APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY FRIDAY, JANUARY 13, 2012 AT NOON.
About the Speaker's Bureau
OUT@NU Is a program that has been developed to educate the Northeastern Community about the LGBTQ community. Our goal is to educate people on the current realities and personal histories of those who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and related identities. Through personal story-telling or narrative, speakers share their experiences and growth, thereby promoting knowledge, compassion, and understanding about LGBTQ people, issues and concerns.
In our traditional format, a panel of 4-5 speakers each share their personal stories, illustrating how LGBTQ lives and experiences are diverse, complex, and richer than portrayed in mainstream media. The Q&A component of our panel encourages broader, deeper dialogues about sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and possibilities for a better world.
About the Training
The training focuses on the importance of narrative in combating oppression, storytelling techniques, the mechanics of the Speakers Bureau program, and how to handle difficult questions. Any individuals of any sexual orientation or gender identity are welcome to apply, so long as they are willing to share their personal coming out narrative.
Training Date
Sat, January 21, 2012, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The training location will be shared with members as we get closer to the training date. Food and snacks are provided! The entire training must be attended in order to participate in the Speakers Bureau.
Expectations of the Speakers Bureau Members
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Only speak from your own life experiences, and do not generalize your experiences to others of your social identity or in the LGBTQ community.
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Only share your story, and answer questions in a non-confrontational manner - do not lecture or debate.
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Be willing to give and accept feedback.
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Belief in and commitment to social justice.
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Consistent access and use of email.
Time Committment
Pre-Training:
Complete and electronically submit the accompanying Speakers Bureau Application
One-Time Training:
Attend and participate in the entire training - dates and times listed above
Post-Training:
Two panels per semester, scheduled at your convenience according to your availability (panels are usually 60-90 minutes in duration)
Qualifications
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Comfort with your own sexual orientation and gender identity and expression
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A strong desire and ability to educate others about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and related identity issues
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A willingness to speak personally and publicly about issues of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression as they relate to your own life
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Commitment to being an ally to folks of social identity groups other than your own
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Ability to meet the time commitment and expectations of all Speakers Bureau members.
NOTE: Previous public speaking experience is not necessary!
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY FRIDAY, JANUARY 13, 2012 AT NOON.
If you have specific questions, please do not hesitate to direct them to Jace Kirschner at jace@neu.edu, or by calling 617-373-2642.