•
About This Event
Stonewall Columbus has partnered with The Ohio State University Multicultural Center and The Trevor Project, the leading national organization dedicated to providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs for LGBTQ youth, to develop "Safe Spaces. Safe Schools. Safe Kids. – The Central Ohio LGBTQ Anti-Bullying Summit".
This is a FREE, two-day workshop for educators and other professionals who work with LGBTQ youth and will be held March 9 -10 2012 from 8:00 am to 3:45 pm at the Ohio State University Union.
Following completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:
• Explain appropriate and inappropriate terminology used to describe individuals in the LGBTQ community.
• Discuss positive ways adults can promote a healthy environment for LGBTQ youth.
• Discuss the challenges facing LGBTQ youth in their homes, schools and other environments.
• Explain the risk factors and warning signs of suicide.
• Describe how to respond to a youth who is at risk for suicide.
• Connect youth to appropriate resources.
• Explain how to create more supportive and inclusive environments for LGBTQ youth.
• And much more!
Individuals or school districts may register any number of professionals for participation in this workshop for FREE! Participants will receive all necessary training materials, two (2) continental breakfasts and a Certificate of Completion for participants’ LPDCs.
For additional information, call Lori Gum - 614-930-2265
Parking Information Available Here
http://eevent.com/stonewall-columbus/safe-spaces-safe-schools-safe-kids---the-central-ohio-lgbt-anti-bullying-summit
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Friday, January 27, 2012
Nominations of LGBTQ Youth Activists Invited for Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards
Deadline: February 29, 2012
A program of the Colin Higgins Foundation, the Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards annually honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, queer, and questioning youth who have transformed their experiences with bigotry and discrimination into opportunities to inspire others by taking action, rallying support, building community, and working to change the systems and institutions that impact their lives.
Unlike scholarships based on grade-point average or written essays, the Colin Higgins Foundation looks to communities across the United States to nominate and lift up LGBTQ youth activists who inspire them and play critical roles in their schools, organizations, and community spaces.
Nominations should describe obstacles the nominee has faced due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, how the nominee has overcome these obstacles through community-level activism for LGBTQ rights, and how the award could transform the life of the nominee and help them achieve their dreams.
Nominees must be 21 years of age or younger and must be U.S. citizens. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Three award winners will be selected to receive $10,000 each. Awardees also will receive an expense-paid trip to the 2013 National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Creating Change Conference.
Complete program guidelines and nomination forms as well as information on previous awardees are available at the Colin Higgins Foundation Web site.
Contact:
Link to Complete RFP http://www.colinhiggins.org/courageawards/nom_form.cfm
http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
A program of the Colin Higgins Foundation, the Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards annually honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, queer, and questioning youth who have transformed their experiences with bigotry and discrimination into opportunities to inspire others by taking action, rallying support, building community, and working to change the systems and institutions that impact their lives.
Unlike scholarships based on grade-point average or written essays, the Colin Higgins Foundation looks to communities across the United States to nominate and lift up LGBTQ youth activists who inspire them and play critical roles in their schools, organizations, and community spaces.
Nominations should describe obstacles the nominee has faced due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, how the nominee has overcome these obstacles through community-level activism for LGBTQ rights, and how the award could transform the life of the nominee and help them achieve their dreams.
Nominees must be 21 years of age or younger and must be U.S. citizens. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Three award winners will be selected to receive $10,000 each. Awardees also will receive an expense-paid trip to the 2013 National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Creating Change Conference.
Complete program guidelines and nomination forms as well as information on previous awardees are available at the Colin Higgins Foundation Web site.
Contact:
Link to Complete RFP http://www.colinhiggins.org/courageawards/nom_form.cfm
http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Support Student Non-Discrimination Act
We have all seen tragic headlines like this: Student Commits Suicide over Homophobic Slurs. School Cancels Prom over Lesbian Couple. Parents of Gay Teen Say Bullying Caused Death.
Students who are or are perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) are especially at risk for bullying and harassment at school. Every day, students across the country endure the devastating impacts of this kind of bullying; sinking academic performance, health risks, and dropping out.
Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex, but did you know there is no federal law prohibiting LGBT discrimination in schools? You can help provide a safe learning environment for all students.
Make a call today and ask your Senators to co-sponsor an important piece of legislation, the Student Non-Discrimination Act, to prevent LGBT discrimination in K-12 public schools. It's easy. Dial (202) 224-3121 TODAY and ask to be connected to your Senators' offices.
• Hello, my name is ______ and I am calling from _______.
• Today is National Gay-Straight Alliance Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the work of Gay-Straight Alliances in schools around the country.
• 9 out of 10 LGBT students are harassed or bullied at school. Schools aren't doing enough to protect them. LGBT kids are skipping school, dropping out, and they are committing suicide.
• I am calling to ask Senator ______ to honor Gay Straight Alliance Day by co-sponsoring the Student Non-Discrimination Act.
• SNDA prohibits LGBT discrimination in schools. Right now there is no such right for LGBT students.
• Will Senator ______ co-sponsor the SNDA?
That's it! Then, call (202) 224-3121 again and ask to be connected to your other Senator's office and leave the same message.
The National Women's Law Center and our partners are participating in this important call-in day to help put a stop to discrimination for LGBT students. Please take a moment to help us today by calling (202) 224-3121. Every call is important, and every call makes a difference.
Thank you for your support!
Posted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Students who are or are perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) are especially at risk for bullying and harassment at school. Every day, students across the country endure the devastating impacts of this kind of bullying; sinking academic performance, health risks, and dropping out.
Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex, but did you know there is no federal law prohibiting LGBT discrimination in schools? You can help provide a safe learning environment for all students.
Make a call today and ask your Senators to co-sponsor an important piece of legislation, the Student Non-Discrimination Act, to prevent LGBT discrimination in K-12 public schools. It's easy. Dial (202) 224-3121 TODAY and ask to be connected to your Senators' offices.
• Hello, my name is ______ and I am calling from _______.
• Today is National Gay-Straight Alliance Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the work of Gay-Straight Alliances in schools around the country.
• 9 out of 10 LGBT students are harassed or bullied at school. Schools aren't doing enough to protect them. LGBT kids are skipping school, dropping out, and they are committing suicide.
• I am calling to ask Senator ______ to honor Gay Straight Alliance Day by co-sponsoring the Student Non-Discrimination Act.
• SNDA prohibits LGBT discrimination in schools. Right now there is no such right for LGBT students.
• Will Senator ______ co-sponsor the SNDA?
That's it! Then, call (202) 224-3121 again and ask to be connected to your other Senator's office and leave the same message.
The National Women's Law Center and our partners are participating in this important call-in day to help put a stop to discrimination for LGBT students. Please take a moment to help us today by calling (202) 224-3121. Every call is important, and every call makes a difference.
Thank you for your support!
Posted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Monday, January 23, 2012
New Report Highlights LGBT Older Adults' Needs, Identifies Policy Opportunities
Contact: Judy Evans, 212-741-2247 x237, jevans@sageusa.org
The latest issue of Public Policy & Aging Report is the first ever devoted to addressing the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) older adults within the context of the broader aging field.
[New York, NY] Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) and the National Academy on an Aging Society today released the first-ever issue of the acclaimed Public Policy & Aging Report (PPAR) on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) aging, highlighting gaps in policy and research on LGBT older adults, and current and future solutions to address the needs of LGBT elders.
"Given the voluminous gerontological literature that has built up over the past half-century, it is hard to imagine that any set of aging populations has been largely ignored or under-investigated. Yet, LGBT older adults have remained nearly invisible to the community of advocates, researchers, practitioners, administrators, and politicians who associate themselves with the modern aging enterprise," said PPAR Editor Robert Hudson, PhD, chair of the Department of Social Policy at the Boston University School of Social Work. "This issue of Public Policy & Aging Report takes a step toward filling that void."
LGBT older adults make up a significant share of America's 65+ population, and their numbers are expected to double in size over the next several decades, reaching more than 3 million by 2030. An increase in numbers signals a growing need to ensure that the policies designed to protect our nation's elders take into account the needs of LGBT older adults.
"Despite recent policy advances, LGBT older adults still face significant barriers to successful aging, such as poor health outcomes, a lack of economic security, social isolation, and unequal treatment under the law and in programs aimed at aging populations," said Michael Adams, executive director of SAGE. "SAGE is pleased to partner with the National Academy on an Aging Society on this issue of Public Policy & Aging Report to bring LGBT elders' concerns into the spotlight to transform discussions on aging nationwide."
PPAR, distributed to thousands of thought leaders in the aging field, explores policy issues generated by the aging of American society. Each thematic issue is designed to stimulate debate, highlight emerging concerns and propose alternative policy solutions.
The current issue, co-sponsored by SAGE, explores several topics related to LGBT aging, including the need for more research and public policies devoted to LGBT populations; the failure of existing broad-based aging policies to incorporate LGBT needs and interests; the need for cultural competency training among services personnel; coalition work between organizations working with LGBT older adults and elders of color to advance common policy goals; and the profound implications of a demographic estimate showing that one in two Americans living with HIV will be 50 and older by 2015. The issue also gives an overview of the current state of LGBT aging policy and advocacy, and highlights important new research from a landmark nationwide study of LGBT older adults and their health.
This issue's authors include several leaders in the LGBT and aging fields, including Michael Adams, SAGE; Kellan Baker and Jeff Krehely, Center for American Progress; Lilliam Barrios-Paoli, New York City Department for the Aging; Brian de Vries, San Francisco State University; Robert Espinoza, SAGE; Karen Fredriksen-Goldsen, PhD, University of Washington; Hilary Meyer, National Resource Center on LGBT Aging; Nathan Schaefer, Gay Men's Health Crisis; Daniel Tietz, AIDS Community Research Initiative of America; Catherine Thurston, SAGE; and Harper Jean Tobin, National Center for Transgender Equality.
Read the issue online at sageusa.org. Print copies of the current issue of PPAR, published by the National Academy on an Aging Society, are available for purchase at agingsociety.org.
Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) is the country's largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBT older adults. SAGE has pioneered programs and services for the aging LGBT community, provided technical assistance and training to expand opportunities for LGBT older people across the country, and provided a national voice on LGBT aging issues. In 2005, SAGE became the first official LGBT delegate at the White House Conference on Aging. In 2010, SAGE was awarded a three-year $900,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration on Aging to seed the creation of the nation's only National Resource Center on LGBT Aging. Learn more at sageusa.org and lgbtagingcenter.org.
The National Academy on an Aging Society is the policy institute of The Gerontological Society of America, the nation's oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society -- and its 5,400+ members -- is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public.
The latest issue of Public Policy & Aging Report is the first ever devoted to addressing the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) older adults within the context of the broader aging field.
[New York, NY] Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) and the National Academy on an Aging Society today released the first-ever issue of the acclaimed Public Policy & Aging Report (PPAR) on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) aging, highlighting gaps in policy and research on LGBT older adults, and current and future solutions to address the needs of LGBT elders.
"Given the voluminous gerontological literature that has built up over the past half-century, it is hard to imagine that any set of aging populations has been largely ignored or under-investigated. Yet, LGBT older adults have remained nearly invisible to the community of advocates, researchers, practitioners, administrators, and politicians who associate themselves with the modern aging enterprise," said PPAR Editor Robert Hudson, PhD, chair of the Department of Social Policy at the Boston University School of Social Work. "This issue of Public Policy & Aging Report takes a step toward filling that void."
LGBT older adults make up a significant share of America's 65+ population, and their numbers are expected to double in size over the next several decades, reaching more than 3 million by 2030. An increase in numbers signals a growing need to ensure that the policies designed to protect our nation's elders take into account the needs of LGBT older adults.
"Despite recent policy advances, LGBT older adults still face significant barriers to successful aging, such as poor health outcomes, a lack of economic security, social isolation, and unequal treatment under the law and in programs aimed at aging populations," said Michael Adams, executive director of SAGE. "SAGE is pleased to partner with the National Academy on an Aging Society on this issue of Public Policy & Aging Report to bring LGBT elders' concerns into the spotlight to transform discussions on aging nationwide."
PPAR, distributed to thousands of thought leaders in the aging field, explores policy issues generated by the aging of American society. Each thematic issue is designed to stimulate debate, highlight emerging concerns and propose alternative policy solutions.
The current issue, co-sponsored by SAGE, explores several topics related to LGBT aging, including the need for more research and public policies devoted to LGBT populations; the failure of existing broad-based aging policies to incorporate LGBT needs and interests; the need for cultural competency training among services personnel; coalition work between organizations working with LGBT older adults and elders of color to advance common policy goals; and the profound implications of a demographic estimate showing that one in two Americans living with HIV will be 50 and older by 2015. The issue also gives an overview of the current state of LGBT aging policy and advocacy, and highlights important new research from a landmark nationwide study of LGBT older adults and their health.
This issue's authors include several leaders in the LGBT and aging fields, including Michael Adams, SAGE; Kellan Baker and Jeff Krehely, Center for American Progress; Lilliam Barrios-Paoli, New York City Department for the Aging; Brian de Vries, San Francisco State University; Robert Espinoza, SAGE; Karen Fredriksen-Goldsen, PhD, University of Washington; Hilary Meyer, National Resource Center on LGBT Aging; Nathan Schaefer, Gay Men's Health Crisis; Daniel Tietz, AIDS Community Research Initiative of America; Catherine Thurston, SAGE; and Harper Jean Tobin, National Center for Transgender Equality.
Read the issue online at sageusa.org. Print copies of the current issue of PPAR, published by the National Academy on an Aging Society, are available for purchase at agingsociety.org.
Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) is the country's largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBT older adults. SAGE has pioneered programs and services for the aging LGBT community, provided technical assistance and training to expand opportunities for LGBT older people across the country, and provided a national voice on LGBT aging issues. In 2005, SAGE became the first official LGBT delegate at the White House Conference on Aging. In 2010, SAGE was awarded a three-year $900,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration on Aging to seed the creation of the nation's only National Resource Center on LGBT Aging. Learn more at sageusa.org and lgbtagingcenter.org.
The National Academy on an Aging Society is the policy institute of The Gerontological Society of America, the nation's oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society -- and its 5,400+ members -- is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public.
LGBT Older Adults and Reauthorization of the Older Americans Act: A Policy Brief
Established in 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) is the country's leading vehicle for funding and delivering supportive services to older people in this country. OAA holds enormous potential for millions of LGBT older adults, a population with profound needs that will surge over the next few decades. In 2011, OAA comes up for reauthorization, creating an unprecedented opportunity to ensure that these sizable resources support LGBT older adults and their loved ones.
During our historic 2010 conference—the first-ever national advocacy conference led by, for and about LGBT older adults—SAGE drew on the wisdom of LGBT elders and commissioned an investigative story that describes the potential of this Act in supporting our communities. We asked, "What are the distinct challenges facing LGBT elders, and how can their aging experiences be enhanced through an LGBT-affirming Older Americans Act?"
This brief presents their stories—and SAGE's official recommendations on the Older Americans Act.
Related News: Leadership Council of Aging Organizations Issues Official Document on Older Americans Act—Supporting LGBT Elders in Reauthorization
On April 6, the Leadership Council of Aging Organizations (LCAO), a 65-member association comprising the country's leading aging organizations, released its official "Consensus Recommendations for the 2011 Older Americans Act Reauthorization," which includes eight recommendations specific to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) elders, as well as racially and ethnically diverse elders, and older adults with HIV/AIDS. SAGE is the only LGBT organization on the LCAO.
To Read more about the consensus document, and the eight recommendations, Download the policy brief, or to download the full LCAO consensus document see website. Posted at http://www.sageusa.org/specialevents/home.cfm?ID=83
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
During our historic 2010 conference—the first-ever national advocacy conference led by, for and about LGBT older adults—SAGE drew on the wisdom of LGBT elders and commissioned an investigative story that describes the potential of this Act in supporting our communities. We asked, "What are the distinct challenges facing LGBT elders, and how can their aging experiences be enhanced through an LGBT-affirming Older Americans Act?"
This brief presents their stories—and SAGE's official recommendations on the Older Americans Act.
Related News: Leadership Council of Aging Organizations Issues Official Document on Older Americans Act—Supporting LGBT Elders in Reauthorization
On April 6, the Leadership Council of Aging Organizations (LCAO), a 65-member association comprising the country's leading aging organizations, released its official "Consensus Recommendations for the 2011 Older Americans Act Reauthorization," which includes eight recommendations specific to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) elders, as well as racially and ethnically diverse elders, and older adults with HIV/AIDS. SAGE is the only LGBT organization on the LCAO.
To Read more about the consensus document, and the eight recommendations, Download the policy brief, or to download the full LCAO consensus document see website. Posted at http://www.sageusa.org/specialevents/home.cfm?ID=83
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Friday, January 13, 2012
HHS Statement on LGBT Health and Affordable Care Act
Better Health and Well-BeingMaking Improvements for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Americans
President Obama has demonstrated that his vision for a brighter future includes greater equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans. The President and his Administration are dedicated to eliminating barriers to equality, fighting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and engaging LGBT communities across the country.
As part of the Obama Administration’s commitment, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues to engage in a concerted effort to improve the health and well-being of all Americans, including LGBT Americans. Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has led these efforts to promote equal treatment of LGBT Americans, provide enhanced resources for LGBT health issues, and develop better information regarding LGBT health needs.
To ensure the consideration of LGBT concerns throughout HHS's activities, Secretary Sebelius established a committee of senior representatives from each division of HHS. This committee coordinates LGBT-related policies across the department and recommends future action that HHS can take to improve the health and well-being of LGBT communities.
These efforts stemmed from President Obama’s Memorandum on Hospital Visitation, which, in addition to addressing the rights of hospital patients to designate visitors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, directed Secretary Sebelius to explore additional steps HHS could take to improve the lives of LGBT people and their families.
The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act is greatly improving access to health coverage for LGBT Americans. Studies have shown that health disparities related to sexual orientation and gender identity are due in part to lower rates of health coverage. The Affordable Care Act will give all Americans, including LGBT Americans, improved access to health coverage through an expanded, stronger Medicaid program and new Affordable Insurance Exchanges, marketplaces for quality, affordable health insurance. Moreover, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies will no longer be able to deny individuals coverage or charge them more based on pre-existing conditions – meaning that all Americans will have the security of knowing that they can access affordable, quality health coverage even if they lose their jobs, switch jobs, move, or become sick.
Other notable parts in the Affordable Care Act that will benefit LGBT Americans – like all Americans – are the provisions that permit individuals to remain on their parents’ health plans until age 26 and enhance the availability of preventive services for women in new health plans and seniors on Medicare.
As the Affordable Care Act is implemented, HHS has taken significant steps to help improve the health and well-being of LGBT Americans.
Equal Rights for LGBT Americans
In the past, many same-sex domestic partners were denied the ability to visit their loved ones in the hospital. At the direction of President Obama, HHS has taken action to ensure equal rights for LGBT Americans to visit their partners in the hospital. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued new rules in November 2010 for hospitals that participate in Medicare and Medicaid that require them to respect the right of all patients to choose who may visit them when they are hospitalized.
In September 2011, at the same time that CMS stepped up enforcement of hospital visitation rights, it also clarified that same-sex couples have the same rights as other couples in terms of naming a representative who can make medical decisions on a patient’s behalf. Existing rules protect the rights of hospital patients to have representatives who can act on their behalf. HHS has updated the guidance explaining these rules to make it easier for family members, including same-sex partners, to make informed care decisions for loved ones who have become incapacitated.
CMS has also issued guidance to states making clear that same-sex partners may be afforded treatment comparable to other spouses when it comes to receiving long-term care, such as care in a nursing home, under Medicaid. Federal law protects assets, such as a couple’s home, in the event that a married individual must receive nursing home care through Medicaid. In June 2011, CMS clarified that states have the flexibility to extend this protection to same-sex partners.
Secretary Sebelius has also strengthened internal policies at HHS to help ensure that LGBT individuals have equal access to HHS programs and employment opportunities. In April 2011 the Secretary issued a new policy explicitly requiring employees to serve all individuals eligible for HHS programs without regard to non-merit factors, including sexual orientation and gender identity. In addition, in March of 2011, the Secretary updated and clarified HHS’s equal employment policy – which already protected against unfair treatment based on a person’s sexual orientation – to also include gender identity and genetic information.
Stronger Resources to Improve LGBT Health and Well-Being
HHS has taken many steps to strengthen the health resources available to LGBT Americans over the first three years of the Obama Administration.
In 2010, HHS established the nation’s first national resource center for older LGBT individuals. This center, funded by the Administration on Aging (AoA), supports communities across the country as they aim to serve the estimated 1.5 to 4 million LGBT individuals who are 60 and older. The center provides information, assistance and resources for both aging services, LGBT organizations, and providers at the state and community level to assist them in the development and provision of culturally sensitive supports and services.
In July 2010, President Obama and Secretary Sebelius announced the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, a rigorous effort to increase access to care and lower the number of new HIV cases in the United States by 25 percent within the next five years. The strategy seeks to reduce HIV-related health disparities with a specific focus on high-risk populations, including certain LGBT populations.
In September 2010, HHS announced that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) allocated $30 million in new resources to support the National HIV/AIDS strategy. These funds, made available by the Affordable Care Act, are providing a boost to states and communities as they focus HIV prevention on high-risk populations. The funds are also helping fill critical gaps in data, knowledge, and understanding of the epidemic.
In September 2010, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced $42.6 million in new grants over a three-year period to provide behavioral health services in communities most impacted by HIV/AIDS. Funding for the “12 Cities” program will be used to develop and expand networks of primary care, HIV/AIDS and behavioral health service providers serving racial and ethnic minorities, including LGBT individuals, with or at high risk for HIV/AIDS.
In October 2010, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) announced a $13.3 million grant to the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center over five years to help address barriers to permanency and well-being for LGBT foster youth, who are disproportionately represented in the foster care population. This is one of the largest federal grants to an organization that primarily serves LGBT communities.
In March 2011, HHS launched a new website – www.StopBullying.gov – which contains a dedicated section for LGBT youth. The site includes specific resources and assistance for LGBT youth, including examples of community groups that offer support and options to seek counseling. Secretary Sebelius also taped an “It Gets Better” video to address LGBT youth who have been bullied and are at risk of depression and suicide.
In June 2011, ACF announced the creation of a resource center to support resettlement of LGBT refugees who have faced persecution and discrimination in their home countries. The new center will provide resources to resettlement workers who are helping refugees assimilate in America in key locations, and provide training to staff on issues and needs specific to LGBT refugees.
In September 2011, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded $248,000 to create a National Training and Technical Assistance Center to help community health centers (CHCs) provide improved care for LGBT patients. The center will work in consultation with CHCs across the country – providing training for doctors, nurses, and other employees and developing health information resources specifically for LGBT patients. Additionally, SAMHSA is disseminating training curricula to help providers more effectively provide behavioral health services to LGBT Americans, in particular members of racial and ethnic minority populations.
Better Information on LGBT Health Needs
In June 2011, Secretary Sebelius announced HHS’ plans to greatly enhance the collection of health data on LGBT populations. Gathering data on LGBT individuals will help researchers, policy makers, health care providers, and advocates identify and address health disparities affecting the LGBT population.
Additionally, in March 2011, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released a report commissioned by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the state of research and science regarding the health needs of LGBT people. The report provides the scientific community with the first comprehensive overview of health-related research on LGBT health issues – an important step in identifying research gaps and opportunities. To address the IOM’s recommendations, NIH formed an internal committee to review the report and determine how NIH can strengthen LGBT health research, and include LGBT Americans in clinical studies.
In October 2011, HRSA released Women’s Health USA 2011, the tenth edition of an annual data book identifying priorities, trends and disparities in women’s health. For the first time, this report features data on the health of lesbian and bisexual women. Among other things, the report found that health disparities exist by sexual orientation. The full report is available at: http://www.mchb.hrsa.gov/whusa11/.
Every ten years, HHS develops national, science-based objectives for promoting health and preventing disease for the following decade. In 2010, as part of this initiative – “Healthy People 2020” – for the first time, a formal workgroup was established to examine scientific literature on LGBT health. The workgroup will propose objectives regarding LGBT health as part of this comprehensive initiative.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Secretary Sebelius and the Department of Health and Human Services are committed to continuing these efforts, including by identifying ways to improve the health and well-being of LGBT Americans, and by coordinating the department’s activities around LGBT health.
More information on the department’s activities concerning LGBT health can be found at: http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth.html
Information on President Obama’s commitment to the LGBT community can be found at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/lgbt
Posted at http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth_update_2011.html
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
President Obama has demonstrated that his vision for a brighter future includes greater equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans. The President and his Administration are dedicated to eliminating barriers to equality, fighting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and engaging LGBT communities across the country.
As part of the Obama Administration’s commitment, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues to engage in a concerted effort to improve the health and well-being of all Americans, including LGBT Americans. Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has led these efforts to promote equal treatment of LGBT Americans, provide enhanced resources for LGBT health issues, and develop better information regarding LGBT health needs.
To ensure the consideration of LGBT concerns throughout HHS's activities, Secretary Sebelius established a committee of senior representatives from each division of HHS. This committee coordinates LGBT-related policies across the department and recommends future action that HHS can take to improve the health and well-being of LGBT communities.
These efforts stemmed from President Obama’s Memorandum on Hospital Visitation, which, in addition to addressing the rights of hospital patients to designate visitors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, directed Secretary Sebelius to explore additional steps HHS could take to improve the lives of LGBT people and their families.
The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act is greatly improving access to health coverage for LGBT Americans. Studies have shown that health disparities related to sexual orientation and gender identity are due in part to lower rates of health coverage. The Affordable Care Act will give all Americans, including LGBT Americans, improved access to health coverage through an expanded, stronger Medicaid program and new Affordable Insurance Exchanges, marketplaces for quality, affordable health insurance. Moreover, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies will no longer be able to deny individuals coverage or charge them more based on pre-existing conditions – meaning that all Americans will have the security of knowing that they can access affordable, quality health coverage even if they lose their jobs, switch jobs, move, or become sick.
Other notable parts in the Affordable Care Act that will benefit LGBT Americans – like all Americans – are the provisions that permit individuals to remain on their parents’ health plans until age 26 and enhance the availability of preventive services for women in new health plans and seniors on Medicare.
As the Affordable Care Act is implemented, HHS has taken significant steps to help improve the health and well-being of LGBT Americans.
Equal Rights for LGBT Americans
In the past, many same-sex domestic partners were denied the ability to visit their loved ones in the hospital. At the direction of President Obama, HHS has taken action to ensure equal rights for LGBT Americans to visit their partners in the hospital. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued new rules in November 2010 for hospitals that participate in Medicare and Medicaid that require them to respect the right of all patients to choose who may visit them when they are hospitalized.
In September 2011, at the same time that CMS stepped up enforcement of hospital visitation rights, it also clarified that same-sex couples have the same rights as other couples in terms of naming a representative who can make medical decisions on a patient’s behalf. Existing rules protect the rights of hospital patients to have representatives who can act on their behalf. HHS has updated the guidance explaining these rules to make it easier for family members, including same-sex partners, to make informed care decisions for loved ones who have become incapacitated.
CMS has also issued guidance to states making clear that same-sex partners may be afforded treatment comparable to other spouses when it comes to receiving long-term care, such as care in a nursing home, under Medicaid. Federal law protects assets, such as a couple’s home, in the event that a married individual must receive nursing home care through Medicaid. In June 2011, CMS clarified that states have the flexibility to extend this protection to same-sex partners.
Secretary Sebelius has also strengthened internal policies at HHS to help ensure that LGBT individuals have equal access to HHS programs and employment opportunities. In April 2011 the Secretary issued a new policy explicitly requiring employees to serve all individuals eligible for HHS programs without regard to non-merit factors, including sexual orientation and gender identity. In addition, in March of 2011, the Secretary updated and clarified HHS’s equal employment policy – which already protected against unfair treatment based on a person’s sexual orientation – to also include gender identity and genetic information.
Stronger Resources to Improve LGBT Health and Well-Being
HHS has taken many steps to strengthen the health resources available to LGBT Americans over the first three years of the Obama Administration.
In 2010, HHS established the nation’s first national resource center for older LGBT individuals. This center, funded by the Administration on Aging (AoA), supports communities across the country as they aim to serve the estimated 1.5 to 4 million LGBT individuals who are 60 and older. The center provides information, assistance and resources for both aging services, LGBT organizations, and providers at the state and community level to assist them in the development and provision of culturally sensitive supports and services.
In July 2010, President Obama and Secretary Sebelius announced the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, a rigorous effort to increase access to care and lower the number of new HIV cases in the United States by 25 percent within the next five years. The strategy seeks to reduce HIV-related health disparities with a specific focus on high-risk populations, including certain LGBT populations.
In September 2010, HHS announced that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) allocated $30 million in new resources to support the National HIV/AIDS strategy. These funds, made available by the Affordable Care Act, are providing a boost to states and communities as they focus HIV prevention on high-risk populations. The funds are also helping fill critical gaps in data, knowledge, and understanding of the epidemic.
In September 2010, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced $42.6 million in new grants over a three-year period to provide behavioral health services in communities most impacted by HIV/AIDS. Funding for the “12 Cities” program will be used to develop and expand networks of primary care, HIV/AIDS and behavioral health service providers serving racial and ethnic minorities, including LGBT individuals, with or at high risk for HIV/AIDS.
In October 2010, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) announced a $13.3 million grant to the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center over five years to help address barriers to permanency and well-being for LGBT foster youth, who are disproportionately represented in the foster care population. This is one of the largest federal grants to an organization that primarily serves LGBT communities.
In March 2011, HHS launched a new website – www.StopBullying.gov – which contains a dedicated section for LGBT youth. The site includes specific resources and assistance for LGBT youth, including examples of community groups that offer support and options to seek counseling. Secretary Sebelius also taped an “It Gets Better” video to address LGBT youth who have been bullied and are at risk of depression and suicide.
In June 2011, ACF announced the creation of a resource center to support resettlement of LGBT refugees who have faced persecution and discrimination in their home countries. The new center will provide resources to resettlement workers who are helping refugees assimilate in America in key locations, and provide training to staff on issues and needs specific to LGBT refugees.
In September 2011, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded $248,000 to create a National Training and Technical Assistance Center to help community health centers (CHCs) provide improved care for LGBT patients. The center will work in consultation with CHCs across the country – providing training for doctors, nurses, and other employees and developing health information resources specifically for LGBT patients. Additionally, SAMHSA is disseminating training curricula to help providers more effectively provide behavioral health services to LGBT Americans, in particular members of racial and ethnic minority populations.
Better Information on LGBT Health Needs
In June 2011, Secretary Sebelius announced HHS’ plans to greatly enhance the collection of health data on LGBT populations. Gathering data on LGBT individuals will help researchers, policy makers, health care providers, and advocates identify and address health disparities affecting the LGBT population.
Additionally, in March 2011, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released a report commissioned by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the state of research and science regarding the health needs of LGBT people. The report provides the scientific community with the first comprehensive overview of health-related research on LGBT health issues – an important step in identifying research gaps and opportunities. To address the IOM’s recommendations, NIH formed an internal committee to review the report and determine how NIH can strengthen LGBT health research, and include LGBT Americans in clinical studies.
In October 2011, HRSA released Women’s Health USA 2011, the tenth edition of an annual data book identifying priorities, trends and disparities in women’s health. For the first time, this report features data on the health of lesbian and bisexual women. Among other things, the report found that health disparities exist by sexual orientation. The full report is available at: http://www.mchb.hrsa.gov/whusa11/.
Every ten years, HHS develops national, science-based objectives for promoting health and preventing disease for the following decade. In 2010, as part of this initiative – “Healthy People 2020” – for the first time, a formal workgroup was established to examine scientific literature on LGBT health. The workgroup will propose objectives regarding LGBT health as part of this comprehensive initiative.
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Secretary Sebelius and the Department of Health and Human Services are committed to continuing these efforts, including by identifying ways to improve the health and well-being of LGBT Americans, and by coordinating the department’s activities around LGBT health.
More information on the department’s activities concerning LGBT health can be found at: http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth.html
Information on President Obama’s commitment to the LGBT community can be found at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/lgbt
Posted at http://www.hhs.gov/secretary/about/lgbthealth_update_2011.html
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Tobacco-Free Pride Events
The Tobacco Education Clearinghouse of California (TECC) http://www.tobaccofreecatalog.org
stocks a 25-page educational booklet that we produced a few years ago. It’s called the Smoke-Free Outdoor Pride Event Toolkit. As it says on the TECC site, it’s a complete guide for advocates who want to help LGBT Pride events become smoke-free. Includes background information, strategies, step-by-step guidelines, surveys, sample policies and media outreach.
Reposted at keystothecloset.blogspot.com
stocks a 25-page educational booklet that we produced a few years ago. It’s called the Smoke-Free Outdoor Pride Event Toolkit. As it says on the TECC site, it’s a complete guide for advocates who want to help LGBT Pride events become smoke-free. Includes background information, strategies, step-by-step guidelines, surveys, sample policies and media outreach.
Reposted at keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
A New Year: Quitlines, targeted campaigns and the LGBT community
Posted on January 11, 2012 by publichealthnerd
Daniella Matthews-Trigg, Program Associate
Greetings all!
So, here we are at that infamous time when we try especially hard to improve ourselves. And between recovering from holiday indulgences and starting a new year, there can be a lot of work to do.
Quitting smoking is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions and 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of one of the major smoking cessation tools: the first Quitline in North America!
A few weeks ago, I wrote about the effectiveness of targeting campaigns toward specific communities. Quitlines are a resource that is available to everyone, but targeted campaigns make sure that every community KNOWS that it is an available resource for THEM.
Quitlines have been shown to be extremely effective in supporting people through their quitting by offering “coaching and counseling, referrals, mailed materials, training to healthcare providers, Web-based services and, in some instances, free medications such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)”, and often in the process of quitting, what is most needed is SUPPORT.
One excellent campaign, Your Quit Date, is from Project Filter, a program of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Starring local LGBT celebrities as spokesmodels, the fabulous Martini and comedian Matt Bragg, the ads highlight “quit date” goals and the free resources available through the quitline and project filter. It speaks right to the community about the culturally competent support through Quitlines that are available for THEM.
This campaign is fun, relevant and effective and we LOVE it!
At the network, we also have some really useful resources about why it is so important to make Quitlines culturally competent and how to make it happen. Check out this brief policy paper on the reasons for adding sexual orientation and gender identity questions to state tobacco quitlines . A case study titled “Making Minnesota’s Quitlines Accessible to LGBTs” is an brief, informal interview with a leader in an amazing statewide effort to enhance LGBT access to tobacco quitlines. It covers goals, challenges, and a lesson learned and is an excellent inspiration for other organizations and states doing similar work. Additionally, download and print a few copies of our targeted national quitline poster to put up! (Do you have anything that we should add to our list of resources? We love knowing about the work that is done, so click here or email us at lgbthealthequity@gmail.com!)
Rates of smoking in the LGBT community are higher than in the general population, so it only makes sense that these communities be especially focused on for smoking interventions. We know that LGB and T communities are often stigmatized and discriminated against and therefore, reasonably, are more hesitant to access services. Creating campaigns that target the LGBT community is a way to successfully reach this vulnerable population.
Additionally, many LGBT people live in rural areas and are socio-economically disenfranchised and as a result may face even more difficulties when accessing care. Quitlines are FREE and accessible to everyone who has access to a phone. They are toll free and can even be called from a payphone. Because of the proven success and accessibility of Quitlines, they should be a focus of anti-smoking interventions in the LGBT community.
At this time of year when people are working on their resolutions to quit smoking, we need to make an extra effort to make sure that resources are culturally competent and that people in our community know about all of the services that are available. So lets all add “increase and support LGBT cultural competency and targeting in Quitlines and anti-smoking campaigns!” to our list of resolutions this year…and hopefully it’ll last longer than the one about going to the gym.
Posted at http://lgbthealthequity.wordpress.com/2012/01/11/a-new-year-quitlines-targeted-campaigns-and-the-lgbt-community/
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Daniella Matthews-Trigg, Program Associate
Greetings all!
So, here we are at that infamous time when we try especially hard to improve ourselves. And between recovering from holiday indulgences and starting a new year, there can be a lot of work to do.
Quitting smoking is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions and 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of one of the major smoking cessation tools: the first Quitline in North America!
A few weeks ago, I wrote about the effectiveness of targeting campaigns toward specific communities. Quitlines are a resource that is available to everyone, but targeted campaigns make sure that every community KNOWS that it is an available resource for THEM.
Quitlines have been shown to be extremely effective in supporting people through their quitting by offering “coaching and counseling, referrals, mailed materials, training to healthcare providers, Web-based services and, in some instances, free medications such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)”, and often in the process of quitting, what is most needed is SUPPORT.
One excellent campaign, Your Quit Date, is from Project Filter, a program of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Starring local LGBT celebrities as spokesmodels, the fabulous Martini and comedian Matt Bragg, the ads highlight “quit date” goals and the free resources available through the quitline and project filter. It speaks right to the community about the culturally competent support through Quitlines that are available for THEM.
This campaign is fun, relevant and effective and we LOVE it!
At the network, we also have some really useful resources about why it is so important to make Quitlines culturally competent and how to make it happen. Check out this brief policy paper on the reasons for adding sexual orientation and gender identity questions to state tobacco quitlines . A case study titled “Making Minnesota’s Quitlines Accessible to LGBTs” is an brief, informal interview with a leader in an amazing statewide effort to enhance LGBT access to tobacco quitlines. It covers goals, challenges, and a lesson learned and is an excellent inspiration for other organizations and states doing similar work. Additionally, download and print a few copies of our targeted national quitline poster to put up! (Do you have anything that we should add to our list of resources? We love knowing about the work that is done, so click here or email us at lgbthealthequity@gmail.com!)
Rates of smoking in the LGBT community are higher than in the general population, so it only makes sense that these communities be especially focused on for smoking interventions. We know that LGB and T communities are often stigmatized and discriminated against and therefore, reasonably, are more hesitant to access services. Creating campaigns that target the LGBT community is a way to successfully reach this vulnerable population.
Additionally, many LGBT people live in rural areas and are socio-economically disenfranchised and as a result may face even more difficulties when accessing care. Quitlines are FREE and accessible to everyone who has access to a phone. They are toll free and can even be called from a payphone. Because of the proven success and accessibility of Quitlines, they should be a focus of anti-smoking interventions in the LGBT community.
At this time of year when people are working on their resolutions to quit smoking, we need to make an extra effort to make sure that resources are culturally competent and that people in our community know about all of the services that are available. So lets all add “increase and support LGBT cultural competency and targeting in Quitlines and anti-smoking campaigns!” to our list of resolutions this year…and hopefully it’ll last longer than the one about going to the gym.
Posted at http://lgbthealthequity.wordpress.com/2012/01/11/a-new-year-quitlines-targeted-campaigns-and-the-lgbt-community/
Reposted at http://www.keystothecloset.blogspot.com
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
View Gen Silent for Brief Streaming Through Jan. 8, 2012
The critically-acclaimed LGBT aging documentary, Gen Silent is streaming now through Sunday, January 8th.
Simply go to our webpage to watch Gen Silent for free.
Rather than making you rent Gen Silent on Netflix or Amazon,
we offer free home viewing events like this one so that price or geographic region doesn't stop individuals around the world from hearing this important message.
We will let you know about other free home viewing events throughout 2012 and hope will consider making a small donation using the link on the viewer page.
Happy New Year!
The Gen Silent Team
"The generation that fought hardest to come out, is going back in- to survive."
* Why during special times only? Unfortunately it is necessary to reduce misuse and piracy that is a serious threat to small organizations like ours. We appreciate your understanding.
Simply go to our webpage to watch Gen Silent for free.
Rather than making you rent Gen Silent on Netflix or Amazon,
we offer free home viewing events like this one so that price or geographic region doesn't stop individuals around the world from hearing this important message.
We will let you know about other free home viewing events throughout 2012 and hope will consider making a small donation using the link on the viewer page.
Happy New Year!
The Gen Silent Team
"The generation that fought hardest to come out, is going back in- to survive."
* Why during special times only? Unfortunately it is necessary to reduce misuse and piracy that is a serious threat to small organizations like ours. We appreciate your understanding.
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