True Colors 22: When Pink and Blue are Not Enough

Transcription

Table of Contents
Mission/Vision/Values
page 1 - 2
Building Abbreviations
page 3
Conference at a Glance
page 4
Conference Rules and Policies
Please Read for Important Information
page 5
Continuing Education Credits/Units Information
page 6
LUNCH Information/Twitter Information (#TrueColors21)
page 6
Organizers & Volunteers, Special Thanks
page 7
Friday
Pages
Friday Agenda
page 8
Friday Opening Session
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
page 9
Friday, Mandatory Session for Youth Under 16
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM (SU 330)
page 10
Friday, Mandatory Session for Middle School Students
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM (SU 331)
page 10
Friday Session I Descriptions
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
page 11 - 17
Friday Double Sessions Descriptions
1:15 PM to 4:00 PM
page 18
Friday Workshop Session II Descriptions
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
page 18 – 25
Friday Workshop Session III Descriptions
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
page 26 - 32
Friday Closing Description
4:15 PM to 5:00 PM
page 33
Saturday
Pages
Saturday Agenda
page 34
Saturday Opening Session
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
page 35
Saturday Workshop Session I Descriptions
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
page 36 - 39
Saturday Double Sessions Descriptions
1:15 PM to 4:00 PM
page 40
Saturday Workshop Session II Descriptions
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
page 40 - 43
Saturday Workshop Session III Description
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
page 44 - 45
Saturday Closing Description
4:15 PM to 5:30 PM
page 46
Saturday Night Drag Show
5:45 PM to 7:15 PM
page 47
Saturday Night Youth Dance
8:00 PM to Midnight
page 47
Donors, Co-Sponsors and Supporters
Pages
Platinum Sponsors
page 48
Gold and Silver Sponsors
page 49
Bronze Sponsors
page 50
Resource Room Vendors and Tables
page 51 - 52
Presenter Bios and Contact Information
page 53 - 71
Supporters and Advertisers
page 72
Cover design by Jason Tillotson, [email protected]
1
By attending the True Colors conference, all participants agree to abide by
these values and policies. Any person(s) who violate them will be asked to
leave the conference and may be prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed
by law.
•
•
•
•
Yourself
Others
Pronouns & Identity
The Space
• You are welcome here
• Make everybody else feel
welcome too
• No sex, drugs or PDAs
• No violence
• Safe is not the same as
comfortable
•
•
•
•
Be Challenged
Be OPEN
Be willing to GROW
Just BE
2
• Don’t assume you know
• Use the pronouns the
person you are talking to
wants you to use
• Let people pee in peace
THEY AND THEIRS
SHE AND HERS
CHE, A, AE, IT, …
MOBILITY
DIFFERENCES
HE AND HIS
ZE AND HIRS
*E
ALTERNATING PRONOUNS
E, EM, EIR, EIRS, EMSELF
HEARING AND SPEECH
DIFFERENCES
AND MANY, MANY MORE
• Watch out for others in
crowded spaces
• Don’t assume someone needs
help, ASK
• Speak to the person, not the
interpreter
INTELLECTUAL AND LEARNING DIFFERENCES
• Believe and accept even
if you don’t understand
GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, PANSEXUAL, HETEROFLEXIBLE, NON-LABELING, STRAIGHT, ASEXUAL, ACES, DEMI-SEXUAL,
GREY-SEXUAL, STRAIGHT-ISH, STRAIGHT SO FAR, STRAIGHT, BUT STUFF HAPPENS, QUESTIONING, TWO-SPIRIT,
QUEER AND MANY, MANY MORE
TRANSGENDER, BIGENDER, PANGENDER, NONGENDER, ALL GENDER, GENDER FLUID, GENDER F*CK, NONBINARY
FEMALE, TRANS FEMININE, TRANS MASCULINE, MASCULINE OF CENTER, TWO-SPIRIT, QUEER, GENDER QUEER,
AGENDER, BOIS, GRRLS, STUD, STEM, AGGRESSIVE, AND MANY, MANY MORE
3
True Colors 22: When Pink and Blue are Not Enough Conference
Map
There is also a map insert in your package
BUSN
SU
JORG
LH
School of Business
Student Union
Jorgensen Theater for the Performing Arts
Laurel Hall
ROWE
ROWE Center for Undergraduate Education
NWRH
Northwest Residence Hall (NW lunch)
N
All of the Cultural Centers
are in the
North Dining Hall (N lunch)
(AACC) African American, SU Room 407
(WC) Women’s Center, SU Room 421
Student Union
(RC) Rainbow Center, SU Room 403
on the 4th Floor
(PRLACC) Puerto Rican/Latin American, SU, Room 438
(ASACC) Asian American Cultural Center, SU Room 432
SU = Student Union
BUSN = School of Business
LH = Laurel Hall ROWE = Cnt. For Undergrad Education
(M) = Middle School Appropriate YOUTH ONLY = 18 And Under COLL = 18+; PROF = Adult
4
March 20-21, 2015, University of Connecticut, Storrs
CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE
Friday
Registration (Participants):
Registration (Presenters):
Registration (Volunteers):
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
8:00 AM to 2:30 PM
7:15 AM to 5:00 PM
Jorgensen Theater
Student Union First Floor
Opening Session
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
Jorgensen Theater
Workshop Session l:
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various buildings
Lunch:
Noon to 1:00 PM
North/Northwest Dining
Workshop Session II:
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Various buildings
Workshop Session III:
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Various buildings
Close:
4:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Jorgensen Theater
Saturday
Registration (Participants):
Registration (Presenters):
Registration (Volunteers):
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
8:00 AM to 2:30 PM
7:15 AM to 5:00 PM
Opening Session
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
Student Union Theater
Workshop Session l:
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various buildings
Lunch:
Noon to 1:00 PM
Student Union Ballroom 331
Workshop Session II:
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Various buildings
Workshop Session III:
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Various buildings
Close:
4:15 PM to 5:30 PM
Drag Show
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Dance
8:00 PM to Midnight
Student Union Ballroom 331
SU = Student Union
Ground Rules and Expectations
5
CONFERENCE GROUND RULES/POLICIES AND EXPECTATIONS
RECORDING DEVICES, tape recorders, etc. are not allowed in any workshop for any reason without explicit
prior permission. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed by law. In addition, violators
may also be liable in a civil action for invasion of privacy.
RESPECT: RESPECT yourself; RESPECT others; RESPECT differences. Please clean up after yourself!
YOUTH ONLY SPACE: Youth Only Space is restricted to high school, junior high and/or middle school youth.
Adults should expect to be asked to leave if they intrude. College only workshops are restricted to those
who are currently in college, regardless of age.
BATHROOMS: True Colors policy is that every human being can decide for themselves which bathroom feels
the most comfortable. As a result, ALL BATHROOMS (with the exception of the bathrooms on the second
floor of each building) are GENDER FREE. Second Floor bathrooms are traditionally gendered in that anyone
who identifies as a woman may use the women’s room; anyone who identifies as a man, may use the men’s
room. We believe that each individual can determine for themselves which facility is the best fit for them.
We invite all participants to use the facility in which they feel the most comfortable.
WORKSHOP SIZE LIMITATIONS: IF ALL THE CHAIRS ARE FILLED, CHOOSE ANOTHER WORKSHOP.
SAFETY: All True Colors youth events are alcohol, drug, violence and sexual activity-free spaces. Any
individual who chooses to engage in any of these behaviors during True Colors sponsored activities or events
will be asked to leave. Reach out to a TLC if you need help in staying drug, alcohol, violence and sex free.
TLC (TENDER LOVING CARE) COUNSELORS: Throughout the conference you will see young people with
special TLC arm bands. They are available anytime you want to touch base with someone or take some
private “time out space” or just want to talk. Supervisors are on-call if needed.
•
NOTE: TLCs ARE MANDATED REPORTERS. That means that if you tell them something that makes
them think you are being abused or that you are a danger to yourself or others, they MUST report it
to the supervisor who MUST report it to the proper authorities.
SU = Student Union
6
Lunch and Continuing Education Units Information
CEU & Lunch Information
TC 22 “Mall”/ Resource Room:
Located on the First Floor of the Student Union, the resource mall includes lots of
information, cool stuff to buy, and many new people to meet! Be sure to check it out!
TWITTER: #TrueColors22
Tweet your feedback, comments, thoughts, ideas
Continuing Education Units or Credits (CEU/CECs):
If you are requesting CEUs or CECs, please make sure you:
a. Pick up your CEU/CEC Request Forms at Registration
b. Sign in and out of workshops
c. Fill out and drop off your CEU/CEC REQUEST FORM in the box labeled “CEUs” in the
Resource Room or at the Information Desk.
d. YOU MUST DROP OFF THE FORM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE YOUR CEUs.
Lunch: Pre-purchased LUNCH TICKETS are available inside Jorgensen (on Friday) or at registration in
the Student Union (on Saturday). The food court (Student Union, 1st floor) is open if you need to buy lunch.
FRIDAY: Hot lunches will be provided on Friday for
those who purchased tickets from 11:45– 1:15 p.m. in
one of two locations.
The Northwest Dining Hall is located across the street
past the Math and Science Building.
North Dining Hall is located further up the road from
Northwest. Look for signs!
SATURDAY: Boxed lunches
will be provided to those who
purchased lunch tickets in
advance in the Student Union
Ballroom, located on the 3rd
floor.
A shuttle bus will run between the Student Union and
the Lunch Halls from 11:45 – 1:15 p.m. The bus stop in
For
on Glenwood Road, between the Student Union and
Jorgensen
SU = Student Union
7
Volunteers and Organizers
Thank you to the University of Connecticut Programs and Organizations whose contributions made the
conference possible:
UCONN Rainbow Center
UCONN Events Management
UCONN School of Business
Asian American Cultural Center
UCONN NEAG School of Education
African American Cultural Center
Puerto Rican and Latin American Cultural Center
Women’s Center
Special Thanks to:
Fleurette King, William Malavé and the UCONN Rainbow Center Staff
Debi Freund and David Brennan from DCF
Kate Copeland from UCONN Events Management
True Colors Fundraiser Managers/Volunteers: Debbie Freed; Joan Lawrence; Joy Lawrence; Holly McHaelen
Walter Feldman, Marcel Jennings, Michael Morgan, Trevor Reynolds, and Richard Stillson
THE ORGANIZERS:
True Colors Staff: Robin McHaelen, MSW, Executive Director; Lea Dantz, Office Administrator; Kamora Herrington, Mentoring
Program Coordinator; Paul Grabowski, Group Mentoring Coordinator; Amber Zinni, True Colors Volunteer Coordinator
True Colors Interns: Kelly Scroggins; Parker Terrell; Amanda Cramer, Krista , Joel Gonzales
Conference Organizing Committee: Amanda, Kyler and William Aaron; Lynne Alexandar, Nan Arnstein, William Barbosa,
William Burk, Nicole Beno, Terri Blake, Alia Bradley, David Brine, Ari Brooks, TR Brooks, Connor Doyle, Flavio Espinoza, Linda Fafard,
Holly Fontana, Rose Hatt, Dylan Kearney, Lucas Larcheveque, Eva-Maria Maher, Jessica Mathieu, Roseann Muro, Glenn Murphy,
Nazmun Nahar, Melissa Pennica, Alex Rodriguez, Kyle Roughan, Gilad Satt, Bryana Spencer, Liz Spremulli-Gray, Vu Tran, Bryce
Turner, Rachel Waitzman, Matt Whitaker, Maggie Wysopal , Alexandra Yang
Volunteer Coordinators: Roseann Muro; Kyler Aaron, Amanda Aaron; Will Burk; Matt Whitaker, Vu Tran, Amanda Zinni (they
will be wearing GREEN T-Shirts if you want to thank them!)
Sign Language Interpreter Coordinator: Holly Fontana
Technology & Entertainment Diva: Barbara Curry
Day of Conference Volunteers: Please say a special thank you to all the folks in the True Colors volunteer
T-shirt. The conference wouldn’t function without them!
Special Thanks to everyone whose donations made it possible for so many youth to come to the conference on
reduced fees or scholarships:
CT State Commission on Children
Gregory McLaughlin
Congregational Church, South Glastonbury
Ebony S. Murphy
DJ Ron
Harry North
Hartford Gay Men’s Chorus
Rocky Hill Pediatrics
Mary Gorton
Taylor Woroneck
Zach Gregus
Special Thanks to DIANE KNOX for her annual
Priscilla Herrington
scholarship fundraiser on behalf of our youth!
Jeffrey Lentz
SU = Student Union
8
Friday Agenda
Friday, March 20, 2015
Agenda
Registration
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
(Volunteer & Presenter Registration is in the STUDENT UNION on the 1st floor)
Jorgensen
Opening Session
Featuring: Jazz Jennings; Q5 and Rich Kiamco
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
Jorgensen
Session I
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various Locations *
Lunch
Noon to 1:00 PM
North or Northwest
Dining Halls
Session II
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Various Locations *
Session III
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Various Locations *
Closing Activities/Performance
Featuring NYC Youth Pride Chorus
4:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Jorgensen
*See workshop descriptions for specific locations
SU = Student Union
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Friday Opening Session
Friday, March 20, 2015 Schedule and Descriptions
Welcoming Ceremonies:
Robin P. McHaelen, True Colors Executive Director
Fleurette King, Director, UCONN Rainbow Center
Susan Herbst, President, University of Connecticut
Kevin Lembo, State Comptroller
Beth Bye, State Senator
Elaine Zimmerman, Executive Director, CT Commission on Children
When she was 6, Jazz appeared on
20/20 with Barbara Walters. Since
then she has been featured on
many media outlets all over the
world. She's been recognized at
the GLAAD media Awards, and both
her Barbara Walters' specials won
GLAAD awards. Jazz is the youngest
recipient of the Colin Higgins Youth
Courage Award, the youngest
person selected to be in The
Advocate Magazine’s, “Top 40
Under 40” annual list, Out
Magazine's OUT 100 list, the 2014
Trans 100 list and most recently,
was included in TIME Magazine’s
Top 25 Most Influential Teens. . Jazz
is the co-author of the children's
book, "I am Jazz". She is the cofounder of the Transkids Purple
Rainbow Foundation, a Trans Youth
Support Program and founder of
Purple Rainbow Tails here she
creates her own mermaid tails and
donates proceeds to help trans
youth.
Rich Kiamco is a force of
nature that rips across the
stage leaving laughter, tears
and applause in his wake.
Rich was featured on
BRAVO’s Queer Eye For The
Straight Guy, co-hosted the
WE channel’s 3 Men And A
Chick Flick, has had multiple
appearances on OutQ Sirius
XM Satellite Radio,
was interviewed on FOX’s
Good Day NY and recently
appeared on The Wendy
Williams Show.
Most recently, Rich opened
for Comedian Louie
Anderson in Las Vegas. His
writing can be found in Take
Out: Queer Writing from
Asian Pacific America, Temple
University Press and Queer
Stories For Boys, Thunder's
Mouth Press.
Marcel Ravonne Jennings also
know as “Cul’Cha J.” is a Hip Hop
dancer, teacher, and choreographer
at Studio 8-Sixty. He has trained in
many different styles of Hip Hop
dance such as Wacking, Popping,
Locking and House dance and he
has also trained in African dance
and Jazz dance. Marcel currently
teaches beginner and level 2 Hip
Hop class at his home studio Studio
8-Sixty and also teaches beginners
Hip Hop classes at Lakeside
Academy of dance in West Hartford
Q5, also known as Queer 5,
originated in Hartford, CT at
Studio860 located at 30 Arbor St.
Fierce, Strong, Creative,
Independent, and Flawless are
some of the many words that make
up Q5. Be who you are and never
be afraid to show your true colors.
Let the world know that you are
beautiful.
SU = Student Union
10
Friday, Session 1: 10:30 A.M. to 11:45 A.M.
Friday Session I
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various Locations
IF YOU ARE Under 16, YOU
MUST ATTEND ONE of these Two Sessions
1) Crossing The Middle Ground: High School Students under 16
Student Union Ballroom, Room 330 (John Boiano)
Mandatory workshop for first time youth conference attendees and ALL students 16 and under. Come
celebrate our differences in this highly interactive and fun workshop designed specifically for YOU. Cross
The Middle Ground and delve into a world that will reach far beyond your fears and doubts! Returning
High School and Middle School Youth attendees are also welcome to attend! John Boiano
2) THAT’S WHAT UP: FOR ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
Student Union Ballroom, Room 331
Mandatory workshop for ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS. This is your chance to meet each other,
have fun and find out stuff to do at the conference.
Friday Session I, II, & III
Offered in each time slot
Various Locations
Parents and Caregivers
Drop into The SPOT! – Support for Parents Of Transkids of all ages
SU 303
offered 3 times: 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m; . 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. – 4:00 PM
Come join other parents of transgender / gender queer / gender questioning kids of ALL ages for support and camaraderie as
we share the many challenges, mixed-feelings, roadblocks, and successes of supporting our children in their gender identity
exploration and/or transition. This support time will be overseen by a parent facilitator from PFLAG Hartford or TRANSPact,
which are support groups for parents that meet here in Connecticut on a regular basis. Whether you have just found out and
are struggling with "the news", or are a seasoned veteran of having a transgender kid, come join us for some sharing,
questions, understanding, resources, and yes - some laughs! Note that this support group necessitates confidentiality and is
limited to parents and caregivers of transgender children. Parents/Caregivers of LGB youth are also welcome to participate.
Youth Only
Rubberwear
SU THEATER
offered 3 times: 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m; . 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. – 4:00.
UConn's Rubberwear, a nationally recognized program, is an interactive workshop that addresses safer sex techniques.
Students will be engaged in numerous activities including a lubrication tasting, dental dam and condom demonstrations, and
how to use all of the above correctly to reduce the risk of contracting STIs/STDs and reduce pregnancies. Students will also
have an opportunity to practice techniques through a condom relay. Abstinence will also be respected as a choice and will be
discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!!
Youth ONLY
Facilitated SMALL GROUP Discussions: You choose the topic
ROWE: Rooms 130, 131, 133, 134
All Day at the (LGBT) Movies:
Rowe 122: Check your participant package insert for a list and descriptions
SU = Student Union
11
Friday Session I: 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Friday Session I
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various Locations
Activist Institute
Decentering Whiteness: Anti-Racism Activism For Non-POC Queers
BUSN 122
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Are you interested in learning how to be a (better) anti-racist ally? Want to get involved but aren't sure how to do it?
Are you a queer person of color looking to further work on dismantling racist practices within the queer community?
We will be looking to create a basic understanding of anti-racist work, decentering whiteness, undermining white
supremacy and critiquing current queer activist practices through presentation and discussion. This workshop will
come from a queer, woman of color, feminist perspective and look to bring queer poc perspectives to the forefront
while helping create non-appropriative and non-dominating spaces for white allies. Lynden Dolan|Stephanie Lumbra
Activist Institute
History of LGBT and HIV Activism in CT
BUSN 226
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
CT has a long, rich and mostly forgotten history in the annals of LGBT rights. We were the third state in the nation to
pass a “gay rights’ bill, but it was not without a long struggle, attempts, activism and arrests. Learn where we fit into
the timeline of LGBT rights and where AIDS activism comes into the equation. shawn lang
College Only
Mobilizing Apathy: Action Planning on College Campuses
BUSN 218
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will give college-aged organizers the tools necessary to plan and run an action within the context of their
campuses. Drawing upon social movement theory, we will explain strategies for effectively inciting students who
believe in their ability to create change. We will cover how to recruit and preserve a base, how to plan for all stages of
an action, and the importance of knowing how to navigate your college’s bureaucracy. Harry Barrick|Deane Silsby
College Only
PrEParing for Safer Sex: Negotiating Sex in the Age of PrEP and
Understanding How Identity Matters
LH 307
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Sex matters. And it’s complicated. Culturally diverse young men (age 13-24) who have sex with men are at significant
risk of contracting HIV. Learn what puts this group at particular risk, but also learn strategies for discussing safe sex
practices with partners. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is the new line of defense in HIV prevention. Come learn about
the basics of PrEP including who should consider taking it, its effectiveness, and social stigma related to taking PrEP.
Advocate for yourself, your children, or your clients. Michael Burnias|Laura Saunders
General Audience
#Femme
SU 304A
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
In this workshop we’ll explore femme through writing, activities, and conversation. What is femininity? What do we
mean when we say something is masculine or feminine? Where does the word “femme” come from and why does it
matter? We’ll explore femme and femininity in mainstream society and in the queer community, the history of femme
in the queer community. The Femme Show
General Audience
An Alphabet Soup of LGBTQ-IDK identities: Let’s eat it up with the
Genderbread Person!
LH 106
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Don’t know the difference between a cross-dresser and a drag queen? Trying to explain to your parents that “trans”
doesn’t mean “gay”? Not sure why they say “gender identity and expression” – what’s the difference? Looking for an
easier way to educate your students, family, employees, or clients on intersex or gender queer people, or identities
such as asexual or pansexual? In this workshop we will employ the “Genderbread Person” – an educational tool - to
help people wrap their heads around sex vs. sexual orientation vs. gender identity vs. expression. Whether you are a
“newbie” wanting help in navigating through these LGBTQ definitions, or you are an LGBTQ veteran who wants to be
able to effectively explain certain aspects of sexual orientation or gender identity, this interactive workshop promises
SU = Student Union
12
to help you eat up the alphabet soup of the LGBTQIDK world! Workshop is sure to include laughs, interaction, and
maybe even a gingerbread cookie! Lori Davison
General Audience
Born Gay? A look at biological factors
LH 206
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
A growing body of research is dovetailing to suggest that sexual orientation is often the result of biological events that
occur prior to birth – especially for males. This accessible workshop briefly reviews psychological and social theories of
the genesis of homosexuality and examines recent findings in the world of biological sciences. The latter includes
studies on genetics, prenatal hormones, brain anatomy, brain functioning, and the immune system. Particularly exciting
are findings that lesbians and gays have qualities that are more typical of the opposite sex and these qualities are
known to develop while still in the womb and to be affected by levels of hormones. Kenneth M. Cohen
General Audience
Choosing to Label: What's in a name?
SU 304B
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Bi, lesbian, gay, straight, queer, questioning, choose-not-to-label. How do you decide which label to use? What do
labels do? What don't they do? Is it possible to avoid labels? What is the difference between ascribed labels and
chosen labels? How can we manage our identities in order to get the maximum benefit with the minimum cost? Let's
think creatively and proactively about identity. Robyn Ochs
General Audience
Gender: To the Binary and Beyooond
SU PRLACC Room 438
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop is for boys, girls, neither, both, and/or anywhere in between. We will discuss gender stereotypes as well
as looking beyond the gender binary. After all: “There are as many genders as there are people.” Nataliya Braginsky
General Audience
Graduating with Rainbows: Determining LGBTQIA-Friendly Colleges
SU RC
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Participants will learn about the function and purpose for the University of Connecticut Rainbow Center (RC). As one of
5 cultural centers, the RC provides advocacy, resources, information, social activities, educational programs and a
facility designated to the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. UConn students
will talk about the impact of the Rainbow Center and participants will tour the 3,800 sq. ft center, even though it serves
as the True Color Conference headquarters and volunteer space. Participants will discuss programs and policies that
aid to the success of LGBTQQIA students, including heterosexual allies. High school students, parents, and advisors will
obtain factors and resources to look for a LGBTQ–friendly college campus. Fleurette King
General Audience
Human Trafficking and LGBTQI Youth
BUSN 227
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Our workshop aims to educate the youth on the dangers of LGBTQI sex trafficking and the preventative measures we
can take in order to decrease human trafficking on a domestic level. To bring awareness to an overlooked topic with
little data research. Parker Terrell
General Audience
Is Love in the Media too Romantic?
LH 110
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
The subject that I plan on addressing is how love is represented in the media and more specifically in movies and
television. I plan on using popular media such as Grease, How I met your Mother, The Notebook and Frozen to poke
holes in the unrealistic standards that love in movies create. Also I want to explore the limiting heterosexual
relationships that are being advertised with no regards to homosexual, asexual, or platonic relationships. This creates
false standards for people. I will compare real relationships that require much more than just “love at first sight.”
Lastly, I will pitch ideas how we can break away from these gender roles. Hunter Spitale
General Audience
It's MY story and I am sticking to it!
LH 111
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Storytelling is humankind's oldest information highway. Leaders, parents, and friends have told stories for centuries to
inspire, uplift, teach, and console. Storytelling is one of the most effective tools of influence a person can know when
SU = Student Union
13
interacting with others. This presentation will walk participants through a fast paced, fun-filled workshop to develop
their own stories of influence, values in action, and community. Elizabeth Cracco|Perry Mandanis
General Audience
LGBTQ+ and Disability: Examining Crossroads of Identity
LH 109
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
What does it mean to both identify within the LGBTQ spectrum and have a disability? Does it mean anything at all?
Common misconceptions can often present challenges for those who identify within one or both of these communities.
This workshop will facilitate an open discussion on topics that may include barriers, commonalities, bodily realities,
media representation, and strategies for reducing social distance. All ideas and experiences are welcomed and
encouraged! Aiden Bartelt|Syd Fogarty
General Audience
Looking In Theatre
SU WC Room 421
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Using high school aged actors, we present a series of short dramatic scenes of issues of importance to the audience,
followed by discussion with the actors answering questions in character. Jonathan Gillman
General Audience
Remix My Life: Songs of Inspiration
LH 301
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will allow the audience to learn about themselves and others using one of our most popular media types
today, music. Everyone will be able to use music to showcase their own skills, characteristics, or simply describe who
they are as a person. After the music is chosen the audience will have an opportunity to discuss with one another why
they chose a particular song and learn from one another. Mike Pastore
General Audience
Sharing the GOOD about GSAs
SU 325
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
In this workshop we will present what we have done as advisors for the GSA at Rockville High School and how this club
has changed the culture of our school. We would also like the opportunity to brainstorm with the group to discuss
issues that often arise but to concentrate on the GOOD work that GSAs do for the school and the community.
Patricia Bengtson|Bernice Freedman|Maria Turchi
General Audience
The Homestretch
LH 101
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
The Homestretch follows three homeless teens as they fight to stay in school, graduate, and build a future. Each of
these smart, ambitious teenagers—Kasey, Anthony and Roque—will surprise, inspire, and challenge audiences to
rethink stereotypes of homelessness, as they work to complete their education while facing the trauma of being alone
and abandoned at an early age. Through haunting images, intimate scenes and first-person narratives, these teens take
us on their journeys of struggle and triumph. As their stories unfold, the film connects us deeply with larger policy
issues of juvenile justice, immigration, foster care and LGBTQIA rights. Visit http://www.homestretchdoc.com to learn
how you can bring the film to your community. Twiggy Garcon| Jama Shelton
General Audience
The Streets: Combating Homelessness in Our Communities
BUSN 215
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Being a survivor of anything traumatic isn’t easy; though especially when the words associated with what you went
through are things like “druggie” and “bum”. Being homeless isn’t something that happens once, maybe for a day then
you’re done and you get over it. In this workshop, be prepared to examine your personal thoughts on homelessness
and come to a place of understanding and activism; be ready to talk with people who know first hand what it’s like to
live on the streets, come with an open heart and ready to combat the problem. Kailin Oarei
General Audience
Walk Like A...Gay Man
BUSN 203
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
What does it and what does it really not mean to be a gay man in today's world? Together we will break down
stereotypes and truly define masculinity, through a queer perspective. Justin Ross
SU = Student Union
General Audience
Word Wars!
SU 322
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
14
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will shape your REALITY! In this workshop Collective Consciousness
Theatre artists and participants will use interactive theatre games, movement exercises, and candid group discussions
to find real solutions to name-calling, aggressive, and hurtful language. Our world is filled with so many ways for
negative people and ideas to inflict harm upon us. It is time to TAKE A STAND! Let's work together to spread a message
of understanding, positive communication, and change. Everyone is welcome to join in the discussion, to play with us,
and to perform in front of a group of peers. Madelyn Ardito|Dexter Singleton
General Audience
You Can Run, But You Don’t Have to Hide! Changing the Game for LGBT
Students in Sports and Athletics
BUSN 204
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Many high school LGBTQ+ students do not participate in school athletics and dread physical education classes because
they fear being bullied in the locker room or on the field. In this workshop, we will delve into the issues that LGBTQ+
students face with athletics and brainstorm ways both teachers and students can create a safer athletic environment in
schools. This is just one of several workshops facilitated by GLSEN Connecticut's Student Organizing Team. Find out
how you can get involved! Kylar Maldonado
What I Wish Adults Knew about parenting LGBTQI youth
SU 321
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Parents, guardians, and caregivers are often great, and just as often hopeless. In this facilitated session, youth will have
a chance to share the things that they just don’t get, and try to help them get it. Ned Ruete
Professional Audience
Creating ‘Safe and Brave Spaces’ in Classrooms and Schools
BUSN 112
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
It may be unclear what it means to create a ‘safe’ or ‘brave’ space or in your classroom or school. However, research
shows that creating a safe and brave spaces can have a huge impact on student achievement because it allows
students to learn in places where they are supported by their teachers and peers. This workshop will give you a chance
to hear many ways in which teachers of all grade levels and content areas have made their classrooms and/or schools
into ‘safe’ and ‘brave’ spaces for students and staff. After hearing a variety of perspectives on what these spaces can
look like, you will have the chance to plan how to make your own classroom and/or school a ‘safe’ and ‘brave’ space by
leveraging your strengths. This workshop is for education professionals and other adults who work to create spaces
that value peoples’ diverse identities. Veronica Madrigal|Anne Marie Norgren
Stop them in their tracks…How to interrupt intolerance
BUSN 127
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop aims to offer hands-on and practical advice about how to identify intolerance that occurs in various
settings and how to interrupt intolerance. Presenters will provide a definition of “Microaggressions” and discuss how
discriminatory comments adversely impact well being. A focus will be placed on how to be a supportive ally and turn
moments of intolerance into teachable moments. Lynette Adams|Jennifer Gaskins|Speshal Walker
Suicide Prevention for Natural Supports
LH 108
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will provide education about prevalence, causes, signs, and symptoms of suicide among LGBTQIA youth.
The emphasis of the workshop will be on how concerned individuals can intervene at times of risk to prevent suicide.
Coleen Dobo|Laurie Sanders Donnelly|Jonathan Cuebas
Spiritual Institute
Creating Relevant Spiritual Practice
SU 316/317
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Together with participants from Pagan Discussions, we will present a panel discussion on how we have created
meaningful rituals within a Pagan tradition. We will share our experience, our plans and goals for the future, and our
resources. Priscilla Herrington|Diane Hasz
SU = Student Union
15
Spiritual Institute
The Bible: Word of Death or Voice of Hope for LGBTQ People?
BUSN 211
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Very loud religious voices want to claim the Bible as their justification for hatred and exclusion of LGBTQ people, in the
church and in the world. We will acknowledge the short answer to the question, “Is the Bible the word of death or a
voice of hope?” We will explore first “the voice of hope” then briefly examine the issues of proportionality and
selectivity. Finally we will look at the few specific texts in light of biblical scholarship. Participants will give voice to
their hopes for the time, QnA is welcome throughout. Participants will be offered handouts created by the presenter
for loan or to own. This presentation will equip participants with necessary resources to offer a welcoming, hopeful
understanding of scripture to help LBGTQ people understand that scripture is not the oppressor, the Bible not the
problem. Alice O'Donovan
Youth Only
A New Sexuality: Mostly Straight
LH 201
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
More youth identify themselves as “mostly straight” than identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, pansexual, or
questioning combined. Who are these youth and what do they mean by being mostly straight? Is it that they are
“fluid,” that different parts of their sexuality are not in sync? Perhaps as many as 20% of young women and 10% of
young men say that they are straight with a “little bit” of gayness. This gayness is reflected in their sexual attractions,
fantasies, behavior, and crushes/romances. We will consider several stories of these youth and you can tell each other
and me what you believe about them and what they ought to do in terms of expressing their sexuality and romantic
interests. This is an opportunity to come together with like-minded youth to explore this new sexual frontier. Ritch
Savin-Williams
Youth Only
Among Men: Being a Gay Guy in High School
LH 202
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Learn how to talk about LGBT issues with friends. Discover how to build relationships with your straight male friends.
Ask all the questions you’ve ever wanted answered by a heterosexual male to our fabulous guest speaker. Explore how
to cope with girls who only want a gay best friend. This workshop will help you figure out how to navigate being gay in
High School. Lucas Larcheveque|Grant Zitomer
suicideYouth Only
LH 205
Beyond “Bi”: How Well Do Our Labels Really Fit?
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will explore how every individual’s experience of their own sexuality is unique, especially for those who
experience their sexuality as neither “straight” nor “gay” and about some of the existing labels and myths about those
who fall outside of this binary. We will have open discussion about developing a bisexual (pansexual, queer, or other)
identity and about what it means to be questioning. You will hopefully better understand the many ways that sexuality
goes beyond the binary of “gay” and “straight” and what is involved both in creating a sexual identity that
encompasses your complicated real life and adopting a label that fits your experience. Kathleen Harrison
Youth Only (M)
I'm Beautiful, Dammit!
SU 304C
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Beauty is only skin deep? Say what? How can we be happy, creative, productive people without feeling that we should
mirror the “acceptable” images that are forced upon us daily? Let’s discuss the pleasures and pressures of our
obsession with body image Barbara Curry
Youth Only (M)
JourneyDance
SU AACC Room 407
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
JourneyDance is a fun a meaningful way to connect with your body and your peers in a supportive and positive way.
We dance with Compassion; we dance with Courage; we dance with Kindness! We let go of negative ideas and make
space in our bodies for experiencing more JOY! Find your inner dancer. Find your beauty through easy, fun, flowing
movement! Alicia Genovese
SU = Student Union
Youth Only
Keeping it Drama Free. Let's Talk About Healthy Relationships.
LH 308
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
16
Relationships are about the connections we have with people. Having healthy relationships in life can provide us with
great happiness, but can also be very challenging. Let's face it, not every relationship is perfect all the time. However by
identifying qualities that build a healthy relationship is important to feeling good about your self and feeling safe. So
come talk with our youth peer educators from Planned Parenthood of Southern New England about how to make
healthy relationships in your life! Naomi Dawkins|Lorrin Ferguson|Jennifer Gaines|Cheyianne Sellers
Youth Only
LGBTQ Fiction-A Writer’s Workshop
LH 309
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Meet David Lavallee as he discusses his experience writing If Boys Could Hold Hands and his next upcoming novel. This
workshop will teach you to hone your creative writing skills as you examine setting, dialogue, and character
development. You will be sure to walk out with ideas that will put you on your way to revising previous work or set the
tone for what could become your next masterpiece. Thanks to the generosity of LGBTQ supporters, all attendees will
receive a free autographed copy of his book! Michael Givens|David Lavallee
Youth Only
Neutralizing The Classroom- Making School a Safe and Comfortable
Place for Transgender and Non-binary Youth
SU 320
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop is all about making school a safe, and comfortable, environment for transgender and non-binary youth.
Includes: telling your teachers your preferred name/pronouns, dealing with trans*phobic teachers/students,
q&a/coming out stories and more. Lexi Sylverne
Youth Only
Say What? - The Power of Language in building an inclusive community
LH 302
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
When is the last time you heard someone say, "That's so gay" as a passing comment? Did you have a calm conversation
with them? Yell and scream? Or just keeps walking? In this discussion-based workshop, come hear about other's
experiences with this issue and how other's approach the situation. Also, join us for a conversation about the power of
language in promoting (or tearing down) an inclusive community. Theresa Gillette|Renee Seufert
Youth Only
The Gauntlet
LH 306
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
An interactive workshop that brainstorms all the difficult questions that young LGBTQI... youth are asked> Once the
questions are determined, the gauntlet is a quick moving exercise which allows the participants to both ask and
practice answering the hardest questions. Bob Brex
Youth Only
The Sensual Triad: Communication, Relaxation, and Lubrication
LH 107
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Let's talk about the sensual triad and make safer sex sexy and sex-positive! With communication, relaxation, and
lubrication you can learn to better communicate with yourself and your partner. Solange Canizares
Youth Only
There are so many fish in the sea, how do I know which one is for me?
SU 410
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Participants will have an opportunity to play an interactive game to design their "ideal" mate. Soledad
Meade|Suzanne O'Brien|Linda Papp
Youth Only
What's an Ally!
SU 312
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Join us for a fun discussion on the word Ally and what it means! When people hear the word ‘Ally’, their first thought is
of straight supporters to the LGBTQ community. This workshop aims to redefine and broaden the term to a more
inclusive definition while discussing ways we can all be better Allies! Javier Adams|Catherine Given|Elle
Higgins|Sarah Malmberg
SU = Student Union
Youth Only (M)
Yoga for Claiming Our Bodies
SU 318/319
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
17
This session is a gentle yoga class to help participants focus and center their bodies. Hilary Greer
Youth Only (M)
Youth Speakers Bureau: Creating Change through the Arts
LH 305
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
LGBTQ youth are often compelled to hide their sexuality and to remain in the closet—especially LGBTQ youth in the
foster care and juvenile justice systems. This fun and interactive workshop will focus on the coming out stories of
LGBTQ youth, celebrating the process and building supportive communities. Through hands-on activities, youth
participants will use their life experiences to channel a collective voice that advocates for more affirming cultural
practices. Joseph Davis|Sarah Mikhail
SU = Student Union
18
Friday Session II: 1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Friday Session II & III
Double Sessions 1:15 PM to 4:00 PM
Professional Audience Culturally Sensitive Practice Working With Transgender and GenderNonconforming Youth in Juvenile Justice Systems
BUSN 203
1:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) youth are overrepresented in the juvenile justice system, but often
their social, psychological, and medical needs are not met. For professionals working with TGNC youth, cultural
competency can only be achieved through understanding. What does it mean to be gender-nonconforming? Why are
there so many TGNC youth involved with juvenile justice? In this workshop, participants will learn about the rights of
TGNC youth and best practices to better serve this population.
M. Currey Cook
Youth Only
Creating Ourselves Inside and Out: Group Art Experience
SU 322
1:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Who are you, really? Let's get our creativity flowing with some friends as we try and answer that question. Create
artwork that represents what you're made of, how you see yourself, and how you think the world sees you. Be
prepared to share your art with the group and follow rules of respect when viewing others' art. Most important, come
ready to have fun, be creative, and express your SELF. Toni Storlazzi-DiMartino
Friday Session II
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Various Locations
Activist Institute
College Wish List: Achieving a Queer-Friendly Campus
SU ASACC Room 432
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The goal of this workshop is to empower student leaders as well as equip them with the tools necessary for a
successful change on their campus. College graduates who put many, many hours into improving their campus climate
at a Connecticut state school will briefly cover their experiences and discuss some tips and tactics for carrying the fight
forward on your own campus. Workshop attendees will be able to discuss and compare experiences. Topics include:
setting goals (from gender neutral housing to LGBT Centers), tactics and how-to's (from research to meeting with
administrators), and things to remember (self-care is IMPORTANT!) Bring your questions, experiences, and your own
wish list! Handout to be provided. Melissa Cordner|Carolyn Taggart
Activist Institute
From the Ground Up: Building an Alliance in Rural Communities
BUSN 218
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The workshop is intended for individuals interested in developing a collaboration with diverse disciplines and
community members to create social change. It will provide a road map to building a grassroots organization to provide
outreach, education and advocacy for LGBTQ youth and young adults. The audience will also learn ways to build
partnerships in communities without existing resources. Resiliency and best practices will also be discussed. Jennifer
Riebe|Chalarra Sessoms
Activist Institute
Regulation of Black and Brown Bodies: Navigating Police Interactions as
LGBTQ Youth of Color
LH 202
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Racial profiling is an everyday reality for people of color and often leads to harassment, arrests, imprisonment, and
murder. LGBTQ youth of color are disproportionately profiled by the police due to the intersection of racism, sexism,
homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. This workshop seeks to arm LGBTQ youth of color with basic legal knowledge
to navigate policing as well as facilitate a broader discussion on community based activism to eradicate or reform the
prison industrial complex. Maryse Pearce
SU = Student Union
College Only
Forming an Identity: The Challenges of Intersectionality
BUSN 215
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
19
The “Forming an Identity: The Challenges of Intersectionality” workshop was formed with the goal to encourage its
participants to reflect inwards to explore their perception of their identity as well as enlighten them to the diversity of
people in general. Identity formation is a major mental process that adolescents go through that comes to a peak when
individuals are on the brink of adulthood and the cusp of independence. Many individuals face challenges combining
pieces of identifiers such as race, class, gender, and sexuality to form a comfortable image of themselves. Also, many
individuals face challenges from societal exclusions of marginal groups. This workshop strives to open participants to
some tools they can use to help form their sense of identity, and to be more inclusive of diversity in their everyday
interactions with others. Alexandria Hicks
College Only
Gazed at and Confused: The Evolution of the Gaze in Mainstream Media
BUSN 226
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop would investigate how Laura Mulvey's theory of the (hetero) Male Gaze has evolved to become, in a
way, more inclusive to queer people, with examples from mainstream and art house films. Kyle Turner
General Audience
Asexuality
LH 107
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Approximately 1-2% of the US population currently identifies as asexual, and this percentage has been increasing
rapidly during the past decade and since AVEN, an online information and support website, was established. Growing
research and clinical interest in asexuality has focused on neurodevelopmental issues, personality and social correlates
of asexuality, and clinical concerns regarding whether asexuality is a “normative” expression of the sexual continuum
or whether it reflects psychological maladjustment (e.g., sexual dysfunction, depression, schizoid personality disorder,
autism spectrum disorder). This presentation highlights information regarding these issues as well as explores
asexuality itself—definitions of asexuality, famous asexuals, stereotypes of asexuals, adolescent/parent issues, asexual
arousal and attraction, links to “kinks,” types of asexuality, asexual relationships, and asexual activism and resources.
Ritch Savin-Williams
General Audience
Being Trans in the Professional World
LH 309
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
How to effectively come out in a professional environment, how to field questions in the work place, and how to make
your work environment comfortable and accepting. James Mase
General Audience
Beyond Binaries: Identity and Sexuality
SU 304B
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This program explores the landscape of sexual orientation, and how we "map" it. No two people are alike, so how do
we assign labels to our complicated and unique experiences? In this fun and interactive program we will explore
different experiences of identity, the complexities of attraction and more. Robyn Ochs
General Audience (M)
Bucket o' Positive Feels!
LH 108
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Having a hard time? Don’t know where to start to make it seem a little better? I have the tool kit solution for you! In
this workshop we will go over different tactics to deal with stressful situations by building a toolkit of your very own!
With the help of your fellow conference goers you will have the chance to build your bucket of positive that you can
take with you to remember the peace and happiness from this conference all year round. Spenser Blake
General Audience
Drag-ging Expression
SU 330
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Rupaul’s Drag Race may be the pop culture of hyper expression; but when we get down to the nitty gritty of expression
how does our community see itself? In this session be prepared to answer questions, learn and vocalize your own
expression. Participants will explore and visualize hyper expression and learn a brief history of Drag as expression.
Kailin Oarei
SU = Student Union
General Audience
Engaging and Empowering ALL Youth Leaders
BUSN 204
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
20
This interactive workshop will provide youth and adult prticipants to share their successes and challenges in engaging
young people at their schools, agencies, and communities. Promising practices for involving young people in designing,
planning,and implementng a range of youth leadership opportunities will be shared.. We will emphasize leadership
roles and ways to assure a strong Youth Voice. Deborah Stewart
General Audience
Friday Night Flims...
LH 102
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Lets go the movies !!! True Colors presents our Friday Night Film Festival. A variety of LGBTQI Independent short
films/documentaries and feature film. David Elliott Waterman
Global Dialogues on Sexual Diversity
BUSN 127
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Established in 1997, Global Dialogues combines the creative genius of young people and the power of social change
media to cultivate empathy, compassion and unity in diversity. GD amplifies youth voice in an innovative, intercreative
program of social mobilization and global activism. Join co-founder Dan Enger to see some of their films and find out
how you can participate in creating your own Dan Enger
General Audience
How the Matthew Shepard/James Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act
Affects You
BUSN 227
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
In this interactive workshop, participants will discuss hate crimes in America and its impact on individuals and
communities, especially LGBT community members and the importance and impact of the Matthew Shepard/James
Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009. We will also discuss the two key case which were instrumental to the
enactment of this historic law. Participants will also learn how a case qualifies for prosecution under this law and the
role of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Attorney in investigating and prosecuting
violations of the Act. Additionally, participants will be provided with an overview of the U.S. Department of Justice,
Community Relations Service and the role it plays in fulfilling the mandates of the Act. Azekah Jennings
General Audience
In My Shoes: Growing up in an LGBTQ headed family
LH 109
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Watch In My Shoes, a youth made, award winning, documentary about growing up in a family with LGBTQ parent(s).
This will be folowed by a discussion led by teens who have grown up in an LGBTQ family. Maya BartonZuckerman|Haley Gervino
General Audience
LGBTQIA History 101
LH 110
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop will teach people the history not often told by those with the privilege of shaping the national story. It
will explain the basic movements from around the world (their leaders, strategies, and time periods), and highlight
little-known stories of marginalized communities' histories. Sarah Prager
Middle School Stories: When Pink and Blue are not enough
LH 101
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Middle school can be both wonderful and terrifying! It is a period of huge transitions - especially for trans*, gender
creative and other youth who don't fit neatly into boxes. This facilitated panel of middle school students will share
their experiences and engage the audience in generating ideas to make middle more accepting of differences. Pete
B*|Jazz Jennings|Kayleigh Wisnowski
General Audience
No Place To Put My Stuff
LH 111
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
In this workshop we will present the new DCF Homeless Youth Prevention video & Brochures. The concept for both
came from Earl D. - a formerly homeless, DCF involved gay young man and his trusted mentor and DCF social worker,
SU = Student Union
21
Pamela Cranford. The presentation will begin with a discussion of homeless youth & the disproportionate number of
LGBTQI youth represented. The audience will view the video & be given copies of the brochures. After the video, there
will be an opportunity for sharing stories & Q&A with Earl D. & Ms. Cranford. Participants will also have an opportunity
to submit feedback and ideas in anonymous written form. Pamela Cranford|Earl D|April Morrison
General Audience
Selected Scenes From A Self Made Man Documentary
LH 205
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
In this workshop you will watch selected scenes from the award winning documentary A Self-Made Man. A Self-Made
Man is a documentary that takes a candid look at what it means to be transgender, told through an intimate portrait of
trans youth advocate Tony Ferraiolo. Gender identity first appears in childhood and some kids feel that they were born
in the wrong body. It is a scary time for both them and their parents as they make the transition journey from one
gender to the other. This is a film about someone who helps them get there safely. A panel discussion with trans youth
and their parents will follow the screening. Tony Ferraiolo
Singing and Drumming Circle
SU 331
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Do you like to sing? Come learn songs and chants and add some rhythm with provided tambourines, drums and
shakers. No prior singing experience needed – every voice is welcome here. Come celebrate your strong and beautiful
self. Latecomers welcome. Rachel Waitzman
SU GALLERY, Room 310
Speaking Out: Queer Youth in Focus
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Speaking OUT: Queer Youth in Focus is a photographic essay that explores a wide spectrum of experiences told from
the perspective of a diverse group of young people, ages fourteen to twenty-four, identifying as queer (i.e., lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning) over the last ten years. Join author and photographer, Rachelle Lee Smith, in
the Student Gallery, in her infomral session to see the portraits and hear stories about the 10 year journey that became
a book. Rachelle Lee Smith
General Audience
Strategies of Inclusion: Learnings from a Church & Cultural Center
SU 304A
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Based on best practices of acceptance and inclusion, the adults can make a significant impact on reducing a youth’s
involvement in high risk behavior. Participants will discuss, learn and share strategies for advocating, facilitating and
demonstrating acceptance and inclusion for team members, family and classmates. The facilitators will include the
pitfalls and successes of demonstrating inclusion of the gender and sexuality spectrums, beyond LGBT. Rev. Hilary
Greer|Fleurette King
General Audience
Studs, Boi's, Ags, Doms, Butch, etc...Female Masculinity
LH 301
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This an open discussion workshop which will define female masculinity of the present as well as define its various
lifestyles. Studs, femmes, and all are welcomed. Ternise Barrett
General Audience
That's a Good Question: Answering Difficult Questions
LH 302
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
In this workshop, facilitators will guide a discussion on barriers, difficulties, and concerns for having conversations with
youth about difficult or sensitive topics. Research by Milton (2003) showed educators having difficulties with questions
such as “is ‘x’ behavior okay,” “when is it okay to engage in certain sexual acts,” inclusions of guardians in
conversations, and knowing how to navigate boundaries. Participants will share past experiences and brainstorm
possible avenues to navigate conversations. Although facilitators can discuss possible techniques, the conversation will
be guided by a contextual framework. Facilitators will also discuss resources for professionals to learn more about
various topics. Additionally, facilitators will provide a local resources handout. Paola Chanes-Mora|Tara Lutz|Joleen
M. Nevers|Colleen Vernola|Kate Ward
SU = Student Union
General Audience
The Coming Out Story of A Rwandan Genocide Survivor
LH 305
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
22
This workshop will present the survival and coming out story of Daniel Trust, a Rwandan genocide survivor and youth
motivational speaker. Daniel will share with the audience his inspiring story of how he survived the Rwandan genocide
in 1994 and managed to escape to the United States in 2005 as a refugee and eventually become a U.S. citizen. He will
give details of how he witnessed the murder of his mother and how losing his father, mother and two sisters in the war
affected and changed his life. Daniel Trust will also give a personal account of his personal coming out story. Growing
up in a country where homosexuality is a taboo, prohibited, and where one can receive many years of prison time for
being lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, Daniel’s childhood was field with fear, anger, and self-hate, but he had
hope, hope that one day he would get the freedom to truly express who he is. Daniel will talk about the many struggles
he faced and the reactions he received when he first came out on Facebook, to his best friend, family and co-workers
as being gay in 2010. Daniel Trust
General Audience
The New Faces of HIV/AIDS
BUSN 211
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
When HIV first burst on the scene in the early 80s, gay men, lesbians and allies took it upon themselves to organize and
force the Reagan-led government, the FDA and the CDC, as well as pharmaceutical companies to move on funding,
treatment and research. Then, an HIV diagnosis was almost always a death sentence. Flash forward 30+ years, and the
new infections on the rise are among younger, men who have sex with men; and, primarily young black and latino men.
The younger generation has no connection to those early days, and no understanding of the plague, the havoc it
wrought within our communities, the courageous activism that continues to save lives, and the resurgence of
infections. shawn lang
General Audience
What We Don’t Know CAN Hurt Us: Examining White Privilege
Within the LGBTQ Community
SU 221
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Acknowledging privilege isn’t easy! This workshop will help participants self-reflect on their areas of privilege so that
they can become more inclusive and more knowledgeable organizers, activists and leaders. We will discuss white
privilege within the LGBTQ community as well as the prejudices we all carry around with us regardless of race or
ethnicity. Kelly Garrett
General Audience
You are Not Alone
LH 201
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Everyone feels lonely at a point but never wants to admit it, everyone turns to something that isn't healthy for them,
and when things are really hard we can be depressed. We are going to be sharing why someone may feel this way and
how to help yourself or someone else who is feeling this. When we learn how to spread the awareness about these
problems, people can step up and make a positive change. Luz Avila|Lisa Booth|Delilah Quezada|Carynna Mott
Dazed, Confused, or maybe Amazed? How do you feel about your
LGBTQ child?
SU 410
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Many LGBTQ teens and young adults feel that they have been unsupported or outright rejected by their parents or are
terrified to come out to their parents for fear of rejection. Let’s have a roundtable discussion to explore our beliefs and
inner voices that lead us to react the way we do, and then let’s explore how we can transition ourselves to be more
open and supportive of our children through this journey. David Breitsprecher
SU 303
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Come join other parents of transgender / gender queer / gender questioning kids of ALL ages for support and
camaraderie as we share the many challenges, mixed-feelings, roadblocks, and successes of supporting our children in
their gender identity exploration and/or transition. This support time will be overseen by a parent facilitator from
PFLAG Hartford or TRANSPact, which are support groups for parents that meet here in Connecticut on a regular basis.
Whether you have just found out and are struggling with "the news", or are a seasoned veteran of having a
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transgender kid, come join us for some sharing, questions, understanding, resources, and yes - some laughs! Note that
this support group necessitates confidentiality and is limited to parents and caregivers of transgender children.
Parents/Caregivers of LGB youth are also welcome to participate. Jama Arsenault|Lori Davison|Susan Richards|Donna
Shubrooks
My child or my religion? How do I choose? How do I find my way
through this dilemma?
SU 325
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop will address the needs and questions of parents of LGBT children when their religious beliefs come into
conflict with who their child is. The presenter will facilitate a respectful roundtable talk with participants, focusing on
the wisdom of the group to seek their own answers, while providing a framework and suggestions out of his own
experience in assisting the many parents with this conflict who have sought his counsel over the part 30 years. Parents
and caregivers from all faith perspectives are welcome. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone
A Clinician's Guide to Writing "The Letter" for Transgender Youth
BUSN 112
1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Many mental health clinicians working with transgender youth are daunted by the prospect of writing a letter
recommending readiness for medical treatment with puberty blockers or cross-gender hormones. This workshop is for
clinicians with some prior experience or training in mental health care for transgender youth. We will go over the
components of an evaluation of gender identity, the criteria in the WPATH Standards of Care for readiness for
hormones, the information we must share with transgender youth and their parents or guardians to provide for
informed consent, and the elements of the letter itself. There will be time to discuss specific questions you have
regarding this process. Irwin Krieger
Assessment and Treatment of Sexually Confused Older Adolescents.
BUSN 122
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Increasingly, older adolescents, such as college freshmen, are presenting for counseling with sexual orientation
confusion. This workshop will help treatment providers to distinguish various sexual domains (sexual orientation,
behavior, identity), become familiar with sources of sexual confusion (e.g., sexual dysfunction, psychopathology, past
harassment), and learn helpful tools for guiding clients toward sexual understanding. Kenneth M. Cohen
Being Out in the classroom
SU 320
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Come talk with other professionals about being out in the classroom. Teachers find themselves in various stages of
"being out." Come listen and share your story. Tracey Wilson
The Healthcare Professional and the Transgender Patient
BUSN 202
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Transgender folks do not always seek or receive the healthcare they need, this workshop investigates the special needs
of the transgender patient and the actions that healthcare professionals can take to create a more welcoming
environment for transgender patients. Janis Booth
Spiritual Institute
Coming Out Ritual
SU 316/317
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Participants at Pagans Discussions will perform a Coming Out ritual that we have developed. Anyone who wishes to
participate or suimply observe will be welcome. It is suggested, but not required, that participants have attended the
workshop. Priscilla Herrington|Diane Hasz
Spiritual Institute
What Does Bisexuality Have to Do with Religion?
LH 306
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
How does our sexuality affect our relationship with religion and spirituality? Can embracing the complexity and fluidity
of gender and sexuality enrich our religious beliefs and practices? What about the Bible? What does any of this have to
do with social justice or sexual justice? With bisexuality as a point of entry, this workshop provides space to consider
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these questions. By learning more about bisexuality, exploring personal identities, and engaging in activities and
discussions that help us move beyond binaries; participants will be invited into the diversity, beauty, and wonder of
human sexuality and of the ultimate. Hosted by the Religious Institute, all are welcome to join in this conversation
about religion and sexuality. Marie Alford-Harkey|Drew Konow
Youth Only
LH 106
All the Small (BIG) Things: Dealing with Microaggressions in Daily Life
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
A discussion based workshop, where we will talk about what microaggressions are and how to confront them in our
everyday lives. Microaggressions, those tiny daily offensive comments we all hear, are a complicated thing to deal with.
The goal of this workshop is discuss how to deal with microaggressions that arise in many different situations. From
classroom to dinner table, we will delve into how to respond to such comments based on one’s company, and how to
keep them from ruining our days. Sofiy Inck|Ry Walker
Youth Only
LH 308
Being LGBTQ shouldn't be as hard as math =P
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
When you’ve got people on your side, being yourself gets easier. Let’s figure out what’s easy, what’s difficult, what’s up
in the air. We can talk about things like coming out, dating, friends, family… Math still might be a mystery though. *This
workshop is for teens in high school and middle school*. Michael Gilles|Viktor Jakab|Susan Polese|Nicole Sabel
Youth Only
Healthy & Unhealthy Relationships
SU WC Room 421
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Are you in a Healthy Relationship? Most youth are not in healthy romantic relationships. This workshop will provide
what a healthy relationship should look like and why many romantic relationships are not healthy . Genesis
Cubilette|Ignacio Heredia|Derek Polanco|Khiara Monet
Youth Only
SU 324
New Identities, New Experiences
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
As a workshop specifically designed for youth and young adults who can relate to creating a new identity, this
workshop will focus on validating and normalizing the experiences that this change brings. Participants will gain an
awareness of the potential emotional effects that can take place when there's a shift in identity. The workshop
facilitators will bring personal antidotes and experiences in adapting to new identities. This is an interactive,
experiential workshop that you don't want to miss! Evan Hubbard
Youth Only (M)
SU AACC Room 407
Out of the blue!
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Stepping out of your comfort zone is never easy, especially when you are not comfortable with yourself. Let's have fun
running through exercises and games to increase your confidence in order to be ready for difficult situations such as
questioning your sexuality, coming out, etc.. Laurel Mendelsohn|Christa Wurm
Youth Only
LH 307
Out on Campus! Moving from Highschool to College
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This will be a session open for highschool students/and or college students who are interested in finding an LGBTQ
empowering College or University. Whether it be community college, Historically Black College/ University, public 4
year or private 4 year. Come ask ALL the questions! Courtney own D'Allaird
Youth Only
OUT-Lines: Comics as Self-Expression
SU 321
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop will introduce the comic art form as a means of expressing identity through story and images. Using
simple, inexpensive, readily available materials, participants will create 8-panel mini-comics. No artistic experience
necessary! Heather Annis
SU = Student Union
Youth Only
Queer Visions of Healthy Relationships
SU 312
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
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Are you interested in learning about and fostering healthy relationships within a queer, trans and asexual inclusive
environment? Members of the LGBTQIA community may find it hard to locate healthy models for relationships and/or
may face unique obstacles seeking help with abusive or unhealthy relationships within a dominant heterosexual,
allosexual and cisgender culture. Our interactive workshop aims to allow everyone to examine the role of power in
relationships and provide tools for assessing the health of their own connections. Attendees will be challenged to
reflect on the effect of cultural norms and stereotypes on relationships and empowered with the necessary tools to
support friends who may be experiencing relationship violence. While this workshop will be focusing on intimate
relationships, we would encourage you to define what “intimate” and “relationship” mean for you and want to create
space for individual definitions. VAWPP
Youth Only
Rethinking Teen Relationships: What Do Health & Safety Mean to You?
SU PRLACC Room 438
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop will adapt Teen Safe Project materials from the Center for Young Women's Health (Boston, MA) for a
diverse LGBTQ youth population. This should be a loosely-structured discussion with the materials as prompts.
Permissions have been received from The Center for Young Women's Health to redistribute unaltered materials and to
use the curriculum for the purposes of this conference, but I also want to open up a dialogue about teen experiences
and expectations for relationships. Sharon Glassburn
Youth Only
Rubberwear
SU THEATER
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Students will be engaged in numerous activities including a lubrication tasting, dental dam and condom
demonstrations, and how to use all of the above correctly to reduce the risk of contracting STIs/STDs and reduce
pregnancies. Students will also have an opportunity to practice techniques through a condom relay. Abstinence will
also be respected as a choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!!
Youth Only
Stripping Down Media: Gender & Sexuality in Advertising
LH 206
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop will help high school students to think about how media portrays gender and sexuality in advertising.
This hands-on and interactive workshop will allow participants to view advertisements in print media, videos, and
online as well as to create artistic collages of the messages they see. There will be group discussion on issues related to
gender, sexuality, and the LGBTQ community in the advertisements. René Roselle|Jeffrey Sparano
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Friday Session Closing Session, 4:15 – 5:00 PM
Friday Session III
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Activist Institute
Facilitation 101: Finding Group Wisdom
SU 316/317
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
We often think we need to have perfect content knowledge. But with the right process, we can extract all the content
we need from the wisdom in the group. This session will provide a structure for understanding tips and techniques
extracted from the attendees in a facilitated session. Ned Ruete
Activist Institute
Got Trans Rights? Enforcing Gender Identity and Expression
Non-Discrimination Laws
LH 107
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Connecticut law specifically provides that “no person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a
public school of any town, or in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study of such public school on
account of their gender identity, among other characteristics.” This interactive workshop covers how to report and
overcome problems at school. Bring your questions to brainstorm successful implementation of this law in your school
system. This workshop is for youth as well as parents. Maryse Pearce
Activist Institute
Stonewall Speakers of CT: Who We Are and What We Do
SU 324
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Stonewall Speakers is the speakers bureau section of the non-profit CT Stonewall Foundation, Inc. We train speakers to
go to tell the personal stories of the LGBT community to groups or assemblies in middle schools, high schools, colleges,
civic groups, professional organizations / businesses, GSA groups, and just about any organization that wants to hear
from the LGBT community. We gear our speakers' presentations to fit the needs of the requesting organization and
have spoken in the past about bullying, growing up LGBT, coming out to family and friends, coming out in the
workplace, and how one can be religious and a proud member of the LGBT community. This workshop tells about our
organization and includes a demonstration by a few of our presenters. Stonewall Speakers
Activist Institute
Utilizing Queer History in our Activism Today
LH 307
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
LGBTQ history is one of our most inspirational tools to show that every action makes a difference and that, together,
our actions add up to make progress happen. This session will model how to use LGBTQ historical events as a
motivational call to action and demonstrate the use of the new free resource Quist, a mobile app that tells the story of
queer histories. Sarah Prager
Activist Institute
What's Safe Sex Gotta Do With It? Improving Community-level HIV/STD
Prevention Strategies Through Media and Messaging
BUSN 204
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wanna bring sexy back to safe sex? At this lively and provocative workshop, we'll deconstruct and re-envision "safe sex"
and HIV/STD prevention strategies used in different communities. And we'll talk about how safe sex is promoted through
mainstream and alternative media, including advertising, You-Tube, comics, PSAs, and Grindr. Be prepared to safely and
enjoyably step out of your comfort zone as we share and exchange innovative tools and resources for HIV/STD
prevention. Together, we'll show how media can be used as effective tools for social change! Alberto Cifuentes, Jr.
College Only
Gender Writing Workshop
SU 321
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Even before we are born, gendered stories frame our identity. We wake up to pink and blue blankets and cribs; as
children, we walk through the aisles of toys "for girls" and toys "for boys"; as teens and adults, we often uncritially
conform to traditional relationship standards based on what we expect and think we deserve. Even in queer
relationships, gender inevitably affects the way we perceive ourselves and one another. In her novel Written on the
Body, Jeanette Winterson blends poetry and prose into a tragic, beautiful love story. Her lyricism is powerful and
provoking, but what's perhaps most clever about this work is how the narrator's gender is never revealed. Using
Winterson as inspiration, this workshop begins with a short exerpt from her work, centers around a writing prompt and
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freewrite period, and ends with time set aside for voluntary sharing. The workshop aims to explore gender and identity
through intentional writing. Sharon Glassburn
Ballet Is For Everyone
SU 304C
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Ballet is for everyone, regardless of gender, body type, fitness level, or experience. Whether you want to re-live
childhood hours spent at the barre or are interested in exploring this dance form for the first time, Maggie Cee invites
you to experience ballet in a fun, non-judgmental environment. Despite the strictures that are sometimes drawn
around this art form, we can reclaim it and make it our own, discovering the subversive potential of movement. This
workshop includes basic ballet terminology, gentle stretches, an introduction to proper alignment, and a fun, simple
combination that will have you dancing! Comfortable clothes and socks or bare feet are recommended, and a variety of
modifications will be offered. Maggie Cee
General Audience
Basic Ace: Understanding Asexual and Aromantic Spectrum Identities
BUSN 218
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Feel perfectly satisfied in your romantic relationships without having sex? Maybe your life is happiest without romance
or sex at all? Do you feel like sex is fine but you’d rather be friends than romantic? Maybe you prefer intimate platonic
relationships and want them to be taken just as seriously? Are you not any of these but you’d like to support those who
are? We will be doing a foundational look at the multiple asexual and aromantic spectrum identities, discussing ways to
increase visibilities and bust myths, as well as roles for allies. Lynden Dolan|Dylan Kearney
General Audience
Bisexuality 101 and Beyond
SU 304B
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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 the LGBTQetc community? However you identify, come to this lively
and interactive program if you could use some tools for challenging ignorance and biphobia. Robyn Ochs
General Audience
Celebrating our Queer History
BUSN 226
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In order to understand and embrace who we are, we need to understand the past and where we came from. Our
history is rich with GLBTQ people who paved the way for our youth. Many times they are left out of the history books.
Come learn about the amazing GLBTQ Americans whose shoulders we stand. Jennifer Anderson
General Audience
Creating a “Safe Space” Program: Learning the Basics and Gaining
Resources
BUSN 227
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
This *very interactive* workshop will walk participants through a sample “Safe Space” training to demonstrate how
one might be facilitated. We will talk about LGBTQIA related terminology, resource centers and inclusive nondiscrimination policies, processes of coming out, specific needs of trans youth, strategies for being an ally, and
participate in mock scenes where we mobilize our ally strategies! We will also discuss as a group the logistics of
creating a “Safe Space” program: obstacles, getting buy-in from administrators, and materials and resources. Hopefully
we can create a space for exchanging ideas and building partnerships. Michelle Spiegel
General Audience
Crossdressing Successfully in the Real World
SU WC Room 421
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The purpose of this workshop is to teach and encourage male-to-female crossdressers to escape from fantasyland and
experience the real world as females. Stana Horzepa
General Audience
Gen Silent: A Documentary Film About LGBT Aging
LH 106
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Short opening remarks from AARP about our efforts to shine a light on the unique challenges of the LGBT aging
populaiton, followed by the 63 minute award winning documentary film. Learn more about the film at:
http://stumaddux.com/GEN_SILENT.html Erica Michalowski
SU = Student Union
General Audience
How to start or energize your GSA in mental health and
substance abuse facilities
SU 312
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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This workshop will provide guidance for mental health and substance abuse providers on how to start, energize and
sustain a Gay/Straight Alliance at their facilities. Specific instruction on ground rules, topics, activities, events will be
provided. Kit Hastings-Kort
General Audience
In Defense of De-Escalation
LH 206
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Have you ever heard homophobic or transphobic insults being slung around in the halls at work or school? Have you
ever wondered how you can gently and yet effectively correct them, so as not to inflame the situation? For your safety
and those around you, it is important to know these skills as an ally, so that you can show your peers your support, and
also help others who may be more ignorant understand the severity of their hurtful language. And for those who
identify, this is a perfect opportunity to learn how to defend yourself with words, while still being kind. Nobody ever
got anywhere by fighting fire with more fire, the key to dealing with ignorant bullies is to remain calm and logical
yourself. Celina Deng
General Audience
LGBT Youtube Panel
LH 102
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In This workshop we will be talking about different way LGBT youtubers affect LGB youth. I have some youtubers like
Mathew Lush, Nick Laws, Bria and Chrissy and possibly a few more. Dylan Dubay
General Audience
LGBTQIA students in the STEM fields
LH 309
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
What is it like being out in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field? How do you successfully
navigate a STEM undergraduate and graduate student career while also being part of the LGBTQIA community?
Aileen Vandenberg
General Audience
LOL - Labeling Our Love: Exploring the Spectrum of Labels, Gender, &
Sexuality
LH 101
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
What’s in a word? Way more than you might think! In this workshop we’ll venture into the world of labels, gender, and
sexuality. With your help, we’ll explore the spectrum together, examining how all of these different labels can bring us
together and discover through group discussion how important (or unimportant) they can be for every individual, all
while shedding light on just how nuanced identity can truly be. Kevin Davis|Katie Edelman|Kyle Harrington|Ben Plant
General Audience
Queering Improv!
SU 331
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In this workshop, participants will receive a brief introduction to the theory and practice of Improvisation, play some
Improvisational games, and talk about how we can use the tools of Improvisation in our daily lives. Emphasis will be
placed on creating a safe space to perform and try on different roles. Through it all, we will explore how Improvisation
can be particularly fun and powerful in the context of exploring and articulating queer identities. ***All
games/activities can be adapted based on different needs and abilities the group may have*** Emily Fuller
General Audience
Reclaim Your Respect in the Classroom: A Simple Step by Step
LH 108
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Do you dread going to class because of a teacher’s attitude towards you? You are not alone! Whether this disrespect is
unintentional or on purpose, you are entitled to feel safe in the classroom. Come to this workshop and empower
yourself with a concrete plan of action. We will discuss how to take advantage of your resources, and host a voluntary
role play on effectively exercising your rights. Mercedes Horner
SU = Student Union
General Audience
So You Think You Can Vogue?
SU 304A
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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VOGUE: Hands, Spins, Catwalk, Duckwalk, Dips. Join us as we learn about a rich underground dance style through
movement with a Ballroom legend. Its time to express ourselves and LIVE through the music. Its time to werk. Do you
have what it takes? Prove it only the fiercest will survive. Get ready to strike a pose. EAT HER ALIVE! Old way, New way,
Fem Vogue. what style fits you? Darrick Labeija
General Audience
Surprise! You're a Poet!
SU 410
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Being queer can be confusing; there are so many words and concepts that it can be hard to find a way to express
ourselves accurately. This workshop will explore how writing is like identity; it is constantly evolving and changing, it
doesn't always follow the rules, and best of all, its style is unique to each writer. Attendees will get the chance to
discuss this, brainstorm topics as a team, and try writing (in any style) alone or in groups. Shy-person friendly; sharing is
not required! Melissa Cordner
General Audience
The Rainbow And The Wheelchair: LGBTQ & Disability:
How We Connect and Intertwine
SU 325
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
What do LGBTQ people and disabled people have in common? What are the ways we differ? How can we bridge the
gaps between our two communities? Join two dynamic disability activists for an upbeat enthusiastic discussion and
learn how we can work together and get comfortable with each others challenges and become more aware of the
rainbow in the wheelchair, as we talk about disability from a broad inclusive intersectional framework. Sonya RioGlick|Rev. Moonhawk River Stone
General Audience
Transgender Activist History: From World War II to the Present
LH 110
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The workshop will look at transgender activist from World War II until the present. It will cover the history of the
movement and notable transgender activists such as Sylvia Rivera, Dallas Denny, Virginia Prince and Christine
Jorgensen. In addition, the workshop will look at the Stonewall Uprising from a trans-perspective and will cover
legislative victories, defeats and betrayals, both locally and nationally. Diana Lombardi
General Audience
Using Constructivist Listening Skills to Manage Difficult Conversations
LH 202
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
This interactive session will have participants practicing the constructivist method of listening skills to engage in
conversations on some of the most common sources of conflicts/bias in the workplace. William Howe
General Audience
Zines! Putting consent into practice
SU 221
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Learn how to make a zine and use it as a space to explore and communicate what’s inside and outside of your personal
boundaries. We’ll talk about what consent means and what practicing it can look like to include all identities in the
LGBTQ+ community. We’ll use the creative and accessible medium of mini magazine making to start dialogue and build
healthy relationships. Jena Duncan
SU 303
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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Shubrooks
From Fear to Acceptance
LH 205
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
From Fear to Acceptance workshop is designed to help parents or caregivers of transgender youth better understand
and process the most common fears. In this workshop, Tony Ferraiolo will give the proper tools and skills to turn your
fears into acceptance. You will walk away with the resources you need to confidently move forward. Tony Ferraiolo
My child / student / client is LGBT, and I want to be supportive.
LH 308
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
When someone we care about comes out to us, knowing how to react can be challenging. This workshop will address
the concerns of parents, educators, and healthcare professionals who want to be even more supportive to the LGBT
people they care for. Presenters will share their experiences and give space for participants to ask questions, share
stories, and get feedback. Michael Gilles|Viktor Jakab|Susan Polese|Nicole Sabel
Changing the Tide: Advocating for LGBTQ Friendly Policies on College
Campuses
BUSN 112
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Are you interested in learning how to advocate for gender inclusive housing and other inclusive policies on your
campus? Are you working to create an LGBTQ Center or LGBTQ support services? This workshop will outline different
strategies you can use to advocate for LGBTQ policy change on your campus. Sample proposals and policies will be
provided along with time for discussion about the issues specific to your campus. Kelly Garrett
Communities Coming Together to End LGBTQ Youth Homelessness
BUSN 122
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Everyone has a role to play in ending LGBTQ youth homelessness! Whether you are an educator, a librarian, a parent, a
social service provider, or a business owner, you can make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ youth who are
experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. In this interactive session, participants will learn about innovative
community approaches to preventing and ending LGBTQ youth homelessness, including early lessons learned from the
LGBTQ Youth Homelessness Prevention Initiative, led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD), with partners from the Federal Department of Education, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Health
and Human Services, and private partner the True Colors Fund. Twiggy Garcon|Jama Shelton
For GSA Advisors ONLY
SU ASACC Room 432
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Being a GSA Advisor is both rewarding AND challenging. This lightly structured, facilitated discussion will will give
participants the opportunity to share and learn from each other's successes and struggles Dan Woog
How Early Trauma Impacts the LGBTQI Experience- and How We Can
Help Most Powerfully
BUSN 202
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In treating the sexual and gender minority youth in the child welfare system it is essential to understand how early
developmental trauma shapes the youth, which thus impacts their emerging sexual identity. Early neglect, trauma and
attachment disruptions can affect the youth’s brain and biology. Lack of trust, a constant sense of danger, a deep sense
of shame and inadequate feelings management skills can complicate the youth’s positive growth. Participants will earn
how to utilize the latest brain research to address the trauma while healing the whole person. Patricia Wilcox
NOT your trans* 101: Evaluation of Trans* and Gender Creative
Children
BUSN 127
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
As more clinicians want to work with trans* and gender creative youth, training and supervision is hard to find. This
workshop will provide guidelines for evaluating and treating children and families, background on medical intervention,
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writing letters to other professionals, changes of documentation, and working with schools. Carole MacKenzie|Donna
Shubrooks
Sexual Taboos: Discussing Difficult Topics in Sexuality
BUSN 211
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In this workshop, facilitators will guide a discussion on barriers, difficulties, and concerns for having conversations with
youth about difficult or sensitive topics. Research by Milton (2003) showed educators having difficulties with questions
such as “is ‘x’ behavior okay,” “when is it okay to engage in certain sexual acts,” inclusions of guardians in
conversations, and knowing how to navigate boundaries. Participants will share past experiences and brainstorm
possible avenues to navigate conversations. Although facilitators can discuss possible techniques, the conversation will
be guided by a contextual framework. Facilitators will also discuss resources for professionals to learn more about
various topics. Additionally, facilitators will provide a local resources handout. Paola Chanes-Mora|Tara Lutz|
Using the RULER Approach: Helping Youth Develop Emotional
Intelligence
BUS 215
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The idea that emotions matter and matter a great deal in schools and in everyday life - from teaching and learning to
decision making to relationships to mental health - is the focus of this session. This session will provide a brief
introduction to the five key emotional skills of recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotion
that comprise the scientific model of emotional intelligence with a specific focus on emotion regulation. It will also
discuss the RULER approach to teaching emotional intelligence - or what is more broadly called social and emotional
learning (SEL). RULER provides a comprehensive emotion education for all students and the adults involved in their
education. Research on RULER shows that the approach enhances school climate, decreases stress and bullying,
enhances academics, and provides all stakeholders with the skills they need to thrive both in school and beyond.
Dena Simmons
Spiritual Institute
Questioning Gender, Questioning Faith: Spiritual Resources to Explore
Identity
LH 305
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Inspired by a need to break the binding narrative of binaries, this workshop is designed to encourage a healthy
embrace of questions. This space will demonstrate how faith and religious resources can be used to support ourselves
as we continue to explore who we are and who we are becoming. Storytelling and conversation are used to lay the
foundation for a spiritual exercise on identity inspired by the Ignatian practice of imaginative contemplation. Through
powerful descriptions and lingering silence this workshop is an invitation to embrace our questions in order to free
ourselves to live into the answers. While this workshop is primarily drawn from Christian resources on discerning
identity, people from all backgrounds of belief and unbelief are invited to this conversation. Andrew Amanda (Andy)
Leigh-Bullard
Youth Only
Decision Making & Sexuality
SU PRLACC Room 438
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Decisions about sexuality are typically addressed only after issues arise, like unplanned pregnancies, sexually
transmitted infections, and unhealthy relationships.Understanding how decision making can impact our lives is critical
in order to achieve our goals in a healthy way. Genesis Cubilette|Ignacio Heredia|Derek Polanco
Youth Only
Feeling unsupported or disowned by those who should love you most?
SU AACC Room 407
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Many LGBTQ teens and young adults feel that they have been unsupported or outright rejected by their parents or are
terrified to come out to their parents for fear of rejection. Let’s have a roundtable discussion for teens and young
adults to share experiences, explore feelings, and discuss strategies for dealing with feelings of rejection from parents.
David Breitsprecher
SU = Student Union
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Youth Only
H.E.A.R. Us!: How to Educate, Advocate and Raise Awareness about US!
SU 320
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Teaching GSA students how to create and facilitate school-wide education presentation to student body. Lauren
Ablondi-Olivo|Matti Colavolpe|Matt Gail|Dana Hagewood|Richard Hernandez|Bryce Mase|Angelica Reilly|Rachel
Sauro|Crystal Zurolo
Youth Only
Healthy Relationships and the Spectrum of Sexual Violence
LH 201
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Most students are involved in some sort of romantic relationship by the time they reach junior high and high school.
The CDC estimates that young people will come into contact with their first encounter of domestic violence as early as
the 7th and the 8th grade. With that being said the foundation of this workshop hinges on knowing the importance of
healthy and unhealthy relationships. It aims to help young people look at the danger signs in any relationship that may
potentially be an unhealthy one. Ebony McClease
Youth Only
It's Game Time! LGBT Legal Rights & Advocacy Skills.
LH 301
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Participants will learn about legal rights of LGBT youth and self-advocacy skills to tackle thorny issues in school, in DCF
care, and at home. There will be a particular focus on issues related to youth who are gender non-conforming. This
session will be presented in a fun & interactive game-style format as well as case scenarios. Edwin Colon
Youth Only
Let’s Talk About Our Sexual Health!
LH 302
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
What could I talk to my sex partner about to make us both feel more comfortable? How do I talk to my parents about
sex? What questions could I ask my health provider about my sexual health? In this workshop we hope to provide some
strategies for answering these questions and more! We will be discussing strategies for talking about our sexual health
with peers, partner, parents, health providers, and ourselves. In this workshop we will also discuss some safer sex
practices and how to accurately communicate them to others. Lisa Eaton|Moira Kalichman|Christopher Kegler
Youth Only
Rubberwear
SU THEATER
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
also be respected as a choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Kim Adamski|Nishelli
Ahmed|Paola Chanes-Mora|Tara Lutz|Joleen M. Nevers|Cassy Setzler|Taryn Sidney|Colleen Vernola|Kate Ward|
Youth Only (M)
Sustaining the Spirit of True Colors
LH 306
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
This session is an open time for participants to discuss their experiences at True Colors, and how we integrate this
experience with our own spirituality and religion. Some questions we might consider include: What is the spirit of True
Colors and how do we sustain it in our lives fir the rest of the year? What questions, challenges, and hopes are we
going home with? Hilary Greer
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Friday Closing Session
4:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Jorgensen Theater
Youth Pride Chorus harnesses
the power of the performing
arts to galvanize lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender, and
straight young people ages 1322 as agents of change. YPC
refuses homophobia, bullying,
and all forms of hate by boldly
asserting the joy, diversity, strength,
and pride of today's youth. YPC singers
discover their own power by
empowering others in schools, online,
and for the general public through
electrifying performances of the
highest caliber.
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Saturday, March 23rd Agenda
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Agenda
Registration
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Student Union
1st Floor
Opening Session
Featuring Ian Harvie
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
1st Floor
Workshop Session I
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various Locations *
Lunch
Noon to 1:00 PM
Student Union Ballroom
3rd Floor
Workshop Session II
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Various Locations *
Workshop Session III
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Various Locations *
Closing Activities/Performance
4:15 PM to 5:30 PM
*See workshop descriptions for specific locations
TC 22 After Hours Events (free to conference attendees)
Drag Show
6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
Hosted by Dowager Empress Harlette LeFleur and the Imperial Sovereign Court of All CT
1st Floor
Youth Dance
8:00 PM to Midnight
3rd Floor
See page 47 for details about after-hours events!
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Saturday, Opening Session
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Schedule and Descriptions
Saturday Opening Session
9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
SU Theater
Welcome: Robin McHaelen, Fleurette King
You may know Ian Harvie as Margaret Cho’s opening act, a
cross-country headliner or a groundbreaking trans comedian
unafraid to joke about subjects no other comedian has ever
touched. In the spring 2014, Harvie, with the help of executive
producer Cho, unveiled his first-ever live standup comedy
special, poking fun at topics from top surgery to his fear of
public restrooms to his active sex life in IAN HARVIE
SUPERHERO.
Ian Harvie now co-stars on the critically acclaimed, new Jill
Soloway TV series TRANSPARENT on Amazon Prime, available
now for binge watching.
No matter who you are, who you love or where you come
from, Ian Harvie will help you feel like you’re family. His
wickedly funny stories are couched in an amiable personality
that could put any audience at ease, while his folksy, ingenuous
delivery almost – but not quite – tempers his zinger punch
Photo by Kevin Neales
lines, making them not just hilarious but seriously twisted.
Even if he wasn’t so witty, without even trying, Ian could set an
audience on its ear, opening up new realms of irony.
He could be your brother, your best friend’s boyfriend or a merely a clean-cut preppie trying his hand at
stand-up, but he’s not. In fact, there’s a good reason Frontiers Magazine referred to Ian as “Quite possibly
the most unique stand-up comic in the country”…Ian’s not “just” a queer comedian – he’s the world’s first
FTM transgender comic… which, when put into context, will make his anecdotes about his own phobia of
public restrooms all the more side-splitting!
But because Ian is so comfortable in his own skin, and has such an appealing “boy next door” stage
presence, not to mention a keen eye for observation and is an adept mimic verbally as well as with body
language, his humor spans all boundaries, from gender to politics, cutting directly to the core of the human
condition, in all it’s infinite strangeness.
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Saturday, Session I: 10:30 am to 11:45 am
Saturday Session I
10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
Various Locations
Parents and Caregivers Drop into The SPOT! – Support for Parents Of Transkids of all ages
SU 303
offered 3 times: 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m; . 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. – 4:00 PM
Shubrooks
Activist Institute (M)
SU 410
Art Activism!
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will be all about art and how it can be incorporated with activism of all kinds! Not limited to just lgbtqia+
rights related issues, we will do activism art projects, look at some art activism made by others, and then create our
own pins about issues that we care about! Micah Goldstein|Eren Lewis
College Only
Be Great, Go Greek: Navigating College and Greek Life 101
LH 107
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
It is already super difficult to navigate and network on college campuses, and more times than not college activities are
very Greek Life Centered. Did you know that there is a whole network of "Rainbow Greek Letter Organization" that you
are able to pledge into no matter where you attend school? The Brothers of Delta Phi Upsilon Fraternity, Inc. want to
help learn more about your options and expose you to a whole new world. Come and learn about the Rainbow Greeks,
Divine Nine, Pan Hellenic, and etc. and how to enhance your social experience while your away at school. Although this
event is college based it is open for all ages. With a glance at the history of stepping and strolling within Greek Life.
Jamie Allen|Lucius Miles
College Only
Rubberwear
LH 302
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
also be respected as a choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Joleen M. Nevers|Colleen
Vernola|Kate Ward
College Only
Tools & Toys: Queer, Sexy, Safe
LH 305
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This interactive workshop will run the bases to provide a primer on communication, safer sex, toys and even
techniques for queers of all genders. We'll tackle myths and misconceptions about queer sex and barriers to figuring
out what you want and how to ask for it. This workshop will provide practical tools for negotiating with new and
existing partners, sexy uses for Saran wrap and other supplies, lube tasting, and lots of tips for choosing, using and
caring for toys. Ryan DiMartino
SU = Student Union
General Audience
Creating A Supportive Classroom & School Environment For Young
Children Who Are Transgender Or Gender Creative and Those Who
Have Transgender Family Members or Friends
LH 108
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
37
This interactive, multimedia session will celebrate our often purple loving transgender or gender creative little ones!
Different things will be explored that a teacher, parent, young ally, and administrators, other faculty as well as staff,
and the local educational system can do to help make a school more welcoming and supportive for transgender or
gender creative young children, prek-age 8, and those who have family members who are transgender. Included will be
examples of what some teachers/schools have done and relevant media clips. Information will be shared regarding
recently published Transgender Friendly children’s picture books that should be in every school and public library as
well as how they can be used effectively with young children to help support them. Handouts and time for looking
through these books and discussions will be provided. Thomas Goodkind|Elizabeth Rowell
General Audience
Examining GLBTQI Youth Self-Harming Behaviors
LH 109
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This session explores why GLBTQI youth engage in self-harming and high-risk behaviors like cutting and smoking. Many
factors exist within the individual, one’s family, and society, which come together in triggering GBLTQI youth to selfharm. Self-harming behaviors are strong self-reinforcing to youth, as they satisfy their desires and often their
emotional needs in a very physical and immediate way, creating a craving to repeat the self-harm. Understanding that
all behaviors have a purpose, and realizing the nature between why a youth self-harms and how this behavior supports
them psychologically is crucial for creating supports and interventions to help them to change the behavior. As
different youth self-harm for very different reasons, it is not until the purpose of the behavior is fully understood that
appropriate supports and intervention for a particular GLBTQI youth can be created. Julie Alexandrin|Sandy Gallien
General Audience
Family Preservation: Cross-Sector Support for LGBTQ Children
and Their Families
LH 110
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Participants will explore the process, results and lessons learned in establishing a cross-sector partnership between a
private nonprofit serving LGBTQ homeless and runaway youth and a state-funded child welfare agency. The Ruth Ellis
Center (REC) has formed a partnership with Wayne County Department of Human Services to provide mandatory
training of 250 CPS workers to increase the likelihood of identifying issues of sexual orientation or gender
identity/expression during an investigation of abuse or neglect. These families can be referred to REC for 13 months of
intensive support services with the intent of improving safety, well being and permanency for LGBTQ children within
their family of origin. This work is rooted in the core principles and research of Dr. Caitlin Ryan and the Family
Acceptance Project in San Francisco. Jerry Peterson
Global Dialogues on Sexual Diversity
LH 111
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Established in 1997, Global Dialogues combines the creative genius of young people and the power of social change
media to cultivate empathy, compassion and unity in diversity. GD amplifies youth voice in an innovative, intercreative
program of social mobilization and global activism. Join co-founder Dan Enger to see some of their films and find out
how you can participate in creating your own Dan Enger
General Audience
Hands Off! Assimilation and Queers Identities
SU 320
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
How do we go along with marriage equality when it's only for the "LG"? Do "Pride Burgers" really mean that capitalism
cares about us? Let's get over the rainbow and start building inclusive queer communities. Jaroen Garnes|Sam
Miller|Rory Noone
Telling Our Stories
SU 304A
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Working with high school aged actors from the Looking In Theatre, participants will create short dramatic scenes that
"tell their stories" and present them to the other participants Jonathan Gillman
SU = Student Union
General Audience
Traditional Masculinity and Bystander Intervention
LH 202
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
38
In this workshop, we will discuss how traditional masculinity contributes to violence in today's society, particularly
sexual violence. We will discuss what makes people less likely to intervene in problematic situations and how we can
intervene in creative ways, keeping in mind our own safety. How we can re-define our masculinity and/or how can we
support the masculine people in our lives without contributing to the pressure of traditional masculinity? Jen Oliver
(Parent Trap)ped in the Closet
LH 106
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
This workshop will be hosted by Megan Brannan and her Mother Colleen Brannan. They will talk about their experience
with Megan coming out in college. There is a lot of talk surrounding Queer people coming out of the closet and
becoming comfortable with who they are, but parents also go through a coming out process once their child comes out
to them. Colleen will discuss how she handled Megan coming out, and some tools she used to educate herself on how
to be supportive of her daughter both in her family and in the community. Colleen Brannan|Megan Brannan
SU 303
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Shubrooks
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth and their Families:
A Time to Heal
LH 307
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
For thousands of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) youth in the United States, daily life is fraught with
perils that no child should have to face, such as severe harassment in school, rejection from family, and not knowing
where they will sleep at night. In addition, there are many myths that exist regarding this community. Attendee will be
challenged to review old belief, while explore new research in the field of human sexuality. These factors affect their
health, well-being, and ability to function within the school system. This session provides a review of the three key
educational barriers for LGBT youth—bullying, family rejection, and homelessness—and brings participants up to speed
on recent research and findings affecting this population. Attendees will leave this session with a better understanding
our LGBT youth in the school and juvenile system and resources to advocate for them within all systems, as well as
therapeutic tools for working with their families. Alex Karydi
Toddlers to Teens: Multi Dimensional Work with Transgender Youth
SU 325
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
So often in working with transgender youth and their families we find ourselves needing to take on roles larger and
more complex than the simply therapeutic. We are often find ourselves as resource hubs for medical and legal
questions youth and families have, we find ourselves needing to do case management among the various systems the
family encounters in having a youth transition gender. And we are suddenly faced with the complex cultural
competence issues with regard to race, religion cultures from other lands and how those issues interface very
differently than how Western culture typically approaches transgender. This workshop will be a discussion of how to
embrace these ancillary roles within the proper context of ethical and effective clinical practice. This is open to
providers only. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone
SU = Student Union
Spiritual Institute
Queer Orthodoxy: Reclaiming the Holy Queer
LH 308
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
39
With waves of churches rushing to “progressive” Christianity our subversive history is often lost in our zeal to distance
ourselves from corrupt forms of religion that weaponize our language and traditions. Yet we can learn to see ourselves
within the ancient manuscripts of our faith and to hear our gender bending, sexual ancestors teaching us from
centuries past. For too long we’ve let certain sects dictate the terms within which we can explore our genders and
sexuality in our faiths. It’s time to reclaim our history, to remember the radical nature of faith, and to relearn the
stories we’ve forgotten. Led by a genderqueer pansexual Christian who daily prays the ancient creeds this is a space to
embrace the sacramentality of ourselves, to grow into an understanding of faith that embraces the healing truth of
scripture and learn how we can find ourselves within the roots of our tradition. Andrew Amanda (Andy) Leigh-Bullard
Youth Only
Hey, I'm here too! Discussing Bi-erasure in the Queer & Straight
Communities
LH 205
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Bi people often face identity erasure in both the queer and straight communities. This is a workshop for bi and pan
people to talk about their experiences in a safe space and to deconstruct the stereotypes surrounding bisexuality.
Amber Tinsmon
Youth Only
Queering Consent Culture
LH 206
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Are you interested in discussing communication and consent within a queer, trans and asexual inclusive environment?
We wish to defy the stereotype that discussions of consent and sexual violence only take place within
heteronormative, cisnormative, allosexual spaces! Our interactive workshop will address basic communication
competency and explore common myths associated with sexual assault. Our focus is on creating a space for reflecting
on personal understandings of consent and how individuals can contribute to an environment where everyone feels
free and safe to say “yes” and “no” in a way that is both respected and protected. Join us in a collective conversation
and liberation through education and empowerment! VAWPP
Youth Only
Relationships 101: Dating, Love, & Boundaries
LH 301
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
We all deserve supportive, fun, healthy dating relationships. This interactive workshop for teens will look at the
differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships, and how we can all get the relationships we want.
Participants will play games, do role plays, and engage in real talk about self-esteem, boundaries, and what to do if you
know someone in an abusive relationship. Kelsey Alexander|Kris Wraight
Youth Only
Sexuali-T: Real Talk About Sex for Trans* Youth
LH 309
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Looking for sex ed that respects your gender and body? Get those questions answered in a trans-affirming space! As
trans* people, we are often re-creating our own definitions of sex and sexuality. In this workshop we’ll discuss how
trans* youth negotiate sex, safety, and sexual health. We will also examine how we talk about our own bodies,
advocate for our needs and desires, and role-model healthy sexuality in our communities! OPEN TO TRANS* AND
GENDER-QUESTIONING YOUTH ONLY. Lyndon Cudlitz
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Saturday Session II: 1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
Saturday Session II
Double Sessions 1:15PM to 4:00 PM
Various Locations
Activist Institute
Stonewall Speakers Training Session: Help us show the public the
diverse faces of the LGBT Community!
LH 108
1:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Train today to become a presenter for Stonewall Speakers of CT! If you would like to become active in showing the
public the many faces of the LGBT community, to dispel the stereotypes about our people, to correct misinformation, to
volunteer your time to tell your story as one of the many real faces of our community, then this training session is for
you! Just us in speaking to school and college groups, civic and community organizations by taking the training today.
Janis Booth
General Audience
Drag Workshop
SU 330
1:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Think Drag is the best thing in the world, or at least something awesome and fun? Well this is the workshop for you. The
Imperial Sovereign Court of CT will teach you a little about drag history and themselves, then show you how to “put on
face”. Makeup and some attire will be provided to help make you over. Feel free to bring CDs for music. Both drag
queens AND kings will be transformed. Bryce McKinzie and members of the Imperial Sovereign Court of All CT
Saturday Session II
1:15 PM to 2:30 PM
College Only
Club Culture!
LH 201
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Various Locations
Join us for an interactive work shop exploring club culture within the LGBTIQQA community. This workshop will explore
the importance of ‘Gay’ clubs historically as well modern portrayal of the club scene in the media and movies, safety
while going to the club, the ballroom scene and it’s importance, Drag culture and sexual safety. Javier Adams|Joshua
Aquino|Kevin Rivera
College Only
Passionate Possibilities I: Exploring Non-Traditional Relationship
Structures
LH 205
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Ever thought about having more than one romantic, sensual or sexual partner? Felt constricted by the idea of that
paired-off happily ever after? Fell for more than one person at the same time? Does monogamy just not work for you?
Come discuss the multitude of relationship structures and identities that allow for romantic, sensual, sexual (or more!)
relationships with more than one person! We will give you an introduction to how to practice responsible and fun nonmonogamy where everyone consents to multiple relationships. This will include setting boundaries, dealing with
jealousy, challenges faced by the community and more. Lynden Dolen|Allie Smith
College Only
The Joys & Challenges of Coming Out , Again & Again...
LH 110
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Coming Out is a lifelong process and it can be exhausting! With every new person you meet you may wonder if they will
make inaccurate assumptions about your sexual orientation and/or gender identity. How will they react if you decide
you want to share your identities with them? What happens when assumptions are made about you that aren’t true –
do you address them? When should you decide not to come out, if ever? This workshop will explore the joys and
challenges of coming out in a college setting and will include a discussion about coming out to family. Students in all
stages of coming out to themselves and others are welcome. Kelly Garrett
General Audience
Bullying Stops with US!
SU 410
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Bullying impacts countless LGBTQ youth each year. LGBTQ youth who are bullied may suffer from low self-esteem,
depression, withdraw from school, attempt suicide, or even commit suicide. Bullying directed against them can include
name calling, teasing, rumor spreading, physical incidents, threats, belongings being stolen, sexual harassment, and
cyber bullying on social media such as Facebook and Twitter. How can we effectively confront bullying? Why are certain
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people and groups so consistently bullied? What needs to change? Join ant-bullying activist and spokesperson Joe
Mannetti for an open and interactive discussion forum on the issues. Joe Mannetti
General Audience
Checking Other
LH 111
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Male? Female? None of the above? All of the above? Do you or someone you like/love/ tolerate not fit into the gender
binary? If you know anyone who uses gender neutral pronouns you need to know how to use them. This fun,
interactive, and grammatically correct workshop will give you to tools and terms you need to make a safe and inclusive
environment anywhere. Alexander Cavanagh|Cae Jaffe
General Audience
Coming Out Late
SU 312
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Are you out of high school and still navigating the coming out process? Did you just discover a new part of your sexual
orientation or gender identity in adulthood? Are you only now gathering the courage to come out? If so, this is the
workshop for you! It often seems, especially at True Colors, that everyone is knows and is out about their sexual
orientation and gender identities in high school. We know that’s not true for everyone though, and discovering one’s
identity can be a lifelong process. This discussion-based workshop will allow us to talk about some of the feelings we
might have when coming out in college or later, and some of the unique challenges in our friendships, families,
workplaces, and elsewhere that accompany coming out in adulthood. Kathleen Harrison
General Audience
I don’t mean to offend you, but…: Lessons on challenging transphobia,
biphobia, and homophobia within our families and beyond
LH 202
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
During a recent discussion in a college class I was teaching, a student said that if his son turned out to be anything other
than straight and gender-normative, he would disown him. What do we do when someone makes a remark such as
this? How can we turn these often hurtful moments into “teachable moments”? In this workshop we will be reflecting
on instances of biphobia, homophobia, and transphobia in the world around us. We will be sharing stories and strategies
for addressing these issues. How can we prepare to ahead of time to address homo/bi/transphobia? How do we handle
this, particularly in our own families? How can we work in collaboration with others to ensure a safer environment for
everyone? Confronting these issues will ultimately create a better world for all of us, regardless of sexual orientation or
gender identity or expression. Cara Bergstrom-Lynch
General Audience
Intergenerational Dialog For Trans* Folks of All Stripes
LH 106
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This is a workshop by trans folks for trans folks. Moving through the world isn't always easy for trans people. From
coming out at work to negotiating pronouns to thinking about names to finding ways to relate to our physical selves,
many trans people have to navigate complicated and uncomfortable situations, sometimes without a map. But what
does make it easier is connecting to others who share some of these thoughts and experiences. Whether you live in or
outside the gender binary, have identified as trans for 20 years or are just beginning to question your gender, your story
is important. Would you join us? This workshop aims to create intergenerational dialog for trans people in a safe space.
Kaethe Armitage
General Audience
Queer Archetypes
LH 107
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop is highly interactive and provides a very important and essential, deep understanding of each and every
attendee. An archetype is a symbol, a pattern. What are yours? What makes YOU unique? How does it relate to your
sexuality? Best if limited to 20 attendees at a time. Justin Ross
General Audience
Speaking Out: Queer Youth in Focus
SU GALLERY, Room 310
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Speaking OUT: Queer Youth in Focus is a photographic essay that explores a wide spectrum of experiences told from
the perspective of a diverse group of young people, ages fourteen to twenty-four, identifying as queer (i.e., lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning) over the last ten years. Join author and photographer, Rachelle Lee Smith, in
SU = Student Union
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the Student Gallery, to see the portraits and hear stories about the 10 year journey that became a book.
Rachelle Lee Smith
General Audience
The Homestretch
LH 109
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Three homeless teenagers brave Chicago winters, the pressures of high school, and life alone on the streets to build a
brighter future. Kathy Savino
General Audience
What are the Signs of Suicide & What do I do
LH 307
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This session is for individuals who have limited knowledge about suicide and want to know more about suicide and how
to support LBGT youth. The session will start with a focus on the different warning signs of suicide, from different
cultural, ethnic, and gender perspectives. Included in this discussion will be the fact that there is no complete list of
suicide indicators as everyone is different. What to do when you see these warning signs, or think you see these warning
signs, will then be covered for someone who has no background in counseling or psychology, i.e., teachers, parents,
peers. This discussion will include what community and school resources are out there to support youth who are
thinking about and/or debating to end their lives. Community resources will focus on CT, with a discussion of what is
available in most states, including the resources of 211. Julie Alexandrin|Sandy Gallien
General Audience
Youth Organizing: Prioritizing Our Voices For Community Action
SU 320
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
In a world where ageism devalues queer youth voices, a shift towards youth empowerment is necessary to create
positive change. This workshop aims to give youth the tools to create this change through healthy relationships and self
actualization. Isabel Bate|Deni Cifuentes|Steven McClary-Smith|Brittany Palmer
SU 303
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
their gender identity exploration and/or transition. Whether you have just found out and are struggling with "the
news", or are a seasoned veteran of having a transgender kid, come join us for some sharing, questions, understanding,
resources, and yes - some laughs! Note that this support group necessitates confidentiality and is limited to parents
and caregivers of transgender children. Parents/Caregivers of LGB youth are also welcome to participate.
Toddlers to Teens--What to do now? Developing & sharing Clinical
Expertise In Working With Transgender Children & Adolescents
SU 325
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This workshop is intended to be an opportunity to create a safe space for mental health providers, nurses, and
physicians to share clinical expertise with regard to the care and treatment of transgender and gender variant youth
through the context of discussing several varied case presentations from the presenter and/or those generated from the
participants. This workshop is only open to providers. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone
Youth Only
The Sparkling Rainbow History Game
SU 304A
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The sparkling rainbow history game is a fun, prize-filled way to learn the rich history of our diverse community of gender
identities, gender expressions and sexualities. Often rainbow history is erased from K-12 education. With buzzers and
instant teams, participants will compete by responding to a variety of categories. There will be lots of prizes, fun, and
knowledge to gain. Everyone student is welcome to come, learn and share rainbow history. Fleurette King
Youth Only
The Trevor Project's Lifeguard Workshop
SU 304C
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The Lifeguard Workshop is a structured conversation with youth regarding mental health, suicide and healthy ways to
cope with stress and anxiety. The workshop informs youth of the various services offered by The Trevor Project and
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guides them in a conversation of how to recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to get help for themselves or a
peer who may be feeling suicidal. The workshop ends by helping the participants identify ways that they will seek to deal
with stress and anxiety in a healthy way and how to identify supportive adults in their own environment. Wes Nemenz
Youth Only
Who's Your Super Hero? Theatre Games & Positive Self Image
SU 331
1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Who’s your favorite super hero? This workshop will use theatre games and role-playing exercises to allow participants
to tap into their inner super hero. Writing exercises, small group discussion, and improvisation games will break down
negative internalized narratives that have become obstacles to a positive self-image. Tapping into imagination and
fantasy, participants will bring forth their unique positive qualities and talents. Karima Robinson
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Saturday Session III: 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
Saturday Session III
2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
College Only
Gay Expectations
LH 107
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
Okay, you are out and proud. Now what is expected of you? How are you "supposed" to navigate sex, religion,
relationships, racial, and body issues? Justin Ross
College Only
Passionate Possibilities II: Building Multiple Functional Relationships
LH 205
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
So you've decided (or think you might like) to try your hand at having more than one romantic, sensual, sexual (or other)
partner in your life. Maybe you've already tried it out? Are you wondering more about complex issues such as jealousy,
opinions of family and friends, and the dreaded juggling act that is time management? We have you covered! Come chat
with us about the complexities, frustrations and fabulous experiences that encompass being responsibly nonmonogamous! This is beyond introduction level, so we suggest you go to our other workshop first if you would like to
build your basic knowledge. Lynden Dolen|Allie Smith
General Audience
All Pink Everything: What We Can Learn From Comparing the Harmful
Practices of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Mainstream LGBT
Activism
LH 206
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
For those affected by breast cancer who are unsettled by the abundance of pink ribbons, but can't articulate why; for
those who are queer but can't relate to how movements portray us; let's come together and discover why our instincts
could be coming from the same collective of ominous places. Hannah Milliken
General Audience
Class-sic Struggle
LH 106
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Socioeconomic class is all around us. From the way we dress, to where we live or work, whether we go to school, and
how we interact with our society. Usually, we take our class status for granted, sometimes we try to change it by
changing ourselves. In this interactive workshop, you will explore and experience class privilege and work to change the
way they are defined in your community. Kailin Oarei|Hannah Prum
General Audience
From Closet to Conversation: Naming Our Stories and Claiming Our
Lives
LH 201
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The narrative of coming out is central to LGBTQ culture, yet it often fails to account for individual experiences. Through
discussion, activity and story this workshop provides a space to explore your story and consider who, if anyone, you
desire to share it with. Leaving the closet behind we embrace the life-long process of conversation and identity.
Whether you're LGBT, an ally or both, here is a space beyond binary assumptions about openness and ourselves. This is
a space where you can explore new ways to write the next chapter in your story. Andrew Amanda (Andy) Leigh-Bullard
General Audience
Living the Cards You ART Dealt
LH 308
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Create a photo and an art piece of yourself with a photo shoot and an exploration of the cards you have been dealt in life.
Did they cause damage, make you strong, or change your destiny? Each participant will leave with a framed self photo and
a set of five handmade playing cards created during the workshop. Celebrate what makes you unique and create an art
piece that reminds you of what you have overcome, what has shaped you, and where you are today. Tricia Petraven
General Audience
Presenting Outside the Gender Binary
LH 301
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
We hope to have a discussion based session on different experiences that people who identify outside of the gender
binary feel comfortable sharing. Ness Bellini|Marina Sterrer
SU = Student Union
Saturday Session III: 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM
General Audience
Queer Stories - Through Our Eyes
SU 304C
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
45
An all-inclusive, intentional space for self-expression as youth and allies creatively engage with identities through the art of
visual story-telling. This is an interactive workshop in which participants will create their own visual story boards and share
personal or creative narratives. Robbie Dunning|Allison Scott
General Audience
The Elusive Sense of Gender
LH 110
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
An exploration of where a sense of gender originates, how it can be congruent or incongruent with physical anatomy,
and what options are available if it is incongruent. Janis Booth
General Audience
Trans student panel
LH 111
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Using the direct experience of three experts - the students themselves - we will offer a comfortable Roundtable atmosphere
in which to provide the low down on what Trans students need in their schools to feel safe and respected. This will be
informational, not judgmental. It will be an opportunity for educators and social workers to learn the real truth from the
students who know. Alexander Cavanagh|Joy Lenters
SU 303
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Come join other parents of transgender / gender queer / gender questioning kids of ALL ages for support and camaraderie as
we share the many challenges, mixed-feelings, roadblocks, and successes of supporting our children in their gender identity
exploration and/or transition. This support time will be overseen by a parent facilitator from PFLAG Hartford or TRANSPact,
which are support groups for parents that meet here in Connecticut on a regular basis. Whether you have just found out and
are struggling with "the news", or are a seasoned veteran of having a transgender kid, come join us for some sharing,
questions, understanding, resources, and yes - some laughs! Note that this support group necessitates confidentiality and is
limited to parents and caregivers of transgender children. Parents/Caregivers of LGB youth are also welcome to participate.
Your Gender Expression is Showing!
LH 307
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
I am conducting research to see whether sexual orientation or gender expression is a target in the harassment of gay men.
Jeffrey Lentz
Youth Only
Make A Difference Through Art.
LH 202
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Cultural Activism plays a big part in what people decide to paint, quote, or even dance. There is a meaning behind every piece
of art that you make so why not use it to inspire or help other. As GLSEN members we work for safer schools for everyone
especially LGBTQ etc. youth. We encourage you to come to this interactive work shop to put your knowledge to the test and
work your magic with the arts and help create change in the world. Hanna Bacha|Adrienne Baxter
Youth Only
Positive Persuasion
LH 109
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Protect yourself! Let's talk about what works when you talk to your partners about safer sex? HIV and STD facts, myths, and
knowledge on safer sex options will be shared, demonstrated, and discussed. We will also be offering HIV and HCV rapid,
waived testing. This workshop is for youth 13+. Sarah Butterfield|Gil Martinez|Patricia Sanchez|Elsie Vazques-Long
Youth Only
Theater for Social Change: From Storytelling to Activism in 75 minutes
SU 304A
2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Do you have a story to share? You do! Using basic theater skills, anyone can become a storyteller and activist! In this
workshop, participants will use theater exercises, writing prompts and group discussion to explore personal stories and
engage in dialogue. You will learn tools that you can bring back to your school and community to make safer spaces for
LGBTQ youth. Kaamila Mohamed
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Saturday Closing Session
Saturday Closing Session
4:15 PM to 5:30 PM
The Hartford Gay Men's Chorus is an
organization of gay and gay-affirming persons whose
mission is to publicly perform a diverse choral repertoire
to the highest standard of musical excellence, to provide
enriching social, entertainment and artistic experiences
for members, friends and audiences and to service as
positive and affirming representatives of the LGBT community. The Hartford Gay Men's Chorus was the
brainchild of Robert Reader and J.D. Bauer, both Hartford area residents, in 2010.
The Evolution of Drag*:
What do these things below have in common? They are all part of our colorful history.
Come have fun, witness the “magic” and learn some FAB-U-LOUS LGBT history
Vogueing competitions
..
Lip Synch as an art form
Walking the Balls
Chosen Family
Throwing Shade
Imperial Sovereign Court System
Being a child in the
House of …
Emperors, Empresses, Monarchs,
Crown Princes, Barons and Ladies
*The term "DRAG" was originally a stage direction and coined by William Shakespeare and his contemporaries
and actually means "Dressed Resembling A Girl’
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Saturday After Hours
Saturday After Hours
Saturday Drag Show:
6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
Hosted by Dowager Empress 2014 Harlette LeFleur
The Imperial Court System was founded in San Francisco in 1965 by José Sarria, also
known as Absolute Empress I, the Widow Norton, affectionately known as “Mama” or
“Mama José” until her death in 2013. The Imperial Sovereign Court of All Connecticut was
incorporated to help bring the Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, and Transgender Communities and
the Community at Large into prideful, viable and joyous unity; represent the Community
at Large at various functions; Work with the INTERNATIONAL COURT SYSTEM in joint
efforts to benefit all people and to foster and promote cultural, business, and social endeavors which give
the people of Connecticut a sense of community, identity and pride; and perform noble deeds for social
services and people in need; and promote human rights and equality amongst all people Harlette LeFleur
has been performing in the art of female impersonation for the last seven years at numerous venues
from night clubs and colleges to charity events. Her mix of outrageous twisted humor and feminine beauty
has made her one of Connecticut's drag culture's rising stars. She is excited to return for a 7th year at
the True Colors Conference. Also performing with Harlette will be members of the Imperial Sovereign Court
of All CT and some of the participants of the afternoon Drag workshops. Harlette became Empress 2014 at
the CT Coronation in February. Photo Courtesy of Kenn Hopkins Photographer
Saturday Youth Dance:
8:00 PM to Midnight
YOU MUST HAVE YOUR CONFERENCE LANYARD
TO GAIN ADMISSION.
NOTE: PARTICIPANTS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO BRING GUM, CIGARETTES OR LIGHTERS INTO THE BALLROOM.
Featuring DJ Ron Slomowicz www.djron.com
Mixing music, video, visuals and effects – it’s hard to define what
Ron Slomowicz with a single title. DJ, VJ, Me-J, DVJ, EJ are all a
bunch of initials that really don’t capture the energy of Ron’s unique
live performances. As a leader in world of cutting edge video mixing
technology, Ron was the first entertainer in the United States to use GrandVJ by Arkaos. Working a dual
laptop system, Ron seamlessly beatmixes and blends music and video with Virtual DJ and exports it to
GrandVJ where he adds layers of visuals and effects - literally remixing the videos live. On stage with two
laptops, a piano keyboard, and a lit MIDI controller, the technology enhances DJ Ron's dynamic live
performances. With his cutting edge setup, Ron was featured in Club World, DJ Times and Remix
magazines and has earned a nomination for Best Resident VJ in the Club World Awards for his work at Play
Dance Bar in Nashville, Tennessee. Follow Ron on twitter at @djron91
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True Colors Conference Co-Sponsors
True Colors 22 Co-Sponsors
PLATINUM SPONSORS
http://www.cga.ct.gov/coc
(860)240-0290
The Commission on Children is an agency of the Connecticut General
Assembly, created with bipartisan support in 1985 to do the following:
promote public policies in the best interests of children; study child
trends and assess programs and practices in state agencies as they affect children; disseminate
information and research data regarding the status of children and children's programs in Connecticut;
bring together the various levels of government, along with the private sector, nonprofit agencies,
philanthropy, and families to bolster child outcomes; serve as a liaison between government and
private groups concerned with children; promote coordination of child and family programs across the
three branches of government and between local and state endeavors; make recommendations to the
legislature and the governor for systems reform and model policies that will improve child outcomes in
health, safety, and learning; inform individuals and leaders of business, labor, education, state and
local government, the news media, and the legislature of findings and recommendations; and perform
services to facilitate adoption of the recommendations.
www.rainbowcenter.uconn.edu
(860) 486–5821
The Rainbow Center serves the diverse community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer,
Questioning, and Allied (GLBTQQA) community and provides resources and services to the wider
community of students, faculty, staff, and local residents. Outside of the informal, safe space where many
come to hangout, socialize, check e-mail, complete academic work, watch TV, and play games, we offer a of
number programs to support our mission, such as our library with over 2,700 books and videos, which will
be soon to be searchable on the Homer Babbidge Library Catalog! Through education and advocacy we aim
to reduce the effects of alienation experienced by community members by diminishing negative behaviors
and attitudes toward the GLBTQQA community. In addition to our efforts, students and other departments
have established active campus groups to maintain a positive campus climate and community support.
http://www.ct.gov/dph/
(860) 509-8000
The mission of the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health is to protect and improve the
health and safety of the people of Connecticut by: Assuring the conditions in which people can be
healthy; Preventing disease, injury, and disability; and Promoting the equal enjoyment of the highest
attainable standard of health, which is a human right and a priority of the state.
(860) 418-7000
Hearing Impaired: (860) 418-6707
http://www.ct.gov/dmhas/
The mission of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services is to improve the quality of
life of the people of Connecticut by providing an integrated network of comprehensive, effective and
efficient mental health and addiction services that foster self-sufficiency, dignity and respect.
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GOLD SPONSORS
www.TDBank.com
TD Bank is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. But we're not like other banks. We're open early,
open late and we're even open weekends. We have FREE customer coin counting. We let people keep
our pens. And we even have dog biscuits for our four-legged guests. We work hard to create the best
experience for our customers. That's what it means to bank human. That's what it means to be
Americas Most Convenient Bank®.
The mission of the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital is to promote, restore and maintain the
behavioral health of those it serves. Young Adult Services (YAS) aspires to provide clinical services tailored
to the unique developmental, educational and social needs of this population. The Right Track/LGBTQ
Speciality Track in YAS is an Intensive Outpatient Program for 16 to 24 year olds who identify as LGBTQ, are
experiencing significant emotional distress and need more skills-based therapeutic programming.
www.hartfordhealthcare.org/institute-of-living.php [email protected] (860) 545-7009
SILVER SPONSORS
www.GLSEN.org/Connecticut
(203) 533-9613
The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education network strives to assure that each member of every school
community is valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression
Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective
www.hglhc.org [email protected]
(voice/TDD)
(860) 278-4163
The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations and
gender identities to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services, education and
advocacy.” The HGLHC provides a weekly STD clinic, a full-service dental clinic for people living with
HIV/AIDS and other HIV-related services including counseling and testing, a variety of LGBT support groups
for people exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, a drop-in center (RainbowRoom) for
LGBTQI youth, Queer Prom”, a college scholarship program and host of positions in which to volunteer as
well as information about and referral to professional services.
Planned Parenthood of Southern New England is a trusted health care provider, an informed educator,
a passionate advocate, and a global partner helping similar organizations around the world. Planned
Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of
women, men, and young people worldwide. For more than 90 years, Planned Parenthood has
promoted a commonsense approach to women’s health and well-being, based on respect for each
individual’s right to make informed, independent decisions about health, sex, and family planning.
www.ppsne.org
(800) 230-PLAN
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BRONZE SPONSORS
Greater CT Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (GCTGLCC)
www.thecabo.org
The Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities: Promoting the economic prosperity of Connecticut's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender businesses
CABO has three (3) membership levels based on number of employees and a non-profit membership. Benefits of membership vary but include listings in the
membership directory, discounts and special offers, spotlights at member events, member to member email blasts, etc.
Latino Community Services
www.lcs-ct.org/
(860) 296-6400
At Latino Community Services, we connect people with ways to promote healthy lives and communities. PROJECT STEP is a 12-month program focused on
enhancing a system in which young MSM of color can access culturally competent, effective treatment, and supportive services.
National Association of Social Workers, CT
www.naswct.org
(860) 257-8066
The Mission of the NASW/CT Chapter is to advance, at the local and state level, the priorities of NASW, which are: 1. Practice Advancement (To advance the
quality of social work practice, improve the knowledge base required for such practice, and to promote professional development related to improved
practice.) 2. Professional Standards (To promote the strength, unity and recognition of the social work profession and the acceptance and utilization of its
standards.) 3. Social Policy and Action (To promote and advance sound public policies and programs aimed at human need and improved quality of life.) 4.
Membership Organization (To improve the effective functioning of NASW as a national organization and to improve the way in which it serves its members.)
PFLAG, Hartford
www.pflaghartford.org
(860)633-5111
Transgender Issues (860) 231-8582
Parents, Families, & Friends of LGBT people. Hartford PFLAG meets on the third Wednesday at the Immanuel Congregational Church, 10 Woodland Street in
Hartford at 7:30 PM. Members publish a bi-monthly newsletter, provide help-line services, offer educational pamphlets, books and CDs and work within the
Greater Hartford are for LGBT-affirming families, safe schools, inclusive faith communities and informed lawmakers.
Triangle Community Center
www.ctgay.org
(203) 853-0600
The Triangle Community Center, Inc. is a non-profit Connecticut Corporation providing services to help strengthen the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
community's sense of identity, pride and visibility. We work within Greater Fairfield County to foster understanding and awareness of LGBT issues and life
UCONN Admissions Office
UCONN African American Cultural Center
www.aacc.uconn.edu/
(860) 486-3433
The H. Fred Simons African American Cultural Center (AACC) of the University of Connecticut was established in 1968 to support African American students in
the pursuit of the coveted higher education academic experience. It is recognized that many African American students face unique societal and institutional
challenges in developing to the fullest extent of their potential. The Center strives to assist students in overcoming these challenges and supports them in their
adjustments to college life through the development of cultural awareness, academic excellence, leadership skills, social consciousness and personal success.
The AACC is a warm, welcoming and intellectually challenging environment that contributes to the vitality of campus life for all students, their parents, faculty
and staff.
UCONN Asian American Cultural Center
www.asacc.uconn.edu/
(860) 486-0830
The Asian American Cultural Center (AsACC) provides resources to enhance the University's diversity commitment through its recruitment and retention efforts,
teaching, service, and outreach to the Asian American community on campus and beyond. Central to all its programming, the AsACC assists students in
exploring and defining their cultural identity in multicultural America. The AsACC provides a supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff that
encourages academic excellence, personal development, community engagement, and professional leadership.
UCONN School of Business
www.business.uconn.edu
The mission of the School of Business is to be at the forefront in the development of managerial and business leadership competencies through exceptional
research, innovative experiential learning, and strategic outreach. We value a culture of team building and a learning environment that encourages and rewards
both path-breaking research and stimulating teaching. We believe in the life-long exchange of ideas and a respect for the diversity of individuals, philosophies,
and approaches. We promise our students a dynamic educational environment filled with experiential learning that will challenge their intellect, enhance their
skills, and prepare them for success in life as well as in the competitive world of business.
UCONN Puerto Rican/ Latin American Cultural Center
www.latino.uconn.edu/
(860) 486-1135
The Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center's mission is to improve the status of Latinos and to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of
the richness and diversity of Latinos and Latin American cultures. PRLACC works independently and corroboratively with other University departments and
community organizations to sponsor educational and cultural programs, provide services and leadership opportunities, foster connections, and educate the
greater University community about Latino issues. Our services and programs seek to enhance and support student, faculty, and staff recruitment and
retention, as well as enrich the multicultural climate of our community.
UCONN Women’s Center
www.womenscenter.uconn.edu/
(860) 486-4738
The mission of the Women's Center is to advocate, educate, and provide support services for the achievement of gender equity at the University and within the
community at large. Special attention is focused on women who face additional challenges due to their race, nationality, class, sexual identity, religion, age, and
physical or mental ability. More specifically, we promote an anti-racist feminist perspective which includes an analysis of the intersectionality between various
forms of oppression; challenges the power structure/status quo that reinforces inequality based on race and gender simultaneously; and foregrounds the
understanding of how racial discrimination impacts the analysis of gender discrimination.
51
True Colors Vendors
True Colors Mall, Vendors and Resource Room
Check it out for posters, resource information, LGBTI “culture”, author signings and more!
AIDS Connecticut
http://www.ctaidscoalition.org/
(860) 247-AIDS
AIDS Connecticut (ACT), in partnership with its member agencies, improves the lives of people impacted by HIV through care and supportive
services, housing, advocacy and prevention.
Central CT State University LGBT Center
[email protected]
(860) 832-2090
Student Center, 3rd floor, Rooms 304 – 305. The LGBT Center serves to provide a student centered, approachable and consistently staffed campus
safe space that focuses on resources for CCSU’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and ally community. These include providing
programming and networking opportunities, referral services, and maintaining a literary and periodical library. The Center also organizes trainings
for the campus community on the topic of LGBTQIA inclusion, resources, and services unique to this community.
CT Civil Liberties Union
www.acluct.org
(860) 523-9146
The American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut is a nonpartisan, non-profit membership organization that defends, promotes and preserves
individual rights and liberties under the U.S. and Connecticut constitutions in state and federal court, the General Assembly and the state’s 169
towns and cities. We carry out this work from our office in Hartford with a staff of eight full-time employees assisted by interns, volunteers,
cooperating attorneys, our active Board of Directors, our six regional chapters and five college and law school chapters. We are one of 53 affiliates
of the American Civil Liberties Union nationwide - See more at: http://www.acluct.org/categories/about/#sthash.ZiF7k19s.dpuf
Daniel Trust Foundation
www.DanielTrustFoundation.org
(203) 345-3573
We build partnerships with other charitable and educational organizations that aid orphans and LGBTQ youth with their educational, career, and
day-to-day needs. Learn more at www.DanielTrustFoundation.org.
Donnelly/Colt Progressive Resources
www.donnellycolt.com
(860) 428-4867
Since 1975 Donnelly/Colt has been the country's pioneer in progressive message promotional products, inventing the niche market and nurturing
and supplying many grassroots movements for social, political, environmental, human and sexual rights with consciousness-raising products that
raise both awareness, solidarity and needed funds to support local groups' efforts and campaigns.
East Woodstock Congregational Church
www.ewcchurch.org
(860) 928-7449
Discover UCC churches across CT where everyone is welcome! "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."
Remember that you are a beloved child of God who carries God's light within you. Also information about Silver Lake summer camp! Stop by for a
warm welcome!
GLSEN
www.glsen.org
(203) 533-9613
GLSEN-(Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected
regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. We welcome as members any and all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation,
gender identity/expression or occupation, who are committed to seeing this philosophy realized in K-12 schools.
Greater CT Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
www.thecabo.org
The Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities (CABO) promotes the economic prosperity of Connecticut’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgender businesses and their allies.
Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective
www.hglhc.org
(860) 278-4163
The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities to lead healthy lives
through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy.” The HGLHC provides a weekly STD clinic, a full-service dental clinic
for people living with HIV/AIDS and other HIV-related services including counseling and testing, a variety of LGBT support groups for people
exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, a drop-in center (RainbowRoom) for LGBTQI youth, Queer Prom”, a college scholarship
program and host of positions in which to volunteer as well as information about and referral to professional services.
Individual Details
[email protected]
(207) 329-3615
Individual Details brings you queer, social justice, crafty items that are individual to your multiple identities. These t-shirts, magnets, buttons,
patches and light switch plates are created by a True Colors alum and presenter. From in-your-face to under-the radar, there is something for
everyone. Visibility for your identity.
Latino Community Services
(860) 296-6400
At Latino Community Services, we connect people with ways to promote healthy lives and communities. PROJECT STEP is a 12 month program
focused on enhancing a system in which young MSM’s of Color can access culturally competent, effective treatment and support services
Little Lamb Knits
(860) 798-9159
Come visit Little Lamb Knits and see Mike's unique selection of hand knit hats, scarves, fingerless mittens and other items of original design that are
available in a rainbow of colors.
True Colors 22 Vendors
True Colors Vendors
PFLAG- Hartford
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www.pflaghartford.org
(860) 305-2743
Join us at our informal, confidential meetings on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Immanuel congregational Church, 10 Woodland Street in
Hartford at 7:30PM. We publish a bi-monthly newsletter, provide Helpline services and maintain an up-to-date lending library of informational
pamphlets, books and CDs. We work within the Greater Hartford area for LGBT-affirming families, safe schools, inclusive faith communities and
informed lawmakers.
Planned Parenthood of Southern New England
[email protected]
(203) 752-2840
The mission of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England is a trusted health care provider, an informed educator, a passionate advocate and a
global partner helping similar organizations around the world. Planned Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education and
information to millions of women, men and young people worldwide. For more than 90 years, Planned Parenthood has promoted a commonsense
approach to women’s health and well-being, based on respect for each individual’s right to make informed, independent decisions about health,
sex and family planning.
Presbyterian Promise
[email protected]
(203) 208-0578
Our mission is To proclaim God's promise of justice and love in Jesus Christ by organizing inclusive and inquiring churches in the Presbytery of
Southern New England into a community of mutual support for the empowerment of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender persons, and for
outreach, education, and Christian evangelism.
Rainbow Center
(860) 486–5821
The Rainbow Center serves the diverse community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Allied (GLBTQQA) community
and provides resources and services to the wider community of students, faculty, staff, and local residents
State of CT, Department of Public Health
http://www.ct.gov/dph/
(860) 509-8000
The mission of the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health is to protect and improve the health and safety of the people of Connecticut
by: Assuring the conditions in which people can be healthy; Preventing disease, injury, and disability; and Promoting the equal enjoyment of the
highest attainable standard of health, which is a human right and a priority of the state.
TDBank
www.tdbank.com
TD Bank is one of the 10 largest banks in the US. But, we're not like other banks. We're open early, open late and we're even open weekends. We
have FREE customer coin counting. We let people keep our pens. And we even have dog biscuits for our four legged friends. We work hard to
create the best experience for our customers. That's what it means to bank human. That's what it means to be America's Most Convenient Bank. ®
Triangle Community Center
www.ctgay.org
(203) 853-0600
Triangle Community Center is Fairfield County's leading provider of LGBT programming and resources to nurture growth and connection within the
community. Triangle Community Center (TCC) is the only organization focused exclusively on the LGBTQ community in Fairfield County, which is a
community at much greater risk of isolation, discrimination, suicide, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS than its peers. TCC has been in existence for 23
years and until 2013 has operated with no full time staff. TCC hosts groups and programs that provide health and human services to the LGBTQ
community in Fairfield County. We work closely with Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project and World Health Clinicians on HIV/AIDS related outreach, testing
initiatives, and creating a more informed and healthy LGBTQ community.
True Colors Fundraising Table
ourtruecolors.org
(860) 232-0050
Come check out the latest in queer and ally gear knowing that your purchase helps make the conference happen!
UCONN, Office of Undergraduate Admissions
www.admissions.uconn.edu
(860) 486-1478
Interested in attending UCONN? Chat with one of UCONN's admission counselors and explore the details of the admission process.
UCONN, Rainbow Center
(860) 486-5821
The Rainbow Center serves the diverse community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Allied (GLBTQQA) community
and provides resources and services to the wider community of students, faculty, staff, and local residents.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
[email protected]
(860) 887-3604
NRCS helps farmers, ranchers and forest owners conserve soil, water and other natural resources. Programs are voluntary and offer science-based
solutions to benefit the landowner and the environment. Learn more about NRCS careers here:
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/careers/
Witt and whimsy
[email protected]
(207) 337-4072
I am a lesbian painter and sculptor from New Hampshire. I received my MFA from the Maryland Institute, College of Art in Baltimore, MD. My work
is whimsical in nature and autobiographical
True Colors 22 Vendors
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True Colors Presenters
True Colors 22 Presenters
Lauren Ablondi-Olivo
[email protected]
Javier Adams
Javier is a current student at Southern Connecticut State University. He is the current president of the LGBTQA Prism group on
campus. LGBTQA Prism is an all inclusive club at Southern Connecticut State University, functioning as an educational and safe space
for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer individuals and their allies.
Lynette Adams
[email protected]
Lynette Adams, Ph.D., is the director of an LGBT focused psychology fellowship at VA Connecticut Healthcare System.
Kim Adamski
[email protected]
Kim Adamski graduated from the University of Connecticut with a B.S. in healthcare management. She hopes to pursue a master's in public
health and is currently seeking a position in health education. She loves cats, veganism, feminism, and fashion design. Kim was a UConn
Sexpert for three years.
Nishelli Ahmed
[email protected]
Nishelli Ahmed is a Graduate Student Worker in the Health Education Office and is a first year student in the Master’s in Public Health
program. She obtained her B.S. in Health Education from the University of Florida in 2014. In the future she hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in the
health field. Her interests in Public Health include Feminist Theory, Gender Studies and Comprehensive Sexuality Education.
Kelsey Alexander
(860) 447-0366 x249
[email protected]
Kelsey Alexander is a Violence Prevention Educator at Safe Futures and a Resident Advisor at Noank Group Homes. She is a feminist who
believes in empowering youth to create positive change in our communities.
Julie Alexandrin
(207) 233-2324
[email protected]
Dr. Alexandrin is an associate professor of Abilities and Disabilities Studies at the University of Southern Maine. Throughout her career, Dr.
Alexandrin has worked with youth with behavioral issues and/or mental illness, in both educational and non-educational environments. In
addition, her research and teaching addresses stereotyping and biases within the educational setting and creating safe learning
environments for all. Dr. Alexandrin lives with her children in Gorham, ME.
Marie Alford-Harkey
(203) 222-0055
[email protected]
Marie Alford-Harkey, M.Div. is the Deputy Director of the Religious Institute, a national nonprofit dedicated to advocating for sexual health,
education, and justice in faith communities and society. She is the lead author of the 2014 Religious Institute publication Bisexuality: Making
the Invisible Visible in Faith Communities. An educator with twenty years of high school classroom experience, Marie leads workshops,
writes, preaches, and teaches to promote a progressive vision of faith and sexuality.
Jamie Allen
(912) 657-5859
[email protected]
Brother Allen, 25, is an active brother in the Expansion of Delta Phi Upsilon Fraternity, Inc within Atlanta, GA. Allen also serves as Social
Media Director for the National Youth Pride Services and as well as on the seat on the Committee for Rainbow Greek Network.
Jennifer Anderson
(860) 687-2020 x464
[email protected]
Jennifer Anderson is a Social Studies teacher at Windsor High School and the GSA advisor for her 3rd year. She is an ally who has marched
in Washington for marriage equality. She is an ardent advocate of GLBTQ rights. Jennifer is also a LMFT and has counseled in youth services
for 12 years.
Heather Annis
(401) 419-3764
[email protected]
Heather J. Annis is Director of Children and Youth Ministries at St. John's Episcopal Church in Barrington, RI, where she is responsible for all
aspects of programming for kids in preschool through grade twelve. She is also the founder of Studio 35 Community Arts Consulting,
through which she seeks to engage individuals and groups in the act of art-making. In addition, Heather is the creator of numerous comics
self-published under the name “Super Auggie”; she teaches the art of comic-making to groups of all ages.
Joshua Aquino
Joshua is a 21 year old make up artist who has experience doing Drag and voguing in the club scene.
www.socialchangetheatre.org
Madelyn Ardito
Madelyn has worked with Collective Consciousness Theatre Company since November 2009. She serves as a grant writer, playwright, and
workshop leader for the company. She currently teaches theatre at Cooperative Arts and Humanities Magnet High School. Madelyn
graduated from the University of Connecticut where she obtained a B.A. in theater studies and a minor in women’s studies. She received
extensive hands-on training in her three years working for Connecticut Repertory Theatre as assistant stage manager.
Kaethe Armitage
[email protected]
Kaethe is a trans college student working on his radical, liberatory politics. He is one of the most creative people you will meet. When he
isn't fighting for justice he likes to drink tea, cut hair, and bake without a recipe.
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Jama Arsenault
(203) 522-7655
[email protected]
When his 23-year old daughter came out as transgender at the age of 15, Don struggled to find help for both of them. Since then, he has
shared his story of parenting a transgender child with classes at Connecticut colleges, seminars for medical professionals and at the State
Capitol in Hartford. Since its beginning in 2009, Don has facilitated the TransPACT support group for parents of transgender children, which
has served over 150 parents.
Luz Avila
[email protected]
We are high school students at Metropolitan Business Academy, a public high school in New Haven. We have been active members in our
school's GSA and have attended the True Colors Conference for several years. We are excited to lead our "You Are Not Alone" workshop
again this year.
Pete B*
Pete just entered middle school after having a terrific experience coming out at trans in elementary school. He is excited to share his
experiences now and to hear from other students as well
Hanna Bacha
She is also a student at Great Hartford academy of the Arts. She loves music and is a music major there and hopes to get a job surrounding
video game designs to audio recording.
Ternise Barrett
25 yr. old True Colors mentoring program alumnae. University of Saint Joseph graduate. Association with True colors since 2005. Female
masculinity advocate and music lover.
Harry Barrick
(214) 215-1654
[email protected]
Harry Barrick was born in Dallas, Texas to a librarian and an investigative journalist. These facts inspired a love of knowledge, action, and
Southern hospitality. Harry identifies as non-binary and uses pronouns like they/them/theirs. They currently attend Sarah Lawrence College
where they study politics, public policy, and poetry, as well as co-chair the on campus activist group Trans Action.
Aiden Bartelt
(608) 469-6109
[email protected]
Aiden Leigh Bartelt is a dancer with a brain injury, and a physical therapist in the making. They graduated from Smith College with a B.A. in
Gender Studies and Kinesiology, and have been learning just how much deeper the rabbit hole goes when it comes to honoring everybody’s
bodies and working with people where they are ever since. They aspire to well-creased eye crinkles and a killer vocabulary in their old age.
Maya Barton-Zuckerman
Maya is a sixteen year old junior in Highschool with two Lesbian Moms.
Isabel Bate
(203) 931-5727
[email protected]
Isabel is a youth organizer with The LGBTQ* Youth Kickback in New Haven, CT and uses they/them/theirs pronouns.
Adrienne Baxter
I am an Arts student at Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts High school. I live in Tolland and am apart Of GLSEN. I love science and math
and can do research well.
Ness Bellini
Ness Bellini is a youth worker and activist serving (through the RISE AmeriCorps program) at The United Arc in Turners Falls, MA. Ness is
passionate about writing, radical inclusion of all bodies, genders, and abilities, empowerment through the arts, and teaching queer and
trans issues to people of all ages. In their free time, Ness enjoys roller derby, embroidery, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Ness's pronouns are
they/them and their spirit animal is the pterodactyl.
Patricia Bengtson
Patricia Bengtson is an Art teacher at Rockville High School and has been a GSA advisor for the past 10 years.
Cara Bergstrom-Lynch
(860) 465-0016
[email protected]
Dr. Bergstrom-Lynch is Associate Professor of Sociology at Eastern Connecticut State University. She teaches courses in sexuality, GLBT
studies, families, and gender and her research has been published in the Journal of GLBT Family Studies, Journal of Family Issues, and the
Journal of Comparative Family Studies, among others. She and her wife live with their two daughters (ages 3 and 5) in Manchester.
Spencer Blake
Spencer is a graduate from Central Connecticut State University. He was involved with the PRIDE club on campus which made the transition
to outside organizations easier for him. In his spare time he likes to take hikes with his dog and practice his photography skills along with
write anything and everything.
John Boiano
(860) 798-5693
[email protected]
John is a dynamic motivational facilitator who has a unique approach for working with students and faculty alike. He specializes in
“connecting the dots” with peer-to-peer and teacher to student relationships. John’s ability to break through the rhetoric while motivating
participants to new levels of awareness and accountability is as creative and thought provoking, as it is compassionate. He focuses on
creating sustainable positive school cultures with an emphasis on motivating bystanders to become allies.
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Lisa Booth
[email protected]
again this year.
Janis Booth
(860) 523-9799
[email protected]
Stonewall Speakers, a program of the Connecticut Stonewall Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) (3) non-for-profit organization, is a all volunteer
speaker's bureau comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and their allies. Our speakers give their hearts, time and travel
expenses to help eliminate hate and promote understanding. Speaking engagements generally include two or more panelists and combine
personal life stories with a question and answer session. We speak to thousands of youth and adults annually.
Nataliya Braginsky
www.socialchangetheatre.org
I am a public high school teacher and the advisor for our school's GSA. This workshop will be co-facilitated by me, but will primarily
be run by 3 (or more) GSA members, whose names are listed below. Jamie Pisacane; Edgar Silva; Ross Jacobson
Colleen Brannan
(607) 436-2748
[email protected]
Colleen Brannan is senior assistant to the president at SUNY Oneonta and a 26-year veteran of the college. She joined the SUNY Oneonta
staff as a residence hall director in 1985 and was appointed assistant dean of students in 1988. From 2001-2010, she worked for Oneonta
Auxiliary Services. In the community, Brannan serves on the Main Street Oneonta Board, the education and business action committees of
the Otsego County Chamber.
Megan Brannan
(860) 486-5821
[email protected]
Megan is originally from Oneonta, New York, and graduated with a B.S. in Art Education from SUNY New Paltz in 2013. Post-graduation she
worked as an Area Coordinator at Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania. Megan is now pursuing her graduate degree in Higher Education
and Student affairs at UCONN while working at the Rainbow Center.
David Breitsprecher
(860) 402-5013
[email protected]
Dave Breitsprecher is the father of a 17-year-old Transgender daughter, Abby. As a result of Abby’s transition and coming out process,
Dave has become very active with PFLAG in Hartford, participated in the True Colors Conference in 2014, and represented Cigna's Diversity
& Inclusion efforts at the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference in June of 2014. Dave is a passionate ally who is committed to connecting
with and helping parents provide loving support to their LGBTQ children.
Bob Brex
(860) 779-9253
[email protected]
Bob Brex is currently the Executive Director of Northeast Communities Against Substance Abuse, a 21 town substance abuse prevention
coalition in Northeast CT. He is a former Board President and an incorporator of True Colors. Bob received the Bayard Rustin Award for
community organizing from the CT Coalition for LGBT Civil Rights in 1998.
Michael Burnias
(415) 221-4810 x3107
[email protected]
Dr. Michael Burnias is the current psychology postdoctoral fellow in LGBTQ health care at the San Francisco VA Medical Center. His focus is
on providing culturally-competent mental health care to LGBTQ veterans. He is currently involved in addressing sexual health behaviors,
including piloting the first PrEP support group and bringing Rapid HIV testing to the SFVA.
Sarah Butterfield
(860) 450-7248
[email protected]
Sarah is the Program Director for AIDS Services for Perception Programs, Inc, located in Willimantic, CT. She is certified by the CT
Department of Health to do waived, rapid HIV and HCV testing. She supervises the ARROW staff, who cover the Windham and Tolland
Counties by providing prevention presentations, performing testing, and providing support to HIV, HCV+ people. They provide mobile
testing, and can test in their mobile van, at a community resource center, at a client's home, or in their offices in Willimantic.
Solange Canizares
(401) 626-2704
[email protected]
STARS stands for Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality, it’s PPSNE’s teen peer education program. Teens in the program are
taught to respond to questions from their peers about sexuality and to know when and how to make referrals. STARS also facilitate
workshops and advise PPSNE on matters relevant to teens. The goal of STARS is to effectively impact the development of healthy sexuality
among youth by promoting healthy relationships through responsible choices.
Alexander Cavanagh
(203) 907-6651
[email protected]
Alexander is a senior at Amity High school. This is his second year as a GLSEN student Organizer and first as a board member. He enjoys
pasta, long walks on the beach, and ugly sweaters.
Maggie Cee
(857) 204-5816
[email protected]
Maggie Cee is an artist, activist, dancer, writer, and educator committed to community and social change. She is the founder and artistic
director of The Femme Show, a ground-breaking touring variety show about queer femme identity and femininity. As an organizer, she is
passionate about connecting people and creating systems that fuel revolution and free expression. Maggie is the 2011 recipient of the
History Project’s Lavender Rhino Award for an emerging LGBT history maker.
Josh Chandler
My name is Josh, but you can call me Ava Cado. I'm a quirky queen and a delightful dancer. When I'm not performing, I'm either socializing
with the neighborhood cats or reading feminist literature.
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Paola Chanes-Mora
[email protected]
Paola Chanes-Mora is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and pursuing her Ph.D. in Public Health at the University of
Connecticut. She is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and obtained her B.A in religion from Boston University. Paola plans to
use her multicultural studies, public health and science background to help develop international sexual health education programs.
Youth Pride Chorus
Youth Pride Chorus harnesses the power of the performing arts to galvanize lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and straight young people
ages 13-22 as agents of change. YPC refuses homophobia, bullying, and all forms of hate by boldly asserting the joy, diversity, strength, and
pride of today's youth. YPC singers discover their own power by empowering others in schools, online, and for the general public through
electrifying performances of the highest calibre.
Eddie Cieza
[email protected]
My name is Sapphire Nouveau A.K.A. Eddy. I been wanting to do drag for a while, and I finally got to do it. I love to dance and be glamorous
Deni Cifuentes
(203) 535-3315
[email protected]
Deni is a freshman at Quinnipiac University and has been an organizer at the LGBTQ* Kickback for one year. Gender pronouns:
she/her/hers. She can't wait to see y'all at the conference!
Alberto Cifuentes, Jr.
(203) 583-7223
[email protected]
Alberto Cifuentes, Jr., is an MSW community organization student at UConn's School of Social Work. For the last ten years, he has
advocated for safer schools for all students as a board member of GLSEN Connecticut. This year, he is focusing on developing more
innovative and effective community-level and media-based HIV/STD prevention strategies and programs for men who have sex with men
(MSM), especially young men of color.
Kenneth M. Cohen
(607) 882-0376
[email protected]
Ken is a licensed Clinical Psychologist at Cornell University’s Counseling and Psychological Services where he provides individual and group
therapy to sexual minorities and supervises staff and trainees. He also teaches the course “Gender and Sexual Minorities” and presents
workshops for mental health and social service providers nationally. Ken writes about LGB development and mental health issues and coedited “The Lives of Lesbians, Gays, and Bisexuals: Children to Adults” (Harcourt Brace).
Matti Colavolpe
[email protected]
Edwin Colon
(860) 570-5327
[email protected]
Edwin Colon, JD, MSW, is an attorney with the Center for Children's Advocacy, Teen Legal Advocacy Project in Fairfield County. The Warren
G. Harding High School Gay Straight Alliance Group from Bridgeport, CT will co-lead this session along with Edwin Colon.
M. Currey Cook
(212) 809-8585 x241
[email protected]
M. Currey Cook is a Senior Attorney and Director of the Youth in Out-of-Home Care Project in the National Headquarters Office of
Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest national legal organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians,
gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and people with HIV. Prior to joining Lambda in 2013, Cook represented children in juvenile
court in Alaska, New Jersey, and New York and throughout his career has advocated on behalf of individual LGBTQ clients and for
broader systemic improvements.
Melissa Cordner
(860) 538-0363
[email protected]
Melissa spent all five years of her college experience on the e-board of her school's gay-straight alliance, spending her free time running a
student magazine and working with other student activists on improving campus climate. This group accomplished obtaining an LGBT
Center, starting gender-neutral housing, and implementing Safe Zone Training and Lavender Graduation. Since graduation, Melissa spends
less time cramming for exams and more time trying to exercise her incredibly lazy cats.
Elizabeth Cracco
(860) 486-4705
[email protected]
Dr. Cracco currently serves as the Director of Counseling and Mental Health Services at the University of Connecticut. She has had a 20 year
career in higher education, beginning with Residential Life, including teaching positions at the University of Wisconsin and Holy Cross,
extensive work in social justice and advocacy related to sexual violence and now focusing on mental health administration, advocacy,
outreach and applied service.
Pamela Cranford
(860) 560-6523
[email protected]
Ms. Cranford has worked for DCF for over 20 years and is currently a Program Manager in the Adolescent & Juvenile Services
Division. {More specifics can be provided}
Genesis Cubilette
(860) 315-2290
Genesis Cubilette is a member of STARS, Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality since 2012 while in high school. STARS, founded in
2001, it is a regional peer education program in the New London area organized by Planned Parenthood of Southern New England (PPSNE).
The focus of the program is teen pregnancy prevention, STD and HIV prevention, gender equality, and the promotion of healthy
relationships through responsible choices. She has represented PPSNE and has taken leadership in the STARS program in several
occasions/programs.
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Lyndon Cudlitz
Lyndon Cudlitz has been mixing social justice with social awkwardness since his teen years as a peer educator. His work in sexuality
education, queer youth empowerment, disAbility justice and more is strongly informed by his transfeminist and working-class perspectives.
He is the Founder & Director of a social justice leadership retreat for LGBTQA youth in Maine. Lyndon is also an artist - so stop by his table in
the True Colors Mall!
Jonathan Cuebas
Mr. Jonathan Cuebas is a recent graduate from the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Central CT State University. He is currently
working as a Multisystemic Therapist for NAFI CT serving the Greater Hartford area. Mr. Cuebas has years of experience working with
adolescents and their families. His specialization areas include behavioral challenges, suicide, cutting and adolescents involved in the
Juvenile Justice system.
Barbara Curry
[email protected]
Barbara Curry is an Emmy Award winning television Director and part-time advocate for Gender Equality. She is a frequent speaker in
classrooms and at corporations. She is a voracious conversationalist and listener. A long-time supporter of True Colors, she is the “Diva of
Technology” as well as a workshop presenter
Earl D
[email protected]
Earl is wanting to spend more time on his short bio. We hope the selection committee can allow this to be submitted at a later date
Courtney D'Allaird
(518) 701-0128
[email protected]
Courtney D'Allaird is the founding coordinator of the Gender & Sexuality Resource Center at UAlbany and has done extensive work with
college campuses across New York State in order to expand initiatives for LGBTQ* student inclusion. Courtney works with college students
in transitioning to campus life and provides interactive trainings, programs and class lectures across campus.
Kevin Davis
(860) 336-1024
Kevin is a junior studying Political Science and Public Policy at the University of Connecticut where he is a member of the ACLU, Students
United for Reproductive Justice, Triota, Students for Sensible Drug Policy, and the Rainbow Center Speaker Bureau. He has worked as a
reporter, newscaster, radio host, sales and service consultant, and camp counselor, but is now a staff member for UCONN's Rainbow
Center. Despite all that, he's really just a simple guy that likes loud music and black coffee.
Joseph Davis
(646) 556-9303
[email protected]
Joseph Davis is the Peer Youth Advisor for the LGBT Foster Care Project’s Youth Speaker’s Bureau (YSB), a program of the Family Services
department at the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. Joseph’s work with the YSB has been focused on helping
to create more LGBT affirming homes for youth, as well as working towards creating greater cultural competencies within the entire New
York City foster care system.
Lori Davison
(860) 305-2743
[email protected]
Lori Davison is an educator and activist for LGBTQ youth. She is Co-President of PFLAG Hartford and is an engaging presenter and an active
speaker for The Stonewall Speakers. A former high school GSA advisor, Lori is a parent ambassador for Camp Aranu’tiq, a camp for
transgender and gender non-conforming children. A long-time member of TransPACT, a support group for parents of transgender children,
she has presented workshops at True Colors, Transgender Lives, Southern Comfort, and The Philadelphia Transgender Health and Law
conferences.
Naomi Dawkins
2nd year STAR peer educator for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Currently enrolled as a Senior at Central High School in
Bridgeport, CT.
Celina Deng
Celina is currently a senior in high school, and has been a GLSEN Connecticut Student Organizing Team Student Leader for three years. As a
part of GLSEN, Celina has tabled at concerts and sports competitions to educate patrons about the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ+
students, and emphasizing safe schools for all children. In her spare time, Celina loves to practice yoga and draw.
Ryan DiMartino
(347) 907-1037
[email protected]
Ryan is a kink and sexuality educator who is committed to community building with queer and trans folks of all ages. He can regularly be
found facilitating sexuality centered workshops in NYC, where he is also an undergraduate student at NYU in Social and Cultural Analysis
with concentrations in Gender & Sexuality Studies. When he is not training people to communicate more effectively, he is usually training
his pitbull, Penleope.
Coleen Dobo
(860) 372-9437
[email protected]
I am a Clinical Psychologist and work as Service Director at Community Health resources where I oversee three outpatient clinics. I have
particular experience in working with people who have trauma, mental illness, and substance use disorders. In my role at CHR, I provide
assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation.
Lynden Dolan
Lynden Dolan is an activist living in central CT and a complete nerd for anything encompassing genders, sexualities and/or social justice. Ze
identifies as panromantic, grey asexual, polyamorous, kinky and trans genderqueer. Lyn works from a trans feminist, radical queer, and anti-
58
imperialist perspective and is committed to empowering through sexual agency. Ze prefers ze/zir and they/them but will happily answer to
any pronoun.
Dylan Dubay
(413) 834-1217
[email protected]
Hi am Dylan Dubay. I am a gay youtuber who is interested in LGBT rights. Like I said I am a youtuber but I also like doing drag and
performing in musicals.
Jena Duncan
(802) 363-0257
[email protected]
Jena is an art maker that builds life in the abundant pioneer valley with a heart -warming community. Her creative endeavors explore the
meaning and production of identity and culture. She teaches on a variety of topics and is interested to create safe and supportive spaces for
all identities to engage in something passionate. Her faithful sidekick is a cat named Sophie.
Robbie Dunning
[email protected]
Robbie Dunning is a genderflexible transguy who just wants to have fun. He acts, writes, illustrates, educates and considers all of those
things to be a form of activism. He has his bachelors degree in the Study of Women and Gender from Smith College and likes to talk about
brain development, improv interpersonal aggression, intersectionality, climate change and glitter.
Lisa Eaton
(860) 486-6024
[email protected]
I am an Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Human Development and Family Studies at the Univ. of CT. Most of my work involves studying
the social determinants of disease among Black gay/bisexual men and transgender women. I am the Associate Director of the Southeast.
HIV/AIDS Research and Evaluation Project - here we develop behavioral interventions aimed at improving the health of individuals living
with or affected by HIV/AIDS. https://sites.google.com/site/lisaanneeaton/curriculum-vitae
Katie Edelman
(860) 460-5957
[email protected]
Katie Edelman is a 6th semester Human Development and Family Studies major with a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
from Stonington, Connecticut. Besides working at the Rainbow Center, she is a student leader in Community Outreach, serving as this
year’s trip director of the Gender and Sexuality Alternative Break. She hopes to have a career in either activism or counseling. In her free
time, she enjoys to read, write, and eat food.
Dan Enger
[email protected]
Dan Enger is co-founder and executive director of Global Dialogues (www.globaldialogues.org). Established in 1997, Global Dialogues
combines the creative genius of young people and the power of social change media – especially film -- to cultivate empathy, compassion
and unity in diversity. GD amplifies youth voice in an innovative, intercreative program of social mobilization and global activism. Since
project inception, the project has focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, placing considerable emphasis in recent years on
promoting understanding and love for all members of humanity’s sexual diversity.
Walter Feldman
Walter is a long time True Colors volunteer, active member of the Imperial Sovereign Court of CT and Empress, 2014.
Lorrin Ferguson
(203) 367-6965
2nd year STAR peer educator for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Currently enrolled as Senior at Brien McMahon High
School in Norwalk, CT. President of film club,.
Tony Ferraiolo
(203) 376-8089
[email protected]
Tony Ferraiolo, is a Trans Youth Advocate based in New Haven, Connecticut. Tony started several groups to support transgender youth and
their families. Over the last six years, these groups have served over 225 youth and over 250 parents. In 2009, Tony started a binder drive
for trans youth,over 150 binders have been delivered to trans youth in need around the world. Tony is also the subject of the award
winning documentary “A Self-Made Man”.
Syd Fogarty
(203) 848-8335
[email protected]
Syd Fogarty graduated from Hampshire College with a B.A. in Experimental Psychology and Educational Research. Throughout his
undergraduate studies, the Foundation for Psychocultural Research (FPR-HC CBD) funded much of his work in areas related to cognition,
behavior and curriculum design. Syd has experience conducting community based research, specifically that which aims to bridge
communication between school districts and families of underrepresented populations. Syd is a gender-queer 25 year-old with Cerebral
Palsy, and loves dinosaurs.
Bernice Freedman
Bernice Freedman recently retired from teaching English at Rockville High School. She was an advisor to the GSA for 10 years.
Emily Fuller
(860) 712-7790
[email protected]
Emily is a performer, teacher and learner, thinker, artist, activist, and enthusiastic game-player. She is interested in performance as a space
in which to explore and articulate thoughts and experiences surrounding queerness, identities, and relationships.
Jennifer Gaines
Youth Development Coordinator & Educator for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England in Bridgeport, CT. Currently involved with
STARS youth group (Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality), Teen Talks, Teen Clinic, Parent Programs and community outreach.
Matt Gall
[email protected]
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Sandy Gallien
(860) 272-0277
[email protected]
Sandra Gallien has an MSW from UCONN with focus and training in social work policy. She has worked at the United Way of Connecticut for
over 15 years. Personally and professionally, she has been involved in the mental health field since enrolling in college in 1975. In 2014, she
earned Crisis Worker Certification from the American Association of Suicidology and Certified Information and Referral Specialist from AIRS
while working at 211.
Twiggy Garcon
Twiggy is the Forty to None Program Manager at the True Colors Fund. He comes to the True Colors team from FACES NY, Inc. where he
served as a Recruitment Specialist, Senior Community Health Specialist, and more recently a Program Development Specialist and
Community Organizer. His recent work in HIV/STD and substance use prevention, education, and intervention has led to the creation of a
community level intervention, The WIZ, specifically for the house/ball community.
Jaroen Garnes
Jaroen attends Hillhouse High School, is a visual artist at the Educational Center of the Arts in New Haven, and is a youth organizer at
the LGBTQ* Youth Kickback.
Kelly Garrett
(401) 595-6253
[email protected]
Kelly Garrett is the Program Director of the LGBTQ Center at Brown University. She received her M.Ed. in Social Justice Education from the
UMass, Amherst where she specialized in teaching about issues of Racism, Heterosexism and Ableism. She has been working in Student
Affairs for over 20 years and has been providing direct support services to LGBTQ students for over 15 years. She has also taught Social
Justice courses at the University of Michigan, UMass, Amherst and Brown University.
Jennifer Gaskins
Jennifer Gaskins, Ph.D., is Psychologist at VA Connecticut Healthcare System.
[email protected]
Alicia Genovese
waiting
[email protected]
Haley Gervino
Haley is a freshman in highschool with two Moms.
Michael Gilles
(203) 837-8513
[email protected]
Dr. Mike Gilles a Counselor Educator at Western Connecticut State University has worked as an Elementary and Middle School Counselor,
Child and Family Counselor, Clinical Supervisor and Sexuality Counselor in residential and outpatient treatment settings. He is a National
Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in a Connecticut. Dr. Gilles has served as President of the Connecticut Counseling
Association and the Connecticut Association for Counselor Education and Supervision.
Theresa Gillette
(203) 808-5074
[email protected]
I am working towards my M.S. in Secondary English Education at the University of New Haven. As a part of the program, I am interning at
East Haven High School. Because I have been involved with a Gay-Straight Alliance for 8 years, I am thrilled to say that I am helping out the
East Haven's GSA this year!
Jonathan Gillman
(860) 757-6340
[email protected]
Jonathan Gillman is the director of Looking In Theatre and the head of the theater department at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts.
He is also a writer. His most recent book, the highly acclaimed "My Father, Humming," follows his father's decline with dementia.
Catherine Given
[email protected]
Catherine is a current student at Southern Connecticut State University and the current treasurer of LGBTQA Prism. Javier is a current
student at Southern Connecticut State University. He is the current president of the LGBTQA Prism group on campus. LGBT Prism is an all
inclusive club at Southern Connecticut State University, functioning as an educational and safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and
queer individuals and their allies.
Sharon Glassburn
(304) 208-4590
[email protected]
Sharon is a license-eligible marriage and family therapist in West Hartford, Connecticut. She is an LGBTQ topic contributor on
GoodTherapy.org and a clinical associate through Reflections, LLC. Before moving to Connecticut, Sharon spent a year in New York City,
where she was a crisis counselor for at-risk middle school youth, peer counselor for an LGBT walk-in center (Identity House), and digital
media mentor for the nonprofit Girls Write Now.
Micah Goldstein
1 (727) 946-3292
[email protected]
Micah is a freshman in highschool, but has been interested in activism for a few years now. She presented a workshop at True Colors last
year about body image and beauty standards, and had a wonderful time. Recently, she went to YEA camp-- an activism camp for youth and
learned many valuable skills to use when changing the world for the better! Micah focuses on a few issues, lgbtqia+ rights, animal rights,
and women's rights.
Jasmine Gomez
[email protected]
A sassy and outgoing teen from western mass,Jasmine enjoys playing video games,making her frieds laugh,tumblr,and advocating
for topics like mental health.
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Thomas Goodkind
(860) 974-1814
[email protected]
Tom, a professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the University Of Connecticut Neag School Of Education is very interested in diversity
issues and concerns. He teaches media literacy and courses dealing with elementary school children, the curriculum, and social studies.
Rev. Hilary Greer
[email protected]
Rev. Hilary Greer is the Priest in Charge of St. Mark's Episcopal Chapel at the University of Connecticut. Hilary has been a social justice
activist for 20 years, as well as a certified yoga instructor and interfaith chaplain specializing in trauma recovery. St. Mark's is a spiritual
resource for UConn for people of diverse identities and expressions, and the Episcopal Church affirms the blessedness of people of all
genders and orientations.
Dana Hagewood
[email protected]
Kyle Harrington
(917) 562-6405
[email protected]
Kyle Harrington is a sophomore double majoring in French and International Relations with a concentration in Human Rights. When she’s
not at the Rainbow Center she loves the outdoors, riding horses, going to music festivals, and traveling. Her goal is go to a different country
every year. This year she is most looking forward to traveling to northern India to work at a school with UCONN Empower.
Kathleen Harrison
(860) 756-6986
[email protected]
Kathleen Harrison is finishing up her MSW at Simmons College, has a BA in psychology from Emmanuel College and identifies as queer. Her
interests include adolescent mental health, gender and sexual minority issues, and non-monosexuality. She has been attending the True
Colors Conference every year since she was 14 and is very excited to present again this year!
Ian Harvie
www.IanHarvie.com
You may know Ian Harvie as Margaret Cho’s opening act, a cross-country headliner or a groundbreaking trans comedian unafraid to joke
about subjects no other comedian has ever touched. In the spring 2014, Harvie, with the help of executive producer Cho, unveiled his firstever live standup comedy special, poking fun at topics from top surgery to his fear of public restrooms to his active sex life in IAN HARVIE
SUPERHERO. This feature-length concert film IAN HARVIE SUPERHERO has been an official selection of over 25 film festivals world wide,
and won 3 awards. It is available for download now. Harvie’s unique act queers the traditionally macho, sex-obsessed world of stand up in
ways you won’t believe, proving that laughter cuts across all gender identities and ultimately unites us all. Ian Harvie now co-stars on the
critically acclaimed, new Jill Soloway TV series TRANSPARENT on Amazon Prime, available now for binge watching.
Kit Hastings-Kort
(860) 457-4785 x4786
[email protected]
My bio is Kit Hastings-Kort: born in Vermont; graduated from E.O. Smith High School in Storrs, CT; Undergraduate studies at Wheelock
College and at the School For International Training; Graduate studies at Pacific Oaks College and at UConn; Certified Spanish and TESOL
teacher; Masters Degree in Bilingual Education; Program Coordinator for YAS transitional living house (United Services, Inc.) in Storrs, CT.
Diane Hasz
860-759-3389
[email protected]
Rev. Diane Hasz, also known as DancingStar, began Pagan studies in 1998 and was ordained Samhein, 2004 as Priestess of the Goddess. She
has served on the Board of Directors of Global Goddess and teaches workshops at CT Pagan Pride, with a focus on Energy and Children. She
is a Justice of the Peace in the State of Connecticut. Diane and Priscilla began Pagan Discussions at True Colors in February, 2014 to provide
a safe space for GLBT youth and CT Pagans to discuss Paganism and Wicca and to find the gay aspects of this faith path.
Ignacio Heredia
(860) 315-2290
[email protected]
Ignacio Heredia has worked as a Educator for 7 years. As an educator, he has been dedicated to providing youth with accurate and in depth
information to enable youth for healthier living. One of the most rewarding aspects of his position is coordinating the New London STARS
and empowering youth to develop leadership skills.
Richard Hernandez
[email protected]
Priscilla Herrington
978-729-7942
[email protected]
Rev. Priscilla Herrington (Baba Yaga) was ordained Priestess of the Goddess in 2000, the culmination of an intensive course of study and
apprenticeship. Her lifelong interest in religion, history and social activism destined her to become a Pagan High Priestess. After retiring
from the City of Hartford, she moved to Ipswich MA. Diane and Priscilla began Pagan Discussions at True Colors in February, 2014 to
provide a safe space for GLBT youth and CT Pagans to discuss Paganism and Wicca and to find the gay aspects of this faith path.
Alexandria Hicks
(860) 593-5418
[email protected]
st
Alexandria Hicks is a 1 year undergraduate student at UCONN studying Structural Biology and Biophysics on a pre-medical professional
track. She is 18 years old, originating from East Hartford, Connecticut. Alexandria is an undergraduate employee of the Health Education
Office at UConn and is also a member of a peer education group that strives to educate students on campus on sexual and mental
wellbeing. In her free time, Alexandria enjoys reading and writing poetry, as well as educating herself on feminism and intersectionality.
Elle Higgins
[email protected]
Elle is currently a student at Southern Connecticut State University and the current vice president of LGBTQA Prism.Javier is a current
student at Southern Connecticut State University. He is the current president of the LGBTQA Prism group on campus. LGBT Prism is an all
inclusive club at Southern Connecticut State University, functioning as an educational and safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and
queer individuals and their allies.
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Mercedes Horner
Mercedes Horner is a returning workshop presenter at True Colors, and is one of the two Student Leaders on the GLSEN Connecticut’s
Student Organizing team. She is a Senior at Greenwich High School, and also an active member of their GSA.
Stana Horzepa
Stana Horzepa, BA, JD, is a male-to-female transgender, who began crossdressing at age 12. In her late teens, she took baby steps out of the
closet on Halloween and over the years, she got further out of the closet by honing the skills necessary to allow her to pass as a woman in
society (without hormones or surgery). Today, Ms. Horzepa speaks at colleges and universities evangelizing the normality of crossdressing.
William Howe
(860) 713-6752
[email protected]
Bill Howe Is the program manager for gender equity, civil rights, culture responsive education at the Connecticut State Department of
Education. It is also the state title IX coordinator. He is past president of the national Association for multicultural education and chair of the
Connecticut Asian-Pacific American affairs commission
Evan Hubbard
(617) 224-1303
[email protected]
Evan received a Masters of Social Work from Wheelock College in 2010, where he specialized in working with LGBTQ youth involved in the
foster and adoption care system. He currently works as a Program Coordinator at Adoption and Foster Care Mentoring where he supports
long-term 1:1 mentor/mentee matches. In addition to supporting his matches, Evan also facilitates workshops specifically focused on
navigating transitions and supporting LGBTQ youth. Evan has also volunteered at the True Colors Conference since 2006 and is excited to
return each year.
Sofiy Inck
Sofiy Inck is a junior in high school. She has been an active member of her school's Queer Discussions group since freshman year, as well as
the feminism and diversity clubs. She has had articles published in a few publications, including the Huffington Post. She is really excited to
be returning to True Colors this year.
Cae Jaffe
(203) 848-5629
[email protected]
Cae Jaffe is a new GLSEN student organizer in their senior year at Amity High School. They have been a participating member of the school's
GSA since their sophomore year. As an aspiring 2D artist, they embody the wild, colored-haired spirity of the queer art student in their
heart. They enjoy strawberries and bad anime.
Viktor Jakab
(203) 731-5200 x205
[email protected]
Viktor Jakab is a mental health counselor with a passion for helping people overcome the struggles they face. He helps clients with sexuality
concerns like creating fulfilling relationships, negotiating healthy boundaries, and healing after trauma. One of his lifelong goals is to
support the LGBT community however he can.
Marcel Jennings
Marcel Ravonne Jennings also know as “Cul’Cha J.” is a Hip Hop dancer, teacher, and choreographer at Studio 8-Sixty located at 30 Arbor St.
Hartford CT. He has trained in many different styles of Hip Hop dance such as Wacking, Popping, Locking and House dance and he has also
trained in African dance and Jazz dance. Marcel is a part of dance groups Team860 and Q5. Marcel currently teaches beginner and level 2
Hip Hop class at his home studio Studio 8-Sixty and also teaches beginners Hip Hop classes at Lakeside Academy of dance in West Hartford.
Azekah Jennings
(617) 424-5768
[email protected]
Azekah Jennings serves as a Senior Conciliation Specialist with the U.S. Department of Justice, Community Relations Service (CRS), in the
Boston Regional Office. Prior to joining CRS, he served as a federal prosecutor for over twenty (20) years in the United States Virgin Islands.
He graduated, with honors, from the University of Hartford in May 1980. He was admitted to the Uconn School of Law and graduated in
May 1983 with a juris doctor degree.
Jazz Jennings
When she was 6, Jazz appeared on 20/20 with Barbara Walters. Since then she has been featured on many media outlets all over the world
including 60 Minutes, "I am Jazz: A Family In Transition", with Barbara Walters. She's been recognized at the GLAAD media Awards, and
both her Barbara Walters' specials won GLAAD awards. Jazz is the youngest recipient of the Colin Higgins Youth Courage Award, the
youngest person selected to be in The Advocate Magazine’s, “Top 40 Under 40” annual list, Out Magazine's OUT 100 list, the 2014 Trans
100 list and most recently, was included in TIME Magazine’s Top 25 Most Influential Teens. . Jazz is the co-author of the children's book, "I
am Jazz". She is the co-founder of the Transkids Purple Rainbow Foundation, a Trans Youth Support Program and founder of Purple
Rainbow Tails here she creates her own mermaid tails and donates proceeds to help trans youth.
Moira Kalichman
(860) 486-8702
[email protected]
Moira has worked for the last 20 years providing direct service to adult and child victims of sexual assault and abuse. Currently she is
aresearch coordinator and project manager at the Univ. of CT.
Alex Karydi
(803) 381-6272
[email protected]
Alex Karydi, licensed clinician that has been trained in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) related issues. Alex is employed by the
Department of Juvenile Justice as an evaluating psychologist, but also has been designated as the DJJ LGBT youth coordinator. She advises
DJJ employees on issues surrounding the LGBT community and works with advocates and regional LGBT youth agencies to ensure
representation of DJJ within these community groups.
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Dylan Kearney
Dylan Kearney is a young activist living in central Connecticut. He has been volunteering at the True Colors Conference for several years but
this is his first year presenting. He loves tea and his dog Buster, and would love someday to own his own bookstore.
Christopher Kegler
(860) 428-8337
[email protected]
I am an undergraduate student majoring in Psychology and Allied Health at the Univ. of CT. I am interested in health psychology and my
primary focus is on LGBT health. I am a peer educator/sexpert at UCONN. I have been actively involved in my role as a sexpert for the past
two years. As a result of this work, I have developed skills for presenting to groups on campus about safer sex.
Rich Kiamco
https://www.facebook.com/RichKiamcoFans
Rich Kiamco is a force of nature that rips across the stage leaving laughter, tears and applause in his wake. Rich was featured on BRAVO’s
Queer Eye For The Straight Guy, co-hosted the WE channel’s 3 Men And A Chick Flick, has had multiple appearances on OutQ Sirius XM
Satellite Radio, was interviewed on FOX’s Good Day NY and recently appeared on The Wendy Williams Show. Rich spoke at MTV Networks
for LGBT month, was honored to co-host a private event for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, was a deputy field organizer for the Obama
campaign and has appeared on campuses in the US, Canada, China and the Philippines. Most recently, Rich opened for Comedian Louie
Anderson in Las Vegas. His writing can be found in Take Out: Queer Writing from Asian Pacific America, Temple University Press and Queer
Stories For Boys, Thunder's Mouth Press.
Fleurette King
(860) 486-5821
[email protected]
Fleurette King serves as the Director of the UConn Rainbow Center. The center supports and advocates for UConn’s diverse community of
gender identities, gender expressions and sexualities. Flo’s involvement in social justice education and valuing diversity efforts is reflected
in a 21-year career in higher education. King obtained a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Ethnic Studies from Bowling Green State University
and a M.A. in Sociology from DePaul University.
Tori Koncz
[email protected]
Tori is a great human being, she likes discussing topics she's passionate about, and making people feel good about themselves. Also she
likes cats.
Drew Konow
(203) 222-0055
[email protected]
Drew Konow is the 2014-2015 Scholar in Residence at the Religious Institute. A scholar of American histories of religion, activism, and
sexuality, he is a 2014 graduate of Yale Divinity School. In addition to his academic work, he has experience as a community organizer, a
volunteer coordinator for a summer arts festival, an AmeriCorps member, and a social justice minister.
Irwin Krieger
(203) 776-1966
[email protected]
Irwin Krieger, LCSW, a clinical social worker in private practice in New Haven, has been a therapist for the GLBT community for over 30
years. A graduate of Yale with an MSW from UConn, he has been working extensively with transgender adults and teens and their families
since 2004. Irwin has given numerous presentations regarding transgender youth. He is the author of Helping Your Transgender Teen: a
Guide for Parents. See www.helpingyourtransgenderteen.com for information
Darrick Labeija
shawn lang
(860) 543-9113
[email protected]
Shawn M. Lang is the Deputy Director with AIDS Connecticut (ACT). She coordinates CT’s HIV/AIDS legislative and public policy activities on
the state and federal levels. She is on the board of the National AIDS Housing Coalition, and the Community Advisory Board of the Center
for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS. She has been an activist on issues impacting battered women; LGBT communities; homelessness and
HIV/AIDS. She lives in Hartford with her 17 year old son.
Lucas Larcheveque
[email protected]
Lucas is a freshmen at UConn who works at the Rainbow Center. He loves being involved with the LGBT community as well as
always learning from the people he meets.
David Lavallee
(860) 917-9172
[email protected]
David Lavallee grew up in Plainfield, Connecticut. Previously, he taught middle school grades in Voluntown and Norwalk, Connecticut, but
now manages the science department at New Heights Academy in North Harlem for grades 5-12. M.S. Environmental Education
Andrew Amanda (Andy) Leigh-Bullard
(785) 410-6601
[email protected]
An active member of the gender & sexual minority community for years Andrew/Amanda has presented on trans* identities at numerous
events including True Colors (2014), MBLGTACC (2012, 2013), the Kansas Library Association (2012), ESU Research Days (2012) and served
as Educational Chair for P.R.I.D.E., a university GSA. They are continuing on a path of spiritual and professional development through service
as a member of the Lawrence House Service Corps.
Joy Lenters
[email protected]
Joy Lenters has been involved with GLSEN Connecticut for the past six years now. Prior to that, Joy was also the Associate Director of
Diversity at her school, The Mead School, in Stamford CT, where she is the 7/8 Grade Language Arts and Social Studies teacher. She is
passionate about teaching and safe schools for all.
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Jeffrey Lentz
(860) 754-4358
[email protected]
I am currently researching for my master’s thesis: “Your Gender Expression is Showing!” A Qualitative Analysis Exploring Gender Expression
as a Target in the Harassment Among Gay Men. I am expected to defend my thesis at the end of the spring 2015 semester. I graduate with
my masters in May. My ultimate goal is to gain acceptance and complete a doctorate degree in sociology. My research passions include
sexuality, LGBT Studies, and gender.
Eren Lewis
[email protected]
Hi, my name is Eren, I’m 15 from Northern Massachusetts. I’m quite into Politics, and more importantly, Political activism. I’ve been
interested in this for quite some time, and get involved as much as I can, so I found this meetup to be a perfect opportunity. Politically I
think I am in the center of the spectrum, not to far right nor left, thanks for having me!
Angela Lindop
[email protected]
Angela is a freshman who is very interested in arts and discussing topics she's passionate about. She spends a lot of her time drawing,
reading, and helping out her friends.
Diana Lombardi
Diana is a graduate from UConn School of Social Work with a MSW in Community Organizing and is on the Board member of the
Connecticut Trans-Advocacy Coalition. She worked with ctEQUALITY to pass the gender inclusive Anti-Discrimination law in Connecticut in
2011 and she has lobbied in Washington DC for the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the gender
inclusive ENDA. Diana is a member of the NASW and WPATH
Stephanie Lumbra
Stephanie Lumbra is a pansexual, polyamorous, kinky, woman of color activist, hailing from the Brass City. By day she is a teaching assistant
for the Violence Against Women Prevention Program at UConn. By night she works against multiple forms of oppression. Anti-racist, antisexual violence, queer revolutionary, prison abolition and anti-War on Drugs activism are her main focuses right now. When she is not
raging against the machine, she can be found tumblring, napping and cuddling with her cats.
Tara Lutz
[email protected]
Tara Lutz is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and is pursuing her Ph.D. in Public Health at the University of Connecticut.
She obtained her M.P.H. from the University of Connecticut and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). She completed her B.A. in
biology from the College of the Holy Cross. Tara plans to use her science background to combine her interests in sexual health,
comprehensive sexuality education, and youth with disabilities.
Carole MacKenzie
(860) 231-7373
[email protected]
Carole MacKenzie is a licensed clinical social worker in Private Practice in Hartford, CT, an AASECT (American Association of Sexuality
Educators, Counselors and Therapists) certified sex therapist and supervisor, and teaches in the psychology department at the University of
Hartford. She is a member of WPATH (World Association for Transgender Health) and a board of PFLAG Hartford.
Veronica Madrigal
(512) 784-4659
[email protected]
Veronica taught middle-school reading for students below grade-level in Washington, DC, for three years. Afterwards, she organized lowincome community members to build power for positive change in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. These two very different experiences
provided Veronica with a unique perspective on identity, community, coming out, and creating safe spaces. Currently, Veronica works at the
Texas Civil Rights Project while studying for her M.A. in Public Affairs at UT Austin.
Kylar Maldonado
[email protected]
My birth name is Maize Maldonado. I highly prefer Kylar, or even Ky. I am a trans-student at Ansonia High, currently in my senior year. I am
just like everyone, a reader, writer, athlete, and a kid who just wants to be a mentor/role model for others out there. Also, I love being a
student leader for GLSEN connecticut. Ask how to join!!
Sarah Malmberg
[email protected]
Sarah is a current student at Southern Connecticut State University and the current secretary of LGBTQA Prism. Javier is a current student at
Southern Connecticut State University. He is the current president of the LGBTQA Prism group on campus. LGBT Prism is an all inclusive
club at Southern Connecticut State University, functioning as an educational and safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer
individuals and their allies.
Perry Mandanis
(860) 486-4705
[email protected]
As a practicing psychiatrist and executive coach, Dr. Mandanis' inspiring presentations foster collaborative behaviors in work teams by
moving his knowledge of human behavior, adult education, and group dynamics from the couch to the board room. After graduating from
Wake Forest University, he earned his MD degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. He has completed residencies in
Pediatrics, General Psychiatry, and Child and Family Psychiatry at Brown University School of Medicine.
Joe Mannetti
Joe Mannetti has a Master of Science degree in counseling. He has worked as an HIV testing counselor, mental health clinician, and an actor
in independent films. He was the recipient of several awards in recognition of his work supporting LGBT communities including the JusticeLove award from The Metropolitan Community Church in the Valley in California, a Dorothy Award from the New Haven Pride Center in
Connecticut, and the Pride NY award in New York.
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Gil Martinez
(860) 450-7128
[email protected]
Gil works as an AIDS Risk Reduction Outreach Worker (ARROW) for Perception programs, Inc. He is certified by the CT Department of Health
to do waived, rapid HIV and HCV testing. ARROW staff cover the Windham and Tolland Counties and provide prevention presentations,
perform testing, and provide support to HIV, HCV+ people. The provide mobile testing, and can test in their mobile van, at a community
resource center, at a client's home, or in their offices in Willimantic.
James Mase
(203) 687-9660
[email protected]
James Mase is a business professional with over 10 years of experience working in the professional environment. He has managed groups
at Verizon Wireless and Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. He initiated his high school's Gay Straight Alliance in Branford, CT in
1999, one of the first in the State of Connecticut.
Bryce Mase
High School Senior; GSA member 2 years Facilitated school-wide presentation 2 years
Steven McClary-Smith
(203) 684-9822
Steven is an organizer with the LGBTQ* Youth Kickback.
[email protected]
Ebony McClease
[email protected]
203.848.3127
Bryce McKinzie
[email protected]
McKinzie is a transman that’s been with the Imperial Court of CT for 5.5 years. In that time he’s met some amazing individuals who make
just as amazing drag transformations. Not to mention they put on face, in the free time, for an organization that has been around since
1965. In his off time he goes to school for psychology at CCSU and has been volunteering for True Colors since 2007.
Soledad Meade
(203) 336-9999 x202
School Social Worker, The Bridge Academy, middle school
[email protected]
Laurel Mendelsohn
Laurel Mendelsohn is an adopted asian teenager from New Hampshire. After struggling with questioning her sexuality and coming out,
Laurel is now in a supportive community at her new school. Laurel tries to take it upon her to make other lives a little bit easier so that the
questioning and coming out experience is as smooth as possible.
Erica Michalowski
(860) 548-3163
[email protected]
Erica Michalowski is the director for community outreach at AARP CT, joining the team in 2003. Previously she worked for the Elderly
Services Division of CT’s Department of Social Services, administering grants and serving as statewide liaison for the Older Americans Act
Programs. She has been a community consultant, AmeriCorps Vista state coordinator, and coordinator for a Retired and Senior Volunteer
Program (RSVP). Erica holds a Masters in Social Work from UConn.
Sarah Mikhail
(646) 358-1748
[email protected]
Sarah Mikhail is the LGBT Foster Care Project Program Coordinator at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual &Transgender Community Center. She has
dedicated her career to children and adolescents in foster care, and has worked with young people as they prepare to age out of the
system. At The Center, Sarah works closely with New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services in implementing policy to make out
of home care safe and affirming for LGBT youth.
Lucius Miles
(860) 797-1123
[email protected]
Brother Miles, 26, has been an active member of Delta Phi Upsilon Fraternity, Inc for 4 years and has served as the state's Expansion
President for the last three years. Dedicated to community service, self empowerment, and community uplifting Brother Miles services as
group mentor for True Colors, Inc and has been involved with the organization since his days in high school, when he attended these same
conferences once held at CCSU.
Sam Miller
Sam Miller is an organizer with the LGBTQ* Youth Kickback.
[email protected]
Hannah Milliken
(412) 760-9104
[email protected]
Hannah is an accidental graduate with a bachelor's in Film Production from Quinnipiac University and a very intentional Staff Organizer at
the LGBTQ+ Youth Kickback in New Haven, CT. Some of their favorite things to talk about are makeup, queer identity, makeup as it relates
to queer identity, feminism, and their cat.
Kaamila Mohamed
(617) 877-5943
[email protected]
Kaamila’s introduction to The Theater Offensive was through her year as a member of the True Colors: OUT Youth Theater Troupe. She
continued her involved as a participant in the Studio Advanced Training and as a founding member of the Leadership and Inclusion Council.
In the fall of 2012, Kaamila joined TTO’s staff. Within TTO, she is currently developing her teaching artistry as an Apprentice with the True
Colors Troupe and Creative Action Workshop Crew.
Khiara Monet
(860) 315-2290
[email protected]
Khiara Monet has been a STARS for 2 years. Khiara has represented PPSNE and has taken leadership in the STARS program.
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Michael Morgan
April Morrison
(860) 560-0744 x4
[email protected]
Ms. Morrison has worked for over 20years in several states with children & young adults in out of home placements. She has also worked
with homeless adults in supportive housing in CT for 12 years before coming to CSH in July of 2013. Currently, the focus of her work is on
developing supportive housing in CT for young adults age 18-26.
Carynna Mott
[email protected]
again this year.
Wes Nemenz
(212) 695-8650 x328
[email protected]
Wes Nemenz is the Senior Education Manager for the Trevor Project. At Trevor, Wes oversees a national suicide prevention education
program and creates resources for adults working with youth to create safer and more supportive environments for all youth. Wes
graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a BA in Communication Studies and Public Relations. Wes is a dynamic
and engaging public speaker, a proud voice for social justice, and an advocate for the safety and support of LGBTQ youth.
Joleen M. Nevers
(860) 486-0772
[email protected]
Joleen Nevers is the Health Education Coordinator at the University of Connecticut. She has over 15 years of experience working in the field
of sexuality and is a certified sexuality educator through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. She
has presented on sexuality and sexual health topics at both regional and national conferences. Joleen created and implemented UConn's
“Rubberwear” and the UConn Sexperts, which are both nationally awarded sexual health programs.
Rory Noone
(203) 464-3238
Rory is an organizer with the LGBTQ* Youth Kickback in New Haven, CT.
[email protected]
Anne Marie Norgren
(480) 772-1358
[email protected]
Anne Marie was a middle school mathematics teacher for three years in Prince George’s County, Maryland. There, Anne Marie incorporated
a safe space curriculum into her classroom and facilitated discussions with students about respecting different identities. Anne Marie also
led workshops at national educational conferences and worked on Teach for America’s Safe Classrooms Initiative to share ideas about
making schools safe spaces for students. Anne Marie currently serves as an educational consultant for Agile Mind.
Kailin Oarei
(413) 386-5852
[email protected]
Kailin is a cup of agender-fluid made from one half Bostonian and the other half activist. Xe presents on topics including gender nonconformity, sexual health, spirituality, energy, and more; xe has been seen at the True Colors Conference, GKE-New England and
Classic. Xe has also presented for TSK and NELA, and at a lot of smaller conferences. Kailin is a co-organizer of Trans* Spectrum
Kinksters and is involved as an advocate for homeless young adults.
Suzanne O'Brien
(203) 336-9999 x210
[email protected]
I have been a school social worker in Bridgeport for the last 17 years. I have been with the Bridge Academy, a charter high school for 12
years. My previous experience includes; outpatient therapy, medical social work. working with teen parents and domestic violence
services.
Robyn Ochs
(617) 413-2717
[email protected]
An advocate for the rights of people of ALL orientations and genders to live safely, openly and with full legal and social 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 movements. Robyn speaks at colleges, conferences and youth groups in the US and beyond. She is the
editor of the Bi Women Quarterly, the 42-country anthology, Getting Bi: Voices of Bisexuals Around the World.
Alice O'Donovan
[email protected]
Alice O'Donovan, ordained 25 years in the United Church of Christ is the first openly gay or lesbian person to be ordained in CT by
the UCC. She has been presenting at True Colors a good many years. She and her spouse Kathleen celebrate life together since
1980, and marriage since 2009. They have 3 adult children, 5 grands, and, oh yes, a cat and a dog.
Jen Oliver
(860) 225-4681 x206
[email protected]
Jen Oliver is the Community Educator for Sexual Assault Crisis Service (SACS). Jen has been with SACS for over 6 years and is looking
forward to graduating in May 2015 with her MSW from UCONN School of Social Work. Jen identifies as a pansexual woman of color and
hopes to promote inclusivity within the LGBTetc community and beyond. Jen also has an interest in assisting those who have been
impacted by trauma, through empowerment and support.
Brittany Palmer
(203) 444-7353
[email protected]
Brittany is a University of New Haven Charger and is a youth organizer with The LGBTQ* Youth Kickback in downtown New Haven.
Linda Papp
(203) 336-9999 x211
School Counselor, The Bridge Academy
[email protected]
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Mike Pastore
(267) 974-4102
[email protected]
I am 24 years old and have developed many workshops revolving around music for college and found them to be a success so I wanted to
continue to branch out and share my experiences with others when and where I am able.
Maryse Pearce
(617) 426-1350
[email protected]
Maryse joined GLAD in September 2011. She received a bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, where she majored in
History and minored in Theater. As Co-President of Wash U's Pride Alliance, Maryse spearheaded initiatives to foster LGBT community and
led educational and social awareness campaigns to ensure the safety and comfort of LGBT students. She also served as a Safe Zones
Educator and led workshops on queer issues for campus faculty, staff, and students.
Jerry Peterson
(313) 680-3302
[email protected]
Jerry Peterson is the Executive Director of the Ruth Ellis Center, in Detroit, Michigan. The Ruth Ellis Center provides short-term and longterm residential safe space for LGBTQ homeless and runaway youth. Jerry has more than 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector
and expertise in executive leadership as well as developing community collaborations between the public and private sectors to address
vital community issues including, housing, educational attainment and LGBTQ youth.
Tricia Petraven
(843) 425-4775
[email protected]
Tricia Petraven is an artist and college theater professor. Her exhibits have been shown at Andover Newton's Sarly Interfaith Gallery and at
Open Studio in Hartford, CT. Tricia has designed scenery and properties for opera and other theatrical performances in eight states across
the country, as well as in Italy. She currently teaches theater at Quinnipiac University and is a board member with Presbyterian Promise, an
organization dedicated to full inclusion of the LGBTQIA community within the Presbyterian church.
Shayla Phillips
[email protected]
Shayla is a freshman at FRCPS. They're interested in art and writing, as well as informing others about topics they're passionate about.
They've presented at True Colors before, and are looking forward to doing so again this year.
Ben Plant
(860) 986-4840
[email protected]
Ben Plant is a Junior spanish major at UConn. His interests include singing, watching academy award winning films and protecting the
environment. When not kickin’ it at the RC, Ben can be found stressing over homework due in two weeks or attempting to be artsy. His
hopes and dreams include making a living affecting change and ending each night with a cup of tea.
Derek Polanco
(860) 315-2290
Derek Polanco is a member of STARS, Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality since 2012 while in high school. STARS, founded in
2001, it is a regional peer education program in the New London area organized by Planned Parenthood of Southern New England (PPSNE).
The focus of the program is teen pregnancy prevention, STD and HIV prevention, gender equality, and the promotion of healthy
relationships through responsible choices. He has represented PPSNE and has taken leadership in the STARS program in several
occasions/programs.
Susan Polese
(914) 629-6378
[email protected]
Susan Jennifer Polese is a license-eligible Clinical Mental Health Counselor. She holds a Master of Science in Counselor Education from
Western Connecticut State University and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. Susan is a certified Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts
Therapist. She counsels domestic violence and sexual assault clients at the Women’s Center, Danbury Connecticut and is a member of the
American Counseling Association and the Connecticut Counseling Association.
Sarah Prager
(617) 504-6135
[email protected]
Sarah Prager began community organizing at 15, leading student groups throughout her time in high school in Simsbury, CT and then at
Boston University. She held nternships from Paraguay to Bulgaria to Hartford on causes including biphobia, marriage equality, and HIV. She
is the creator of the Quist mobile app, a free resource with 20,000 downloads that teaches LGBTQ history. Sarah’s writing has been
published in The Advocate, Huffington Post, Social Media Monthly, Hartford Courant, Gay Life, and various blogs.
Hannah Prum
(617) 371-7612
[email protected]
Hannah, sometimes known as Princess Pink Bunny is a Boston-based educator and an outspoken, extroverted geek. Hannah has a Bachelor
of Arts in Critical Social Thought from Mount Holyoke College and a lifelong obsession with learning about human behavior and sexuality.
She prefers to spend her time talking about Batman, reading things about Batman, or walking her dog.
Delilah Quezada
[email protected]
again this year.
Angelica Reilly
[email protected]
Trevor Reynolds
Trevor has been an active member of the Imperial Sovereign Court of All CT for many years. He served as Emperor 2013 and was recently
named Heir to Connecticut by the International Court System in recognition of his service. In his other life, he is a programmer for CIGNA.
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Susan Richards
Susan is a veteran parent from TransPACT, a support group in New Haven, CT for parents of transgender children. TransPACT has grown
significantly in the last few years, and has supported over 100 families in Connecticut and nearby regions.
Jennifer Riebe
(443) 239-4185
[email protected]
Jennifer Riebe attended Salisbury University and holds a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Psychology. She has experience serving youth with
emotional and psychiatric disorders who are engaged in the wraparound process. For the past 5 years, Jennifer has been working with
families on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She is a founding member and the current President of the Board of Directors for the Lower
Shore LGBTQ Coalition, Inc.
Sonya Rio-Glick
Sonya Rio-Glick, a high school senior from Albany, NY, lives with her trans* brother, lesbian moms, and is queer identified herself. She has
led several workshops focusing on disability awareness/identity with Colage, an organization for youth with LGBTQ parents. She writes for
the Colage KidSafe blog, and has spoken on the True Colors keynote panel last year. She's producing, writing, and directing a documentary
on disability called The Souls of our Feet, to be released in June.
Kevin Rivera
Kevin is a 21 year old who has previous experience doing Drag. He has also previously volunteered for True Colors and has assisted at
various institutions events (Rainbow Center and SCSU Prism Drag shows).
Karima Robinson
Karima A. Robinson is a playwright, producer, educator, and independent scholar. She has ten years of experience teaching Theatre,
Africana Studies, Performance Studies, and Playwriting at SUNY Purchase, Vassar College, and Northwestern University. She has directed a
number of student-devised plays. She earned her Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Theatre and Drama with a concentration in Africana
performance traditions from Northwestern University.
René Roselle
René Roselle is the Associate Director of Teacher Education at the Neag School of Education and an Associate Clinical Professor. She taught
special education in a high school before coming to UConn. She has worked in partnership with Hartford Public Schools for 11 years and
more recently with Windsor Public Schools as well. Her passions are working in partnership with public schools, preparing resilient
teachers, teacher education and urban education.
Justin Ross
(917) 510-3690
[email protected]
My story is pretty incredible and can be summed up in the word "over-comer." I have spoken to gay/questioning youth, worked as the
Manager of the Gay Life Expo in Los Angeles and New York City, and have presented a workshops for such companies as Verizon. I am a life
coach focusing on LGBTQ issues and concerns.
Elizabeth Rowell
(860) 974-1814
[email protected]
Liz, an ElED professor, who also teaches a course in Multicultural Views Of Same Sex Orientation And Transsexuality recently gave the
College Library’s Special Collections a historical compilation of all the transgender picture books for young children published in the USA.
Reviews of some of these books, but not the latest ones, are in therainbowtimesmass.com. She has helped to get GNRs and preferred first
names on class rosters as part of her Transgender ally work.
Ned Ruete
(860) 739-8401
[email protected]
Mr. Ruete is a world-famous practitioner and teacher of group facilitation. He is trained in several approaches including action research and
the Laboratory Method of Training and Learning (aka T groups). A dedicated ally at his fourth True Colors, Ned is still “light” on content
knowledge but brings a wealth of process knowledge to help both youth and professionals discover how to lead groups through learning,
planning, problem solving, and growth sessions.
Nicole Sabel
(203) 731-5200 x211
[email protected]
Nicole Sabel, MA, NCC, LPC – Nicole Sabel is the Program Manager of Counseling & Advocacy Services. Her focus is to identify current trends
and issues afflicting adults and children throughout the Northern Fairfield and Southern Litchfield areas. Nicole is certified as Domestic
Violence and Sexual Assault Counselor, is s Licensed Professional Counselor and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. She has also served on
the Board of Directors for True Colors Inc.
Patricia Sanchez
(860) 450-7128
[email protected]
Pat works as an AIDS Risk Reduction Outreach Worker (ARROW) for Perception programs, Inc. She is certified by the CT Department of
Health to do waived, rapid HIV and HCV testing. ARROW staff cover the Windham and Tolland Counties and provide prevention
presentations, perform testing, and provide support to HIV, HCV+ people. They provide mobile testing, and can test in their mobile van, at a
community resource center, at a client's home, or in their offices in Willimantic.
Laurie Sanders Donnelly
(860) 372-9437
[email protected]
Laurie Sanders-Donnelly, LCSW, is a psychotherapist practicing in Enfield CT. She has worked with clients in many settings, including
residential, inpatient psychiatric hospital, schools servicing those with behavioral/emotional struggles, hospital emergency room, and
outpatient program servicing adults. Laurie’s clients taught her about the unique needs of the transgender community. As a result, Laurie
has obtained additional training in transgender health. She currently offers individual, couples, and group therapy to transgender and
cisgender individuals.
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Laura Saunders
(860) 545-7009
[email protected]
Dr. Laura Saunders is a licensed psychologist working at the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital. She is the founder of the The Right
Track/LGBTQ Specialty Track, which is an Intensive Outpatient Program in Young Adult Services for 16 to 24 year olds who identify as
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning and are experiencing significant emotional distress who need a more skills-based
therapeutic program.
Rachel Sauro
Kathy Savino
[email protected]
Kathleen Savino graduated with her doctorate in clinical psychology, with a specialty in child and adolescent development, from the Illinois
School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Savino has a lengthy history working with both the child/adolescent and adult populations. Dr.
Savino currently serves as the director of Women and Children Services, and Homeless Youth programs at The Connection. Dr. Savino
serves as an adjunct professor at Middlesex Community College, where she teaches a youth advocacy course.
Ritch Savin-Williams
(607) 342-4347
[email protected]
Ritch is Professor of Developmental & Clinical Psychology in the department of Human Development at Cornell University. He has written
several books, The New Gay Teenager; “Mom, Dad. I'm gay.” How families negotiate coming out; “and then I became gay.” Young men's
stories; and The lives of lesbians, gays, and bisexuals: Children to adults (1996). A licensed clinical psychologist, Ritch maintains a clinical
practice specializing in sexual-minority issues and has testified on same-sex discrimination cases.
Allison Scott
[email protected]
Allison is from California, but moved to Massachusetts in 2012 to join AmeriCorps. Through AmeriCorps, Allison works with youth and
young adults, educating and engaging folks in art and social justice projects. Before moving to Massachusetts she studied Sociology and
Sexuality Studies at SFSU, and worked with nonprofits throughout the Bay Area, serving LGBTQ & foster youth. Allison has been an artist
and an activist for as long as she can remember!
Cheyianne Sellers
(203) 367-6965
[email protected]
2nd year STAR peed educator for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Currently enrolled as a Senior at Bridge Academy in
Bridgeport, CT.
Chalarra Sessoms
Mrs. Sessoms holds a Master's of Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Delaware. Over the past 16 years,
she has worked with children, families and older adults as a mental health clinician, school social worker and foster care social worker.
Currently, she practices macro level social work in rural counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She has taught courses in the Social
Work Department at Salisbury University. Mrs. Sessoms is a founding member & former Co-Chair of The Lower Shore LGBTQ Coalition.
Cassy Setzler
[email protected]
Cassy Setzler graduated from the University of Connecticut with a B.A. in psychology and human development and family studies. She is
currently employed as a restaurant trainer and bartender. Her passions include human sexuality, feminism and her kitty. Cassy was a UConn
Sexpert for four years.
Renee Seufert
(203) 468-3351
[email protected]
School counselor since 2000, GSA advisor at East Haven High School since 2006. Mom to three young children.
Jama Shelton
Jama is the Director of the Forty to None Project at the True Colors Fund. For more than a decade, she has worked in the field of LGBTQ
youth homelessness. After receiving an MSW in 2004, Jama began a 9 year stint at the Ali Forney Center. Jama received her doctorate in
Social Welfare from the CUNY Graduate Center. She is also a professor at the NYU School of Social Work.
Jama Shelton
[email protected]
Jama is the Director of the Forty to None Project at the True Colors Fund. For more than a decade, she has worked in the field of LGBTQ
youth homelessness. After receiving an MSW in 2004, Jama began a 9 year stint at the Ali Forney Center. Jama received her doctorate in
Social Welfare from the CUNY Graduate Center. She is also a professor at the NYU School of Social Work.
The Femme Show
(857) 204-5816
[email protected]
With film, dance, spoken word, burlesque, drag, and performance art from award winning artists, The Femme Show is an ongoing touring
show exploring all aspects of femme identity. The Femme Show premiered in Boston in 2007 and has received wide acclaim for its fresh
thinking on gender and performance. The Femme Show is available for performances and workshops at conferences, schools, and
community events.
Donna Shubrooks
(860) 505-7346
[email protected]
Donna Shubrooks has been a proud PFLAG Mom for 18 years and currently serves as co-president of PFLAG Hartford. She has been a queer
rights ally and activist for over two decades and considers the LGBT community her family of choice. An RN for over 40 years, she recently
retired from the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective where she served for 11 years as the STD Program Coordinator. Her special
interest is in transgender healthcare and family support.
Taryn Sidney
[email protected]
Taryn Sidney is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and is a first year student in the Master's in Public Health program. She
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obtained her B.A. in Communications from Western New England University. In the future she hopes to pursue her Ph.D. in Public Health.
Her interests in the Public Health are Public Policy and Education
Deane Silsby
(703) 888-8169
[email protected]
Deane Silsby is an army brat who went to high school in Italy, where he first came out as a queer woman though he now identifies as
transmasculine. He is now a second-year at Sarah Lawrence College and studies poetry and systematic oppression. He is passionate about
breakfast foods and dreams of one day living in Holland.
Dena Simmons
Dena Simmons, Ed.D., is the Associate Director of School Initiatives at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. Dena oversees education,
training, and coaching initiatives at the Center and the RULER program, the Center’s approach to social and emotional learning. Prior to her
work at the Center, she served as an educator, teacher educator, diversity trainer, and curriculum developer. She has been invited to speak
nationally, including two TEDx talks, and has been profiled in the AOL/PBS project, MAKERS: Women Who Make America, and a Beacon
Press Book, Do It Anyway: The New Generation of Activists. Dena is a recipient of a Harry S. Truman Scholarship, a J. William Fulbright
Fellowship, an Education Pioneers Fellowship, a Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship, and a Phillips Exeter Academy Dissertation Fellowship
among others. Dena serves on several boards including Trans Bodies, Trans Selves, MAKERS, and the Paul and Daisy Soros Alumni Board.
Dexter Singleton
Dexter has engaged many organizations and schools across the country with original workshops and programming as a public speaker in the
areas of racism, African American Studies, culture, diversity, and hip hop. Mr. Singleton is a working playwright of five regionally produced
works, a director, and an actor. Serving as Executive Director of Collective Consciousness Theatre, he is also the Head of Theatre at Regional
Center for the Arts in Trumbull, CT.
Allie Smith
Allie Smith is a graduate student in psychology who has been polyamorous since she was 17. She feels that the most difficult part about
being polyamorous is dealing with the lack of societal acceptance and understanding. She has been with her primary partner, Daniel, for the
past five years. They plan on getting married and continuing their polyamorous lifestyle.
Rachelle Lee Smith
www.rachelleleesmith.com/speakingOUT
[email protected]
Rachelle Lee Smith is an award winning, nationally, and internationally shown and published photographer. Her ongoing photographic
essay Speaking OUT: Queer Youth in Focus is a body of work that has been published in magazines such as The Advocate, School Library
Journal, Warszawski Festiwal Fotografii Artystycznej, HRC’s Equality and showcased by the Equality Forum, the Human Rights Campaign,
National Public Radio, Public Television and the U.S. Department of Education. This work was published this year by PM Press in the
bookSpeaking Out: Queer Youth in Focus with a foreword and afterword by Candace Gingrich and Graeme Taylor.
Jeffrey Sparano
Jeffrey Sparano is currently in a Master's degree program in Spanish Education at the University of Connecticut. During his undergraduate
career, he minored in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and has a passion for feminism and LGBTQ activism. He is currently interning
at a high school in the Hartford Public Schools, working to bring topics such as bullying and diversity in race, culture, gender, sexual
orientation, etc. into the classroom.
Stonewall Speakers
(860) 523-9799
[email protected]
Stonewall Speakers, a program of the Connecticut Stonewall Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) (3) non-for-profit organization, is a all volunteer
speaker's bureau comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and their allies. Our speakers give their hearts, time and travel
expenses to help eliminate hate and promote understanding. Speaking engagements generally include two or more panelists and combine
personal life stories with a question and answer session. We speak to thousands of youth and adults annually.
Michelle Spiegel
(908) 770-5748
[email protected]
Michelle Spiegel is a PhD Student at Arizona State University. She has a Master’s Degree in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from
The Ohio State University. Michelle has taught undergraduate courses, and worked in Student Affairs where she advised the Gay Straight
Alliance on campus and developed an “Ally Space” training program. Her intellectual curiosities include challenging discourses about queer
youth “at risk,” queer homeless youth and non-profits, queering education, and queer children’s literature.
Hunter Spitale
Hunter Spitale is an undergraduate Honors student approaching graduation at Middlesex Community College (MxCC). Hunter is also the
Treasurer for MxCC's LGBTIQA student club, SPEAK (Students Promoting Equality, Acceptance, and Knowledge). Hunter's disciplinary
interests lie in Communications and he is a passionate advocate for equality.
Marina Sterrer
Marina currently serves as an Education Success Liaison teaching Social Justice and Peace curriculum to at-risk youth. They have a B.A and
are passionate about helping youth to be the best they can be and promoting self-acceptance. Their hobbies include ice hockey, DIY
projects, and putting up glow-in-the-dark stars. They use they/them pronouns.
Deborah Stewart
(203) 789-7645 x109
[email protected]
Deborah Stewar, B.S., CPP, is Director, Youth Development Training and Resource Center (YDTRC) at The Consultation Center. For 20 years
she has led the B.E.S.T. (Building Exemplary Systems for Training Community Youth Workers). YDTRC is recognized statewide for emgaging
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and empowering youth leaders on serious issues affecting healthy youth development. She serves on the steering committee for Public
Allies CT.
Richard Stillson
Dr. Richard Stillson is a psychologist and recently retired as Director of Admissions, Education & Homeless Services at River Valley Services in
Middletown. He is Clinical Director of Hartford Psychological Services. He is a leader in providing specialized services for the Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual and Transgender communities. He is a proud gay man who is also transgender. He has been the proud mother of the House of
Pleasure as Mucha Mucha Pleasure. He has been an activist within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community in working to
expand civil rights and to celebrate the diversity of the community. He teaches at both Capital and Middlesex Community Colleges.
Rev. Moonhawk River Stone
(518) 506-1261
[email protected]
Reverend Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC, is an Interfaith Minister, a Schenectady county Human Rights Commissioner,
psychotherapist, consultant, educator, writer, keynote speaker in private practice in Schenectady, NY for 30 years. In his psychotherapy
practice he works with transgender clients of all ages, with their families, and for over 15 years with K-12 transgender children. His
consulting and educational work take him all over the country into corporations, colleges, K-12 schools, clinical & professional conferences.
Toni Storlazzi-DiMartino
(203) 889-6864
[email protected]
As the youngest child of a mentally ill mother, I grew up wanting to understand human nature. In college, I studied Psychology,
rediscovered my love for art, and discovered my nontraditional view of love, gender and sexuality. I was a founding member of my college
GLBTA. I got my Masters in Art Therapy and used that degree to help teenagers with mental illness, behavioral problems, and psychiatric
diagnoses. I have since become mother and homeschool teacher to an amazing daughter, and wife of a fantastic person who defies gender.
Lexi Sylverne
(860) 519-4473
[email protected]
I am 15 years old, genderfluid and polysexual. I am currently a sophmore in High School. I am dedicating my life to educating people about
lgbt+ topics, and making the world a better place for my fellow lgbt+ people.
Carolyn Taggart
(860) 977-6347
[email protected]
Carolyn is working to become a licensed professional counselor. She received her degrees from CCSU, where she first became involved in
making the college experience better for other queer students and their allies. Her accomplishments include being involved in the creation
of the LGBT Center at CCSU. When not working or studying, she enjoys time spent with friends, watching hockey, & playing soccer.
Parker Terrell
[email protected]
Amber Tinsmon
(913) 687-6429
[email protected]
Amber is currently a third-year Hampshire College student where she studies linguistics, social psychology, and political culture. She is has
done activist work in the fields of reproductive justice and LGBTQ+ issues in the midwest, and is excited to attend True Colors for the first
time.
Daniel Trust
(203) 345-3573
[email protected]
Daniel Trust is a Rwandan genocide survivor, youth motivational speaker and an advocate for the LGBT community. He is the founder of the
Daniel Trust Foundation, a non-profit organization that advices and helps high school juniors and seniors plan their education and careers
with meaning and purpose. The foundation also rewards and recognizes high school seniors with scholarships and teacher with grants, who
give back to causes they are passionate about in their communities through activism and community service.
Maria Turchi
Maria Turchi is a social worker at Rockville High School and Vernon Center Middle School. She has been an advisor to GSA for 10 years.
Kyle Turner
(860) 368-8498
[email protected]
Born in 1994, Kyle has had love for film and media for as long as he can remember. He attends the University of Hartford as a film
major. In his free time, he is a freelance writer.
Aileen Vandenberg
Aileen Vandenberg grew up in Southern California. She attended University of California, Santa Cruz and double majored in
Mathematics and Physics. After university she taught High School Math and Science before going back to school at University of
California, Davis to get her M.S. in Civil Engineering. She then moved to UCONN to pursue her doctorate degree in Civil Engineering,
as well as a second M.S. degree in Material Science. Her research focus in on sustainable building material science and technology.
VAWPP VAWPP
(860) 486-4738
[email protected]
Grounded in a social justice and feminist perspective, the University of Connecticut Violence Against Women Prevention Program (VAWPP)
is dedicated to addressing and preventing all forms of sexual violence through education, outreach, and advocacy. VAWPP peer educators
are a diverse group of UConn students invested in creating a community of respect at UConn.
Elsie Vazques-Long
(860) 450-7128
[email protected]
Elsie works as an AIDS Risk Reduction Outreach Worker (ARROW) for Perception programs, Inc. She is certified by the CT Department of
Health to do waived, rapid HIV and HCV testing. ARROW staff cover the Windham and Tolland Counties and provide prevention
presentations, perform testing, and provide support to HIV, HCV+ people. They provide mobile testing, and can test in their mobile van, at a
community resource center, at a client's home, or in their offices in Willimantic.
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Colleen Vernola
[email protected]
Colleen Vernola is an Alcohol and Other Drug Educator at the University of Connecticut. She received her Master of Public Health degree
and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida. Colleen has developed various college health education programs
and has coordinated numerous campus wide events. She is a facilitator of BASICS and MAPP and is responsible for implementing social
media strategies for the Department of Wellness and Prevention Services.
Rachel Waitzman
(860) 428-7884
[email protected]
Rachel graduated with her Bachelors degree in Psychology from UConn. She has taught adults to read at Literacy Volunteers of Greater
Hartford and worked as an EMT on an ambulance. In her free time, Rachel enjoys hiking, ultimate frisbee and playing acoustic guitar.
Ry Walker
Ry Walker is a junior in high school. She is a active member in her school's Queer Discussions group, as well as the Diversity and Gender
Equality groups. She is a second time True Colors participant.
Speshal Walker
[email protected]
Dr. Speshal Walker is currently an LGBT Psychology Resident at VA Connecticut Healthcare System.
Kate Ward
[email protected]
Kate Ward is a Health Educator at the University of Connecticut. She received her Master of Public Health degree from the University of
Massachusetts Amherst and a Bachelor of Science degree from Springfield College. Kate has developed various college health education
programs and has also presented at a national conference. She is responsible for implementing social media strategies for the UConn Health
Education Office.
David Elliott Waterman
(860) 543-3934
[email protected]
A native of the city of Hartford, Connecticut...david elliott is a formally trained and self-taught artist, who has presented works in various art
shows and galleys and experiments with several art mediums. His Blended Media medium is the cultivation of visual art, photography and
social awareness.
Patricia Wilcox
(860) 832-5507
[email protected]
Patricia D. Wilcox, LCSW, Vice President, Klingberg Family Centers, New Britain, specializes in treatment of traumatized children and families
created the Restorative Approach™ , a trauma- and relationship-based method. She is a Trainer for Risking Connection® an Adjunct Faculty
at UConn School of Social Work. She’s presented at many national conferences and was the 2012 NASW CT Social Worker of the Year.
Author of Trauma Informed Care: The Restorative Approach (NEARI Press).
Tracey Wilson
(860) 558-5031
[email protected]
Tracey Wilson is a veteran history teacher at Conard High School in West Hartford. She advised Conard's GSA for 8 years. Now she is the
moderator of the town's LGBTQ Staff Advisory Committee. This group supports and advocates for LGBTQ staff and allies in the West
Hartford Public Schools.
Kayleigh Wisnowski
Kaeleigh is a teenage transgender girl. She has participated in and facilitated workshops and panels at True Colors, the Philadelphia Trans
Health Conference and the GeMS Conference in Boston. Kaeleigh is also the recipient of the 2013 Brill Scholarship.
Dan Woog
(203) 227-1755
[email protected]
Dan Woog is an openly gay soccer coach (Staples High School, Westport, CT). He is the author of “We Kick Balls: True Stories of the Youth
Soccer Wars,” and of the "Jocks" book series about gay athletes. His monthly column on LGBT sports ("The Outfield") is syndicated
nationally. He is a co-founder of OutSpoken, Fairfield County's LGBT youth group. He is a member of the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame.
Kris Wraight
(860) 447-0366
[email protected]
Kris Wraight is a queer, anti-racist, feminist who stars each morning off with a cup of tea loaded with honey. For the last 7 years Kris has
been working at Safe Futures, a non-profit seeking to eradicate domestic violence and sexual assault within New London County. As a
violence prevention educator, Kris teaches the skills of conflict resolution while engaging middle and high school students in conversations
about healthy relationships.
Christa Wurm
Christa is the only out teacher at a small independent high school in rural Vermont.
Grant Zitomer
(203) 535-9248
[email protected]
Grant grew up in North Haven, Connecticut and attended North Haven High School as an openly gay teen. He has learned from his
experiences there and looks to help others not just survive but thrive in their time there.
Crystal Zurolo
(203) 484-1465
Senior @ North Branford High School; GSA member 4 years; President 2 years; Has facilitated school-wide presentation 2 years
True Colors Supporters
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True Colors 22: When Pink and Blue are Not Enough

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