 New York Reminds Us that Victory is Inevitable
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I was lucky enough to be in New York City on Friday, June 24 when the state legislature voted to legalize same-sex marriage. This historic victory will undoubtedly boost the struggle for marriage equality because of the size of New York's population and the state's tremendous influence as a political and cultural pace-setter world-wide. Two years ago an earlier effort under a Democratically-controlled state legislature failed -- making this victory in a Republican-controlled state senate all the more remarkable. Special credit is owed Governor Andrew Cuomo who was instrumental in delivering this win.
The entire weekend the city exploded in a celebration of love and liberation. Walking around the streets of Manhattan, one could hear pedestrians shouting into their cell phones, "Did you hear?" and "Where were you when the news broke about the vote?" The timing couldn't have been more perfect. That Sunday was New York's annual Pride parade which was led by a royal wedding carriage. Many marchers came dressed in tuxedos or wedding gowns and there was a sea of? signs, ranging from "Promise Kept," to "Thank you Governor Cuomo," to my personal favorite, "The Next March is Down the Aisle." That night, there was a spectacular fireworks show accompanied by the 60s hit, "Chapel of Love."
On July 24, New York began issuing marriage licenses and officially kicked off their Summer of Love. It has been estimated that during the next three years the State of New York will issue marriage licenses to more than 21,000 resident same-sex couples and to 45,000 couples from other states. During this period the state will earn nearly $400 million from gay and lesbian couples getting married, including tourism, weddings, sales-tax revenue and wedding license fees.
The example of New York is a reminder that we are on the winning side of history. It is only a matter of time before we will again taste the sweetness of victory in California. With your continued support, together we can win and we will win.
Sincerely,
Marshall Wong, Co-Chair
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08/13/2011
API Equality-LA Volunteer Orientation
Join API Equality-LA for an afternoon to have fun, network with passionate activists, and find out about our amazing volunteer opportunities. Once again, California's LGBTQ community is under attack. Now is the time for us to come together to learn about the challenges we face and take action for LGBTQ equality. EVERYONE is welcomed!
Volunteering with API Equality-LA offers opportunities to:
- Work with seasoned activists in the API community
- Stay informed about LGBTQ community issues
- Be a part of a great community.
Lunch and snacks will be served, please RSVP with Tran Le at tran.le.762@gmail.com or 818.292.6922
When: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Saturday, August 13, 2011 Where: Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC) | 1145 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017 [Map] Questions/RSVP: Tran Le | tran.le.762@gmail.com | (818) 292 - 6922 |
08/14/2011
Nisei Grand Parade Week
Nisei Week is an annual festival celebrating Japanese American (JA) culture and history in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. Join API Equality-LA for the parade where we will be doing outreaching to the JA community to increase support for marriage equality!
Kizuna
244 S. San Pedro Street, Suite 306
Los Angeles, California 90012
(located in the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center building in Little Tokyo)
When: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Sunday, August 14th, 2011 Where: Meet at Kizuna Office | 244 S. San Pedro St Suite 306, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Questions/RSVP: Tran Le, tran.le.762@gmail.com, (818)292-6922 |
09/17/2011
Crossroads: The Intersection between LGBT and API Civil Rights
On September 17, community leaders and activists will join API Equality LA for an event called, "Crossroads: The Intersection of API and LGBT Civil Rights." After a successful event in 2009, we are re-convening to continue exploring important issues that impact our communities. This year's event will include discussions of immigration reform, bullying in schools, and marriage equality. We will feature dynamic speakers and give attendees the opportunity to network and workshop plans for strengthening our coalitions and finding common ground.
When: September 17, 2011; 12PM - 5PM Where: Community Room of Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC) | 1145 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017 [Map] Questions/RSVP: Brian Nguyen | contact@apiequalityla.org |
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08/09/2011
General Coalition Meeting
Join us for our general coalition meeting! This is a great opportunity to learn about our upcoming work as well as meet other members. As a light dinner will be provided, PLEASE RSVP!
When: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM | Tuesday, July 14th, 2011 Where: Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC) | 1145 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017 [Map] Questions/RSVP: Brian Nguyen | contact@apiequalityla.org |
08/22/2011
Fundraising Committee Meeting
Join us! We organize fundraising events (e.g., house parties, Bingo nights, restaurant mixers, etc). A light dinner will be provided, so PLEASE RSVP!
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM | Monday, June 20, 2011
Where: Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC) | 1145 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017 [Map] Questions/RSVP: Yvonne Teruya & Steven Truong | contact@apiequalityla.org
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08/24/2011
Faith Committee Meeting
Join us! We will discuss our work to engage API Christian and Buddhist congregations. A light dinner will be provided, so PLEASE RSVP!
When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Wednesday, June 22, 2011 Where: Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC) | 1145 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017 [Map] Questions/RSVP: Alex H. Fukui & Ezra Evangelista | contact@apiequalityla.org |
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Upcoming Community Events
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08/01/2011
Marriage Equality and Domestic Partnerships. Planning For A Secure Future
What is the difference between gay marriage and domestic partnerships? How do laws regarding these two legal standings differ? Have you been with your partner for a number of years? Do you own property together? What would happen to your partner should something happen to you? What laws affect gay and lesbian couples? What sort of investment strategies best suit YOUR situation?
LGBT couples face challenges that require a unique understanding of those relationships, backed by the right experience and resources. This FREE informational seminar will provide helpful guidance for you and your partner as you plan for a secure future together. There will be FREE hors-d'oeuvres and a cash bar.
When: Monday, August 1, 2011, 7 - 9PM
Where: El Portal Restaurant, 695 East Green Street,
Pasadena, CA 91101
Contact: Robert H Chang, Roger.H.Chang@morganstanleysmithbarney.com
For more information, click here.
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08/18/2011
"Stand Up for Justice" to Screen at Self Help Graphics
Self Help Graphics, a Chicano arts organization along with Nikkei for Civil Rights & Redress (NCRR) and Visual Communications will be screening the film, "Stand Up for Justice" at Self Help Graphics on August 18th at 7:30. This 30-minute film is based on the true story of a 16-year-old, Mexican-Irish American high school student from Belmont High School who joined his Japanese American friends at Manzanar during World War II. Ralph Lazo voluntarily lived at Manzanar as the only non-Japanese (non-spouse), was drafted from the camp, and in later years continued to support his Japanese American friends in the fight for redress and reparations.
The film premiered in 2004 and has been shown at film festivals in Hawaii, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego and won the Special Jury Award at the WorldFest in Houston, Texas. It has been part of the Day of Remembrance programs on difference college campuses and in various communities. Los Angeles Times film critic Kevin Thomas commented, "Stand Up for Justice is a heart-wrenching 30-minute drama that deserves to become a feature-length film."
After the film, members of the community will answer questions and share plans for future screenings and teacher workshops. Attendees may also purchase the DVD. The audience is invited to stay for refreshments. Contact NCRR or Self Help Graphics for more information.
When: Wednesday, August 18th at 7:30PM Where: 1300 East 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA
Contact: NCRR, (213) 284-0336 or Self Help Graphics, (323) 881-6444 |
08/2011
Support TV Series featuring people of color and LGBT Youth
Jorge Ortiz is putting together a pilot for his new groundbreaking, scripted TV show that will be an important step forward not only for the LGBT community as a whole, but for the LGBT youth community in particular. The show features Latin characters in leading roles, as well as a series regular on my show who is an 18 year old Korean kid. He is the best friend of the lead character. Ortiz's series goes beyond mere entertainment to include an awareness outreach campaign aimed at LGBT youth by providing them with positive role models and organization information after every episode. Starting with the pilot episode, and screening it at high schools and colleges through their LGBT organizations, websites will be posted at the end of the episode so that LGBT youth can find help and answers.
Ortiz is currently in the process of shooting a 22 page pilot and has launched an Indiegogo campaign to help raise funds to cover certain production costs. Please support his groundbreaking endeavours in any way possible.
Link: http://www.indiegogo.com/christinaseries
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09/06/2011
Los Angeles Sparks Community Spotlight Featuring Latino Equality Alliance
 Please support the first ever Community Spotlight for an LGBTQ Organization at the Sparks Game versus the San Antonio Stars! Latino Equality Alliance (LEA) is a network of organizations and individuals working to serve the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) and Latina/o community through activism and public education. Its mission is to promote liberty, equality, and justice for the Latina/o community by effecting cultural change. Your ticket purchase strengthens the Latino Equality Alliance!
Please fill out the form and fax it to the address below; click on the photo to enlarge.
When: Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Where: Staples Center | 1111 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90015
Tickets: Fill out the form and fax your form to (213) 929.1325 or send to 865 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90017
Contact: Aminah Mills, (213) 929.1325, amills@la-sparks.com
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10/27 - 10-28
Advancing Justice Conference
 The Advancing Justice Conference is an annual national civil rights and social justice conference, expected to draw several hundred individuals from across the country. The conference aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders in one place to address a broad range of issues facing the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. It serves as a unique forum where researchers, advocates, direct service providers and other leaders can meet face-to-face, talk about their common challenges and find ways to work collaboratively.
Taking place over two days, the conference covers a variety of issues including: immigration reform and enforcement, immigrant integration, human rights, civil rights and national security, health care, Census 2010, redistricting, low-wage workers, hate crimes, and LGBT rights. It also includes presentations on corporate and foundation fundraising, new media, community organizing, board and commission participation, capacity building, and intergroup collaboration.
When: Tuesday, October 27th - 28th
Where: 1625 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
For more information, visit the website or the facebook page.
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07/2011 - 12/2011
Los Angeles Trans Leadership Academy
The Los Angeles Trans Leadership Academy is the premier training ground for trans* community members in LA. Workshops will occur one weekend a month from July-December of 2011, with lots of opportunities to put your new skills to work in between!
Gender Justice LA wants trans leadership to be at the center of Social Justice Movements, and to build the power of trans people. Trans leaders from around the country will be investing in YOU as a mover and a shaker! Learn how to build powerful relationships with other trans* people, how to talk to strangers about trans* issues, and how to change the world for the better!
Website: LATransLeadership.org
When: Friday, July 29, 2011 - Sunday, July 31, 2011
Where: 6815 W Willoughby, Suite 203, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Questions: Ashley@GenderJusticeLA.org ; (323) 960 - 9279
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Internship / Employment Opportunities
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| Director of Development
Visual Communications
Summary:
The Director of Development position is responsible for Visual Communications fundraising efforts as a mid-size, full service media arts organization focused on serving Asian Pacific media arts and artists. S/he plans, directs and implements a comprehensive development program that generates individual donors, foundation, government and corporate support.
The job includes fund development, information management, marketing, research, grant writing and reporting. S/he will develop VC's major donor plan in line with the Strategic Planning goals for the organization. S/he will also work closely with Program Staff in implementing fundraising and evaluation activities for our regular programs and will be a part of the core team during our annual L.A. Asian Pacific Film Festival. The Development Director reports directly to the Executive Director.
Title: Director of Development
Salary: commensurate with experience
Hours: full time, 40 hours
To Apply: Email resume and cover letter to: Shinae Yoon, Executive Director, Visual Communications, Shinae@vconline.org
Deadline: Please apply by August 26th, 2011
For more information, please click here. |
| Director of Development
Visual Communications
Summary:
The Director of Development position is responsible for Visual Communications fundraising efforts as a mid-size, full service media arts organization focused on serving Asian Pacific media arts and artists. S/he plans, directs and implements a comprehensive development program that generates individual donors, foundation, government and corporate support.
The job includes fund development, information management, marketing, research, grant writing and reporting. S/he will develop VC's major donor plan in line with the Strategic Planning goals for the organization. S/he will also work closely with Program Staff in implementing fundraising and evaluation activities for our regular programs and will be a part of the core team during our annual L.A. Asian Pacific Film Festival. The Development Director reports directly to the Executive Director.
Title: Director of Development
Salary: commensurate with experience
Hours: full time, 40 hours
To Apply: Email resume and cover letter to: Shinae Yoon, Executive Director, Visual Communications, Shinae@vconline.org
Deadline: Please apply by August 26th, 2011
For more information, please click here. |
| Parent Leadership Coordinator
Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC)
Project Description:
The Parent Leadership Program (PLP) emphasizes developing the leadership skills of parents who want to better support their children in the areas of educational equity, health/wellness and environmental justice. The PLP concentrates on two focal communities in urban Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, and encourages parents to become advocates on behalf of all children.
Position Summary:
The Asian Pacific American Legal Center seeks an experienced Leadership Coordinator for its Parent Leadership Development Programs. The Coordinator should be a dynamic, creative and self-motivated individual with training and facilitation experience on a range of issues faced by immigrants and low income families of color. The ideal candidate will have experience in issues of education, health, environmental justice and leadership skills development. Under the supervision of the Youth and Parent Leadership Director, the Coordinator will have the primary responsibility for planning and implementing the PLP which serve families at the public high school level.
Title: Parent Leadership Coordinator Location: 1145 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Salary: $38,500 plus biligual supplement Questions/Application Submission: Please contact Patrica Buske, pbuske@apalc.org For more information, please click here. |
| Executive Director
The Pride Foundation (Seattle, WA)
Pride Foundation is a community foundation that brings people, ideas and resources together to strengthen community and ignite change that advances LGBTQ equality in the US Northwest and beyond.
Position Summary
The Executive Director of Pride Foundation will hold a deep personal belief in the mission, values, and vision of the organization and will effectively communicate the unique role and impact of Pride Foundation as a community leader in the movement for full equality.
The Executive Director is responsible for leading and working collaboratively with Pride Foundation's talented staff and Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for setting a standard of excellence for the organization, both internally and externally in the community at large, and for growing the impact and influence of the foundation throughout the five-state region it serves and nationally.
The Executive Director's top priority is building relationships with prospective and existing donors, volunteers, scholars, grantees, nonprofit organizations, advisors, community leaders and politicians throughout the region. The Executive Director will play a critical role in managing change and facilitating the growth of the organization. The Executive Director manages the overall operations of the organization in accordance with the goals, policies and strategic direction approved by the Board of Directors and is responsible for the overall financial health of the organization.
Title: Exective Director
Location: 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1400
Salary: A competitive salary and benefit package commensurate with similar positions in the regional nonprofit community.
Reports to: Board of Directors
Questions/Application Submission: Please contact LuAnn Carlson, lcarlson@csdseattle.com
For more information, please click here.
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| External Affairs Coordinator
Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles
Job Summary
The Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County (CCALAC) is a membership organization dedicated to the promotion of free and community clinics as providers of quality comprehensive health care for the medically underserved people of LA County. CCALAC seeks an External Affairs Coordinator who will be responsible for various public affairs activities related to policy and advocacy. This includes assistance with media engagement, event planning, and publications for distribution. The position will also assist with advocacy efforts including the implementation of CCALAC's policy and advocacy plan.
Title: External Affairs Coordinator
Location: 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1400
Questions/Application Submission: Please email chundley@ccalac.org.
For more information, please click here.
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| External Healthcare Policy Analyst
Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles
Job Summary
The Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County (CCALAC) is a membership organization dedicated to the promotion of free and community clinics as providers of quality comprehensive health care for the medically underserved people of LA County. CCALAC seeks a policy analyst who will play a key role in helping the CCALAC and its Government & External Affairs team research, develop and drive a policy agenda to improve the position of community clinics on local/state/federal levels. The candidate will communicate with elected officials, county and state agencies, association members and the general public.
Title: External Affairs Coordinator
Location: 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1400
Questions/Application Submission: Please email chundley@ccalac.org.
For more information, please click here.
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| Database and Volunteer Manager
Equality California (EQCA) is currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Database and Volunteer Manager
Job Summary
The Database and Volunteer Manager reports to the Director of Finance and Administration and has the primary responsibility for maintaining the accuracy of our volunteer and donor database as well as managing our volunteer intern program. Database duties include producing regular, daily, weekly and monthly reports of donors and income, producing periodic specialized reports for use by other departments within the organization, and monitoring pledge collections. In addition, EQCA maintains an ongoing volunteer internship program for which this position will be responsible which includes recruitment and training of volunteers, creating and customizing internship plans, evaluating and supervising interns. Position will also be required to attend periodic community and fundraising events.
Equality California (EQCA) is the largest statewide lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights advocacy organization in California. Over the past decade, Equality California has strategically moved California from a state with extremely limited legal protections for LGBT individuals to a state with some of the most comprehensive civil rights protections in the nation. Equality California has passed over 60 pieces of legislation and continues to advance equality through legislative advocacy, electoral work, public education and community empowerment.
Qualified candidates must possess:
¡ Excellent computer skills including facility with MS Office, particularly MS Word and Excel.
¡ At least 1 year experience with database management is required, experience with Blackbaud Sphere highly desirable.
¡ Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact diplomatically with diverse groups, including high level donors and volunteers.
¡ A strong attention to detail and be prepared to demonstrate this skill through past experience.
¡ The ability to work independently, and as part of a team, setting and coordinating priorities with other departments that often have competing priorities.
¡ Excellent problem solving skills and the ability to handle adversity in a calm, flexible, and gracious manner.
Title: Database and Volunteer Manager
Reports to: Director of Finance Administration
Location: Equality California Office - West Hollywood
Status: Full benefits include paid vacation and sick time, health, dental, vision, short and long term disability and a retirement plan among others.
Salary: Compensation is commensurate with experience.
Questions/Application Submission: Please send your resume, cover letter and salary requirements to steve@eqca.org
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Note: If you would like API Equality-LA to include an upcoming event or employment opportunity on our next newsletter, please email contact@apiequalityla.org by the 24th of the month. |
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About API Equality-LA
MISSION API Equality-LA advocates in the Greater Los Angeles API Community for the fair treatment of LGBT people and marriage equality.
VISION To create a society that celebrates the loves and lives of all people--free from discrimination and injustice. |
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Donate to API Equality-LA!
Help support and continue our work by donating to API Equality-LA! API Equality-LA is a fiscal project of the Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.
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Contact
API Equality - LA
1145 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 107
Los Angeles, CA 90017-1900
Phone: (213) 290-5535
Fax: (213) 977-7595
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