Are the Kids Alright?  _Checking the Pulse of LGBT Youth & Same Sex Parents

Betsy Parsons, educator, activist and long-time advocate for LGBT educational initiatives, will discuss the unique concerns of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth as well as family and social issues that same-sex parents face today.  She will also discuss her work with the Family Ambassador Project and the Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) as well as her school-based experiences with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Ms. Parsons will be joined by student representatives who will share their stories and experiences in conversation with the audience.

Objectives: Civility, Compassion, Community Consciousness

Student Learning Outcomes:
_   Understand identity issues facing LGBTQ youth and the coming out experience
_   Awareness of bullying and harassment that continue to oppress issues LGBTQ youth as well as the children of same-sex parents, especially in school settings
_   Recognize how discrimination and misunderstanding can affect mental, physical, emotional/spiritual and physical health affect
_   Identify ways in which healthcare providers can be more culturally attuned and sensitive to the realities of LGBTQ youth and families

IPE Competencies: Ethics/Values, Communication, Cultural Humility