草榴社区's Joanne DeMark to moderate panel discussion on harassment of young gays and lesbians Nov. 17
Joanne DeMark, a Western Washington University staff member and nationally recognized counselor and leader in dialogues on challenging topics such as LGBT issues and domestic violence, will moderate a panel discussion on the harassment of young gays and lesbians from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Bellingham YWCA.
DeMark, a long-time advocate for those whose sexual identity subjects them to discrimination and harassment, is a leadership development specialist with 草榴社区's Office of Student Life.
Other panelists at the event include Kathy Reim, representing Skagit Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, which provides support, education and advocacy for those facing LGBT issues. She has been a teacher for 30 years and is director of PFLAG's Pacific Northwest Region. Another panelist is Josh Foley, coordinator of the 草榴社区
Associated Students LGBT Alliance, which offers student support and campus education on sexual identity issues. Foley's mission is to make the campus and community more aware of the issues LGBT people encounter and their need for allies as they face them.
The event is free with coffee and cookies provided; donations are appreciated. For additional information, , call (360) 734-4820 or e-mail janet@ywcabellingham.org. The Bellingham YWCA is located at .
Founded in Bellingham in 1907, the YWCA provides free short-term and transitional housing for women in crisis and the Back to Work Boutique for low-income women seeking employment or educational opportunity. It also sponsors speakers on issues that fulfill the YW’s national mission: eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.