our acceptance into Hip Hop culture? This workshop will have open discussion about how we see ourselves represented in Hip Hop and R&B, figures who are rocking the mic around the country who support and identify with the LGBTQIA community and how we can use music as advocacy in our community. With a panel of musicians and producers that will field and answer questions and encourage discussion from the audience, this will be an exciting and thought provoking workshop that you will not want to miss!
Presented by Dominique Morgan
Gay Inc. Realness: Negotiating Queer Politics in the Mainstream LGBT Movement. 44
2105
This presentation is for LGBT students and activists. This workshop aims to create a conversation around critiques of the national gay rights movement or specifically the “marriage equality movement”. Students will be given the opportunity to discuss this topic with Lambda Legal’s Midwest Regional Community Educator and field person, Crispin Torres. Crispin will open this converation for folks to learn more about the national movement in terms of messaging and strategy but also how he himself negotiates his own transgender and queer political roots and personal identity within a movement that often times marginalizes those very identities.
Presented by Crispin Torres, Lambda Legal
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keynote
rob smith
Saturday • february 8th • 10:30 am
ROOM 3501
An openly gay Iraq war veteran, journalist, lecturer, and LGBT Activist, he served for 5 years in the United States Army as an Infantryman, earning the Army Commendation Medal and Combat Infantry Badge. After graduating with honors from Syracuse University, he became a freelance journalist and opinion writer, with work published at Salon.com, Metro Weekly, The Advocate, CNN.com, and The Huffington Post among many others. In November 2010, he was arrested with 12 other LGBT military veterans and civilian activists at the front gates of the White House while protesting the U.S. Military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) law, which barred open military service by gays and lesbians. In December of that same year, he was an invited guest of President Barack Obama at the ceremony which saw the repeal of the discriminatory law be signed and put into effect. On January 10th, 2014 Rob released his first book Closets, Combat, and Coming Out: Coming of Age as a Gay Man in the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Army.
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advisor Keynote
SHane Windmeyer Saturday • february 8th • 1:15 - 2:30 pm
Shane L. Windmeyer, M.S., Ed., is a leading author on gay campus issues, national leader in gay and lesbian civil rights and a champion for LGBT issues on college campuses. He is cofounder and executive director of Campus Pride, the only national organization for student leaders and campus organizations working to create a safer college environment for LGBT students. Released Fall 2006 by Alyson Books, Windmeyer is the author of The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students, the first-ever college guide profiling the “100 Best LGBT-Friendly Campuses.” He is also the editor of Brotherhood: Gay Life in College Fraternities and co-editor of the books
Inspiration for LGBT Students & Allies, Out on Fraternity Row: Personal Accounts of Being Gay in a College Fraternity and Secret Sisters: Stories of Being Lesbian & Bisexual in a College Sorority.
To Ask or Not to Ask: LGBT Identity Optional Demographic Questions on National Research and College Forms 3501 Elmhurst College became the first undergraduate college to ask an optional demographic question related to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender identity on an admission form. In June 2011, the U.S. Health and Human Services for the first time asked youth grades 9-12 about their sexual orientation on its at-risk health research. This session will explore the impact of asking about LGBT identity, the importance of visibility in serving LGBT populations and advocate for LGBT data collection in national research and forms.
Presented by Shane Windmeyer, Campus Pride
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regional caucuses Saturday • february 8th • 1:15 - 2:30 pm
regional Caucuses Regional caucuses are held each year as a networking and organizing sessions for conference attendees from a particular region of the country. In this session, each region will self-facilitate a conversation about the following: • Highs and Lows of the current conference—we want to know what we’re doing right and what can be improved in the future! • Current events and issue impacting your region— this is a time to discuss with others what actions can be taken to make change in your area. • Share ideas and recent happenings at your home institution—talk about successful events, policy adjustments or other occurrences on your campus with others. In addition, each region may select one person to attend the OC meeting held immediately after the adjournment of the state caucuses in Room Truman A in the Marriott. While that person will not have a vote at the OC, they can provide feedback from their region. Please see next page for more information about the Oversight Committee.
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state caucuses Saturday • february 8th • 1:15 - 2:30 pm
2503B 2502A 2502B
2504B
2104 2504A
2503A 1501C 1501A
2505B
2103A
2101 2505A
state Caucuses State caucuses are held each year as a networking and organizing sessions for conference attendees from a particular state or region of the country. In this session, each state’s Oversight Committee representations will lead a conversation about the following: • Highs and Lows of the current conference—we want to know what we’re doing right and what can be improved in the future! • Current events and issue impacting your state— this is a time to discuss with others what actions can be taken to make change in your area. • Share ideas and recent happenings at your home institution—talk about successful events, policy adjustments or other occurrences on your campus with others. In addition, each state will elect two (2) new Oversight Committee members Election of members is up to the discretion of each individual state. Newly elected OC members are required to attend the OC meeting held immediately after the adjournment of the state caucuses in Room Truman A in the Marriott. Please see next page for more information about getting involved in the Oversight Committee.
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oversight committee Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 6:30 pm
MARRIOTT ROOM TRUMAN A
What is the oversight committee? The Oversight Committee is charged with ensuring the continuity of MBLGTACC. Comprised of four (4) delegates from each state, chosen in the State Caucuses, this group is responsible for screening the bids to host future conferences and choose a hosting institution, maintaining an archive of all previous conference records, and controlling the conference name. Membership of the committee consists of four representatives from each of the 13 Midwest states. Those elected in 2013 are current voting members. Those elected in 2014 will become voting members at next year’s OC. Those elected during this 2014 conference weekend will be subscribing to a full year commitment. As state in the OC’s constitution, the Midwest states include Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The conference can only be hosted by a Midwestern institution. Representatives may be asked to participate in constitution changes, monthly meetings, or engage in a subcommittee charged with a specific purpose. As MBLGTACC gains more visibility and the conference attendance rate continues to grow, this group can play an integral role in making big decisions that ensure this event will be hosted for many years to come.
Why should I join the Oversight Committee? This is a great time to represent your state for a calendar year as part of the largest regional LGBTQA college conference in the country. As an attendee of MBLGTACC, each and every one of you seen things you appreciate and things you’d like to see changed about the conference. This is a channel of communication to make sure future attendees of the conference have the greatest experience future hosting years can offer. With the increasing size and prominence of the conference, it’s going to require all hands on deck to make sure future hosting schools don’t bow under the ever-increasing responsibilities that planning this conference entails. Non-voting members from the regional caucuses are welcome to attend the Oversight Committee meeting. The Oversight Committee meeting is being from 2:45-630 p.m. in Room Truman A of the Marriott. Current OC members will have prior notice of where this room is located. Dinner will be provided.
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workshop session 4 Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 3:45 Pm
Featured Workshop
“Who You Callin’ Ghetto: Sissy Shades of Black and Brown” 2105 This45 screening features individual perspectives and collective conversations on navigating masculinity, misogyny and racism in often white gay male communities from both gay men of color and transgender women of color. This screening combines voices from SocialScope Production’s award-winning 50Faggots, A Gay in the Life and Memories of Violence multimedia documentary projects. Randall Jenson, Executive Director of SocialScope Productions, along with guest, Monica Beverly Hillz, also seen on season 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will participate in an interactive, post-screening discussion about the experiences shared. Following the workshop, they will moderate the queer people of color identity caucus.
Presented by Randall Jenson and Monica Beverly Hillz
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session 4 cont. Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 3:45 Pm
What is a roundtable discussion? In a roundtable session presenters and attendees sit together at a round table that may seat eight to twelve people. There will be multiple roundtables taking place in the same room. Roundtable sessions allow maximum interaction among presenters and attendees. Each presenter will deliver their presentation at the table, but without AV/Projection. The big advantage of roundtables is that it allows for rich conversations among participants that may not otherwise be available.
“When Language Fails You: ‘Transgendering’ when you least expect it”
Ahh! The Bathroom Scare: Fighting anti-trans messaging
What happens when language fails us? Sharing the story and then opening for discussion, the author hopes we can begin to find the language and words that will create a sense of self and belonging for all of us.
This roundtable will educate participants on how to effectively frame the discussion on transgender rights on campuses and on a state and local level, shape messaging on trans communities, countering fear-based myths, and to increase the understanding of transgender people and the realities of their lives.
Table 1
Presented by Jalen Hutchinson, Ohio University
Table 2
Presented by Stephanie Perkins, PROMO
Do gays need god? A discussion about atheism and the gay community Table 3
In this open discussion, we will be talking about how having a background of faith influence ones sexual and gender identity in ways that differ from non-religious people.
Presented by Austin Schopper, Emporia State University
Femme Visibility Table 5
The presentation will cover the issue of gender expression in the lesbian community.
Presented by Theresa, DePaul University
Err Body in the Gay Club Gettin’ Tipsy-An Exploration of Substance Abuse in the LGBT Community Table 4
The focus of this presentation is to explore the relationship between substance abuse and the LGBT community.
Presented by Lacey Rogers, Ohio University
Friending Our Foes Table 6
Participants will have a chance to debate about the controversies within our own community while gaining tools to use when speaking with our opposition. transgender people and the realities of their lives.
Presented by Shaily Hakimian, Indiana University - Bloomington
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round table discussions ROOM 2103A Brick by Brick, a Foundation for Future Organization Leaders Table 7
Perspectives from Polyamory for All Relationships Table 8
This presentation will discuss tools and approaches that This presentation will teach about keeping historical documentation, training on setting up key events, and to the polyamorous community has developed that anyone in any kind of relationship can use. keeping records of how they do. Creating resources for future generations of club leaders so they are never left Presented by Kaj Benson, University of Minnesota - Morris in the dark and helping to develop their leadership skills as an adviser.
Presented by David Yip, Rochester Institute of Technology
Student Collaborative: Supporting Student Staff in Homogeneous Campuses Table 9
Throughout the presentation, participants will be given the opportunity to explore how a student collaborative experience can be useful at their institution or other work settings.
Presented by Anthony Wilder and Kevin Guerrero, University of Wisconsin - Madison
U.S. Imperialism and the LGBT fight in Honduras Table 11
After a U.S. backed overthrow of a democratically elected president in Honduras, an LGBT resistance grew to fight the extreme homophobia, violence, and discriminatory justice system.
Presented by Amanda Schieszer
Too Many & Not Enough: A Tale of Gender Neutral Pronouns Table 10
Thon, zie, ip, co, per… huh? This session will explore the lively (and lengthy) history of the English “gender-neutral” pronoun, including current incarnations and perspectives.
Presented by Amy Vanderpool, University of Nebraska - Linco
Pantsuits & Politics: A Discussion with Ready for Hillary Table 12
Join Ready for Hillary’s Young Americans Director, Rachel Schneider, and Ready for Hillary’s LGBT Americans Director, Lisa Changadveja, to learn about Ready for Hillary and how you can help build our grassroots movement in your community.
Presented by Lisa Changadveja, Ready for Hillary
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session 4 cont. featured workshops
Sam Brinton, Robyn Ochs, Rob Smith You Can’t Change what We Never Chose: Ending Conversion Therapy Across the Country 46
Sam Brinton is a nuclear engineering and technology policy graduate student at MIT. When he isn’t working on nuclear waste containment systems or exploring nuclear weapon nonproliferation tactics he passionately works to end conversion therapy practices across the country especially in his current home state of Massachusetts. Just as nuclear energy is sometimes misunderstood, so is the sexual minority community and as a proud nonmonosexualand gender-fluid individual, Sam seeks to bridge these gaps in understanding our culture is facing.
Since the passage of S. 1172 in California, the legislative possibility of criminalizing the abusive practice of conversion therapy has taken great and powerful strides. This session will begin with the history of the abuse of conversion therapy followed by the efforts to ban sexual orientation change efforts that is currently taking place in over 10 states. The leader of this session will also share his experiences in conversion therapy to demonstrate the need for the abuse to end and the successes of the battles already won. If you want to outlaw conversion therapy in your state - come to this session.
Presented by Sam Brinton
Rob Smith Book Reading
Beyond Bisexuality 101 47
2103B
What does it mean to identify as bisexual, pansexual or fluid? What are some of the challenges to recognizing and understanding this often overlooked segment of our LGBTQ community? However you identify, come to this lively and interactive program if you could use some tools for challenging ignorance, biphobia and monosexism.
Presented by Robyn Ochs
2105
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Rob Smith, one of MBLGTACC 2014’s keynote speakers, has just released his new book: Closets, Combat and Coming Out. Written with a unique and powerful voice, the intersection of race, sexuality, and public policy ensures that CLOSETS, COMBAT, AND COMING OUT is alternately funny, sad, sexy, and harrowing. Rob’s experience offers a ground-level view of life on the front lines of race and sexuality in the United States military in an unforgettable gay coming-of-age story--with a military twist. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to his presentation, attend a book reading, and have Rob sign your book!
Presented by Rob Smith
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2504A
1
2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 3:45 pm
Put your Money Where your Movement Is:Strategies for Online Fundraising & Entrepreneurship 49
1501A
This interactive workshop is geared toward students and administrators who are interested in building their own business, fundraising, or social media campaign. Due to the level of discrimination LGBTQ people face, our stories and basic needs are often ignored. This workshop seeks to empower leaders to build their own socially conscious business, fundraising venture, or social media campaigns. This workshop is ideal for trans* and gender non-conforming students, first-generation students, and students/communities who have been traditionally denied access to economic resources.
Presented by Asher Kolieboi, Legalize Trans*
So You’re Dating a Trans* Person : A Guided Discussion
Romance and Sex: Unpacking our sexual identities 50
1501C
Heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, that’s the end, right? What about asexual, demisexual, sapiosexual, omnisexual and pansexual? How about monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, polyfidelity? Let’s unpack our attractions a little further in this mid-level workshop, and learn about the difference between romantic and sexual orientation, as well as how, or even if, they interact with gender identity and/or expression.
Presented by Fluffy Robinson, Cleveland State University
The Binary Line: How Gender Influences Systems of LGBTQPIA Oppression 52
2502B
Gender normalcy can be found at the core of social acceptance, privilege, who gains resources, and who is re2502A fused them. In order for trans* and queer communities A guided discussion centered on the experience of beto grow, we must acknowledge gender systems’ influing a partner to a trans* identified person. Discussion ence on community building and recognize our own inwill involve being supportive when your partner shares tersectionality, power, and resilience. This presentation their trans* identity, navigating the changes involved will discuss gender normalcy’s impact on LGBTQPIA with your partner’s chosen transition goals, and building culture, how it intersects with related systems of opsupport systems with other partners. The workshop will pression, and ways to promote socially just inclusivity. also provide a venue for partners to share their unique Presented by JAC Stringer, Heartland Trans* Wellness Group experiences with the group.
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Presented by Stefani Vargas Harlan, Northern Michigan University
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Workshop 4 Cont. Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 3:45 Pm
Queering the Good Book 53
2503A
Some read the Christian Bible with 21st Century queer eyes and retell the old, old stories. The alternative family constellation of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. The love triangle of David, Jonathan, and Saul. Ester’s coming out saves a nation. The Syro-Phonecian woman who schools Jesus of Nazareth. The great faith of the Roman Centurion. Join us as we reclaim the best of the Judeo-Christian tradition - radical hospitality, inclusion and love.
Presented by Gail Simonds, Weathervane Ministries
Allies or Abusers: The Queer Community and the Alcohol Industry 55
2504B
Since the mid-twentieth century, gay bars have served as one of the few and best known places of support for members of the queer community, and for many drinking and bars have become a part of queer culture. At the same time, research shows up to 25 percent of the queer community abuses drugs and alcohol--compared to only 5-10 percent in the general population. Why are these rates so high, and what can we do about it? Join us for a brief history on the ties between the alcohol industry and the queer community and discussion on what we can do next.
Presented by Rob Waara, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
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Gender and Sexuality Issues Among People with Autism: An Overview 54
2503B
People with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), due to their social deficits, often endure gender identity and sexuality struggles similar to LGBT individuals. Many individuals with ASD are also LGBT and experience additional issues as well. In this presentation, a person with autism who identifies as male and asexual will provide an overview of the struggles this unique population faces when coming to terms with their sexuality and gender identity.
Presented by James Williams, Beloit College
Greek Forum 56
2505A
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among individuals who are involved with Greek Life. It is requested that attendees of this facilitated discussion posses a specific connection to this identity. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Presented by Kara Laricks
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2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 2:45 - 3:45 pm
Portraiture of Transformative Blackness 57
2505B
Improvement Science discourse of “blackness”, African American educational leadership, cultural institutions and networks as organized, managed and monitored systems in the context of marginalization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trangender, and questioning youth of color to recover the flow of services that will effectively prepare and provide them with access to college.
Presented by T D. Wilkins, Duquesne University
Polyamory in the Media: Whose Reality Is It? 59
2102B
“These days, it’s increasingly unusual to find anyone who has only had one “significant other” throughout their life. So the question is not so much whether to love more than one but rather whether it works better to have multiple partners sequentially or at the same time” (Anapol, Polyamory ix). This session will first explore the relationship structures of monogamy, non-monogamy, and polyamory. Next, the history of polyamory will be surveyed followed by a discussion about the socio-cultural construction of relationships and polyamory. Finally, depiction of polyamory in the media will be considered.
Presented by Anne M. Petty Johnson, Northern Illinois University
Break the Silence: Sexual Violence in the LGBTQ Community on College Campuses 58
2101
Sexual violence affects all folks, regardless of age, race/ ethnicity, sexuality, or gender expression. Our workshop will explore sexual assault within the context of college campuses and the LGBTQ community. Come explore critical issues around sexual violence, positive sexuality and how it affects both relationships and self-identity, victim-blaming and silencing survivors, and skill building and practical application for advocacy and activism related to ending the silence about sexual violence on campus.
Presented by Ashley Schmuecker, Assault Care Center Extending Shelter and Support
Pushing back against school push out and the school to prison pipeline 60
2104
The School to Prison Pipeline is a collection of policies and practices that students in high school and college find themselves in that push them out of school and often into the prison system. Queer students, students with disabilities, youth of color and queer youth of color are punished more often and more harshly than their peers resulting in eventually being pushed out of school. Come learn how your college group can push back against School Push Out and the School to Prison Pipeline.
Presented by Morgan Keenan, Missouri GSA Network
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sexual identity forums Saturday • february 8th • 4:00 - 5:00 Pm Sexual identity forums provide an opportunity to connect with peers who share or connect with similar sexual identities, allowing for an open dialogue about topics desired by attendees and each sessions facilitator. However, these forums are also intended to be a safe space, where you will not be asked how you identify, and respect is expected. We recognize many individuals may connect equally with multiple identities listed in these forums, or even those identities not included. Additionally, these forums are intended to be for those who specifically connect with the included identities and not an informational session—please pursue educational workshops instead.
Gay Identity Forum 2101
Gay identity forum is intended to provide a safe space for gay identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to the gay identified community.
Self facilitated
Middle-Sexualities Forum 2103B
Middle Sexualities forum is intended to provide a safe space for bisexual/pansexual/fluid/polysexual or other non-monosexual identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to individuals who identify with the middle-sexual communities.
Facilitated by Robyn Ochs
Lesbian Identity Forum 2105
Lesbian identity forum is intended to provide a safe space for lesbian identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to the lesbian identified community.
Self facilitated
Queer People of Color Identity Forum 1501B
The Queer People of Color identity forum is intended to provide a safe space for QPOC identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to individuals who identify with the QPOC community.
Facilitated by Randall Jenson, Monica Beverly Hills and Aaron Gray
Ally Identity Forum
Queer Identity Forum
1501C
1501A
Queer identity forum is intended to provide a safe space The Ally identity forum is intended to provide a safe space for ally identified individuals to share experiences, for queer identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to fostering ally developconcerns, and topics relevant to the queer identified ment for the LGBTQIA community. community.
Facilitated by Struby Struble
Asexual Identity Forum 2102A
Asexual identity forum is intended to provide a safe space for asexual identified individuals to share experiences, concerns, and topics relevant to the asexual identified community.
Self facilitated
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Self facilitated
Create Your Own (Roundtables) 2103A
We recognize the limitation of the sexual identity forums, and encourage you to create your own roundtable discussion for a sexual identity forum that more closely represents your identity. Round tables will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
Self facilitated
keynote
janet mock
saturday • february 8th • 6:30 pm
ROOM 3501
Janet Mock is a writer, activist and the founder of the #Girlslikeus project. Her memoir, REDEFINING REALNESS: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More, will be published in February 2014 by Atria Books/Simon & Schuster. While working as an editor at People.com, Janet opened up about her life as a young trans woman in Marie Claire in 2011, which sparked her work as an activist who uses media to expand our idea of womanhood and hold the LGBT movement accountable to all trans and queer folk, specifically those from low-income and/or people of color communities. Janet is a board member at the Arcus Foundation, a leading global foundation advancing pressing social justice and conservation issues, and an advisor for the [young]ist, a young people-powered media site. She has also advised programming for trans youth at the Hetrick-Martin Institute in New York City and founded the social media project #GirlsLikeUs, a pro-sisterhood visibility project for trans women like herself. A native of Honolulu, Janet attended the University of Hawaii at Manoa, earned her MA in journalism from New York University and resides in New York City with her boyfriend Aaron and their cockapoo Cleo. Follow her on Twitter @janetmock and Facebook /janetmock.
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spoken word entertainment
j mase iii
saturday • february 8th • 8:15 pm
ROOM 3501
J Mase III is a black/trans/queer poet currently based in Brooklyn. The creator of the traveling performance event Cupid Ain’t @#$%!: An Anti-Valentine’s Day Poetry Movement, J Mase has shared his special brand of poetry on stages around the U.S. and UK. An organ donor, he is the author of If I Should Die Under the Knife, Tell My Kidney I Was the Fiercest Poet Around. In J Mase’s other life as an educator and activist, he has worked with thousands of community members and service providers across the country on the needs of LGBTQ youth and adults in spaces such as faith communities, elementary schools, domestic violence shelters, medical agencies, juvenile justice organizations, and foster care programs, among others. An advocate of really fierce scars and queering scripture, he currently spends his offstage time teaching poetry to youth in restricted care facilities. To find out more about J Mase III, feel free to stalk (follow) him on Twitter @jmaseiii, Facebook.com/JMaseIII, or track him on his website at jmaseiii.com.
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Workshop Session 5 Saturday • february 8th • 8:15 - 9:15 pm
featured workshop:
tynan fox
A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Fox knew there was someBDSM 101 thing different about him at an early age. Growing up and learning you’re gay has it’s own challenges, but growing up and learning you’re both kinky and gay is monumental. 61 2104 Doing it in the Midwest, where resources are scarce compared to the coasts, makes his story even more unique. Join featured presenter Tynan Fox for an introductory session discussing BDSM. Fox went to college at Truman State University where he Presented by Tynan Fox would spend his weekends studying, practicing, and developing his own kinky identity. After college, Fox moved to Minnesota, where he has played an instrumental role in developing the community of kinksters in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. His speeches cover a wide array of topics, including BDSM, Leather, Rubber, Kinkphobia, BDSM in pop culture, pup play, health and safety, women in BDSM, and more. At just 29 years old, Fox’s main goal is to dissolve unhealthy stereotypes about BDSM and kink, and to make sure any kinkster out there knows that they’re not alone.
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session 5 cont. Saturday • february 8th • 8:15 - 9:15 pm
Creative Marketing & Student Involvement in LGBTQA Programming 62
1501A
Tiny budgets got you down? Tired of anemic attendance at your events? Then this presentation is for you! Marketing LGBTQA programs and events on a university campus can be challenging, and while we are grateful for “the choir”--the same group of dedicated students who show up each and every time--this presentation offers tips and strategies for engaging large swaths of attendees, across multiple identities and lived experiences. An interactive presentation, Creative Marketing & Student Involvement in LGBTQA Programming is just the thing to energize and revitalize your approach to subject matter whose very content is often its most difficult obstacle.
Presented by Christopher J. Jorgenson, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
A Crash Course in Gay Sign Language 64
2502A
Come learn the basics of American Sign Language, as well as words relating to the LGBT community from a Deaf transsexual drag queen. We’ll also discuss Deaf culture and the intersectionality of being disabled and LGBT, as well as simple ways to make your events and resources more accessible. No prior ASL experience necessary!
Presented by Hayden Kristal, University of Missouri - Columbia
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LGBT Suicide: When It Feels Likes It’s All (But) Over 63
1501C
This presentation is full of facts and latest data specifically on LGBT suicide. This presentation is geared towards all audiences and helps the attendee understand the warning signs and general risks of suicide, identify factors that increase suicide in the LGBT population, identify ways to help reduce suicide, and list the protective factors against LGBT suicide.
Presented by Dr. Ron Holt, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and Kaiser Permanente
Skyscrapers, Cul-de-sacs, and Corn Fields: Queering Collegiate and Regional Experiences 65
2502B
Have you ever wanted to deconstruct the college narrative? From Pixar’s “Monsters University” to the cult classic Animal House a certain type of college “experience” has been set as the norm. But what about the Queer college experience? What is different about this story? How does university administration factor in? And, does regional location impact the experience? Explore all of these questions and more with students from DePaul University!
Presented by Mark Talsma, DePaul University
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2 3 4 5 6 7
Saturday • february 8th • 8:15 - 9:15 pm
Lesbians, Levis, and Lipsticks 66
2503A
Do you feel like you have to come out of closet after closet wherever you are? The fe(me)mine queer constantly deals with lacking visibility within the queer community. This workshop serves to discuss and reflect on the different lesbian identities, and how femininity is often mistaken for being a “lipstick lesbian”. Come dismantle patriarchal construction of femininity and gender binaries with students from DePaul University!
Presented by Lara Hilapad, DePaul University
The New White Girl: Processing Race and Gender Through the Transracial and Transgender Schemas 68
2504A
The presentation structure will be a blend of the following: lecture, discussion, observation, andexperience. The intended audience is open - it is a presentation that is designed to be accessible to insiders, allies and/or the curious of heart. The key topics to be addressed are thoughts of identity politics centering on the collison of race and gender.
Presented by Ronnie L. Gladden, Northern Kentucky University
The LGBT Gainer Subculture 67
2503B
The seminar will attempt to educate attendants on the existence of the gaining subculture, a subculture that is rarely represented. A brief definition of gaining is the physical/romantic attraction that gay men derive from either gaining weight (termed as the “gainer”) or from watching/encouraging others to gain weight (termed the “encourager”). People who use other terms to identify with gaining in some way (such as bloaters or maintainers), will be covered in the seminar. The development of the culture based around gaining weight will be explained by relying upon current examples through websites, Tumblr sites and gaining social events that occur around the world. Furthermore, the topic of gaining culture as a rejection of typical beauty in the face of a fat-fobic LGB--and secular--culture will be discussed.
Presented by Daniel R. Markbreiter, Tufts University
Beads of Privilege 69
2504B
The purpose of this program is to teach participants how to execute a simple diversity program about privilege. Following a brief overview of the Beads of Privilege exercise, attendees will participate in an abridged version on the program. After the program is complete, participants will not only have a better idea of their own privilege, but they will have a nifty bracelet to remind them as well!
Presented by Travis Lunsford, Michgan State University
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session 5 cont. Saturday • february 8th • 8:15 - 9:15 pm
Why Should We Care? Queer People & The Prison Industrial Complex 70
2505A
Queer people, especially trans* and genderqueer people, are funneled into prisons at a significantly higher rate than that of the general population. What social structures are making this possible? What role does legislation and law enforcement play? This workshop will discuss the structural violence that is keeping queer people imprisoned and criminalizing their gender. The movement for prison abolition is growing and the queer community should grow with it.
Let’s Get Digital: Facebook & Twitter for Organizations & Groups 71
2505B
Facebook and Twitter for an organization (GSAs, student organizations, non-profits, or just groups of like-minded people). Focus will be put on how to engage and connect with members or supporters, as well as how to track progress using insights and statistics. You’ll also learn how to do all of this quickly and efficiently to leave more time for the rest of your work.
Presented by Katie Stuckenschneider, PROMO
Presented by Alyssa Mandula, DePaul University
Sex, Condoms, Dildos, Oh My! 72
2101
This is a lecture and conversation about safe sex practices for LGBTQ identified persons. This workshop was designed for anyone wishing to learn about and discuss safe sex practices. Half of this workshop will go over safe sex practices. The other half will be dedicated to an open discussion about safe sex.
Presented by Heidi Sanderson, Ohio University
From Gay Action Group (GAG!) to Spectrum UNL: Rebranding Your LGBTQA Organization 73
2102A
Is your LGBTQA organization struggling? Does no one on campus know about your organization? Then you need to come to this workshop! We will cover all the steps we went through in our rebranding process, going from the Queer Ally Coalition to Spectrum UNL—a much-needed change that helped us more than double our meeting attendance and make us more visible on campus. We will take an in-depth look at organization names, logos, meeting topics and more. When this session is over you will have all of the information you need to better your organization and paint your campus in rainbow!
Presented by Sam Zeitner, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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Saturday • february 8th • 8:15 - 9:15 pm
Queer Library Alliance: Promoting Harmony through Information 74
2102B
This session examines libraries as resource centers and opportunities for critical library practice to promote harmony between various community constituencies and create a more just society for all individuals, including queer people. We will explore four sites of library practice of interest: intellectual freedom and challenged children’s and young adult books, queering technologies in the library, encouraging safer and welcoming spaces for all people at the library, and how you can advocate for harmony at your library.
Presented by Taylor Parks, Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Hooking Up and Hanging Out 75
2105
How long should I wait to text her back? What’s up with Grindr anyway? What is queer sex? Most sex ed. curricula is geared toward the heterosexual community. This leaves LGBTQ people, especially youth, with a lot of questions. The queer community often doesn’t get a chance to openly discuss sex, dating, and hooking up. This workshop will explore safer dating and enthusiastic consent through exercises, role play, and discussion. KCAVP will provide participants and potential partners with the support to develop awareness of their own needs, wants, and boundaries.
Presented by Jessica Farmer, KCAVP
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Workshop Session 6 Sunday • february 9th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
featured presenter
Robyn Ochs Beyond Binaries: Identity and Sexuality 76
1501B
This program explores the landscape of sexual orientation, and how we “map” sexual orientation. No two people are exactly alike. Given that, how do we assign labels to our complicated and unique experiences? In this interactive workshop we will conduct an anonymous survey of those present, and we will look at the data. Where do we fall on the sexuality continuum? How do we label? In this fun and interactive program we explore different experiences of identity; the complexity of attraction and more.
Presented by Robyn Ochs
Trans 201: The Advanced Trans* Workshop 78
1501C
The Trans* 201 Workshop is designed specifically for advanced trans* folk, partners, and allies that are interested in learning about advanced trans* topics. This workshop will not cover anything related to trans* 101 but will assume that this knowledge is a prerequisite. The structure will be mostly powerpoint based with a portion for questions and conversation amongst the audience. This environment will be inclusive of all types of people, including but not limited to: asexual, poly, kink, those with different ability, etc.
Presented by Kyle Watson, Duluth
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*TransPositive Healthcare: Creating *Trans Friendly Environments in the Hospital and Healthcare Setting 77
1501A
Nearly every human being will have a time in their life going through the hospital or some other healthcare setting. As future professionals, we need to make these spaces as inclusive as possible for all persons, especially within the transgender community where their concerns have been predominantly ignored. The goal of this presentation will be to gear future healthcare workers to be more *trans inclusive in their practices and how to advocate for more *trans inclusive healthcare settings. It will be focused on current students in a healthcare field, advocates for *transgender and non-binary individuals, or current health professionals.
Presented by Tim Lewis, Kent State University
Where’s Our Safe House? 79
2502A
All too often, sexual and domestic violence are framed as “women’s issues.” However, many studies show that LGBTQ* folks have equivalent or higher rates of violence by intimate partners. But what happens when the survivors of Queer Violence try to use these “women’s issue” shelters? This presentation will delve into the experiences of Queer survivors navigating mainstream anti-violence spaces.
Presented by Wolf Smith, Washington University in St. Louis
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2 3 4 5 6 7 sunday • february 9th • 8:00 - 9:00 Am
US LGBT History of the 20th Century 80
2502B
This presentation is a survey of US LGBT history in the 20th century intended for those who do not know much about the subject. This survey will be done by viewing large clips from several documentaries and having a discussion about the material to be able to understanding the topic better.
Presented by Dale Larson, University of Wisconsin - Platteville
Neon Signs and Billboards All About You 82
2504B
SEX! GAYS ONLY! Is your space screaming sex and intolerance to students walking by? Or are they bowled over by your mountains of advocacy fliers and petitions? Does your space “out” everyone who walks through its doors, even if they are straight? Learn what your GLBT space advertises about you and how to go from barren, utilitarian, or clumsily cluttered to a comfy and inviting style that welcomes students of all sorts to your door.
Presented by David Yip, Rochester Institute of Technology
LGBTQ Representation in North American Comics 84
2505B
Spirituality Forum 81
2504A
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among individuals who have a special connection with spirituality. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Presented by Rev. Brian Ellison
Genderqueer Forum 83
2505A
An open discussion about genderqueer and other non-binary identities. Where do our bodies fit into society? How do our identities challenge the status quo? This discussion is not going to be a trans* 101, but rather a safe space for people who do not find their identities represented in all trans* workshops and spaces. The main goal of this session is to create an open dialogue between non-binary folk about how they feel they fit into society and their every day lives.
Presented by Ramsey, DePaul University
This workshop will be a general overview of gay history in comic books, beginning with the publication of Dr. Frederick Wertham’s “Seduction of the Innocent” in 1954 to the reintroduction of the original Green Lantern, Alan Scott, in 2012 as a gay male. LGBTQ comic characters will be discussed, as well as reactions to and controversies surrounding them. This workshop is intended for anyone with a love of comics, and will focus primarily on Marvel and DC publications.
Presented by Wolf Romero, DePaul University
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Workshop Session 7 sunday • february 9th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
featured workshop
Campus Pride
What’s Your Score? Campus Pride Index as a Tool for Change 84
1501B
Participants will learn about the Campus Pride Index, a national assessment tool that measures LGBT-friendly campuses on a five-star scale based on eight areas ranging from policy inclusion to academics to student life. We will highlight Midwest colleges and universities already on the index and discuss how students, faculty, staff, and alumni can use the Index to make their campuses more inclusive. We will also discussion Action Planning as a tool for creating change on campuses.
Presented by Shane Windmeyer and Gonzalo Agudelo, Campus Pride
Fat and Queer: Loving Your Body and Exploring Your Identity 85
1501A
Exploring body positivity and the intersection of queer and fat identities, this workshop will discuss the history of the fat acceptance movement, fatphobia, and fat queerness. We will discuss loving ourselves and our fat queer bodies regardless of what mainstream culture defines as “normal” and “healthy”. Everyone is welcome to attend. However, this workshop will be centered on fat-identified members of the community.
Presented by Stefani Vargas Harlan, Northern Michigan University
78
Queer Self-Care 86
1501C
Our fast-paced, hurried society often leaves our minds and bodies fraught with internal violence and anxiety. Piling on microagressions, stigmas, and fracturing of identity in order to “fit”, it is a wonder that folks make it through the day in one physical piece. Intended as a conversation with concrete “takeaways”, this program provides tactics for LGBTQ self-care and self preservation. The intended audience is anyone and everyone!
Presented by Kaitlin Korbitz, University of Wisconsin-River Falls
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2 3 4 5 6 7 sunday • february 9th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
How to Be a Trans* Ally 87
2502A
This workshop covers basic Trans* 101, dos & don’ts of being an Ally, an overview of social/medical transition, why social transition is important, and the personal transition stories of the two presenters. Our presentation style includes humor in an effort to make the information accessible and understandable to all audiences.
Presented by Wes Staley, LEAPS: LGBTQA Education and Public Speaking
The History of Gayming 88
The workshop itself will be structured as more of an informative session than an interactive workshop, though there will be interactivity integrated within the session. There is no set intended audience. Anyone interested by the topic is more than welcome to come. The main topic to be addressed is the representation of the lgbt community within the gaming community, specifically within video games themselves.
Presented by Evan Holloway, DePaul University
Empowerment Rising: Finding a New LGBTQ Narrative 89
2503A
The LGBTQ community has long supported and thrived in the world of theatre. However, mainstream theatre has historically created a rather grim picture of the LGBTQ story. Half high energy theatre history lesson, half writer’s workshop, this presentation by Jennifer Bechtel (independent filmmaker, theatre educator and M.A. in Theatre History and Practice) will help to inspire a new, more empowering LGBTQ narrative.
2502B
BDSM Forum 90
2503B
This forum is intended to provide an extensive dialogue among individuals who participate or have a specific connection to BDSM. This session is free-form and may entail topics agreed upon and guided by attendees. Forums are often utilized for sharing experiences, identifying common ground and learning from other attendees.
Presented by Tynan Fox
Presented by Jennifer Bechtel, University of Illinois
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Workshop 7 cont. sunday • february 9th • 9:15 - 10:15 Am
Health Equity is Our Right 91
2504A
GBTQ people face major health disparities related to things like finding a safe doctor, accessing medical and mental health care, and being targeted by the alcohol and tobacco industries. Research on the health of LGBTQ individuals and communities is just beginning to shed light on why some of these disparities exist. Learn what’s being done in Missouri to raise awareness!
Presented by Megan Lee, Out, Proud and Healthy
How to Survive Your Queer, Long Distance Relationship 93
2505B
Found yourself in love with someone 10 or 1,000 miles away? Join us for some tips and tricks on how to make your long distance romance work for the both of you. This intended audience will be anyone in a relatioship that is long distance from its start or may be one over time.
Presented by Amy Rossi, DePaul University
80
Growing a Gay-Straight Alliance: Challenges of a Smaller University 92
2505A
Growing a Gay-Straight Alliance: Challenges of a Smaller University is presented by two officers of The Pride Alliance, the Gay-Straight Alliance of Texas A&M University-Commerce. Obstacles that face smaller to medium sized universities in regards to growing a GSA will be examined. Methods and suggestions to overcome challenges will be provided, based upon experiences and research. Students from smaller universities are strongly encouraged to attend, however all students, faculty, and staff are welcome!
Presented by Shane Hundley, Texas A&M University-Commerce
keynote Speaker
kara laricks sunday • february 9th • 10:30 am
ROOM 3501
Former fourth-grade schoolteacher Kara Laricks always told her students to be true to themselves. Finally, she took her own advice and pursued a career in fashion, winning NBC’s first season of Fashion Star. She designs androgynous clothing for men and women, inspired by her love of menswear and an avant-garde Japanese design aesthetic. Best known for her hoodie scarves and collar-and-ties, Laricks puts a spin on what is deemed traditional women’s fashion. She considers her partner Melissa to be her biggest supporter because she encouraged her to make fashion her full-time job.
voice and action national leadership award The Voice & Action National Leadership Award program is in collaboration with MBLGTACC and embodies the Campus Pride mission, values and vision for inclusion and recognition of young adult leaders. The annual awards are an honorary national recognition program highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of LGBT and ally young adult leaders and those who work to support LGBT issues at colleges and universities across the United States. The recognition program is the only honor of its kind, focused on the work of undergraduate college students who are creating positive change for LGBT and ally issues within their campus communities, local communities and region of the country. Campus Pride currently bestows four Voice & Action Award distinctions: Voice & Action National Student Leader Award, Voice & Action National Advisor Award, Voice & Action National Athlete Award and Voice & Action National Fraternity/Sorority Award. These distinctions honor individuals who use their “voice” to speak up and take “action” to make a difference. Learn how to apply online at www.CampusPride.org.
81
notes
88
notes
mblgtacc greatest hits: 1. Iowa State University & Drake University (19:93) 2. Greetings from the ‘90s (19:94) 3. Building Queer Success in the Midwest (19:95) 4. Building Queer Success in the Midwest [pt. 2] (19:96) 5. We’re Here, We’re Queer, We’re Fabulous (19:97) 6. Across the Fruited Plain (19:98) 7. Moving Forward, Looking Back (19:99) 8. Making Waves into the New Millenium (20:00)
9. Out and About (20:01) 10. Still Moving Forward (20:02) 11. Loving with Pride (20:03) 12. Speak Up, Speak Out (20:04) 13. Building the Bridge (20:05) 14. Painting the Rainbow (20:06) 15. Alphabet Soup (20:07) 16. Voting for Change (20:08) 17. Living Out Loud (20:09) 18. Get Real (20:10) 19. Justice or Just Us? (20:11) 20. Butterfly Effect (20:12) 21. Mosaic (20:13) 22. Jazzin’ It up (20:14)
BONUS TRACK: 23. Narrating the New Normal (20:15)