gay activism organizations

electricity's picture

Is anyone aware of anything relative to gay rights activism programs? Either groups entirely dedicated to it, or groups that sponsor it?

I think that gay rights is something I'm passionate about and that maybe being an activist on this issue would be wonderful. The only question is, how do I get there?

jeff's picture

hmm...

If you don't know the group names, I'd say that's a good indication you maybe shouldn't work there.

There are local gay youth groups and gay community centers in most urban areas. National groups are like HRC, SMYAL, NGLTF (hippies), GLSEN, LLDEF, and GLAAD. Those are the big ones.

In most cases, you're better off getting a good degree, and using your skills at a group. If you go right into social work/activism, etc., the pay usually stinks.

---

"Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there." -- Josh Billings.

Add me on MySpace!

electricity's picture

Hey, it's not my fault I'm

Hey, it's not my fault I'm not in the know of these organizations. Hence, this post, to get in the know. And I've heard of GLSEN and GLAAD, just wasn't sure exactly what they did. So thanks for the list.

I plan on getting a degree, etc. Gotta have a back up plan, right? But I might be interested in activism some day.

Leisa's picture

Jeff makes a good point...

HOWEVER, these groups are also always looking for volunteers. Also, since you're in the area, some other groups for you to consider are The LA Gay and Lesbian Center (which is actually the largest LGBTQ organization in the country according to budget) Aids Project Los Angeles, OutFest, LifeWorks (of course!) Project 10 (LAUSD affiliated.) Personally, I'm not so hot on HRC or the Nat'l Gay and Lesbian Task Force (the hippies Jeff recommended.)

jeff's picture

Err...

Listed, not recommended.

---

"Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there." -- Josh Billings.

Add me on MySpace!

electricity's picture

Volunteering would be

Volunteering would be awesome. Thank you for considering the local groups and your suggestions =] much appreciated.

santacruz322's picture

Ok Jeff, I have to call you

Ok Jeff, I have to call you on this one... yeah, social work/non-profit work doesn't pay well, but you can make a living (even in CA!) and be happy doing it. :) And be good at it! So electricity, I would take that comment with a grain of salt! I work in gay activism with youth and I LOVE IT. I think the best feedback you got here was to volunteer. That's a great way to see if you like a certain job or organization. Everyone has different likes, personalities, etc. I moved here from NY and the slow pace was killing me! But I've gotten used to it. And I have sped up some of my co-workers! :) Are you in college? Is there a queer group or org there on campus?

Anyway, one site that will help you find local queer organizations in your area is Centerlink... http://www.lgbtcenters.org/directory.asp

You can type in your area and find out more. Good luck! I'm happy to answer any questions you might have too.
Eileen

Project Outlet
711 Church Street
Mountain View, CA 94041
650-965-2020 x22
www.projectoutlet.org
outlet@chacmv.org

electricity's picture

Hey you're the best advice

Hey you're the best advice yet! Thank you for being so helpful.
Volunteering is more of what I meant, not really building a paying career around it. I am not in college [yet! I graduate soon] and so I'll have to find out if there's an active GSA around the campus I'll be at. Just being active is something would be great.

Thanks again, I appreciate it =]]

jeff's picture

heh...

I didn't say you couldn't make a living, just that the pay stinks. :-)

---

"Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there." -- Josh Billings.

Add me on MySpace!

santacruz322's picture

Glad to be helpful!! Good

Glad to be helpful!! Good luck with everything!

Project Outlet
711 Church Street
Mountain View, CA 94041
650-965-2020 x22
www.projectoutlet.org
outlet@chacmv.org