Word of the Gay: "Sexualism"

"Sexualism" refers to discrimination on the basis of sexuality and operates under the premise that heterosexuality is a norm that all should conform to.

An Exercise in Gay Acceptance for Heterosexuals

This video is an exercise that was given at a seminar in how it feels to be isolated and discriminated against as a gay person. This video is an exercise to let straight people imagine what it would feel like if the world was gay, and heterosexuals considered deviant outcasts. It is eye opening video into heterosexual privilege and highly recommended!

The 2009 Anti-Heterosexism Conference

The 2009 Anti-Heterosexism Conference is open to everyone; including psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, social workers, educators, clergy, health care professionals, and others who provide services to, or care for, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. The goal of the conference is to explore and begin undoing the heterosexist attitudes that exist on personal, interpersonal, institutional and cultural levels. With information and strategies for building connection and community, health care professionals and educators can advocate for LGBT people and support them in leading successful, happy, and productive lives in the communities in which they work, live, and attend school.

CALL FOR WORKSHOP PRESENTATIONS:

Soulforce is seeking workshop presenters for Saturday, November 21, 2009. Presentations should cover one or more of the following topics:

* Understanding the Harm Caused By Heterosexism
* Best Practices for Undoing Heterosexism
* The Dangers of Reparative Therapy, Ex-Gay Ministries, and Efforts to Change Sexual Orientation
* History & Practices of Reparative Therapy and Ex-Gay Ministries
* Therapeutic Models for Helping LGBT People in Health and Mental Health Care
* The Connection Between Religion, Heterosexism, and Reparative Therapy
* Intersections Between Heterosexism, Racism, Sexism, Capitalism, etc.
* The Healthy Reconciliation of Sexuality and Spirituality
* Reflections on the Ex-Gay Experience
* Impacting the Media: Strategies for Sharing Your Story with Confidence
* Building Healthy Relationships After an Ex-Gay Experience
* Ethical Dilemmas Associated with Reparative Therapy & Ex-Gay Ministries
* Social Science Research on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity
* LGBT Families and Parenting
* Nonviolent Activism and Advocacy Strategies
* Becoming a Powerful Ally

The conference will be held Nov 20-22 2009 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Head over to Soulforce to register or submit a proposal to present.

Happy Father's Day!

A shout out to all the Daddy's and Papa's out there! Happy Father's Day from Queers United. Challenging Heterosexism one day at a time!