BLeGIT Member Section Meeting August 12, 2015, 7:30am-9am Ander Bolduc Moves: Our Member Section BLeGIT – “Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Intersexed, Transgender” should change the name to “Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Intersexed, and Trans*”, with the “star/asterisk” being used to represent the entire spectrum of “Trans” people. Paul Glaser (WA) seconds. Motion 15-0812.01 - Passes unanimously.
Richard Laurion (MN) asks: What is our current Mission/Goals? Where are they posted? Daryl Crouse (CA) – We should keep in mind that a “*” to many may indicate “look for footnotes”. This could be confusing to some. Please clarify how this will be used. Amanda David (FL) – The Mission and Goals, etc. can be addressed and reported by the newly elected Council. Jason (Canada) – Should we consider changing our name completely? The entire community is changing, as well as the way in which they name themselves. Daryl Crouse – Winner of a $25 Amazon Gift Card Amanda David (FL) – Introduction of past and present BLeGIT* Council Members. Bob LoParo (CA) – Information about past BLeGIT Council action: With Louisiana’s Governor publicly speaking out against enforcing the Supreme Court’s decision to allow marriage equality for all, BLeGIT contacted RID’s Board to explain that RID should make a statement ensuring the safety and equality of all RID Conference attendees. We are thankful we had CM Hall, Daryl Crouse, and Lewis Merkin on the National Board as strong BLeGIT Advocates. Richard Laurion (MN) – BLeGIT should be involved in some actions; what action can be taken? For example, Minnesota RID selected a university with anti-LGBT policies and practices as the site for their conference. (The Board has since chosen to move the conference.) How can we show our support of the local LGBT students and staff/employees? CM Hall (OR) – We also have to remember how many states out there have passed RFRAs (Religious Freedom Rights Acts) in response to the Supreme Court’s judgment requiring Marriage Equality in all 50 states. Many states still have anti-Trans* laws on their books too. And like Richard just mentioned, there are still universities and colleges that are anti-LGBT*QIIA people. Amanda David (FL) – We have to remember that RID has a Diversity Statement which it upholds. This Diversity Statement supports and protects ALL RID Members, even those who profess personal opinions that may be different than those held by LGBTQIIA members. Mala Poe (CA) – 2017’s National Conference location/contract may already have been discussed and decided. We should make sure we check into that host state’s local laws to ensure Equality and equal freedoms for all.
Ruth Dubin (GA) – Another consideration for RID is to review/approve the advertisements and organizations that are offered Program Book space. There was one company who advertised in this year’s National Conference Program Book – and they’re known to be affiliated with anti-LGBT activities. All future advertisements from companies should be neutral/non-discriminatory. Bill Moody (NY)/Bob LoParo (CA) – We can write articles, blogs, Facebook messages, letters, etc. to contact ALL RID Members. WE need to do this outreach. Daryl Crouse (CA) – It’s important for us to tell our story to the RID Membership. There was an article about 23 people dying in a “Club Fire” in New Orleans several years ago. The Police and Fire Departments wouldn’t help go into the club to rescue victims trapped in the building because it was a Gay Bar. That happened here – in Louisiana. In New Orleans. And was this mentioned prior to us securing New Orleans as a Conference Site? No! We need to ensure that this type of honest message gets out to all RID Members BEFORE we decide to host our events/meetings in other cities and states. Amanda (FL) – We collaborated with IDP, Deaf Caucus, and ITOC for the Social Justice RoundTable Discussions. BLeGIT has been involved with bringing our stories to other Member Sections. And this year, we helped be more visible with the SJRT. We also need to remind people (including those in attendance) to make sure they join BLeGIT online at RID – in their personal profiles. Voting for New Officer Positions Paul Glaser – request for explanation of the duties and responsibilities of Council members (answered by Amanda & Bob) Newly elected BLeGIT Officers for 2015-2017 Chair – Amanda David Vice-Chair – Carmelo Falu Region 1 Representatives – Jim Helisek Region 2 Representatives – Erin James & Katie Fitzpatrick Region 3 Representatives – Amy De Lorenzo & Lynda McChesney Region 4 Representatives – Jim Michaels & Ander Bolduc Region 5 Representatives – Bob LoParo, Brayen Brown, & Paul Glaser
