Rainbow Access Initiative: NewsLetter

25.2 GLMA Permanent Executive Director: GLMA is seeking a new, permanent Executive Director. The search is being coordinated by McCormack & Associates, a recruiting firm that specializes in executive-level recruitment for non-profit and LGBT organizations. The Executive Director will be responsible for leading and managing GLMA's fundraising and membership services, public policy efforts, marketing & communications, program development, finance, and operations. The Executive Director is also an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors of the organization. He or she will serve as the public face of GLMA and will continue to position the organization as the leading voice and advocate for LGBT health issues. For a full version of the job description, go to http://www.mccormackassociates.com/searches.htm. Inquiries and referrals can be directed to Joe McCormack at JoeM@mccormackassociates.com or Kevin Chase at Kevin@mccormackassociates.com, or by phone at (323) 549-9200. All communications will be treated with strict confidence.

FEBRUARY 2010

IN THIS ISSUE
[Click on the link to go to the story]

Mark Your Calendar For Fun from RAI
Help Us Confirm Our E-Mail Recipients
New Names Mean New Lives for Transgender New Yorkers
State of the Union Highlights Important Issues for Health and Healthcare Reform
NIH to conduct unprecedented study of LGBT health
Achieving Health Equity draft plan open for public comment
Same-sex marriage ban goes on trial in California
New law offers hope on mental health insurance coverage
District, NIH announce new initiative aimed at HIV/AIDS epidemic
One Voice Summit now accepting applications
Nominations Open for AMA Advisory Committee on GLBT Issues
Researchers Examine Relationship between STDs Among Lesbians and Mental Health Disparities
Lesbian Health Fund Call for Submissions
Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program
GLMA and AMSA Seeking Applications for 4th Annual LGBT Leadership Institute
HIV Rates Increase Sharply in Minnesota
Institute of Medicine forms Committee to Report on Health Issues affecting LGBT Population
Issue Brief Examines Health Disparities in LGBT Communities of Color
Researchers Conclude Same-Sex Couples are Just as Effective as Parents as Straight Parents
New York Times Article Examines the Growing Role of Children of Same-Sex Couples in LGBT-Rights Campaigns
GLMA Presents Testimony to IOM Committee on LGBT Health Issues
Institute of Medicine forms Committee to Report on Health Issues affecting LGBT Population
Obama Administration Adds Gender Identity To Equal Employment Opportunity Policies
Groups Protest Reggae Artist Buju Banton's Grammy Nomination
Job Postings:
     25.1 Part-time Administrative Assistant
     25.2 Project Coordinator
     25.2 Policy Analyst
     25.2 Internship, Communications, Chapter Organizing
     25.2 Physician, Nurse Practitioner, and Physician Assistant Positions

1. Mark Your Calendar For Fun from RAI
February 25, 2010 is the date for RAI's Comedy for A Cause, starring Michelle Balan (a finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing) at the Comedy Works which is located in the Best Western Inn at 200 Wolf Road. Tickets are just $15 in advance and $20 the day of the show. Call today to reserve yours: 1-877-JOKE-TIX [565-3849].

2. Help Us Confirm Our E-Mail Recipients
RAI uses a service called ConstantContact to deliver this newsletter and other important LGBT health notices to more than 200 people in the capital district. While ConstantContact provides feedback on those who receive and open the HTML version of the newsletter, they cannot confirm the number who receive and open the text version. So we would like a little help. If you are one of those receiving and/or opening this in its text form, please send an e-mail to bobbiw@nycap.rr.com with the words "I GOT IT" in the subject line. This way we'll have a more accurate measure of the extent of our mail list and that, in the long run, also helps us with our funding. Thanks!

3. New Names Mean New Lives for Transgender New Yorkers
Making name changes official has become simpler for transgender New Yorkers as more lawyers specialize in transgender law and legal obstacles have been removed. Judges have waived requirements to publish name changes, while a judge who had demanded doctors' notes deeming name changes necessary was overruled. See the article from the January 24th New York Times

4. State of the Union Highlights Important Issues for Health and Healthcare Reform
On January 27, President Obama delivered the State of the Union address before a joint session of Congress, touching on many issues important to health, including health care reform. The president urged Congress to 'take another look at the plan' and not walk away from health reform, and he indicated that he would be receptive to other proposals that would bring down the deficit, cover the uninsured, strengthen Medicare for seniors, and stop insurance company abuses. Also, in the wake of large investments in basic research, starting in 2011, the president said there will be a freeze on all discretionary government spending for three years, with the exception of 'spending related to our national security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.' However, a fact sheet prepared by the White House on the FY 2011 federal budget had no mention of healthcare or healthcare reform, raising doubts about the administration's confidence about healthcare reform efforts. President Obama also pledged to work with the Congress and military this year to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT). Information: To see President Obama's January 27 State of the Union Address, go to www.whitehouse.gov
To see the White House's fact sheet on the proposed FY 2011 budget, go to www.scribd.com...OMB-FY2011-Budget-Overview

5. NIH to Conduct Unprecedented Study of LGBT health
The Institute of Medicine (IOM), part of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), has been asked by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct a report on LGBT health. An IOM committee will conduct a review and prepare a report assessing the health status of the LGBT community, identify research gaps and opportunities related to LGBT health, and outline a research agenda to help NIH enhance its own research efforts. The committee will also research training needs to advance knowledge about LGBT health. This project will be open for public comment until February 1st, 2010. Click here for more information and to make a comment.

6. Achieving Health Equity draft plan open for public comment
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is calling for comments on its Achieving Health Equity draft plan, a plan intended to identify and address health disparities. In the 2010-page document, lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals are mentioned twice, while transgender individuals are not mentioned at all. In comparison, ethnic group closest in size to LGBT mentioned 93 times. The plan will be available for comment until February 12, 2010. Click here for more information, and to make a comment.

7. Update: Same-sex marriage ban on trial in California
Proposition 8, California's ban on same-sex marriage went to trial in a federal case that plaintiffs hope to take all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and overturn bans throughout the nation. Victory for LGBT rights groups in the Supreme Court, which might not choose to take the case if it is appealed that far, would make marriage a fundamental constitutional right without exception, and overturn laws and state amendments limiting marriage to a man and a woman in 40 states. The case began in a San Francisco court presided over by District Court Chief Judge Vaughn Walker. During the trial, Columbia University professor Ilan Meyer testified that Proposition 8's negative message to the LGBT community contributed to social stigmas that make them more susceptible to substance abuse, depression, and suicide. Having the right to legally marry would also make it easier for same-sex couples to access health insurance of a higher quality. Psychologist Letitia Peplau, an expert on couple relationships, also testified, citing several studies that have found that married people tend to have better health than non-married people. She cited a government report that said married individuals are less likely to smoke or drink in excess and report fewer health problems than their unmarried counterparts, and attributed the disparity in part to the support spouses share. She also testified that studies have found that the quality of heterosexual and same-sex relationships was on average "the same" as measured by closeness, love, and stability. For more information, click here

8. New Law Offers Hope on Mental Health Insurance Coverage
The Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act has gone into effect, as of January 1st. Passed as part of the federal stimulus package, the act requires that insurers provide mental health coverage that's no less restrictive than traditional medical coverage. In theory, the act should enable patients needing lengthier therapy to receive it. However, critics point to several loopholes -- chiefly, that insurance companies are not required to cover mental health care at all. The new law affects 113 million Americans whose states did not already have mental health parity provisions in place.

9. District, NIH announce new initiative aimed at HIV/AIDS epidemic
On Monday January 11th, the D.C. government and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced the launch of a $26.4 million initiative to attack the city's HIV/AIDS epidemic with expanded testing and treatment to reduce the level of the virus in infected individuals and hopefully decrease their chances of spreading the disease. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) will work with the city Department of Health and the city's largest health care providers to evaluate the health of patients and measure the impact of testing and treatment. The effort will focus heavily on African Americans, who represent 76 percent of the city's 15,000 HIV/AIDS cases while making up only 55.6 percent of the District's population. Two studies conducted by the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services will research the behaviors of the most at-risk groups, African American men who have sex with men, who comprise the largest group of cases; and heterosexual African American women, whose rate of new infections is rapidly growing. According to its 2008 Epidemiology Update, released in March, D.C. has the nation's highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate (3 percent).

10. One Voice Summit now accepting applications
The One Voice Summit is a two-day training and policy maker education day, co-sponsored by Advocates for Youth and the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS_, for youth activists who are interested in environmental and reproductive justice issues domestically and globally. The Summit provides a forum for participants to gather and share information relevant to the intersections of sexual and reproductive health and the environment through a human rights framework; build skills on how to work with the media, policy maker education, community organizing, and advocacy; and discuss and commit to actions that they will take in their own communities to advance reproductive and environmental justice. Finally, participants will participate in a policy maker education day, meeting with their Members of Congress to request support for domestic and international policies supportive of evidence-based sexual and reproductive health programming. For more information about the One Voice Summit, please go to www.onevoicesummit.org.

11. Nominations Open to AMA Advisory Committee on GLBT Issues
The AMA Advisory Committee on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Issues is accepting applications for open at-large positions. Applications are due by Feb. 22. The advisory committee works to provide a dedicated forum for involvement, mentoring and networking for GLBT physicians and medical students. It also strives to increase the membership and participation of GLBT physicians in the AMA and enhance AMA policy, advocacy and education on GLBT health and professional issues. The committee meets twice a year, in June during the Annual Meeting of the AMA House of Delegates (HOD) and in November during the Interim Meeting of the AMA-HOD. Click here for more information.

12. Researchers Examine Relationship between STDs Among Lesbians and Mental Health Disparities
A recent article in the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases examined the relationship between sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among women who have sex with women (WSW) and mental health disparities. A growing body of research documents mental health disparities among WSW compared with women who have sex with men only (WSM). However, there remains a dearth of research exploring these indicators alongside STDs and sexual health. Based on a retrospective chart review of 368 female patients screened for STDs at an urban community health center in Boston, the researchers found that WSW were disproportionately more likely to have mental health and psychosocial issues noted in their medical records. The authors conclude that further research is warranted to better understand the relationship between sexual behavior and health, as well as to guide the development of interventions to ameliorate health disparities among WSW, particularly in the psychosocial domain. Click here for more information,

13. Lesbian Health Fund Call for Submissions
The Lesbian Health Fund (LHF), a program of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), is accepting proposals for research on lesbian health. LHF is especially interested in applications that address the diversity of sexual minority women's communities and studies of health promotion and health improvement in lesbian and bisexual women, as well as studies that are potentially publishable and which are conducted as first steps toward a larger grant. Proposals for the spring grant cycle are due on May 15, 2010. Grants range from $500 to $10,000. Click here for more information, or to submit research,

14. Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program
The Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program was established to increase the number of faculty from historically disadvantaged backgrounds who can achieve senior rank in academic medicine and who will encourage and foster the development of succeeding classes of such physicians. Four-year postdoctoral research awards are offered to universities, schools of medicine, and research institutions to support the research and career development of physicians from historically disadvantaged backgrounds who are committed to developing careers in academic medicine and to serving as role models for students and faculty of similar background. The program defines the term 'historically disadvantaged' to mean the challenges facing individuals because of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or similar factors. The application deadline is March 17, 2010. More details and how to apply can be found at the RWJF Web Site.

15. GLMA and AMSA Seeking Applications for 4th Annual LGBT Leadership Institute
The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) and the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) will present the fourth annual LGBT Leadership Institute on April 9 - 11, 2010 at the University of California, San Francisco. The program brings together health professional students from around the country to learn from each other on how to run or start a successful LGBT student interest group. Students will share and learn how to develop and sustain interest in LGBT health issues, implement curriculum reform to be more LGBT-inclusive and execute innovative programming at their schools. The deadline for submitting applications to participate in the program is Friday, February 19, 2010. To offset the costs of organizing and implementing the LGBT Leadership Institute, there is a $185 participant tuition fee to attend. However, participants are urged to seek funding for tuition and travel through their school's administration. Click here for more details about this year's LGBT Leadership Institute, and to electronically submit your application,

16. HIV Rates Increase Sharply in Minnesota
The Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune reports the number of new HIV infections in Minnesota rose 13 percent in 2009, the biggest increase in 17 years, signaling the return of a health scourge that public health experts had hoped was under control. The Minnesota Department of Health released the annual numbers more than two months ahead of schedule, a reflection, the newspaper reported, of officials' concern about the unexpected increase. In the article, LGBT health professionals cite complacency and ignorance about the disease among teenagers and young gay and bisexual men as a major reason for the increase. Click here for more information.

17. Institute of Medicine forms Committee to Report on Health Issues affecting LGBT Population
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) will conduct a review and prepare a report assessing the state of the science on the health status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations. As part of the study, the IOM committee will identify research gaps and opportunities related to LGBT health and outline a research agenda that will assist NIH in enhancing its research efforts in this area. Additionally, the committee will consider research training needs to foster the advancement of knowledge about LGBT health and identify impediments that hinder such advancement. GLMA Past President Robert Garofalo has been named to the committee, along with several other GLMA members. GLMA is scheduled to present to the committee at its first meeting in Washington, DC on February 1, 2010. Click here for more information. For Committee membership information go to the National Academies web site.

18. Issue Brief Examines Health Disparities in LGBT Communities of Color
An issue brief developed by the Center for American Progress provides a by-the-numbers breakdown of health disparities for lesbian, gay, and bisexual Americans of different racial and ethnic groups. Among the numbers provided in the brief: 60 percent of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) Latino adults report alcohol abuse, compared to only 33 percent of the Latino heterosexual population; 35 percent of LGB African-American women who have had a mammogram in the past two years, compared to 57 percent of all LGB women and 62 percent of all heterosexual women; 30 percent of LGB African-American adults are likely to delay or not get needed medication compared to 19 percent of African-American heterosexual adults; and the rate of diabetes among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) African-American is 2.5 times higher than the rest of the African-American population and four times more than white LGB and heterosexual individuals. The brief notes that though transgender people of color often experience even worse health outcomes, too few health surveys collect data on transgender individuals to make comparisons. Click here for more information.

19. Researchers Conclude Same-Sex Couples are Just as Effective as Parents as Opposite-Sex Couples
Children raised by same-sex couples appear to do as well as those raised by parents of both sexes, according to a research review that challenging traditional notions that children need male and female parents for healthy adjustment. The article was published last week in the Journal of Marriage and Family. The researchers reviewed 81 studies of one- and two-parent families, including gay, lesbian and heterosexual couples, and found that 'No research supports the widely held conviction that the gender of parents matters for child well-being.' Click here to see an abstract of the article.
To view a USA Today article about the research, go to the January 21st USA Today.

20. New York Times Article Examines the Growing Role of Children of Same-Sex Couples in LGBT-Rights Campaigns
An article in the January 20, 2010 edition of the New York Times examined the increasing number of these children, ranging in age from 10 to nearly 40, that have taken active roles in LGBT civil rights groups across the country. The article states that their involvement is helping to change the narrative of same-sex marriage to a story about families from one about couples. Supporters of issues like marriage equality are using this approach to focus on a how same-sex marriage bans affect children being raised in families headed by gay men and lesbians and how does the lack of marriage benefits for their parents affect them. Click here for more information.

21. GLMA Presents Testimony to IOM Committee on LGBT Health Issues
On February 1, GLMA presented testimony to the Institute of Medicine's (IOM's) Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Health Issues and Research Gaps and Opportunities in Washington, DC. The testimony was presented by Dr. Jason Schneider, GLMA's Immediate Past President. Serving as the health arm of the National Academy of Sciences, the IOM is an independent, nonprofit organization that works outside of government to provide unbiased and authoritative advice to decision makers and the public. The IOM study represents the first time that the Institute of Medicine has addressed the needs of the entire LGBT community in a comprehensive way. In the presentation made by Dr. Schneider, GLMA asked that the IOM 'not shy away from strong recommendations related to politically charged issues. Legal recognition of same-sex relationships and marriages, non-discrimination in employment, and same-sex parenting and families are topics that, while polarizing, directly affect the health and wellness of LGBT people. These issues are as deserving of special focus as research gaps and opportunities.'
To read GLMA's testimony to the IOM's Committee on LGBT Health Issues and Research Gaps and Opportunities, click here.
Click here for more information about the IOM's Committee on LGBT Health Issues and Research Gaps and Opportunities.

22. Institute of Medicine forms Committee to Report on Health Issues affecting LGBT Population
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) will conduct a review and prepare a report assessing the state of the science on the health status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations. As part of the study, the IOM committee will identify research gaps and opportunities related to LGBT health and outline a research agenda that will assist NIH in enhancing its research efforts in this area. Additionally, the committee will consider research training needs to foster the advancement of knowledge about LGBT health and identify impediments that hinder such advancement. GLMA Past President Robert Garofalo has been named to the committee, along with several other GLMA members. GLMA is scheduled to present to the committee at its first meeting in Washington, DC on February 1, 2010.

23. Obama Administration Adds Gender Identity To Equal Employment Opportunity Policies
Beginning this year, the Obama administration, through the Office of Personnel Management, has started to list gender identity among the classes protected by federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies. By including gender identity as a protected class, the federal government is stating its commitment to protecting transgender employees and has taken a significant step toward ending employment discrimination of LGBT people in the federal workforce. The policy is now on the federal government's jobs Web site as a link from more than 20,000 current federal job listings. The new EEO policy protects federal employees and applicants for federal employment, but federal legislation is still needed to protect millions of LGBT employees working for businesses and state and local governments. The House and Senate currently have versions of the Employee Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) pending. ENDA, if passed, would be the first-ever federal ban on employment discrimination of LBGT Americans in the workplace. Click here for more information.

24. Groups Protest Reggae Artist Buju Banton's Grammy Nomination
A large number of organizations protested reggae artist Buju Banton's Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album. Banton's music has promoted the murder of gay people throughout his career. In "Boom, Bye Bye," which Banton wrote as a youth and continues to perform, he sings that "batty bwoy" and "batty man" (slurs equivalent to "fa**ot") "have to die" and he will "shoot them in the head" or "burn them." As recently as two months ago, he refused requests to stop performing the song. Another song, "Batty Rider," from Banton's 1993 record, "Mr. Mention," glorifies the shooting of gay men. And in October 2009, Banton was quoted in news reports as saying, "This is a fight, and as I said in one of my songs 'there is no end to the war between me and fa**ot ' and it's clear." This type of music has fueled anti-gay violence in this country and especially in Banton's home country of Jamaica, where hate crimes against gay men and lesbians -- including murder -- are common and sometimes celebrated. A copy of the letter sent to the Recording Academy is available at the change.org web site. Individuals may also sign onto the letter at the website.

25. Job Postings:

25.1 Part-time Administrative Assistant
In Our Own Voices is a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of color (LGBT POC) organization whose purpose is to develop the leadership of LGBT POC; strengthen the voices of LGBT POC in order to effectively communicate our perspectives within the larger community; strengthen our capacity as LGBT POC to combat oppression and marginalization.' In Our Own Voices is a comprehensive LGBT POC organization in upstate New York and one of a handful in the United States. The administrative assistant opens and distributes incoming mail and assembles files and other materials to facilitate reply by staff; enters and proofs correspondence, records and other material from rough draft and various other source data and instructions; receives visitors and answers the telephone; screens calls and callers, disposing personally of routine matters or referring them to appropriate persons; maintains schedules and calendars of In Our Own Voices events; oversees events and arrangements; assists in preparation of bookkeeping vouchers; maintains general databases and spreadsheets, hard copy and computerized files, account records, and a variety of other office records. Candidate should have excellent organizational skills, an ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, and with paid event coordination experience. Own a reliable car to reach areas outside of by public transportation. 1-3 years experience required. Work Hours: 4-5 hours per day, preferably 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., or 12 p.m-5 p.m. with one-hour unpaid lunch. Pay Rate: $10-$14/hour. Start date: Immediately This position is a temporary position (with the possibility of being permanent) Please send cover letter, resume, and two writing samples to

tlagrone@inourownvoices.org

25.2 Project Coordinator
Equality California is seeking a Project Coordinator for its LGBT Mental Health Strategic Planning Project. The Project Coordinator is a management position that reports to the Network Coordinator, and is responsible for facilitating and guiding all work of the LGBTQ Strategic Planning Workgroup (SPW), a state-wide coalition funded by the California Department of Mental Health (DMH) to develop the LGBTQ Reducing Disparities (RD) Population Report, for collaborating with DMH and its partners, and for providing administrative oversight of the Assistant Project Coordinator. This full-time position is funded for 24 months. The position can be based in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, or in other locations that fit the needs of the project. This position requires frequent travel throughout California. See more at the eqca.org web site.

25.3 Policy Analyst
Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) is seeking a Policy Analyst to work in their Public Policy department. The Policy Analyst conducts and disseminates research and analysis, and builds a community-based advocacy movement, in support of science-based, effective HIV prevention and health policies at the local, state, national and global level. Primary responsibilities will include editing of Treatment Issues and the TI insert in Poz magazine, as well as Achieve magazine, a quarterly journal on HIV prevention, treatment, and politics. Additionally, the Policy Analyst works with colleagues in the Division of Public Policy, Research and Community Health and the Development Department to identify public and private funding opportunities, and writes proposals and reports to support public health and treatment research/analysis, public education and advocacy. Contact Robyn Overman at jobs@gmhc.org for more information.

25.4 Internship: Communications, Chapter Organizing
National Stonewall Democrats is seeking DC-based students for unpaid internship positions in their Communications and Chapter Organizing departments. Ideal applicants should have a web 2.0 background (conversant in Facebook & Twitter, able to make updates to our website), be comfortable communicating with people on the phone, and passionate about LGBT issues and Democratic politics. They are looking for interns who are resourceful and responsible, with prior job/internship experience. With 120 affiliated chapters, Stonewall Democrats is the national organization for LGBT and allied Democrats. Stonewall Democrats works to elect pro-equality Democrats to public office and hold them accountable to advance the pro-equality policies and legislation important to LGBT Americans. Please send your resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Marion Johnson mjohnson@stonewalldemocrats.org. Click here for more information about the National Stonewall Democrats.

     25.5 Physician, Nurse Practitioner, and Physician Assistant Positions
Fenway Health New England's leading primary care health center for the LGBT community, is currently seeking the following positions in its Medical Department: Fenway Health New England's leading primary care health center for the LGBT community, is currently seeking the following positions in its Medical Department:
     Physician ' HIV and Gay Men's Health: The Physician will provide direct medical services to the full range of Fenway Health patients. Typical duties include conducting exams, ordering tests, prescribing medication, formulating treatment plans and providing preventive health care advice and psychosocial screening and assessment.
     Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant (2 positions available): As part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, the Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant will provide general primary care to a diverse client population. One of the two available positions will have a special emphasis on Men's Health. Fenway offers competitive salaries and has an excellent benefit package that includes health and dental insurance, life and disability insurance, a retirement plan and generous vacation, sick and holiday time. Click here for a full description of the positions.
Interested individuals may also contact Jerry Green, Fenway Health Human Resources Director, by e-mail at jgreen@fenwayhealth.org or by phone 617-927-6174.

MARCH 2010

IN THIS ISSUE
[Click on the link to go to the story]

Nominations Open for RAI Access Awards
How You Can Support the RAI Access Awards
AHF toolkit on budget reconciliation now available
KFF health reform side-by-side and calculator now reflect White House proposal
Merck cervical cancer shot prevented anal lesions in MSM
LGB individuals risk psychiatric disorders from discriminatory policies
U.S. blood donation ban against gay men contributes to stigma and blood shortages
Many patients diagnosed with HIV today will have normal life expectancies, European studies find
Call for abstract submissions to VOICES 2010
New Connections: Increasing Diversity of RWJF Programming
Association of American Medical Colleges seeks nominations for Herbert W. Nickens Awards
Obama Administration Offers New Proposal for Healthcare Reform
Gay Nurse Loses Job over Drag Show Performed in the 1970s
Gay Men's Health Crisis Report Explores Blood Donation Ban Against Gay Men
Exodus International Launches 'Day of Truth' Campaign to Oppose Efforts to Raise Awareness of Anti-LGBT Name-Calling, Bullying, and Harassment in Schools
HHS Awards Major Grant to SAGE to Create First-Ever National Resource Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Elders
U.S. House of Representative on Track for ENDA Passage, But Votes in Senate are Lacking
New Poll Demonstrates Little Political Risk in Repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
Panel Discussion Examines Media Response to Study about MRSA Infections Among Gay Men
California Bill Introduced to Strip Denigrating Language from State Welfare and Institutions Code
DC Archdiocese Ends Foster Care Program Over Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Which Allows Same-Sex Couples to Adopt Children
Top Ranked University of Maryland Wrestler is Outspoken Advocate for LGBT Rights
Job Postings / Public Health Advisor

1. Nominations Open for RAI Access Awards
On Wednesday, June 9th, 2010, health and human service professionals and community members from throughout the Capital Region will come together to honor individuals and organizations for their work in providing effective health and human services to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) people in the Capital District. Nominations for the awards are now open. You can download a WORD copy of the nomination form or go to the Online version of the form to submit your nominee(s). (The deadline for submitting nominations is April 30th.)

2. How You Can Support the RAI Access Awards
In addition to nominating those who have contributed to LGBT health in our community, there are a number of ways you can support the awards. You can promote your business/organization throughout the Capital Region by Sponsorship, a pro-active way of showing you are an LGBT supporter and ally. You can take out an advertisement in the event program which includes a listing in our online Capital Region Health Resources Directory; it's an effective way to reach our community and let it know about your business/organization. You can become a member of the Awards Dinner Honorary Committee which places you and/or your business in the event invitation, program, and signage. (Committe members also receive one event ticket!) And you can purchase tickets to attend the event or make a donation to RAI/CDGLCC.

3.AHF toolkit on budget reconciliation now available
Since Democrats no longer have a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate, some have talked of passing elements of health reform through budget reconciliation. Originally used as a device for easing passage of deficit reduction legislation, reconciliation may also be used to speed approval of other priority legislation calling for tax cuts or tax increases, or funding changes in mandatory entitlement programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Reconciliation is a powerful tool in the Senate because a reconciliation bill can pass with 51 votes. Debate is limited to 20 hours, and no filibuster is possible. This new toolkit from the Alliance for Health Reform explains briefly how reconciliation works, and offers links to resources that go into more detail on subjects such as the 'Byrd rule' and the important role of the Senate parliamentarian. Also included are resources tracing the history of reconciliation, and its use for legislation such as welfare reform and the Children's Health Insurance Program during the Clinton Administration, and President George W. Bush's tax cuts. http://www.allhealth.org/publications/Uninsured/Budget_Reconciliation_Toolkit_95.pdf">To download a copy click here.

4. KFF health reform side-by-side and calculator now reflect White House proposal
The Kaiser Family Foundation has updated its interactive side-by-side health reform comparison tool to reflect provisions included in President Obama's health reform proposal . The online tool allows users to quickly compare Obama Administration's new proposal with the House and Senate bills approved separately in each chamber last year. In addition, the tool includes 11 other comprehensive reform proposals put forward by various members of Congress, committees and other leaders during the ongoing debate.
The Foundation also has updated its interactive calculator to reflect the subsidies proposed in the President's reform proposal. The calculator helps to illustrate what assistance people would get with their insurance premiums if they purchase coverage on their own through an exchange under the major health reform plans. The calculator provides a rough guide to examine the impact of the proposals on people who do not have employer coverage and are not eligible for Medicare or Medicare.
These resources are available through the Foundation's health reform gateway page, which also includes all the Foundation's research, analysis and polling on health reform issues; columns by Kaiser President and CEO Drew Altman; and news summaries from Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent news service established by the Foundation.

5. Merck cervical cancer shot prevented anal lesions in MSM
Merck's Gardasil vaccine was found to cut the risk of pre-cancerous anal growths in men who have sex with men in a company-funded study. Merck said it will use the findings, being presented this week at a medical conference, to seek U.S. regulatory clearance to promote the vaccine for protection against anal lesions. The shot blocks infection from four types of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus, or HPV. Gardasil is already approved for preventing cervical cancer in women and genital warts in males and females. Go here for more information.

6. LGB individuals risk psychiatric disorders from discriminatory policies
A Mailman School of Public Health study examining the effects of institutional discrimination on the psychiatric health of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) individuals found an increase in psychiatric disorders among the LGB population living in states that instituted bans on same-sex marriage. The study, published in the March issue of the American Journal of Public Health, is available online.
Deborah Hasin, PhD, professor of clinical Epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health and senior author, and colleagues at the NYS Psychiatric Institute and Harvard University analyzed data from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). Among LGB study participants living in these states, the prevalence of mood disorders, generalized anxiety disorder and alcohol use disorders increased significantly, with the greatest increase, more than 200%, in generalized anxiety disorder. The prevalence of any psychiatric disorder also increased slightly among heterosexual respondents, but to a much lesser extent than their LGB counterparts. For more information on the study, please click here.

7. U.S. blood donation ban against gay men contributes to stigma and blood shortages
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently bans any man who had sex with another man (MSM), even once, since 1977 from donating blood. The policy does not consider the potential donor's HIV status, frequency or risk of sexual activity, or if he is in a monogamous relationship. Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) has released a report detailing the history of the policy, efforts towards revision, and analysis of alternative donation criteria.
The report analyzes alternative recommendations for blood donation by gay and bisexual men using a comprehensive framework to assess actual risk of HIV transmission and increased availability of blood supplies. The framework, called 'DONATE,' provides a way to understand how the use of advanced technology and objective screening standards can decrease the risk faced by recipients of blood products, while at the same time reducing the discriminatory impact on MSM, expanding the pool of blood donors (thereby reducing the potential for blood shortages), and raising awareness of HIV/AIDS risk among donors in general, regardless of sexual orientation or gender. The press release with a link to the report can be found here.

8. Many patients diagnosed with HIV today will have normal life expectancies, European studies find
Two studies presented at the 17th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) show that some groups of patients ' those diagnosed recently, or some of those with high CD4 counts when they begin treatment ' will have normal or near-normal life expectancies.
These are not the first studies to calculate normal life expectancies for some groups of patients, but they are based on larger cohorts and extend the expectation of a normal lifespan to a broader group of patients. The researchers comment: "The life expectancy of asymptomatic HIV-infected patients who are still treatment-naive and have not experienced [an HIV or AIDS-defining symptom] at 24 weeks after diagnosis approaches that of age and gender-matched uninfected individuals." The full report can be found here.

9. Call for abstract submissions to VOICES 2010
This is a call for submissions of abstracts to be considered for presentation at VOICES 2010, AIDS Alliance for Children, Youth & Families annual conference--to be held May 15-17, 2010 in Crystal City, Virginia, right outside of Washington, DC. The mission of AIDS Alliance is to advance the partnership between providers and consumers and to be the voice of women, children, youth and families living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. The Voices conference embodies that mission. Voices is a forum for providers--nurses, social workers, physicians, program administrators, case managers and care coordinators; and consumers to come together for the only national conference dedicated to AIDS and women, children, youth, and families. The deadline for abstract submission is 5:00 p.m. ET, Wednesday, March 10. Click here to download a submission form, or visit their website.

10. New Connections: Increasing Diversity of RWJF Programming
New Connections: Increasing Diversity of RWJF Programming aims to expand the diversity of perspectives that inform the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's (RWJF) programming, and introduce new researchers and scholars to the Foundation, while simultaneously helping to meet staff needs for data analysis. New Connections invites Mid-Career Consultants and Junior Investigators (scholars) from historically underrepresented groups to submit proposals to either: 1) address research questions using environmental scans or syntheses; or 2) evaluate specific programs funded by or connected to RWJF programming areas. For more details and how to apply, click here for Junior Investigators, and here for Mid-Career Consultants.

11. Association of American Medical Colleges seeks nominations for Herbert W. Nickens Awards
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) is soliciting nominations for the annual Herbert W. Nickens Award, as well as nominations for the Nickens faculty fellowship and medical student scholarships. The Herbert W. Nickens Award is given to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to efforts that promote justice in medical education and provide equal healthcare for all Americans. The recipient will receive a $10,000 award and present the Nickens Lecture at the AAMC's Annual Meeting in Washington, DC. Nominees may come from the fields of medicine, education, law, nursing, public health, or social sciences. The Herbert W. Nickens Faculty Fellowship recognizes an outstanding junior faculty member, committed to a career in academic medicine, who has demonstrated leadership in addressing inequities in medical education and health care. The fellowship recipient will receive a $15,000 grant to support his or her academic and professional activities over a two-year period. The Herbert W. Nickens Medical Student Scholarships are awarded to five outstanding students entering their third year of medical school who have demonstrated leadership in addressing the educational, societal, and health care needs of minorities. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 scholarship. Nominations for all three awards must be received by May 3, 2010. More information can be found here.

12. Obama Administration's Proposed Healthcare Reform Plan a Mixed Bag for LGBT Community
According to a report in The Advocate, President Obama's recently released healthcare reform bill which incorporates elements of both the House and Senate bills does not include many of the LGBT-related provisions in the original House bill. However, the article reports that the plan does include LGBT-specific language for data collection in health studies, which could provide crucial data for studying LGBT health disparities in federal studies. Also, the Windy City Times reports that the president's proposal contains other positive elements, such as $11 billion for "the operation, expansion, and construction of community health centers" around the country, money which could help LGBT and HIV centers around the country. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), the openly lesbian member of Congress who was a leader in adding pro-LGBT provisions to the House healthcare reform bill, is also reported as saying she hasn't given up hope on including other provisions in a final bill. She called President Obama's proposal Monday "an important step forward" that "helps to regain our momentum" on healthcare reform efforts. The Advocate Article is available here. The Windy City Times article is available here.

13. Gay Nurse Loses Job over Drag Show Performed in the 1970s
As reported in SouthFloridaGayNews.com (SFGN), a 61-year-old gay man who has been a licensed practical nurse in South Florida for 40 years recently lost his job at an assisted living facility after a routine background check turned up a misdemeanor lewdness charge against him in 1976. Ray Fetcho used to perform as drag queen 'Tiny Tina.' On March 31, 1976, Fetcho was arrested on misdemeanor lewd act charges in connection with a 'Wet Jockey Shorts' contest he was emceeing at a local bar. According to SFGN, the lewd act was throwing a bucket of water on the line of contestants standing in their underwear. Last month, that conviction led to his summary dismissal after a state licensing agency, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, found the conviction during a routine screening inspection of nursing home employees. Fetcho has retained long time Fort Lauderdale constitutional rights attorney, Norm Kent, who is the publisher of SFGN. For more information go here.

14. Gay Men's Health Crisis Report Explores Blood Donation Ban Against Gay Men
Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) has released a report, A Drive for Change: Reforming U.S. Blood Donation Policies, detailing the history of the policy, efforts towards revision, and analysis of alternative donation criteria. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently bans any man who had sex with another man (MSM), even once, since 1977 from donating blood. The policy does not consider the potential donor's HIV status, frequency or risk of sexual activity, or if he is in a monogamous relationship. However, the report indicates that advances in HIV screening of blood supplies since the 1980s make the chance of receiving a unit of HIV infected blood one in 1.5 million. Guidance, for most donors, takes into account the "window period," the short period after HIV infection whereby a HIV screening would not detect infection. The report (n PDFR format) is available here..

15. Exodus International Launches 'Day of Truth' Campaign to Oppose Efforts to Raise Awareness of Anti-LGBT Name-Calling, Bullying, and Harassment in Schools
As reported in the online blog Autostraddle, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's (GLSEN's) National Day of Silence campaign has been countered by a campaign by Exodus International to inspire students to oppose efforts to bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying, and harassment in schools.
GLSEN's National Day of Silence has grown each year since the event was launched, with hundreds of thousands of students coming together to encourage schools and classmates to address the problem of anti-LGBT behavior. Exodus International, an advocate of so called "reparative therapy," is asking people to oppose 'messages about homosexuality [from] seeping into classroom lectures.' Exodus International is a proponent of "reparative therapy," a pseudo-scientific approach to change a person's sexual orientation from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual using techniques that can include psychoanalysis, group therapy, aversive conditioning (involving electric shock or nausea-inducing drugs), and involvement in ex-gay ministries. The practice has been widely condemned as harmful by mainstream medical and health organizations, including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, and American Counseling Association. For more information go here.

16. HHS Awards Major Grant to SAGE to Create First-Ever National Resource Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Elders
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and the Administration on Aging have awarded Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders (SAGE) a three-year, $900,000 grant to create the nation's only national resource center on LGBT aging. The National Technical Assistance Resource Center for LGBT Elders will assist communities across the country in their efforts to provide services and supports for older LGBT people. The Resource Center will provide training to aging service providers and LGBT agencies nationwide, and will offer critically important educational tools to LGBT older people. For more information go here.

17. U.S. House of Representative on Track for ENDA Passage, But Votes in Senate are Lacking
DC Agenda reports that Represenative Barney Frank (D-Mass.) is maintaining that passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is still on track in the U.S. House, although he said he's 'less sure' about the bill's prospects in the Senate. In an interview, Frank said lawmakers working on the bill were about to come to agreement on the legislation before inclement weather two weeks ago shut down the federal government. Frank said the transgender protections were among the sticking points in negotiations on how to proceed. The article reports multiple sources familiar with Capitol Hill have indicated that 60 votes are lacking in the Senate to overcome a filibuster on ENDA. For more information go here.

18. New Poll Demonstrates Little Political Risk in Repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
With polls already showing support for repealing the ban on gays serving openly in the military, the Center for American Progress on Wednesday presented a new survey it said showed that supporting repeal would pose no significant political risk to members of Congress. The think tank argued that repealing the "don't ask, don't tell policy" would not divide the country politically the way it did during the mid-1990s. The study of likely voters found that 68 percent of Democrats and 41 percent of Republican support overturning the ban. Plus 56 percent of voters in the most contested Senate and House races back a change. By a 2-to-1 margin, voters said that in a time of war it was important to include every possible person in the military, whether or not they are gay. GLMA has long opposed 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' as does other major medical organizations such as the American Medical Association, which says the policy threatens the physician-patient relationship and compromises the medical care of gay patients in the military. For more information go here.

19. Panel Discussion Examines Media Response to Study about MRSA Infections Among Gay Men
On February 10, a panel discussion was convened at San Francisco's LGBT Center to analyze the media reaction to a UCSF study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine two years ago about methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections among gay men. MRSA is a bacterial infection that is highly resistant to some antibiotics. The discussion was entitled, 'Healthy Gay Men: Messaging: Media & Messes.' Much of the program focused on how media messaging about the UCSF study provided fodder for the extreme homophobic fringe groups. For more information go here.

20. California Bill Introduced to Strip Denigrating Language from State Welfare and Institutions Code
A Long Beach state Assemblywoman wants to change current State of California law requiring that the state Department of Mental Health conduct scientific research into "the causes and cures of homosexuality." Democrat Bonnie Lowenthal has introduced a bill which would strip that language from the California Welfare and Institutions Code. Comparing the law to racially-restrictive covenants common in home ownership deeds during the World War Two era, Lowenthal says you have to, quote, "make it clear we're never going back there." The bill will be heard in policy committee in the coming weeks. For more information go here.

21. DC Archdiocese Ends Foster Care Program Over Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Which Allows Same-Sex Couples to Adopt Children
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, DC has ended its 80-year tenure as a public foster care provider because of a same-sex marriage bill in the nation's capital that allows children to be adopted by homosexual couples. On February 16, Catholic Charities announced that it had transferred, as of February 1, its foster care and public adoption programs in DC to the National Center for Children Families (NCCF), a private, non-profit organization that has been serving the less fortunate for 95 years. The move by Catholic Charities and Archbishop Donald Wuerl came in the wake of the DC Council approving a same-sex marriage bill on December 16 by an 11-to-2 vote. The bill, among other things, would require foster care groups under contract with the District to allow and facilitate adoption of foster-care children by same-sex couples. For more information go here.

22. Top Ranked University of Maryland Wrestler is Outspoken Advocate for LGBT Rights
Hudson Taylor, a straight University of Maryland wrestler ranked No. 3 in the country in the 197-pound NCAA wrestling weight class, has become an unlikely and outspoken advocate for LGBT rights, going so far as to wear an LGBT rights sticker on his headgear in competitions. His support for LGBT rights makes him unique in the athletic world, where straight allies are few and far between. "For me and my generation, [LGBT rights] is a pressing issue," said Taylor, 23, a native of New Jersey. "I believe that whatever history I'm a part of, I'm responsible for. If I feel something is unjust or unequal, I feel a responsibility to do something about it." In addition to being a champion wrestler, Taylor is an academic All American with his eye on law school and a possible future political career. For more information go here.

23. Job Posting: Public Health Advisor
The HHS Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion has an opening for a public health advisor. The position is on Community Strategies Team and would work on Healthy People activities, among other disease prevention and health promotion efforts. This position closes on March 10, 2010.

MAY 2010

IN THIS ISSUE
[Click on the link to go to the story]

Just Three Weeks 'Til RAI Access Awards Dinner
Guest Speaker to be Special Guest at LGBT Roundtable
NYS Department of Health Expands Sources of Funding for LGBT Health and Human Services
Jackson Florida Health System of Miami Announces LGBT Inclusive Policies
Researcher Reprimands Sham Pediatric Group for Distorting Research
GLMA Expresses Concerns about Recent Los Angeles Times Article on Blood Donation
CNN Features "Ex-Gay" Activist Richard Cohen on Segment about "Causes" and "Cures" of Being Gay
Healthcare Providers and Transgender People Sought to Inform New Resource Guide on Transgender Life
Callen - Lorde Community Health Center Seeking Clinical Director of Medical Services
AMA Urges Congressional Leaders to Repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
LGBT People More Likely to Experience Violent Events and Subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
New Organization Founded to Provide Educational, Professional, and Social Support for LGBT Physicians
HealthHIV Seeking Nominations for Members of its Board of Directors
Revised Glossary and a Learning Module on Transgender Health Now Available
New Resources Available for Employers to Offer Transgender-Inclusive Health Benefits
Editorial Urges End to Blood Donation Ban for Gay and Bisexual Men
UCLA Study Finds that LGB People are at High Risk for Sexual or Physical Violence from a Spouse or Companion
Program Takes Up Fight Against HIV/AIDS Among Young African American Men in Dallas
New Lesbian Health Fund Fan Page
LGB people more likely to experience violence, subsequent PTSD
LGB teens at higher risk for pregnancy than heterosexual peers
New report on HIV and Aging
New website focuses on the future of sex education
The 6th annual National Gay Men's Health Summit
Job Opening: Program Assistant / CDGLCC

1. Just Three Weeks 'Til RAI Access Awards Dinner
onsidered by many to be the highlight event of Albany Pride Week, the June 9th RAI Access Awards Dinner is rapidly approaching, but it's not too late to sign up. The annual awards honor individuals and organizations for their work in providing effective health and human services to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) people in the Capital District. Simply fill out the online ticket form at http://www.rainbowaccess.org/ or send an e-mail to the event coordinator at director@rainbowaccess.org.
Once again this premier event is being held on the fourth floor of the New York State Museum wherethe stunning view of the State Capital and Empire State Plaza will be complemented by live music, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres. You will then enjoy a dinner prepared by the Glen Sanders Mansion and share conversation with fellow advocates and professionals. The awards presentation will be followed by the keynote speaker, Dr. Harvey Makadon. Dr. Makadon is the Director of Professional Education and Development at the Fenway Institute and a Clinical Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston. And he is well-known as the editor of The Fenway Guide to LGBT Health, which was published by the American College of Physicians in 2007.
All funds raised will support the work of Rainbow Access Initiative and the Capital District Gay and Lesbian Community Council. The event itself is an important educational and networking forum, bringing together medical professionals and community advocates to raise awareness and discuss health issues affecting the LGBT community. You won't want to miss this splendid, worthy event. So go online now to fill out the online ticket form or just send an e-mail to the event coordinator at katie.moskal@gmail.com.

2. Guest Speaker to be Special Guest at LGBT Roundtable
Dr. Harvey Makadon, Director of Professional Education and Development at the Fenway Institute and a Clinical Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston and Guest Speaker at the RAI Access Awards Dinner will be a special guest at the LGBT Health and Human Services Roundtable being held at SUNY Albany on the afternoon of June 9th. A discussion of a needs assessment for the Capital Area and possible LGBT Medical Clinic will be the focus of the meeting.

3. NYS Department of Health Expands Sources of Funding for LGBT Health and Human Services
NYS Department of Health Expands Sources of Funding for LGBT Health and Human Services The New York State Department of Health (DOH) announced earlier this month in a letter to the Pride Agenda that the health and human services needs of LGBT New Yorkers will now be considered in all decisions about how state funding offered though its Center for Community Health will be spent. According to their 2005 report, the Center for Community Health is one of the largest sections of the DOH, with four offices, four divisions, over 1,100 staff people and a budget that exceeds $1.2 billion. This new policy to consider the needs of LGBT New Yorkers puts the LGBT community in line with how DOH has long treated other marginalized populations in New York State, like people of color and people with disabilities, when making programmatic and funding decisions. It will open the door for community-based LGBT organizations across New York State to better compete for state funding, and it gives a strong incentive to other organizations outside the LGBT community that hope to obtain funding from the Center for Community Health to make sure their services are responsive and sensitive to the needs of LGBT New Yorkers.
       Additionally, the DOH announced that it will now provide training on LGBT issues for staff involved in awarding these sources of funding, help to identify and advocate for LGBT funding opportunities on the federal level, and develop a roadmap for implementing similar policies with the state's other agencies.
       This is a victory for the LGBT community! The assessment of LGBT New Yorkers released last year by the Pride Agenda found that our community suffers from a lack of access to health care that competently addresses our distinct needs. As the state government continues to take measures like these to acknowledge and respect the needs of LGBT New Yorkers, we move closer to full equality and justice for our community.
       This policy change comes as the result of years of advocacy by the Pride Agenda and the New York State LGBT Health and Human Services Network, a coalition supported and administered by the Pride Agenda of over 50 community-based non-profits providing health and human services to LGBT New Yorkers and their families.

4. Jackson Florida Health System of Miami Announces LGBT Inclusive Policies
After a year-long process, the Jackson Health System of Miami, Florida and a coalition of LGBT organizations that have been working together to review and improve the healthcare system's policies and practices related to the LGBT community have announceed a successful outcome.
While at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Janice Langbehn claimed she and her children were subjected to verbal harassment and denied visitation with the children's mother and Janice's partner of 18 years, Lisa Pond, who subsequently died in the hospital while being treated. After working closely with the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), Lambda Legal, and other organizations, the Jackson Health System has now put in place a non-discrimination policy that includes sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, a patient's bill of rights that demonstrates the hospital's commitment to providing quality care for LGBT patients, and a visitation policy that updates the definition of family to include same-sex partners and other people who may not be legally related to a patient. These visitation policies are available at http://www.jhsmiami.org/workfiles//JHSVisitationPolicy.pdf

5. Researcher Reprimands Sham Pediatric Group for Distorting Research
On April 12, Dr. Gary Remafedi, MD, MPH, a University of Minnesota researcher, wrote a letter to the American College of Pediatricians holding them accountable for misusing his research. The American College of Pediatricians (ACP) ' not to be confused with the 60,000 member American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) ' has distributed over 10,000 letters to school superintendents containing factually inaccurate information about sexual orientation and gender identity and promoting unsupported and potentially dangerous "reparative therapies" for LGBT students. The ACP is a small advocacy group masquerading as a legitimate medical organization. Founders of the ACP left the AAP after the organization adopted policy rejecting the use of "reparative therapy."
Last week, the AAP sent letters to state chapter leaders warning them about the letters and the activities of the ACP. This week, AAP state chapters will be distributing letters to state education officials, advising education officials that the ACP's campaign, "does not acknowledge the scientific evidence regarding sexual identity, sexual health, sexual orientation, or effective health education." The letter also directs education officials to a report, Just the Facts About Sexual Orientation and Youth: A Primer for Principals, Educators, and School Personnel, a resource developed by the AAP in collaboration with the American Psychological Association (APA) and other prominent national professional associations. The AAP urges education officials to reference this document in communications to school superintendents and other educators in their states.
--> To read the letter by Gary Remafedi, go to http://www.truthwinsout.org/pressreleases/2010/04/8136/.
--> To read the report Just the Facts About Sexual Orientation and Youth, developed by the AAP, APA, and other prominent national professional associations, go to http://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/just-the-facts.pdf
--> To read a recent blog post from HRC Family Project Director Ellen Kahn on HRC Back Story, go to http://www.hrcbackstory.org/2010/04/ideology-trumps-childrens-well-being/.

6. GLMA Expresses Concerns about Recent Los Angeles Times Article on Blood Donation
On April 11, the Los Angeles Times published a letter to the editor submitted by GLMA expressing concerns that a recent article examining the FDA blood donation deferral policy for gay and bisexual men exaggerated the risk of the proposed policy changes that will ultimately be considered by the FDA. The Los Angeles Times described concerns of the nation's hemophiliac community to potential changes to the life-time blood donation ban for gay and bisexual men, and described a number of hemophiliac activists as "standing in the path of political Goliaths -- America's highly organized gay rights community, the Red Cross, the American Medical Association and others."
--> To read the letter, go to http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/letters/la-le-saturday10-2010apr10,0,2124889.story?page=3.

7. CNN Features "Ex-Gay" Activist Richard Cohen on Segment about "Causes" and "Cures" of Being Gay
In an attempt to discuss efforts to repeal an outdated law in California requiring the State Department of Mental Health to conduct research into the "causes" and "cures" of being gay, CNN took the irresponsible step on April 6 of allowing the unlicensed, widely discredited, so-called "ex-gay" activist Richard Cohen onto the network's airwaves to promote the idea that gay people can be turned straight. CNN Host Kyra Phillips paired Cohen with California Assemblywoman Bonnie Lowenthal, who is working to repeal the outdated law, to discuss the matter. Phillips began the conversation by asking this highly offensive question: "Homosexuality, Is it a problem in need of a cure?" While the segment tried to give the appearance of "balance," the airtime afforded the disreputable Cohen to tout "healing" gay people, coupled with a lack of information about the harms caused by such practices is unacceptable. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation has issued an action alert on the segment, and is inviting people to send emails expressing their concerns to CNN.
--> For more information go to http://www.glaad.org/Page.aspx?pid=1378..

8. Healthcare Providers and Transgender People Sought to Inform New Resource Guide on Transgender Life
A new book, "Trans Bodies, Trans Selves," is currently being developed to serve as a resource guide for the transgender population. The guide covers health, legal issues, cultural and social questions, history, theory, and more. The project is being led by Laura Erickson-Schroth, MD, MA, of GLMA. The book seeks to serve as a resource for transgender and gender-questioning people, their partners and families, students, professors, guidance counselors, and others to look for up-to-date information on transgender life. Each chapter will be written by a separate transgender or genderqueer author. The book will be aimed at a general transgender and gender-questioning audience, and when using complicated language, will provide definitions and explanations. The tone will be friendly and fun, and will promote trans-positive, feminist and genderqueer advocacy. Short opinion pieces and testimonials will be included in each section. Anonymous quotes from transgender and gender-variant people will also be included. These will be gathered from this website's survey. The project is currently healthcare providers and transgender people to assist in the d evelopment of the resource guide.
--> If you are a transgender person willing to take part in an online survey on your experiences, as well as the experiences of your friends and family, go to http://www.transbodies.com/Survey.html.
--> If you are a healthcare providers interested in assisting the project by providing input or writing on transgender health, please send an email to transbodies@gmail.com..

9. Callen - Lorde Community Health Center Seeking Clinical Director of Medical Services
Callen - Lorde Community Health Center is New York City's leading health care center dedicated to serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. The Clinical Director of Medical Services (CDMS) provides leadership and vision to all of Callen-Lorde's medical care, including adult medicine, HIV care, adolescent care, psychiatry, gynecology, transgender care, and sexual health services. As the supervising clinician to our 20-person Medical Provider staff, the CDMS will lead the department through Patient-Centered Medical Home certification, enhanced use of electronic health technology, and guide the development of patient care teams. The CDMS also maintains a part-time panel of patients. Working under our Medical Director and in close concert with our Director of Nursing, Director of Medical Administrative Services, and Director of Research and Education, the CDMS will ensure the provision of excellent quality care to all patients in an environment that prizes sensitivity and respect.
--> For more information about the position, go to http://www.callen-lorde.org/employ.html#CDMS. To apply, send cover letter and CV to jobs@callen-lorde.org.

10. AMA Urges Congressional Leaders to Repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
In a letter sent to congressional leaders, the American Medical Association is urging lawmakers to repeal the military's current "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy pertaining to gay men and lesbians serving in the Armed Forces. The AMA warned lawmakers that the restrictive policy could prove a roadblock between a military patient and his or her physician. Patients should not be afraid to openly discuss medical issues with their physicians because they are concerned about being dismissed form the military," AMA Executive Vice President and CEO Michael Maves said in the letter. "Likewise, physicians should not be reluctant or hesitant to ask their patients questions about sexual health or sexual history out of concern that they could be putting their patients' jobs in jeopardy." The letter follows a 2009 recommendation by the AMA's House of Delegates that urges the association to advocate for the repeal of the 1994 law.
--> To view the letters, go to http://www.glma.org/_data/n_0001/resources/live/AMA_DADT_Letter.pdf..

11. LGBT People More Likely to Experience Violent Events and Subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
A new study from researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and Children's Hospital Boston has found that gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and heterosexuals who have ever had a same-sex sex partner are one-and-a-half to two times as likely to experience violent events, especially in childhood, than the general population and have double the risk of experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a consequence of these events. It is the first study to directly link higher rates of PTSD in those four groups (classified as sexual minorities) to greater violence exposure. The research appears online and in an upcoming print issue of the American Journal of Public Health. The authors urge that health care providers and families be aware that sexual minorities face a greater risk of violence and PTSD and may have a history of trauma that should be addressed before it becomes mentally debilitating.
--> For more information go to http://ajph.aphapublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/AJPH.2009.168971v1.

12. New Organization Founded to Provide Educational, Professional, and Social Support for LGBT Physicians
A new organization for LGBT doctors and medical students in Ireland will hold its first meeting in Dublin next month. The organization, Gay Doctors Ireland (GDI), was set up in December to provide an educational, professional and social support network for LGBT doctors working in the Irish health services. Founder member, Dr. Conor Malone of Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, explained that equivalent organizations were already running in the UK, Europe and the US and there was a real need for support for Irish LGBT doctors. He said it was not known how many LGBT doctors were currently working in Ireland and this was an issue GDI would have to address. The group has recruited 40 members through its website in the past month and there are many others involved with GDI who have not yet become members.
--> For more information go to http://gaydoctorsireland.ie.

13. HealthHIV Seeking Nominations for Members of its Board of Directors
HealthHIV, a national, HIV non-profit organization, is seeking nominations for members of its Board of Directors. HealthHIV is a 501 (c)(3), not-for-profit established in 1999 in Washington, DC which advances effective prevention, care and support for people living with, or at risk for, HIV/AIDS by providing education, technical assistance, and health services research to organizations, communities and professionals.
--> For more information go to: http://www.HealthHIV.org and click on the HealthHIV Board Recruitment Package located on the left hand side of the main page to download/print the nomination packet.

14. Revised Glossary and a Learning Module on Transgender Health Now Available
Fenway Health has released a completely revised Glossary of Gender and Transgender Terms. While the Glossary is primarily designed for health professionals who are not familiar with appropriate terminology to use when caring for transgender patients, it is also a useful resource for others trying to keep up with the evolving language in this area. Individuals may find it helpful to provide a copy of the Glossary to their health professionals. The Glossary and a Learning Module on Transgender Health can be accessed athttp://www.fenwayhealth.org/site/PageServer?pagename=FCHC_srv_services_trans.

15. New Resources Available for Employers to Offer Transgender-Inclusive Health Benefits
The Human Rights Campaign has developed a collection of online resources to help employers implement transgender-inclusive health insurance coverage. Transgender people face many forms of discrimination in the provision of health insurance. Employers, as consumers of group health insurance products, can advocate on behalf of the transgender people insured on their group health insurance plans, and should work with their insurance carriers or administrators to remove transgender exclusions and provide comprehensive transgender-inclusive insurance coverage.
--> For more information go to http://www.hrc.org/issues/workplace/benefits/transgender_inclusive_benefits.htm.

16. Editorial Urges End to Blood Donation Ban for Gay and Bisexual Men
An editorial appearing in the May 3, 2010 edition of the Journal of Clinical Investigation calls for a revision of the FDA deferral policy prohibiting any man who has had sex with another man since 1977 from donating blood. The editorial calls for the FDA to use "the same deferral policies that apply to heterosexuals who engage in high-risk behavior: a 12-month deferral." Ushma S. Neill, Executive Editor of Journal of Clinical Investigation and author of the editorial, says "these bans further perpetuate the stigma that associates gay men with HIV" and that policy should be "based on the science rather than on bigotry." The editorial is available at http://www.jci.org/articles/view/43096.

18. UCLA Study Find that LGB People are at High Risk for Sexual or Physical Violence from a Spouse or Companion
Nearly 4 million adults in California reported being a victim of physical or sexual violence at the hands of a spouse, companion or other intimate partner, according to estimates in a new policy brief from the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research. Although reported incidences of intimate partner violence, or IPV, are widespread, especially among women and certain ethnic groups, reported IPV was surprisingly high among lesbians, gays and bisexuals in California, who are almost twice as likely to experience violence as heterosexual adults, researchers said. Specifically, 27.9 percent of all lesbian or gay adults reported experiencing IPV in their adult lives. The rate of reported IPV is even higher among bisexual adults, at 40.6 percent. In contrast, only 16.7 percent of heterosexual adults reported incidences of IPV.
--> For more information go to http://www.healthpolicy.ucla.edu/pubs/Publication.aspx?pubID=402.

18. Program Takes Up Fight Against HIV/AIDS Among Young African American Men in Dallas
An article in the Dallas Morning News profiles activities and outreach efforts to help educate the young African American men in that city about HIV/AIDS. The program, Young Black Ellument, is designed to go beyond safe-sex training, and participants also learn to deal with homophobia within the black community, as well as discrimination and other issues related to being economically disadvantaged. The four-year, $1.6 million project is being coordinated by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, and funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The research team picked Dallas for its study because there was no prevention program targeting young men in the black community.
--> To read the full article, go to http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-blackaids_29met.ART.Central.Edition1.4beb88b.html.

19. New Lesbian Health Fund Fan Page
The Lesbian Health Fund has a new Facebook page, visit and become a fan today! In addition, you can help fundraise for lesbian health research and buy raffle tickets to win an Olivia Caribbean Cruise today! Raffle tickets are only $100 and you do not have to be present to win! The drawing will be held on May 27, 2010. Through your support LHF has given out over $600,000 in grants to promising researchers. LHF is the oldest and only US fund devoted specifically to answering questions about the health of lesbians and you have made it possible.
--> For more information go to: http://www.glma.org/_data/n_0001/resources/live/1010_olivia_cruise2.pdf
--> If you would like to purchase raffle tickets or if you have any questions. Please contact Lara Morgan, Lesbian Health Fund Coordinator at 415-255-4547 or lmorgan@glma.org

20. LGB people more likely to experience violence, subsequent PTSD
A new study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health and Children's Hospital Boston finds that individuals who have ever had a same-sex sexual partner are one-and-a-half to two times as likely to experience violent events, especially in childhood, than the general population; and have twice the risk of experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a consequence of these events. Using data from a nationally representative sample of more than 34,000 adults, the researchers found that forty-five percent of LGB women and twenty-eight percent of LGB men had experienced violence or abuse in childhood, compared to twenty-one percent of women and twenty percent of men in the general population. This is the first study to directly link higher rates of PTSD in sexual minorities to greater violence exposure. The authors urge that health care providers and families be aware that sexual minorities face a greater risk of violence and PTSD and may have a history of trauma that should be addressed before it becomes mentally debilitating.
--> For more information, go to:http://ajph.aphapublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/AJPH.2009.168971v1.

21. LGB teens at higher risk for pregnancy than heterosexual peers
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality suggests that LGB teenagers are at significantly higher risk for pregnancy than their heterosexual teens. The study, conducted by the University of British Columbia, looked at adolescent surveys of about 70,000 British Columbia. public school students in grades seven through twelve in 1992, 1998, and 2003. In 1998, 7.3 percent of lesbian and 10.6 percent of bisexual female teens reported pregnancy, compared with 1.8 percent of heterosexual girls. In the same year, 9.6 percent of gay and 11.6 percent of bisexual male teens reported involvement with a pregnancy, compared with 1.5 percent of heterosexual boys. The report suggested that the stigma LGB teenagers face, and the coping strategies they may use, may be one of the reasons for higher pregnancy rates.
--> For the full story, go to:http://www.windsorstar.com/life/Pregnancy+risk+rises+teens+closet/1082568/story.html.

22. New report on HIV and Aging
According to a comprehensive report on HIV among older adults released by the Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC), nearly one-third of people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States are over the age of fifty. "Growing older with the epidemic: Aging and HIV" provides a striking overview of current knowledge on older adults and HIV. This population is growing at a startling rate, increasing by over 61% from 2001 to 2007. This groundbreaking report provides a roadmap to understand and address the needs of this burgeoning population of older Americans living with HIV/AIDS.
--> For the full report, go to:http://www.gmhc.org/files/editor/file/a_pa_aging10_emb2.pdf.

23. New website focuses on the future of sex education
Advocates for Youth, Answer, and the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) have announced the launch of the Future of Sex Ed (FoSE) website. The website seeks to help create a national dialogue about the future of sex education, and to promote the institutionalization of comprehensive sexuality education in public schools. Included on the website are: a FoSE fact sheet; an executive summary of FoSE's strategic framework; a tool kit for states and communities; a public education primer; and an education glossary.
--> For more information, go to http://www.futureofsexed.org/.

24. The 6th annual National Gay Men's Health Summit
The 6th annual National Gay Men's Health Summit will be held from August 25th to August 29th, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. This year's theme will be "Creating a Brighter Future: The Next Decade of Gay Men's Health," and will be held in conjunction with the 9th annual Southeast Regional Gay Men's Health Summit. The summit discussions will cover a broad spectrum of interests for men who have sex with men, with a key focus on strengths-based organizing, emerging issues, and other crucial topics.
--> For more information on submitting a proposal, or to register for the Summit, visit the 2010 National Gay Men's Health Summit website: http://www.gmhs2010.com/.

25. Job Opening: Program Assistant @ CDGLCC
The Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council (CDGLCC) seeks a full time Program Assistant beginning immediately. The successful outgoing candidate for this entry-level position will possess an Associates Degree and 2+ years professional, office experience. Strong administrative and office skills necessary, including excellent written and verbal communication, including phone, are a must. This position requires experience using personal computers, electronic office systems including e-mail, desktop publishing, and Microsoft Office, as well as web-based social networking sites like MySpace and Facebook. Availability on nights and weekends is necessary, as many community events take place outside of regular business hours. Friendly, a "can do" attitude and a sense of humor are essential. Familiarity with LGBT issues, as well as the greater Capital Region, are always a plus. Salary dependent on qualifications and experience, plus excellent benefits. E-mail letter of application, resume, and list of two professional references to Nora Yates, Executive Director, at nyates@cdglcc.org. Or snail mail them to: Nora Yates, Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council, PO Box 131, Albany, NY 12201.

AUGUST 2010

IN THIS ISSUE
[Click on the link to go to the story]

AALUSC Mourns Passing of Candice Boyce
NYS State Budget Impacts LGBT Health Network Funding
Pride Agenda hails historic decision striking down Prop. 8
ESPA Endorses Eric Schneiderman for Attorney General
Director of The Bridge Steps Down
National Coalition applauds appointment of Dr. Berwick to CMS
American Lung Association releases report on LGBT tobacco use
National Coalition Announces Fall Meeting and New Web Site
New SIECUS State Profiles highlight shifting momentum to more comprehensive sex ed
National Prevention, Health Promotion and Public Health Council issues first status report
HRC, GLMA issue Healthcare Equality Index 2010
Insurance coverage for part-time workers lags
New policies and training lead to culturally competent care for LGBT patients
SAGE to hold conference on the future of aging
Forum on improving health outcomes now open
Funding Opportunity: Partnerships Active in Communities to Achieve Health Equity (PAC)
San Diego Site of 28th Annual GLMA Conference!
AMA Journal of Ethics Devotes Its August 2010 Issue to LGBT Health Care
SAMHSA, HRSA Seek Grant Reviewers
Institutional Discrimination Is Bad for Mental Health
Transgender Patient Reports "Ridicule" at Indiana Hospital
U.S. Rep Says Lift the Ban on Gay Men Donating Blood
Federal Judge Blocks Arizona From Implementing State Law Eliminating Domestic Partner Benefits
Lawsuit Involving Gay Couple Separated by County Officials Settled

1. AALUSC Mourns Passing of Candice Boyce
The African Ancestral Lesbians United for Societal Change expressed their deep sadness on the passing of Candice Boyce, community activist, leader, warrior, icon and co-founder of Salsa Soul Sisters, Third World Wimmin Inc. aka African Ancestral Lesbians United for Societal Change, at 6:45pm on August 2, 2010 after a long illness. "Candice was the living embodiment of a Black lesbian consciousness that embraced everyone with compassion and love."

2. NYS State Budget Impacts LGBT Health Network Funding
Last week the NY Senate passed the revenue portion of the state budget, which was the last remaining element that was delaying the completion of the budget. This means that state agencies are now approved to execute contracts for the current fiscal year.
Jonathan Lang, Empire State Pride Agenda Director of Governmental Projects and Community Development expressed the frustration RAI and other members of the Network have felt over the past months. "This has obviously been a very frustrating process and I appreciate everyone's willingness to do whatever was needed to protect as much of our funding as possible. This budget is far from perfect; even though the LGBT community did better than most, this is little comfort to the many organizations that will be forced to make painful decisions due to lost funding. There may be opportunities to advocate for funding in the future, and the Pride Agenda will continue to provide our expertise in order to maximize our efforts."

3. Empire State Pride Agenda hails historic decision striking down Prop. 8
The following statement was issued by ESPA following the historic decision striking down California's Proposition 8: "We are emboldened by the recent victory on marriage equality in California and in the federal justice system. Proposition 8 was a cruel and unconstitutional attack on LGBT families, and we are very pleased that the court has understood the need for all loving, committed couples to have the protections they need to care for each other and their children."

4. ESPA Endorses Eric Schneiderman for Attorney General
The Pride Agenda recently announced its endorsement of Eric Schneiderman for Attorney General, saying "we know it takes more than passing laws to secure equality and justice for LGBT New Yorkers and our families. We need an attorney general we can rely on to make sure those laws are carried out and that statewide policies and standards are in place to protect the entire state, including LGBT people. Schneiderman is that candidate."
       During his tenure in the State Senate, Schneiderman has gone above and beyond voting for LGBT rights: advocating for us in his district, marshalling pro-LGBT votes from his colleagues and leading floor debates on marriage equality. He is exactly what we need in a statewide elected official.
       Eric Schneiderman voted to pass the Hate Crimes Bill and the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA). As a lead sponsor of the Dignity for All Students Act, which passed the Senate on June 22 with a bipartisan 58-3 vote, Schneiderman helped create legal protections for public school students from harassment and bullying, marking the first time that protections based on gender identity and expression would be included in state law. He is a cosponsor of the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA), which would ensure that all transgender New Yorkers are free from discrimination.
       From fighting for marriage equality to ending bullying in schools to cracking down on big pharmaceutical corporations that are cheating New Yorkers with HIV/AIDS, Schneiderman will be an attorney general who never backs down in the pursuit of justice. He has promised to vigorously enforce every statute that protects the rights of the LGBT community and be a steadfast ally every step of the way.
       Visit the ESPA web site to make a donation to the ESPA PAC or sign up to volunteer in this critical race.

5. Director of The Bridge Steps Down
Andrea Adams, Director of The Bridge, serving the North Country's LGBT community for more than four years announce last week that she is stepping down from her position. "After four plus years doing all I could possibly do to bring an LGBT community center to our area," Andrea explained, adding "I've decided to move on and turn the Bridge over to someone who cares as much as I did in attempting to get badly needed funding and establish a community center. Unfortunately...[our] state funding was recently lost...That 40K was going to open our community center." Andrea said she will offer full and complete training to whoever succeeds her. "Now that we have achieved our 501(c)(3) status, the Director needs only to keep a few programs current and planned, running them sometimes via volunteers, often hands-on, and continue to seek out other funding sources and reduce our reliance on state funds." Anyone interested in the position should contact Andrea to discuss the details [director@thebridgeglcc.org]

6. National Coalition applauds appointment of Dr. Berwick to CMS
The Coalition strongly supports President Obama s recess appointment of Donald Berwick to head the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). Dr. Berwick has long been a champion of patients rights, the development of community health care centers, and ensuring high quality of care. While there have been mixed responses to the mechanism used to fill this position, President Obama pointed out that many in Congress have decided to delay critical nominations for political purposes. These recess appointments will allow three extremely qualified candidates to get to work on behalf of the American people right away. The Coalition remains optimistic that Dr. Berwick will oversee robust reform implementation.

7. American Lung Association releases report on LGBT tobacco use
A new report titled Smoking Out a Deadly Threat: Tobacco Use in the LGBT Community found that smoking rates among the LGBT community appear to be double the national average. Contributing factors include high rates of stress and the role of bar culture as a social venue for the LGBT community, which has normalized tobacco use. Leaders of the American Lung Association stated that it is difficult to find additional data or to gain attention for this issue, as few national studies include a question asking the sexual orientation or gender identity of survey participants. Smoking is the number one cause of preventable death and disease in the United States, and any group that smokes at a higher rate is likely to suffer illness and death at a higher rate, as well.

8. National Coalition Announces Fall Meeting and New website
The fall meeting of the National Coalition for LGBT Health will be October 25-27 in Washington, DC and will focus on the impact of healthcare reform as well as opportunities to influence state and federal action on LGBT health. (The date coincides with the Coalition's 10th Anniversary.) The organization also announced their brand new website [www.lgbthealth.net] which is filled with a wealth of resources. Of special note are new fact sheets about Affordable Care Act implementation and a fact sheet about the Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plans (PCIPs), one of the largest and most immediate initiatives under the Affordable Care Act. PCIPs are designed to offer coverage for uninsured Americans who have been denied insurance because of past illness and are now open for enrollment in many states.

9. New SIECUS State Profiles highlight shifting momentum to more comprehensive sex ed
Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) recently released the 7th edition of its State Profiles: A Portrait of Sexuality Education and Abstinence-Only-Until-Marriage Programs in the States. The profiles, covering Federal Fiscal Year 2009, demonstrate a growing trend towards more comprehensive sexuality education, thanks in part to 190 million dollars in new funding from the federal government for evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention initiatives. While this is a positive trend, this shift is concurrent with the resurrection of the Title V abstinence-only-until-marriage program, which passed in the new healthcare bill.

10. National Prevention, Health Promotion and Public Health Council issues first status report
The National Prevention, Health Promotion and Public Health Council recently issued its first status report to Congress. The report begins the Council s process of creating a National Prevention and Health Promotion strategy, which will focus on community-based prevention. Chaired by Surgeon General Regina Benjamin and composed of senior government officials across many departments, the Council represents a new opportunity to put prevention at the forefront of the healthcare initiative and to coordinate government actions across the public and private sectors. The Coalition is working to make sure that the Council s work is inclusive of the needs of the LGBT community.

11. HRC, GLMA issue Healthcare Equality Index 2010
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) recently issued the 2010 edition of its Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). HEI reports the results of an annual survey on healthcare facility policies on issues of concern to the LGBT community, including patient non-discrimination and visitation policies, cultural competency training and employment benefits. Two of the important policies covered in this edition include President Obama s order for regulations prohibiting discrimination in hospital visitation based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and the required LGBT-inclusive patient-centered care hospital accreditation from the Joint Commission.

12. Insurance coverage for part-time workers lags
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, less than a third of employers that offer health insurance make it available to their part-time workers. While the healthcare reform bill promises that state-based exchanges will offer subsidized health plans and other forms of coverage for those who do not receive coverage through their work, these options will not be offered until 2014. In the interim three years, many part-time workers (particularly those with chronic diseases) may be at a loss for coverage options. Primary care services programs and employer-offered limited-benefit plans often cost more and offer less than insurance plans available to full-time employees. Community health centers offer an affordable alternative. However, while employers may be penalized for not covering full-time employees beginning in 2014, there will be no consequences for not covering those who work less than 30 hours per week.

13. New policies and training lead to culturally competent care for LGBT patients
The University of California at San Francisco Medical Center received two consecutive perfect scores in the 2008 and 2009 editions of the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), the only institution in the United States to do so. This is due to the Center s comprehensive inclusion strategies, which include altering registration forms, visitation policies, electronic systems, and verbal communication protocols to make them more inclusive. Ongoing cultural competency training and education makes the Center safe and welcoming for the LGBT community.

14. SAGE to hold conference on the future of aging
The Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders (SAGE) will host a conference in New York from November 11-13 titled The Future of Aging is in Our Hands: A National Conference and Expo for LGBT Older Adults. The conference will bring together hundreds of older LGBT adults and their allies to share wisdom, experience, and expertise in exploring solutions to challenging issues that shape the lives of the elder LGBT population. A detailed agenda and registration information will be available in August. To participate in planning the conference agenda through a quick survey, please click here.

15. Forum on improving health outcomes now open
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is soliciting ideas on how communities can use the County Health Rankings to mobilize action to improve health outcomes. To do so, the Foundation has launched on online forum for public health and community leaders across the country to post ideas on how communities can, using the Rankings as a catalyst, start, expand or renew efforts to address the many social, economic, environmental and behavioral factors that affect health. Visit the forum to share your ideas on what motivates communities to take action, how to engage and mobilize partners across all sectors, and what types of tools, training and assistance can help communities improve health outcomes.

16. Funding opportunity: Partnerships Active in Communities to Achieve Health Equity (PAC)
The Office of Minority Health through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is offering competitive grants to applicant organization that represent an integrated community-based network that includes a variety of healthcare, social, and support service entities. Between 8 and 10 awards will be given, ranging from $400,000 to $500,000. Grants must be applied towards improving the health of racial and ethnic minority populations through the development of programs and policies that address gaps and disparities. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. EST on August 2, 2010.

17. San Diego Site of 28th Annual GLMA Conference!
GLMA s 28th Annual Conference, the world s largest gathering of LGBT healthcare professionals, offers continuing medical education (CME) credits, continuing education units (CEUs) and the opportunity to network and socialize with LGBT healthcare professionals and allies from across the United States, Canada, and from other countries. The conference will be held in San Diego from Sept 22-25.

18. AMA Journal of Ethics Devotes Its August 2010 Issue to LGBT Health Care
In its current edition, posted on 8/2/10, Virtual Mentor American Medical Association Journal of Ethics addresses sexual orientation, gender Identity and patient care. The Virtual Mentor website explains: as this month s authors assert, physicians must develop greater comfort in discussing sexuality and greater competence in caring for members of LGBT communities. GLMA Secretary, Henry Ng, MD, and former GLMA President Kate O Hanlan, MD, were both contributors to this issue. To read the AMA Journal of Ethics August issue visit http://virtualmentor.ama-assn.org/

19. SAMHSA, HRSA Seek Grant Reviewers
As posted in a 7/27/10 email, the Gay & Lesbian Medical Association, in cooperation with the National Coalition for LGBT Health, is proud to partner with the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute s Presidential Appointments Project to find and assist potential LGBT and allied grant reviewers for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
This is an opportunity to not only ensure that LGBT and allied voices are at the decision-making tables, but also for you to gain valuable insight into the HHS grant-making process. We also hope that any GLMA members who have served as HHS grant reviewers in the past will share their experiences with us to improve our effectiveness.

20. Institutional Discrimination Is Bad for Mental Health
In a 7/30/10 Huffington Post blog, a UNC-Chapel Hill sociologist reports that institutional discrimination contributed to the worsening of mental health for gay, lesbian, and bisexual adults in states banning marriages of same-sex couples. Citing a March 2010 study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health, Philip N. Cohen concludes that mental health worsened more for the GLB folks in the amendment states than for their hetero neighbors, and more than for the GLB respondents in the non-amendment states. Read GLMA's report Same-Sex Marriage and Health, which documents the large body of scientific research indicating that the denial of marriage rights to gay men and lesbians can negatively impact their health and well-being and that of their children. For the entire Huffington Post blog content go to h ttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/philip-n-cohen/institutional-discriminat_b_664917.html

21. Transgender Patient Reports "Ridicule" at Indiana Hospital
In an 8/2/10 broadcast, FOX59 News in Indianapolis reported on the claims by a transgender patient that she was ridiculed and refused treatment by staff at Ball Memorial Hospital. Advocacy groups have filed complaints against the hospital saying that the patient, Erin Vaught, was inhumanely treated, dehumanized, and disrespected.
Earlier this year GLMA worked with several organizations to make the policies of Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami more inclusive of the needs of the LGBT community.

22. U.S. Rep Says Lift the Ban on Gay Men Donating Blood
In a July 26 opinion piece for U.S. News & World Report, U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) calls for lifting the ban that prevents gay and bisexual men from donating blood: "Rather than perpetuating a flawed practice based on outdated science, we need a policy that prevents people who engage in high-risk behavior from donating while permitting low-risk donors to do so."
For years, GLMA has been working to persuade the U.S. government and the public health community to oppose the FDA s ban on blood donation by men who have had sex with men since 1977. For the U.S. News & World Report opinion column go to http://politics.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2010/07/26/rep-mike-quigley-healthy-gay-men-should-not-be-banned-from-donating-blood.html

23. Federal Judge Blocks Arizona From Implementing State Law Eliminating Domestic Partner Benefits
As reported in The Arizona Republic on July 24, U. S. District Judge John Sedwick issued a preliminary injunction that prevents the State of Arizona from enforcing a law passed by the legislature in 2009 that would have prevented the domestic partners of lesbian and gay state employees from receiving health insurance benefits. Read GLMA's report Same-Sex Marriage and Health, which documents the large body of scientific research indicating that the denial of marriage rights to gay men and lesbians can negatively impact their health and well-being and that of their children. For The Arizona Republic article go to http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2010/07/24/20100724gaybenefits0724.html.

24. Lawsuit Involving Gay Couple Separated by County Officials Settled
A July 25 San Francisco Chronicle article reported that Clay Green, a 78-year-old openly gay man, will receive a $653,000 settlement from Sonoma County, CA. Greene said the county forced him and his longtime partner into separate nursing homes and kept them apart until the partner died. For the San Francisco Chronicle article go to http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/07/25/BARH1EJA0S.DTL&type=printable

SEPTEMBER_OCTOBER 2010

IN THIS ISSUE
[Click on the link to go to the story]

Save the Date!
Registration open for the National Coalition's Annual Meeting
National Coalition and others submit comments on hospital visitation rights
Lesbian Health Fund Now Accepting Research Grant Proposals
New Report on HIV/AIDS Crisis in the U.S.
UCSF Announces First National Summit on LGBT Medical Education Issues
New Leaf Health Center to Close after 35 Years
Meth Use Still a Significant Problem among Seattle's Young Gay Men
Health Data Collection Improvement Act Approved by Energy and Commerce Subcommittee
Wisconsin Department of Health Services Launches Website Dedicated to LGBT Health
September 23, 2010 marks the Six-Month Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act
SAGE releases 11 issue briefs on policy solutions
Workshop: Challenges Faced by LGBTQ Older Adults
WEBINAR: "Building A Culturally Competent LGBT Program"
Call for Presenters - TransEvent 2011 - The Empire Conference

1. Save the Date!
Mark your calendar for the second annual RAI benefit drag show! OCTOBER 17 AT 4PM. And note the location! This year's show will be at the 1010 VOGUE in SCHENECTADY (1010 State Street, next to the Dollar General store.) Among the stars performing this year are RAI's favorite "queens," Carmie Hope, Freida Munchon, Whiskey Sour, Amanda Love, and some very special guests. This is a private party, but this newsletter is your invitation. And feel free to bring guests. It's going to be a blast. 1010 Vogue is a new and special venue and Angela, our hostess, will be on hand to serve up your favorite beverage and regale you with stories of 'the old country.'

2. Registration open for the National Coalition's Annual Meeting
The National Coalition for LGBT Health Annual Meeting and Tenth Anniversary Celebration will be held in Washington, D.C. from October 25th to October 27th. The theme of the meeting is "Celebrating 10 Year of Progress: Advancing LGBT Health in the Next Decade." Speeches from Administration officials, an in-depth look at how healthcare reform impacts the LGBT community, and a special focus on developing and fostering state and regional advocacy coalitions will be featured. On the evening of Monday, October 25th, there will be a reception, honoring this year's recipients of the coalition's awards recognizing individual and community achievement in advancing LGBT Health. The meeting culminates in the annual lobby day, where participants will have the opportunity to visit Congressional offices and federal agencies to advocate for LGBT-focused health policy initiatives.

3. National Coalition and others submit comments on hospital visitation rights
In a strong, coordinated effort with multiple partner organizations, the National Coalition for LGBT Health recently submitted comments regarding the proposed rule on hospital visitation rights. In addition, the New Beginning Initiative (a collaboration of national LGBT organizations), and the National Women's Law Center in coordination with Health Care for America Now! also submitted comments. The Gay and Lesbian Medical submitted a separate letter of comments.

- Click here to see the Coalition comments.

- Click here to see the New Beginning Initiative (NBI) comments

4. Lesbian Health Fund Now Accepting Research Grant Proposals
The Lesbian Health Fund (LHF) is now accepting proposals for research on lesbian health. Proposals for the fall grant cycle are due on October 15, 2010. LHF, a program of GLMA, is especially interested in applications that address the diversity of sexual minority women's communities and studies of health promotion and health improvement in lesbian and bisexual women, as well as studies that are potentially publishable and which are conducted as first steps toward larger grants. Grants range from $500 to $10,000. Proposals for fall grant cycle are due on October 15th. Since its founding, LHF has provided over $640,000 in grants to study lesbian health issues. For information on how to apply, please visit the LHF web site.

5. New Report on HIV/AIDS Crisis in the U.S.
Gay Men Health Crisis recently published Gay Men and HIV: An Urgent Priorirty, a report that delves into the causes for the virus' disproportionate effect on American gay and bisexual men and men who have sex with men (MSM). The report states that this current examination of the epidemic comes at a key time for the study of HIV/AIDS as surprising new information released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that diagnoses of the virus increased a dramatic 17% among MSM in the years from 2005 to 2008. For more information about this report visit the Gay Mens Health Crisis web site.

6. UCSF Announces First National Summit on LGBT Medical Education Issues
All medical school faculty and administrators interested in LGBT climate and curriculum concerns are invited to attend this ground-breaking event, regardless of their level of experience with LGBT topics in academic medicine. The Summit is designed as a day-plus of intensive, interactive information-sharing, inspiration, and networking around these emerging topics. Participants will receive the resources they need to enhance LGBT equity and inclusion at their home campuses.

7. New Leaf Health Center to Close after 35 Years
The San Francisco Chronicle's SFGate.com reported on 8/25/10 that New Leaf, which primarily served the LGBT community in providing assistance with mental health and substance abuse issues as well as HIV/AIDS services, will close its doors on October 15th. City officials have determined that they no longer have funds to support the community-based organization. For information go to the SFC's web site.

8. Meth Use Still a Significant Problem among Seattle's Young Gay Men
The Seattle Times on 8/25/2010 reported that, in any given year, crystal meth is used by 1 out of 10 gay or bisexual men in King County, the largest county in Washington state. Local health-care and counseling groups are attempting to connect with gay meth users, in hopes of preventing use of the drug. Read GLMA's report "Breaking the Grip: Treating Crystal Methamphetamine Addiction among Gay & Bisexual Men"

9. Health Data Collection Improvement Act Approved by Energy and Commerce Subcommittee
On Friday, September 20th, the Health Data Collection Improvement Act (H.R. 6109) was approved by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health. The bill, authored by Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-2nd WI) with the support of the Coalition, aims to address the lack of available data on the health status of LGBT people through data collection done by the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Several amendments offered during the session, which would have severely undermined the purpose of the bill, were rejected. Though the future of the bill remains uncertain, the Coalition looks forward to continuing to work with Congresswoman Baldwin as well as the bill's co-sponsors, Representatives Donna Christensen (D-VI), the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Brain Trust, and Representative Frank Pallone (D-6th NJ), on legislative progress around LGBT health and data collection priorities..

10. Wisconsin Department of Health Services Launches Website Dedicated to LGBT Health
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recently launched a website dedicated to increasing knowledge about LGBT health disparities and concerns. The website includes resources about many significant health issues that affect the LGBT community, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, mental health, sexual health, tobacco, and violence/safety. The work of the Wisconsin DHS is much appreciated for its attention to LGBT health concerns and its dedication to creating and distributing resources for the LGBT community. To review the site, please click here.

11. September 23, 2010 marks the Six-Month Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act
On September 23, 2010, the six-month anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), several new benefits will take effect. These benefits include expanding access to preventive care, a new Patient's Bill of Rights, and a prohibition on the widespread insurance industry practice of canceling coverage for sick people in the absence of fraud. In conjunction with the six-month anniversary of the passage of the ACA, the Kaiser Family Foundation has launched their new healthcare reform site, the Health Reform Source. The site includes explanations of the basics of the ACA; in-depth analysis of policy issues in implementation; and quick and easy access to relevant data, studies, and developments. The Coalition is encouraged by the quantity of relevant information and high-quality resources that are being made available to healthcare consumers, and we encourage LGBT health advocates to check out the resources available on websites such as Healthcare.Gov , the website for the National Coalition for LGBT Health, and the Kaiser Family Foundation's Health Reform Source.

12. SAGE releases 11 issue briefs on policy solutions
Earlier this year, Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, & Transgender Elders (SAGE) and the Movement Advancement Project (MAP) released " Improving the Lives of LGBT Older Adults" in partnership with the Center for American Progress (CAP), the American Society on Aging, and the National Senior Citizens Law Center. The report provides an overview of LGBT elders' unique needs and the policy and regulatory changes that are needed to adequately address them. To follow up on that work, SAGE, MAP, and CAP have developed 11 policy briefs that provide more information on the issues raised in the report.

Falling Through the Safety Net: How policy and social barriers gradually tear away at the safety net for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, or LGBT, older adults.

Social Security: On the lack of equal Social Security benefits for LGBT older adults

Medicaid: How the qualification rules which include "spousal impoverishment protections" do not apply to same-sex couples

Pension Plans: LGBT older adults are denied the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a surviving partner will receive an adequate living income upon the death of the pension holder.

Tax-Qualified Retirement Plans: The inequity of tax-qualified retirement plans

Estate Tax and Inheritance Laws: On the inequitable tax treatment of same-sex couples which can mean paying 45 percent in taxes on an inheritance that a surviving heterosexual spouse would inherit tax free.

Legal Barriers to Taking Care of Loved Ones: Laws that stand in the way of LGBT people taking care of those they love, in life and in death.

Exclusion from Aging Programs and Services: Few aging service providers plan for, or conduct outreach to, the LGBT community and few address acts of discrimination aimed at LGBT elders by staff or other older people.

Inhospitable Health Care Environments: LGBT older adults are less likely to be able to rely on family members for caregiving and often face hostile or unwelcoming health care providers and staff members unfamiliar with their needs

Health Disparities: Disparities in access to health care, HIV/AIDS, mental health, and chronic physical conditions are generally unaddressed by governments or health care providers.

Rethinking Aging Laws for Today's Older Adults: Ways to adapt laws and safety nets to help protect all of today's older adults.

For more information and copies of these briefs, contact Glen Francis at SAGE.

13. Workshop: Challenges Faced by LGBTQ Older Adults
Experts estimate that between 1.75 and 4 million Americans ages 60 and over are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). Existing research suggests that older LGBT adults are satisfied with their lives but many face discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender expression as well as age. On Friday, October 15, 2010 - 9:30 am to 11:30 am the Hudson Valley LGBTQ Community center will conduct a workshop at the Holiday Inn, Kingston, NY, exploring the many challenges LGBTQ older adults face, and will suggest steps for providing culturally competent care to make home, hospital, and facility- based programs welcoming and supportive of LGBTQ people.

Presenter Somjen Fraser, the Director of Research & Evaluation for SAGE (Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Elders, holds a master's in sociology from Oxford University and has numerous awards to her credit. As an activist researcher, she works to connect social science to social change and is particularly interested in community-based projects. She will be joined by Center staff, who will provide tools and resources for providing culturally competent care to LGBTQ older adults. RSVP by October 12 to programs@LGBTQcenter.org or call 845.331.5300 to reserve your place.

14.WEBINAR: "Building A Culturally Competent LGBT Program"
A review of the LGBT Affirmative Program of South Beach Psychiatric Center

Date: Thursday, October 21, 2010 Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM EDT

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

System Requirements:

PC-based attendees: Windows(R) 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server

MMacintosh(R)-based attendees: Mac OS(R) X 10.4.11 (Tiger(R)) or newer

15. Call for Presenters - TransEvent 2011 - The Empire Conference
TransEventsUSA is accepting proposals for presentations and workshops for the 2011 Empire Conference, which will be serving the Transgender community in all its diversity. The event takes place May 4 through 7 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in historic downtown Albany, New York. The featured theme is "Sex, Gender and Politics."

Organizers are especially looking for programs that examine ways of changing the perception of Transgender through Education, Advocacy and Lobbying. Almost any topic that addresses the concerns of Transsexuals, Crossdressers, Elderly Trans people, Trans Youth, Partners of Trans people, Trans Couples, and Children of Trans People will be welcome.

Another important need is for sessions focused on Trans people in relationships - for those attending either with or without their partners. And once again significant participation is expected from the Female-to-Male community, so their issues and concerns need to be addressed. (There will be a full program track for FtMs.)

Finally, proposals that give a new slant on creating more unity in the Transgender Community - in both the political and social realms -- are sought.

The deadline for submitting proposals is November 15, 2010 deadline. You may use the online Program Proposal Form on the event web site. Include a brief biography, a brief program description, any A/V needs, as well as contact information. If you are planning a panel presentation, the organizers will need can get in touch with you about getting biographies and contact information for your panelists. A complimentary conference day is provided to each presenter or panel moderator. If you have questions regarding your proposal, contact Alison Laing, Program Chair, or write to Alison at P.O. Box 473, Portsmouth, RI 02871-0475. For more information regarding the conference e-mail Dr. S. Kristine James or phone her at 610-759-1761. You may also write to the Conference Management Team, c/o TransEvents USA, P.O. Box 61, Easton, PA, 18044-0061
[Information in this report is compiled from the Gay and Lesbian
Medical Association's LGBT Health Digest, the National Coalition
for LGBT Health's Updates and other LGBT health resources.]

This page was updated on January 31, 2011

Rainbow Access Initiative is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational and charitable organization created to address the educational needs of medical and social service professionals regarding the genuine heath and human service issues of the LGBT communities. We have two primary goals: the training of health and human service professionals regarding LGBT people, and the empowerment of health care consumers who are LGBT. We are particularly sensitive to the needs of the underserved members within the LGBT community and those with less access to quality health care. This includes people of color, those who are poor, those living in rural areas, families and youth, and those who are elderly or living with chronic or terminal health conditions.