Pride Law

First Pride Law Meeting

2010-08-31T19:00:00.000-07:00

We are holding our first meeting of the year on September 2, 2010, noon at WH 2B
Free Lunch.

Hope to see you all there.

Miranda Freitas
USD Pride Law co-President

Sonoma County Settles Lawsuit for Separating Elderly Gay Couple & Selling Their Possessions

2010-08-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

A federal district court declared DOMA unconstitutional today,

2010-07-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Noting that it interfered with a state's right to define marriage. The court also noted that it required a state to discriminate against its citizens when it came to various benefits.

Below is the full length article.

A federal judge in Boston has ruled unconstitutional the portion of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) that limits federal benefits to straight couples even in states that recognize gay marriage. This is just the first inning in a long game that will eventually end up in the Supreme Court. The decision there will depend on whether the conservatives really believe in states' rights.
For almost 20 years, one of the pivotal debates on the Supreme Court has been the role of states' rights in limiting the power of the federal government. In cases on issues ranging from the possession of handguns in school zones to violence against women, the conservatives on the Court have argued that Congress cannot assert its power to regulate because doing so would encroach on "state sovereignty." According to the conservatives, areas of "traditional state concern" are protected by the 10th Amendment to the Constitution.
The contours of the 10th Amendment limitation have never been clear, mostly because the 10th Amendment itself is not clear. (It says that whatever powers the federal government does not have are left to the people or to states; it punts on what those powers actually are.) But one thing has been clear in the opinions of the conservatives on the Court: family law -- marriage, divorce, child custody -- is an area of traditional state concern. In both the handgun case (United States v. Lopez) and the violence against women case (United States v. Morrison), then-Chief Justice Rehnquist cited the federal regulation of family law as one of a parade of horribles that would arise if federal power got out of hand.
The federal judge in Boston struck down DOMA using these precedents, saying that "DOMA plainly intrudes on a core area of state sovereignty." The court also cited history, recognizing that "State control over marital status determinations is a convention rooted in the early history of the United States, predating even the American Revolution." The court emphasized the Supreme Court's language that "the whole subject of the domestic relations of husband and wife, parent and child, belongs to the laws of the States and not to the laws of the United States."
This reasoning poses a real dilemma for states righters.
Up to now, the 10th Amendment has been used almost exclusively by conservatives who want to limit the federal government's power to protect our environment, restrict firearms, or punish racial discrimination. And it's been a powerful rhetorical tool -- it's been used to good effect by the Tea Party, for example, in fighting health care reform and Wall Street bailouts.
But the DOMA case turns the ideology around. The 10th Amendment is being used for a politically progressive goal -- to fight against federally mandated discrimination in an area of traditional state concern.
When it gets to the Supreme Court, if the Court is consistent with its previous statements about family law being out of bounds for the federal government to regulate, then DOMA should lose.
DOMA should lose for an additional reason. In the 1995 handgun case, Justice Anthony Kennedy -- always the swing vote -- explained his dedication to states' rights by referencing Justice Louis Brandeis's famous aphorism that states can serve as "laboratories" of democracy, trying "novel social and economic experiments without risk to the rest of the country." To Kennedy, the handgun statute needed to be struck down because it "forecloses the States from experimenting and exercising their own judgment in an area to which States lay claim by right of history and expertise."
This same rationale works perfectly as a reason to question DOMA. In Massachusetts, the "experiment" of gay marriage has been a success. (It has the second lowest divorce rate in the country). The laboratory has worked, and it has shown the way for an increasing number of states to provide equality for their own citizens.

- The Huffington Post, July 9, 2010.

and now for something completely different...

2010-05-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

The next time someone asks you, "Hey, howdja get to be a homosexual anyway?" tell them, "Homosexuals are chosen first on talent, then interview... then the swimsuit and evening gown competition pretty much gets rid of the rest of them." ~Karen Williams

Sen. Jim DeMint Fought a Lesbian Judge ... and the Lesbian Judge Won

2010-05-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

You can't keep a good woman down. Or, in the case of Marisa Demeo, you can't keep a good woman off the federal bench. That's the lesson Sen. Jim DeMint and the Traditional Values Coalition (TVC) learned this week, as the U.S. Senate finally voted on Demeo's nomination for a seat on the D.C. Superior Court.
Sen. DeMint and the TVC worked hard to keep Demeo off the bench. Why? Did she do something illegal in her past? Did she speak ill of America? Steal the last cookie from the cookie jar?
Nope. But Demeo is openly lesbian, and for DeMint and the TVC, that was enough to treat her nomination like the plague. A letter circulated by the TVC became public this week, where they called on U.S. Senators to delay, stall and eventually kill Demeo's nomination to the court because of her lesbian ways.
"As an open, radical lesbian, Demeo has openly condemned the effort to amend our Constitution to protect marriage as a one-man, one-woman union," the group wrote. "Demeo supports gay marriage, claiming it is a constitutional right. She also claims that LGBT individuals are equal to racial minorities and can claim protection as minorities under our civil rights laws."
The horror! A judge who thinks gay marriage is a constitutional right. Who does she think she is, Ted Olson?
Sen. DeMint had been the lead U.S. senator holding up Demeo's nomination. Indeed, Demeo was nominated by the Obama administration a year ago, becoming one of the first LGBT nominations put forward by Obama. But 525,600 minutes later, she still hadn't been confirmed.
Until last night, when the U.S. Senate finally got its ship in order and moved to clear her nomination. The vote? 'Twas 66-32, largely along party lines (although kudos to the half dozen or so Republicans that stood up to Sen. Jim DeMint and the TVC, and recognized that a jurist should be judged on her ability to lead from the bench, not by who she sleeps with or loves).
Meanwhile, here's looking forward to seeing "D.C. Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo" on some business cards. We'll be sure to send one to Sen. Jim DeMint's office.

FAMOUS POLITICO DYKE COMES TO USD!!!!

2010-04-12T15:58:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the opportunity to hear ELIZABETH BIRCH on Wednesday! Google her and find out how great she is!

THE BIG WIND DOWN

2010-04-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks for coming to the last Pride Law meeting and wishing me well on my new endeavor. It has been a real privilege to advise this group for a decade or so.

I was so amazed to see the energy and enthusiasm for keeping the club going into the future. I can rest easy that it will have a long and happy life!

I look forward to reading great things about you all, and seeing you at events and Pride Law pool parties.

My very fondest wishes for you all,

John
Live the life, and walk the talk.

Annual Pride Law Attorney-Student Mixer

2010-03-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

Time has come again for Pride Law's Annual Attorney-Student Mixer! As one of Pride Law's most popular events, this is a fantastic opportunity to network and get to know prominent members of San Diego's GLBTQQA community.

Panelists include Judge David Rubin (San Diego Superior Court), Ms. Tamara Keller (in-house counsel for Beckman Coulter), Mr. Leonard Trinh (Assistant District Attorney), and Mr. Richard Segal (partner at Pillsbury, Winthrop, Shaw, and Pittman). More panelists TBA.

Appetizers and graduate-level beverages are provided.

ALL students are welcome to attend and mingle with these distinguished San Diego judges and attorneys.

When: Thursday, 18 March 2010 from 6.00PM – 9.00PM in the Faculty Reading Room (right after the Dean’s Mixer!).

Co-sponsored with Career Services.

VOICES ON DIVERSITY STARS OUR OWN JESSIE Z!!!!

2010-03-05T16:26:00.000-08:00

Take a look at the new diversity & inclusion conversation-starter -- VOICES ON DIVERSITY -- an interview video that looks at what different people at USD have to say about the topic.

Jessie gives a delightful and impassioned clip in Grace Courtroom!

Thanks to her and everyone who participated in the project. It is on the USD web page's diversity pages and will be used in discussion groups, classrooms, and forums on our campus.

This was a project I worked on as a member of the President's Advisory Board for Inclusion & Diversity. I loved it!

Speaker of the Assembly is Gay!!!!

2010-03-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

The first openly gay lawmaker to lead either house of the California Legislature was sworn in Monday as speaker of the state Assembly, taking over at a time of fiscal turmoil and partisan divisions.
Democrat John Perez of Los Angeles said creating jobs as the state struggles with an unemployment rate above 12 percent will be his legislative priority.

Go, Johnny, go!!!!!! http://www.mercurynews.com/news/ci_14492516

You can marry who you want in DC

2010-03-03T15:32:00.000-08:00

Big news! We get equal treatment under the laws of Washington, D.C. This is cool. Check it out here.

Washington is now the sixth place in the nation where same-sex marriages can take place. Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont also issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

You get pizza and popcorn, too!

2010-02-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

Take the movie poll that NLG is offering on the SBA web site. You get to choose a movie they will be screening. Free pizza and popcorn. VOTE!

http://www.sbausd.com/

SAME SEX MARRIAGE TRIAL - THE MOVIE!

2010-02-04T10:07:00.001-08:00

LA filmmakers have recreated the Prop A trial using actors reciting the transcript verbatim! Check it out!

WHY DO THE BIRDS GO ON SINGING?

2010-02-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

Don't they know it is the end of the world? It ended when you said...goodbye.

It is with deep sadness that I say goodbye to the ever-handsome, steadfast friend, and connoisseur of the good life, STANLEY KEITH PEARCE – June 13, 1928 - February 2, 2010.

Stanley was married to Frank Weston, who for a turbulent decade was Pride Law's biggest supporter and defender, and who worked tirelessly for the addition of sexual orientation to the University's official nondiscrimination policy. Frank was the fiesty LRC law librarian who took our issues right to the top and demanded that this University have a conscience when it came to ensuring the rights of its LGBT students, faculty, and staff. With Frank's leadership on this issue, we prevailed.

Stanley was also a law librarian, working at O'Melveny and Myers in Los Angeles for almost 30 years When he and Frank met 39 years ago, they joined their lives and together traveled the world, drank the finest wines, and defied a cultural stereotype of how gay men were supposed to be. They were married in October, 2008, and cherished the right to call each other husband.

It was my great privilege to know him. Goodbye, my friend, and I toast to you: salute! skoal! cheers!

TOP BRASS SAYS: "END DA/DT!"

2010-02-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

What a nice surprise!

WHO'S APATHETIC?

2010-02-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd ask.

You can either sign below, or do something.

Whatever. Go study or waste time. I don't care.

I am apathetic: _________________________

HOMOPHOBIA THRIVES AT NOTRE DAME

2010-02-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

Can it be true that Notre Dame is the only top-twenty university to not have sexual orientation in their official nondiscrimination policy? Read the story here.

Days after a cartoon in the school newspaper that advocated beating gay people into vegetables, a renewed effort is under way to get some official university protection. It seems like a huge uphill battle since the university does not even recognize or allow LGBT groups on campus.

Besides our reaching out with a letter of protest to the administration - and letters of support to the LGBT students, faculty, administrators and staff - what about asking our own university leadership for help on this? Just saying.

Who's Up for WinterPride 2010???

2010-01-31T09:32:00.000-08:00

Check it out, bois and goils, WinterPride at Whistler -- OMG!

Named the Number 1 Gay Ski Event by Gay.com and PlanetOut! (how many gay ski events are there??)

Yes, to the tune of Getting what I came for...on the dance floor, dance floor...!!!!
you too can ski the slopes by day and party by night at the fabulous resorts.

Oh, and you can get married there too. www.vs.gov.bc.ca/marriage/howto.html to learn details about marriage licenses and other information.

USD MOOT CT TEAM TROUNCES COMPETITION!!

2010-01-31T09:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings from the trenches - so very proud to have attended the 6th Annual Williams Institute for Sexual Orientation Law & Policy Moot Court Competition.

30+ teams participated from all over the country! Teammates Jen Kopfstein and W. James Hua performed ably and made us proud.

First round against Hofstra -- their brief was strong, but would their oral abilities withstand the relentless beating from Kopfstein and Hua? Not a chance. They crumbled.

Second round against UNLV. Their brief was either brilliant or incomprehensible, we couldn't tell which. They looked sharp - two strapping men with brilliant smiles. Would Kopfstein and Hua have met their match? Silly you! Of course not -- K & H triumphed again.

Unfortunately, their aggregate scores were not enough to land them in the top 8, but we were certain that K&H were probably close and probably in the top half of the draw. Best brief was won by NYU, but K&H had given them a run for their money as well.

As we left UCLA's campus tired but content, the sun shone like a beacon to bring us back home. We rejoiced with babyback ribs and beer and tales of outwitting your opponent...what more could you ask for. The thrill of this year's competition only whetted our appetite for more -- who will bring back the trophies next year??!

We're Queer, Here, & Loving Football!

2010-01-29T17:01:00.000-08:00

OMG! Gay football fans??!!

2010-01-29T16:56:00.000-08:00

CBS has rejected an ad for gay-dating site ManCrunch.com for air during the Super Bowl, saying the ad, which depicts two men kissing, "is not within the network's broadcast standards for Super Bowl Sunday." ManCrunch spokeswoman Elissa Buchter said, "You see ads for erectile dysfunction morning, noon and night. It's discriminatory that they won't show this." The Hollywood Reporter (free content)/Live Feed blog (1/29)

PRIDE LAW MEETING BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

2010-01-29T14:21:00.001-08:00

It was great seeing so many of you and your friends at the meeting yesterday! So much is happening around us every day, the world is turning and the demands of school are pulling at you. So I really appreciate it when you take time out to be with your fellow Pride Law-ers.

Solidarity. Sharing. Listening. Feeling. Cocktails. We have evidence.

That's what makes us so special. ;o>

PROP 8 TRIAL WRAPS UP - SORT OF

2010-01-29T14:19:00.000-08:00

Testimony in the federal trial of California's Proposition 8 constitutional marriage ban has concluded, and the trial has gone on hiatus to allow Chief Judge Vaughn R. Walker time to review briefs and evidence. Closing arguments have yet to be scheduled, but will probably be in a month or so.

Read more about this in the New York Times, here.

Military to offer plan to end DA/DT

2010-01-29T14:16:00.000-08:00

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will brief a Senate panel on the Pentagon's recommendation for how to repeal the military gay ban on Tuesday. Although details were not forthcoming, the Pentagon is said to prefer to change the policy gradually. President Barack Obama, during Wednesday's State of the Union, pledged to make a priority of ending the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy this year.

This is going to be a year when DA/DT is going to be heavily debated in the news. Our panel presentation will be timely indeed. Read more here

Prop. 8 trial Day 9: Live coverage from the courtroom

2010-01-22T10:18:00.000-08:00

Prof says research shows gays and lesbians don't choose their sexual identities

Plaintiffs lawyers are already done questioning their final witness, UC-Davis psychology prof. Gregory Herek, who testified that research shows gays and lesbians do not choose their sexual identities, as same-sex marriage opponents suggest. And he also said they are subject to social stigma.

Check it out here!

First (known?) transgender appointees illustrates need for greater equality

2010-01-19T15:47:00.000-08:00

Amanda Simpson begins her new position this week as a senior technical adviser with the Department of Commerce. Who says this administration is not making a difference?

http://www.gaylesbiantimes.com/?id=16125&issue=1151

Trouble for throwing out DA/DT

2010-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

Key House Democrat doesn't want to lift military gay ban
U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Mo., who helped create the military gay ban and is considered the top House Democrat for military issues, has come out against overturning the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy because of the potential for "disruption" of campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. "I am personally not for changing the law," Skelton told C-SPAN in a "Newsmakers" interview scheduled to air Sunday. The Hill (1/15)

Tom Homann Changes Name - Adds "LGBT" At Long Last

2010-01-19T15:23:00.000-08:00

FOLLOW THE TRIAL OF THE CENTURY (or at least this decade!)

2010-01-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

Follow the Prop 8 Trial
Liveblogging from Courage Campaign at http://prop8trialtracker.com

WE ARE FAMILY, I GOT ALL MY CANDY AND ME!

2009-12-16T06:37:00.000-08:00

in the words of Wendy Williams, "how you doin?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1A_sxzuBDU

just checking in to make sure you are all staying sane and hopeful and focused enough to last through to Friday (or whenever your last obligation is!)...and remember to seek our sugar and/or chocolate if need be behind that Sweet Land of Liberty book (is that the title? i forget!)...

congratulations to all our former Pridelaw-sters who have passed the bar and really ARE Pride Law-yers now!

and congrats to all those graduating this semester -- we shall miss you!

Perez chosen Assembly speaker - Sacramento News - Local and Breaking Sacramento News | Sacramento Bee

2009-12-12T07:26:00.001-08:00

Perez chosen Assembly speaker - Sacramento News - Local and Breaking Sacramento News | Sacramento Bee

Posted using ShareThis

NATION'S YOUNGEST OPENLY GAY MAYOR ELECTED

2009-12-02T13:19:00.001-08:00

AND he is a real cutie too! Check it out here:
http://cbs5.com/local/campbell.mayor.elected.2.1344479.html

THLA HOLIDAY BASH THRILLS THE SENSES!!!

2009-12-01T05:12:00.000-08:00

This is a reminder that the annual THLA Holiday Party is less than 2 weeks away. The party will be held on Friday December 11th from 6:30 p.m. until ? This year's party will be held at the home of Anita Margolis, which is located at 1855 Felton Street, San Diego, CA 92102. Anita's home is in South Park.

Please join us for food, drinks, music, and fun.

Two Important Events

2009-11-02T05:51:00.000-08:00

I have to say how important the latest news out of Washington is to me and you and all of us in the midst of our struggle for equal rights.

The federal Hate Crimes legislation that finally recognizes crimes of violence based on sexual orientation is a landmark of its kind. For decades legislators have been trying to get that passed, only to be roadblocked by some conservative "Christian" who doesn't believe that we have rights too. In fact, when this most recent version was proposed, Rep. Virgina Foxx (R-North Carolina) stated on the House floor that the whole Matthew Shepard story was "a hoax" and should not be used as the basis for any hate crime bill. Well, Virginia, lucky for us you were derided in a national chorus of boos and you apologized for your "poor choice of words." There will be one big sour pickle in your stocking this Christmas, I am sure of it.

And the end of the 20 year ban on gay men giving blood because of the possibility of HIV contamination is simply applying common sense to an issue that was prompted and led by hatred, fear, and homophobia. Everyone knows that more straight people have HIV than LBTQs, and yet they are not prohibited from giving blood -- because all donated blood is tested for the HIV antibodies before it goes into the blood bank system. Why were gay men excluded all these years? Because they had gay blood, that's why. At least that is the only thing I can think of, since gay blood can be tested just as easily as straight blood. Face facts: blood does not have a sexual orientation, and after 20 years of lost possibilities for saving lives this blatantly homophobic and discriminatory ban has been lifted.

Makes one proud to be an American, doesn't it. Well, we're getting there.

A recent TRUE medical reminder

2009-11-02T05:06:00.000-08:00

This just reached my inbox:

As you requested, here's your reminder from Sharp HealthCare that it's time to do your monthly testicular self-exam. We're glad that you recognize how important regular breast checks are to a man's overall health.

OK, both messages are very important, but it seems like there was a little mix-up at the health reminder headquarters.

Let them both be great reminders to all of us to do monthly checks on ourselves -- or share the fun with a buddy or partner -- to stay healthy and aware.

Happy self examination day to everyone!

DANCE DANCE DANCE PRIDE PRIDE PRIDE

2009-10-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

Whether it is a dance or a social or a mixer or whatever, come to the PRIDE event this Friday, October 9 from 8-11 pm in the 3rd floor courtyard of the Student Life Pavilion.

I will be one of the very happy chaperones making sure no premarital sexual shenanigans occur (on the dance floor)!

Show your support for PRIDE!

HATEMONGER FRED PHELPS HARANGUES SAN DIEGO

2009-10-06T18:28:00.000-07:00

Can we organize a group to get to one of these support rallies in opposition to the Fred Phelps garbage? I would like to send a message to the University that a USD contingent will be fighting for the rights espoused in their teachings for dignity and respect for all people...

Controversial pastor Fred Phelps and members of his congregation commonly protest against homosexuality and often picket funerals of soldiers and those who have died of AIDS. The church’s most high-profile protest came at the 1998 funeral of Matthew Shepard, a University of Wyoming student who was killed because he was gay. Congregants gathered outside the church held up signs saying “No Fags in Heaven” and “God Hates Fags.”

Fred Phelps and his hatemongers have chosen a list of protest sites in our town, one of which is San Diego High School. “WBC will be around and about because the local High School thinks it is soooo cool to be fags,” reports the WBC website. “And [they] no doubt just love Matthew Sheperd.” The church’s “Quit Telling Kids it’s OK to be Fags” demonstration will take place from 2:10 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.

Other WBC protests are are scheduled to take place that same day between 12 P.M. and 7:30 P.M. at six other locations throughout San Diego county. These locations include San Diego Jewish Publications (12:30 P.M - 1:00 P.M.), Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego (1:15 P.M. - 1:45 P.M.), United Jewish Federation of San Diego County (1:15 P.M. - 1:45 P.M.), Jewish Family Service of San Diego Turk Family Center (3:20 P.M. - 3:50 P.M.), Chabad at La Costa (5:30 P.M. - 6 P.M.), and the Congregation Dor Hadas (7 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.). While WBC members have protested at Jewish institutions over the years, such institutions were not a major focus for the group until April 2009. Since then, WBC has targeted dozens of Jewish institutions around the country, from Israeli consulates to synagogues to Jewish community centers.
http://fs17.formsite.com/halemedia/form622681758/index.html

MANY THANKS FOR THE DUES DONATIONS!

2009-09-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU to those of you who have contributed the $10 toward the Pride Law cause. This will help in putting on the programs and events that we plan throughout the year.

Special thanks to Dave Jenkin for his very generous donation of $125!! He challenges the faculty to match it! Thank you, Dave, it is much appreciated. (If you don't know Dave, he is brand new to the USD Paralegal Program and comes to us from Florida. Welcome, Dave!)

THLA MIXER THIS THURSDAY!!!

2009-09-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

Plan to attend the first Attorney-Student Mixer of the Tom Homann Law Association on Thursday, Sept. 24, at 6 pm!

This will be at Jonathan Schneeweiss's house, which is located at 4620 Narragansett Avenue San Diego, CA 92107.

Don't miss it! This is a great way to begin to feel connected to the San Diego queer law scene. BE THERE!!!

Posting from email

2009-09-19T14:38:00.001-07:00

I am trying out this new feature of emailing blog posts from outside Blogger. This is a test!

Great first meeting!

2009-09-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

It was really great to see everybody come to the first meeting. Lots of good energy! I liked the LavLaw recaps and want to hear more from Nick about what went on after the panel sessions...

Special guest PRIDE President Sam came to spread the word that both PRIDE and Pride Law are committed to working together in a mutually beneficial way. She announced that the very first ever USD PRIDE dance was coming in early October and encouraged everyone to come OUT! We are fam-i-leeeeee!

Of course, then I got on a roll telling all the 1Ls about the hate crime incidents we had last year...and Shelly had to bring things back to the reason we exist -- to be supportive, inclusive, and social.

Look for meetings in WH 315 every other Thursday at noon, and the Thursdays in between on the grass between Warren and the LRC. Spread the word!

DON'T FORGET THE FIRST MEETING OF THE SEMESTER!

2009-09-15T18:56:00.001-07:00

THURSDAY AT NOON IN WARREN 315 (across from Grace Courtroom)

TOPICS: leadership
programs
speakers
joint events
lavender law debrief
social stuff
tom homann meeting/get a mentor!!!
everything else...

BROOKLYN RECAP

2009-09-14T12:50:00.001-07:00

We want to hear ALL about the goings on at the LGBT conference in Brooklyn at the Thursday meeting. The good, the bad, the ugly truths. Any dirty dancing into the wee hours? Did anybody go to any programs?

Enquiring minds want to know!

FIRST MEETING OF THE YEAR!!!

2009-09-08T05:44:00.000-07:00

Pride Law meets every Thursday at noon in Warren 315! The first meeting will be September 17th.

Lunch will be served to the first 37 people, so don't be late!

On the 17th we will be in WH 315, but after that if we aren't in the room on a sunny day, then we will definitely be camped out on the lawn between Warren and the LRC. Just look for the big rainbow flag!

Being Part of The Big We

2009-09-08T04:22:00.000-07:00

As the school year begins, and the LavLaw6 depart for the Huge Gay Career Fair, and many of you are either interviewing on campus or scrambling for that elusive job...have you stopped to think what you really want to do with your life?

Many of you no doubt came to law school with a resume of achievement in extra-curricular activities. Doing more than what is expected of you is a sign of leadership and a motivated, well-rounded individual. You probably threw in some community service or charitable work too, either because you cared about it or because it was just good for the law school application and resume.

So now the hunt for a job is on, and the idea that you will be making big bucks as a pricey lawyer...some day. I just want to ask: what happened to you along the way? Where is that generosity of spirit that marks the most jaded of queers? There isn't one of us who hasn't felt the sting of discrimination, loathing, taunts, or oppression -- unless you are so closeted that no one can possibly identify you as being who you truly are.

To be your authentic self, you need to come out. And you need to tell people to knock it off if they put down queers, blacks, asians, latinos, disabled, women, Jews, Christians, Muslims, or whatever. The prejudice you have felt must be translated into understanding how it must feel for all oppressed people.

This also translates into being active in Pride Law. It means taking a stand in your personal life to live a good public life. It means making time to support the causes that matter to you. Because all the money and fame and glory and whatever means nothing if you are a tired, uncaring robot-person who never gave a crap enough to help the people who came after you.

It is about paving the way, making a place safe for other queers and people of all differences to feel welcome and comfortable and right about being here. Do you feel comfortable here, or do you feel the stigma of not quite measuring up to the true standard of what it takes to be a good lawyer?

If not, what are you going to do to change that? When you leave here will it be a safer, more engaged and evolved school -- or will queers and Pride Law be relegated into an afterthought, the kind of marginalized group that can be dismissed as "those" kind of people.

Let's not be "those" kind of people. Let's join in the process of being a part of the big "we" -- be active in Pride Law, help make a difference, dont expect others to carry the ball and do the work. To claim membership in this group, you have to walk the talk. The thing about Pride Law is -- if you don't care, who will?

So what do you want to do with your life?

LAVENDER LAW SEPTEMBER 10-12!!!

2009-09-04T04:12:00.000-07:00

Six of our finest will be jetting to lovely Brooklyn, New York -- that's right..NEW YORK CITY -- to participate in the 21st Annual National LGBT Bar Association Career Fair and Conference.

Once known as Lavender Law (and I still call it that), this event attracts a national contingent of queers in the law -- professors, judges, lawyers, and students -- to come together and network, play, and learn about the latest successes and setbacks, nuances and changes in queer law and legal theory.

Imagine, hundreds of practicing attorneys, dozens of scholars, over 500 students, and lots of judges in the same place at the same time -- and they are all queer or queer allies!

The MOST amazing part for me is the Career Fair, where tons of major law firms and government agencies meet with you for mini-interviews. Have that resume handy, and sharpen your personal message, because this is your chance to shine without pretense or apprehension in an interview situation. It is so important to have a rehearsed (but not stilted) short burst of PR that tells anyone listening about who you are and what you want in a job.

Go out there and SELL YOURSELF! Make us proud, Pridesters!!!

10 Ways to Maintain a Popular Lesbian Blog

2009-09-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

I just loved this article! You gotta love the title!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1206442/10_ways_to_maintain_a_popular_lesbian.html?cat=35

Pride Law Ideas for the Coming Year

2009-08-31T17:49:00.000-07:00

What event or program have you always wanted to see Pride Law do, but never has? Now is your chance to make your dream come true!

Some ideas from me:

join intra-murals as the CreamPuffs or the Fairy Dusters. Wouldn't it be fun to play volleyball in pink tutus? (OK, that applies to only some of us!)
sponsor a Thursday Bar Review at a Hillcrest bar. Get the USD gang away from the Gaslamp to hang in our hood -- the Flame, Numbers, Rich's, or even Bourbon Street. They would all be fun, and it would get us into hosting a mainstream SBA event!
more joint programs with undergrad Pride and other SBA clubs.
co-sponsor AIDSWalk with other SBA clubs -- we need to organize that now!

CLUB FAIR ROCKED THE CASBAH!

2009-08-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone who showed and supported QUEER CHEER by staffing the Pride Law table and tossing colorful skittles marked with our contact info at those passing by. I nailed this cute guy and he even smiled. Progress! We also had people sign up for action-packed meetings and events. We are on our way!

CLUB FAIR THIS THURSDAY - SHOW UP AND BE COUNTED!

2009-08-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

We need everyone to converge en masse on the Warren back patio to spread queer cheer and bring the "ick factor" out in force! Who knows? We may be embraced by the members of the Federalist and J. Reuben Clark Law Societies as brothers and sisters of the human race!

Miracles DO happen!

KUDOS - I WAS STUFFED!

2009-08-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

What a great bbq and pool party yesterday! Hat's off to Shelly for organizing it, and Prof. R. for hosting with her ever-delightful family. Kelly is quite the bbq'er! I could not resist the big sausages (wipe that smirk off your face, Nick), and then the burgers. Plus I topped it off with fried chicken, macaroni salad...and the best cupcake ever!!

If you missed it, show up to see and greet all your fellow Pride Lawyers at the Club Fair this Thursday in the back patio from 4-6 pm.

Our first meeting will be announced for next month, so stay tuned!

So what if you graduated, you're never too cool for Pride Law

2009-08-22T15:22:00.000-07:00

I hope Pride Law alumni will show up at tomorrow's pool party. It would be nice to see you and catch up!

Pride Law Protocols and How-tos Drafted

2009-08-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

Past Prez Jenn drafted some cool Pride Law protocols and how-tos for future officers. It includes info about our bank accounts and passwords for the blog, etc. All the stuff that is likely to get lost from year to year.

THANK YOU JENN!!!
(btw I forgot how gorgeous you are - and just a knockout with that Cancun tan!)

BBQ Pool Party TOMORROW Aug 23

2009-08-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

somehow the e-board in the law school stated the bbq and pool party was on the 30th instead of the 23rd, so I hope everyone shows up TOMORROW. if not, more food for us!!

Welcome back BBQ and Pool Party

2009-08-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

On Sunday August 23 from 4-7 PM Pridelaw will be having a BBQ and pool party.

Come out and mingle with current members and welcome new members.

Please RSVP to usdpridelaw@gmail.com and let me know if you are bringing any guests so we can get a head count.
Everyone is welcome.
Once you RSVP you will be sent directions to the party.

Let’s have a great kick off to another year.

I hope to see you there!

The Fall 2009 Book Exchange

The SBA is looking for volunteers to help staff the book drop off and exchange. Pridelaw will be credited $10 per person per hour to our annual budget.

Email usdpridelaw@gmail.com (1) your name, (2) contact information, and (3) dates and times you’re interested in volunteering.

The book exchange will take place on the following dates:

A. Bargain Basement Booksale on 8/20 and 8/21: books and supplements from previous book sales will be on sale before the formal book sale begins.

B. Book Drop-off Dates on 8/20, 8/21, 8/24, 8/25: if you have books you want to try to sell to fellow classmates, drop them off on these dates.

C. Book Sale from 8/24 - 8/27: the formal book sale will run on these dates from approximately 8:00AM - 6:00PM.

******************************

Scholarship Program:

http://www.lw.com/upload/aboutLatham/upload/docs/doc66.PDF

Summer Fun is Coming To An End - WE'RE BAAACK!!!

2009-08-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

It is now the middle of August and the fall semester is getting scarily close. The excitement mounts as we plan the welcome back bbq at a professor's house and the semester ahead. Anybody who is new to the law school should definitely attend the pool party and join our fun group of wild and crazy queers & friends. BFFs. Whatever.

Stay tuned for more details....

SO EXCITED!!!

Happy Fourth -- or NOT

2009-07-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

As much as I love my country and celebrate its founding, there is a bitter taste of disgust when confronted with things like the following news item:

http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/06/30/fort-worth-police-chief-that-faggot-had-it-coming

Raise a glass, a bottle, or whatever, and toast to the freedoms this country stands for...and hope that they will apply to all of its citizens one day.

THLA Awards Dinner - Seats Available

2009-04-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

The Dean’s Office has purchased a table for the upcoming Tom Homann Annual Dinner on May 14 and they have 3 or 4 seats remaining. This is a fantastic dinner and a great opportunity to meet some of the attornys in the area that are members or friends of the Tom Homann Law Association.
If you would like to attend this event, please email usdpridelaw@gmail.com with your name and your entree selection(chicken, beef or vegetarian).

Here are the details:

Tom Homann Law Association
2009 Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony
May 14, 2009
Cocktails @6pm, Dinner and Awards Presentation @7pm
Hard Rock Hotel, San Diego 92101

This year THLA is proud to announce that Shannon Minter is the Honored Guest and Speaker at the Annual Dinner. Shannon Minter is the legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and was lead counsel on the In Re Marriage Cases, among other well known cases. (To read more about Mr. Minter, please go to
www.NCLrights.org).

Reminder: Meeting Today

2009-04-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

The last Pride Law meeting of the semester is today at noon in WH2B.
We will be holding officer elections and discussing next week's Hate Speech Speaker.

Hope to see everyone there!

Pride Law Meeting Thurs 4/16

2009-04-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

Elections are here! Now is the time to get involved!

We will be holding elections for President, Treasurer, Diversity Chair and Publicity Chair.
Holding a leadership position is a great way to impact the future of Pride Law and make sure that Pride Law continues to be a positive force on campus.

We will also discuss the Hate Crimes Speaker on 04/22 and other upcoming events.

This Thursday at noon in WH2B
Lunch will be Served

Pride Law invites you to attend a panel discussion

2009-03-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

Keep Moving Forward:
Rhetorical Strategies Regarding GLBTQ Issues

A panel event featuring:
Professor David McGowan
Professor Miranda McGowan
Professor Dale Carpenter

March 25 from 12:00PM - 12:50PM in WH 3C

Come learn about the rhetorical strategies used in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement and ways to adapt them to today’s political climate. The panel will focus on using the techniques taught by Bayard Rustin, one of the integral figures in the 1960’s civil rights movement, and how the average citizen can use those techniques to repair the damage to civil and human rights after the passage of Prop. 8.

Bayard Rustin (March 17, 1912 – August 24, 1987) was an American civil rights activist, important largely behind the scenes in the civil rights movement of the 1960s and earlier, and principal organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. He counseled Martin Luther King, Jr. on the techniques of nonviolent resistance. Rustin was openly gay [1] and advocated on behalf of gay and lesbian causes in the latter part of his career.A year before his death in 1987, Rustin said:
"The barometer of where one is on human rights questions is no longer the black community, it's the gay community. Because it is the community which is most easily mistreated."

ALL ARE WELCOME

Lunch Will Be Served

www.usdpridelaw.com

NLGTF Study Shows Party, Ideology, Age, and Religiosity Drove Prop 8 Vote

2009-03-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

Can't get enough Prop. 8 info?

An in-depth analysis of the Proposition 8 vote shows that party affiliation, political ideology, frequency of attending worship services and age were the driving forces behind the measure’s passage on Nov. 4. The study finds that after taking into account the effect of religious service attendance, support for Proposition 8 among African Americans and Latinos was not significantly different than other groups.

You can read the full report here.

THLA Events Coming Up!

2009-03-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

San Diego County Bar Association - Ethnic Relations & Diversity Committee (ERDC) Annual Spring Mixer

Friday, March 27 - 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm

Bar Center - 1333 Seventh Avenue (between Ash and A Street)

Hosted beverages and light appetizers

Cost: FREE. Register at: www.sdcba.org/ERDCmixer

Please join us and mix and mingle with your colleagues -- also welcome members of the American Bar Association (ABA) Presidential Commission on Diversity in the Profession.

The SDCBA's ERDC is comprised of representatives from the following organizations

Earl B. Gilliam Bar Association
Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego
Iranian American Bar Association
Korean American Bar Association
La Raza Lawyers Association
Lawyers Club of San Diego
Native American Lawyers Association
Pan Asian Lawyers of San Diego
South Asian Bar Association
Tom Homann Law Association

All SDCBA members and members of the ERDC organizations listed above are welcome!

***************************************************************************

Just a reminder that THLA is having a mixer at the Bamboo lounge on Friday, March 13th at 6 p.m.until whenever...We will likely be on the back patio and they serve food for dinner. Hope to see you ALL there!

Board meeting this Thursday, March 5th at the Center: 5:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Thursday, March 5th 9 a.m. Oral Argument on Prop 8.

May 14, 2009: THLA ANNUAL DINNER....Invites to follow shortly. If you are interested in corporate sponsorship on the invite, please email Jonathan at SchneeweissJ@aol.com

PROP 8 MARRIAGE CASES - WATCH/LISTEN!

2009-03-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

Don’t forget to watch or listen to the oral arguments of the Prop 8 Marriage Cases before the Supreme Court this Thursday, March 5 from 9 am to 12 pm. This is an historic occasion! The court will issue a written opinion in the cases within 90 days of oral argument.

To watch it streaming live from your computer, go to http://www.calchannel.com/

Pride Law Annual Attorney Panel and Mixer

2009-03-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

TONIGHT!

March 2, 2009
6:00 – 6:40 pm
In WH2A

Mixer and Reception to Follow in the Faculty Reading Room

All Are Welcome!

Featured Panelists and Attendees:
Superior Court Judge David Rubin
Jonathan Schneeweiss, President of the Tom Homann Law Association
Leonard Trinh, Deputy District Attorney
Lilys McCoy, Civil Litigator, McCoy, Turnage & Robertson
Loren Freenstone, Civil Litigator, Higgs, Fletcher and Mack
Richard Segal, Commercial and Business Litigator, Pillsbury

The Annual Pride Law Panel will discuss a variety of career experiences including Deputy DA to Judge and JAG Corps to Real Estate. The panel will also discuss some of the challenges faced as members of the GLBTQQA community within the legal profession.

Snacks and refreshments will be served

Co-Sponsored by Career Services

Today's Meeting Minutes

2009-02-26T21:31:00.000-08:00

Pride Law Meeting 02/26/2009

Upcoming Events
Thursdays on the Hill
Come by at noon and grab lunch with your fellow Pride-Lawers!
Look for the rainbow flag

THLA board mtg - www.thla.org
Mar 5th @530 at the center

Our discretionary funding requests were successful!
Atty Panel and Mixer
March 2nd – Next Monday!
6-640 in WH2A
640-8pm Mixer with “beverages” and snacks in faculty reading room
Please post it on your facebook, forward the email, tell your friends, etc

Tax Atty at lunch on 03/04 – co-sponsored with Tax Law

Post Prop 8 panel w/ Prof D. McGowan
Mar 19 @ lunch
Prof McGowan will focus less on law, and more on methods of protests used int the 60’s civil rights protests and how they can be applied to the current day

Hate crimes speaker
Mid April – the NDoS – 04-17-09?
We are still working on this :)

Social Event
Lips! – Christine is planning a night out at Lips, a drag dinner show on el cajon blvd in North Park– March 28 @9pm.
www.lipsshow.biz

Goal for next meeting: bring/invite one friend to Pride Law who hasn’t been before!

Pride Annual Attorney Panel and Mixer

2009-02-26T09:42:00.001-08:00

March 2, 2009
6:00 – 6:40 pm
In WH2A

Mixer and Reception to Follow
In the Faculty Reading Room

Featured Panelists and Attendees:
Superior Court Judge David Rubin
Jonathan Schneeweiss, J.D., LL.M., President of the Tom Homann Law Association
Members of the Tom Homann Law Association, San Diego’s GLBT Bar Association

About the Program:
The Annual Pride Law Panel will discuss a variety of career experiences including Deputy DA to Judge and JAG Corps to Real Estate. The panel will also discuss some of the challenges faced as members of the GLBTQQA community within the legal profession.

Snack and Refreshments Will Be Served!
No RSVP Required

Meeting tomorrow at noon in Wh133

2009-02-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

Hope to see you all there!

Meeting this Thursday 2/26 at noon

2009-02-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

Our 2nd meeting of the semester will be this Thursday at noon (room TBA).
We will discuss the upcoming attorney panel/mixer and the other great events we have planned for the semester.

Lunch on the Hill Today @ Noon

2009-02-19T10:34:00.001-08:00

Bring your Lunch and enjoy the weather!

Today's Meeting

2009-02-05T16:12:00.000-08:00

Pride Law Meeting 02/05/2009

Welcome Back!

Recurring Events
Thursdays on the Hill will resume next week! - Look for the rainbow flag
THLA board mtg - Feb 5th @530 at the center (Tonight!) - www.thla.org

Upcoming Events
1)Atty mixer – (Jenn and Ben are organizing) This event will be a shortened panel and a mixer after, featuring a cross-section of atty’s in the community - Career Services is cosponsoring and will be helping us out with getting atty’s and publicity. If anyone has a type of practice they would like to see represented, email usdpridelaw@gmail.com and let us know.
2)Post Prop 8 panel w/ Professors –( Nick. Aiming for March). - Prof. David McGowan has expressed interest in doing a speaker event on “what we can do” to promote equality, etc. We will be asking some some Profs to join in the event. -- More details to come
3)Hate crimes speaker – (Michelle - Goal Date: Mid April – the NDoS – 04-17-09) -- We will be talking to Judge Rubin and some others for this event -- More details will come

We are looking for help with these events. Please volunteer to help out with at least one event this semester! It will be a small time commitment.

Social Events
Lips! - Christine is organizing a Pride Law night at Lips! (It’s a drag show in the North Park area) - More details to come
Baseball Game Watching party at Prof. Dripps - Date TBA – Ben is organizing

Administrative
Brief Reminder: Dues - $10 - Make check out to Pride Law, put in pride law mailbox

Comments:
We will be trying to organize our meetings with the new Reproductive Law Society in order to avoid future time conflicts! The RLS deals with GLBT issues, and Pride Law members are welcome.

Goal for next meeting: bring/invite one friend to Pride Law who hasn’t been before!
Have a great few weeks!

1st Meeting will be in WH 133

2009-01-29T09:38:00.000-08:00

Update:
1st meeting:
Feb 5th @ noon in Wh 133
See you there!

Welcome Back!

2009-01-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

The first meeting of the semester will be next Thursday, Feb 5th!
The room is TBA, but we'll be meeting at noon and enjoying a tasty free lunch.
Come find out about the upcoming events for the semester including our Annual Attorney Panel, a speaker on Hate Crimes, and more!

Welcome Back

2009-01-10T21:49:00.000-08:00

Hello Pride Law-ers,

Happy 2009! Hope you are all excited for the new semester and the great events Pride Law has in the works. We are looking for volunteers to help organize some of the Pride Law events, so all our members will have an opportunity for some leadership experience and a chance to get more involved.

The events we would like to have this semester are:
The attorney panel/mixer (Mid Feb): This is an annual event where local attorneys come and do a panel, and this year we will be having a mixer after the panel to allow everyone a chance to chat.
Hate Crimes Speaker or Panel (Mid April). Hopefully this can happen during Coming out Week, to coincide with the National Day of Silence.
Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Panel: Co-Sponser with the Veteran’s club (?) and Career Services. Date TBA.

Helping out with one of these events is a great way to not only help Pride Law, but also network with your classmates and the speakers themselves.
Email usdpridelaw@gmail.com and let me know if you are able to help with any of these.

Information regarding our first meeting will be out soon, enjoy the last few hours of winter break!

-Jenn

No Lunch on the Hill Today, Prop 8 Panel Instead

2008-11-20T09:28:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
Instead of our usual lunch time gathering on the hill, we will be attending the Prop 8 Panel (details below).
Hope to see you there,
Jenn

*PROP 8 PANEL WITH PROF. MIRANDA MCGOWAN is TODAY from 12-2 in the SOLES executive classroom. Check for signage or just ask where it is at the main info desk in the SOLES lobby.

WE NEED YOU THERE!!!

Protest Prop 8 on Saturday Nov 15

2008-11-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

Hello Pride Law!

We're spreading the word that the San Diego Section of the National protest against the passing of Prop 8 will be this Saturday, Nov 15. The protest march will begin at 10am at 6th and Upas (by Balboa Park) and head to the County Administration Building (CAB). There will be a rally at the CAB beginning at 1pm. This will be a peaceful event, and NO violence will be tolerated.

For Information on the Protest nationally: http://www.jointheimpact.com/
For Info on the San Diego Protest: http://protest8sandiego.wordpress.com/

I will be attending this protest, and would love to walk with my fellow Pride Law-yers.

Last Pride Law Meeting this Semester

2008-11-10T14:47:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone,

Just a reminder, we have a meeting tomorrow, Tues Nov 11, at noon in WH 131. There will be food, sodas and snacks. We will be discussing the recent election and the next steps in reaction to Prop 8 passing. We will also discuss the plans for the rest of this semester, and get feedback on the plans for next semester.

Hope to see you all there,
Jenn

"No on 8" buttons on sale in the Writs -- $1

2008-10-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

Pride Law is selling No on Prop 8 Buttons for $1 in the writs Tues and Wens from 930am - 4pm.

Come by and pick up a button! Show your support!

PRIDE LAW is now on Facebook

2008-10-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

We're now on facebook! Search for us as "Pride Law USD" or by our email usdpridelaw@gmail.com.

THLA Updates

2008-10-10T12:49:00.000-07:00

1. Student mixer- Oct 24th, 6pm, Blue Lotus in Mission Hills, these dates and time are tentative, so keep an eye out for a blast email from THLA.

2. No on Prop 8- The San Francisco Bar Association has on their website some arguments that can be helpful when speaking about No on Prop 8, http://www.sfbar.org/about/initiatives/marriage_fairness/marriage_fairness_defeat_prop8.aspx

3. Holiday Party- planned for Dec. 11th, most of us will probably be taking finals around that time but if you are available, it shoudl be fun event.

4. Facbook- Jonathan Schneeweiss has started a THLA facebook grouup, however, it's a private group, if you would like to be a part of the group, add jonathan as a friend and he can send you the invite.

Forum on Prop 8 at Thomas Jefferson School of Law

2008-10-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

Pride Law is proud to help promote the events of the our fellow GLBTQQA Student groups!

This morning's edition of the San Diego Union Tribune reported that more than 20,000 donors who are concerned about Proposition 8 have contributed almost $50 million to pass or defeat this measure. This unprecedented level of contributions by donors who do not have a personal financial stake in the outcome is indicative of the importance of this ballot initiative to people other than same-sex couples who want to be able to continue to marry.

Many people are confused about the effects of Prop. 8. For example, some people are unaware that if Prop 8 is passed, it will amend the California Constitution. In California, a simple majority of voters can amend the state Constitution, even if the amendment results in rescinding Constitutional rights. This situation is very different from the amendment process for the U.S. Constitution, which requires a supermajority vote by Congress and the states.

To learn more about the effects of Proposition 8, please attend a forum sponsored by the TJSL Diversity Committee and Outlaw. This forum will be led by the nationally recognized leading expert on the legal issues relating to same-sex marriage: Evan Wolfson.

MARRIAGE EQUALITY
A FORUM ON PROPOSITION 8

On November 4th, California voters will vote on Proposition 8. If passed, Proposition 8 will amend the California Constitution to eliminate the right of same sex couples to marry in California. This voter initiative has been the subject of heated debate and sometimes misleading propaganda.

On Tuesday, October 14th, at 4:30 p.m., Thomas Jefferson School of Law will host a forum featuring Evan Wolfson, the founder and Executive Director of Freedom to Marry. Recognizing his longtime civil rights leadership in the movement for marriage equality, in 2004 TIME magazine named Evan Wolfson one of the "100 most influential people in the world." Mr. Wolfson was co-counsel in the historic Hawaii marriage case, argued before the U.S. Supreme Court in Boy Scouts of America v. Dale, served in the Peace Corps in West Africa, and is the author of Why Marriage Matters: America, Equality and Gay People's Right to Marry.

Please join us at this informative and interactive discussion about the ramifications of Proposition 8. Mr. Wolfson will be available for book signing after the event.

Tuesday, October 14th 4:30-5:45 p.m.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
2120 San Diego Avenue
Courtyard Building
Room 200

For more information and directions visit www.tjsl.edu <http://www.tjsl.edu/>

This event is cohosted by Outlaw and the TJSL Diversity Committee

MCLE credit available upon request.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law is a State Bar of California Approved MCLE provider
This program qualifies for MCLE credit in the amount of 1.25 hours.

Marriage Equality Program - Oct 15th

2008-10-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

Next Wednesday, Oct 15th at 5pm in WH2A Matt Stephens, Esq. will be giving a presentation on the constitutional aspects and legal decisions surrounding marriage, including the California Supreme Court decision and prop 8.

Matt Stephens was a founding member and former co-president of the Tom Homann Law Association, was voted a San Diego Top Attorney for 2008 by the Daily Transcript, and is a partner of Stock Stephens LLC.

Please come out and show your support for Pride Law and for marriage equality. Its a critical time in California, and the more you know, the better prepared you will be to talk to those who might have questions.

I hope to see all of you next wednesday.

Pride Law Meeting 09/30 at Noon in WH133

2008-09-22T16:34:00.001-07:00

It's time for another meeting. We'll provide the food! You provide the fun! Find out some details about upcoming events. The marriage equality program, gay days at disneyland, and more!

New Web Address

2008-09-13T11:48:00.000-07:00

For your convenience, we've changed the blog web address. You can now find us at

www.usdpridelaw.com

Hopefully this will be a lot easier to remember and less typing is always a good thing. If you're not fond of change, never fear. The old blogspot address still works.

PRIDELAW DISCUSSION LIST SIGN UP INFO

2008-09-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

SIGN UP FOR THE PRIDE LAW DISCUSSION LIST!
Want to get the latest news? All the juicy details? THE NITTY AND THE GRITTY? Then sign up for the Pride Law Listserve!! Tell your friends, buddies, pals, acquaintances, professors, doctors, mailman, clergy, etc. that the only way to stay on top of the most current happenings at USD is by signing up to the listserve and checking the USD Pride Law blog. https://lists.sandiego.edu/mailman/listinfo/pridelaw-l
Got any questions about signing up, email usdpridelaw@gmail.com.

THLA Update re: Padres Game and Mixer

2008-09-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

President Schneeweiss!

Don't forget THLA is sponsoring a Padres' Game Night with the YNLD of the County Bar Association. TOMORROW: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2008....You can get tickets online at www.SDCBA.org. There is a party beforehand at the Palm located at 6th and J. Be there or be square.... Last night was a great student mixer. We had all three local law schools very well represented with Cal Western taking the bag with the most law students showing up! The organization got a lot stronger last night with the addition of a bunch of fun, smiling and energetic queer lawyers ready to participate in THLA!

Way to go, PRIDELAWYERS!!!!!

TODAY IS MICHELLE'S BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-11T16:41:00.000-07:00

just so you know...

Trial judge finds Florida gay adoption ban unconstitutional!

2008-09-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

Trial judge finds Florida gay adoption ban unconstitutional Joe Shaulis at 4:19 PM ET
[JURIST] A trial judge in Key West has found Florida's law preventing gay and lesbian [JURIST news archive] people from adopting children to be unconstitutional and has issued an order [PDF text] permitting a foster parent to adopt a 13-year-old boy. Judge David J. Audlin Jr. of the Monroe County Circuit Court [official website] ruled that the 1977 statute [text] violates both the US Constitution and the Florida Constitution [text] because it acts as a bill of attainder intended "to repress gay Floridians as a group" and violates the separation of powers doctrine by precluding judicial discretion. As part of the 67-page final judgment of adoption, released Thursday, Audlin wrote:
The Court finds the foregoing facts to be true: (a) The fact that Petitioner is a gay man is irrelevant to his skills as a parent and his fitness to adopt. Irrespective of Petitioner's sexual orientation, it is in the minor's best interest to be adopted by Petitioner, (b) Floridians who are gay or lesbian are not for that reason inherently incapable of parenting an adopted child, (c) In view of the less restrictive alternative safeguards that exist, there is no need for categorical disqualification of all gays and lesbians in Florida from adoption to ensure that no child is adopted by an inappropriate caregiver, and (d) After having listened to and read the legislative history surrounding the enactment of SB 354, the Court finds that there was no non-punitive purpose for

NEW YEAR, NEW BLOOD! SO ENERGIZED!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

I was just thrilllllllllled to see so many new faces at the Pride Law meeting yesterday!!! We welcome you all with open arms and hope you will make Pride Law your club by becoming actively involved in deciding what we will do this year and in the future. Thanks to those who volunteered or were co-opted into taking leadership roles as SBA rep, Diversity rep, and Communications Guru. Remember, come see me in the library anytime if you need anything at all -- including paper clips, post-its, or a listening post.

Somebody wise once said, "Law school sucks...! But being involved with Pride Law makes it a lot less sucky." What eloquence! What joie d'vivre! It is in this spirit that we greet you and welcome you to the fold. At times you may feel that you are too dumb to become a lawyer. This is completely normal...normal...NORMAL! I mean, think of the millions who have gone before you -- no more intelligent, committed, or hard working. They did it, and so can you.

I am also thrillllllllled (i'm gay, so I can be overly emotive!) to have remembered my login and password for this blog! It means that I can torture you all regularly with my comments and asides and general harangues. All opinions offered are mine only and not those of the other blogspotters, and should never be construed to be at all truthful unless I explicitly say "NO LIE!" How's that for a disclaimer??

2008 AIDS WALK SAN DIEGO

2008-09-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

The 19th Annual San Diego AIDS Walk/5K will be held on Sunday, Sept. 28 in Balboa Park. Come join the USD Team by signing up at

https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=266508&lis=1&kntae266508=1F03DAC673E045C9B652CF35A1AA1D6A&supId=0&team=2849854&cj=Y.

AIDS Walk San Diego is the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser and the biggest non-governmental financial provider for HIV/AIDS in San Diego County. Nearly 30 organizations - serving thousands of clients - rely on funds raised at the annual 5K walk and 10K run to help provide essential prevention and care programs to thousands of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS.

Pride Law at the Club Fair

2008-09-02T22:36:00.000-07:00

Pride Law will have a table at the club fair on Sept 3 from 3-6pm, so come on by and say hello!

PRIDE LAW WELCOME PARTY - SAVE THE DATE!

2008-07-30T19:39:00.000-07:00

Who: USD Pride Law Members, new 1Ls and friends

What: WELCOME BACK POOL PARTY AND POTLUCK BBQ!

When: Saturday August 23rd 3-7 pm

Where: Map and Directions to follow
Why: Why not? :) Catch up with old friends and make new ones. If you know any upcoming USD 1Ls, spread the word and tell them to check out the blog for info.

Since the BBQ is potluck, leave a comment and let us know what you're planning to bring. I think everyone would be bummed if there were 50 liters of soda and no food.

SIGN UP FOR THE PRIDE LAW DISCUSSION LIST!

2008-07-25T00:53:00.000-07:00

Want to get the latest news? All the juicy details? THE NITTY AND THE GRITTY? Then sign up for the Pride Law Listserve!! Tell your friends, buddies, pals, acquaintances, professors, doctors, mailman, clergy, etc. that the only way to stay on top of the most current happenings at USD is by signing up to the listserve and checking the USD Pride Law blog.

https://lists.sandiego.edu/mailman/listinfo/pridelaw-l

Got any questions about signing up, email usdpridelaw@gmail.com.

Save the Date End-of-the-Year Blowout!!

2008-03-03T00:08:00.000-08:00

PRIDE-rs & PRIDELAW-yers:

Save the Date for our end-of-the-year blowout:

WHAT: Pool Party
WHEN: Sunday, May 4 from 1 - 4 PM
WHERE: Amy Besnoy's house (directions forthcoming)
WHO: PRIDE, PRIDELAW, alums, faculty, staff, administrators, friends, partners, spouses, roommates, family, children--everyone except dogs & cats!
WHY: To celebrate the end of another fabulous year!!

Mark your calendars now! Details will follow.

Evelyn/Dr K

March Forth on March Fourth!

2008-03-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

National Center for Lesbian Rights Special Invitation

March Forth on March Fourth!

Dear NCLR Champion,

In mid-February I grabbed some sandwiches and headed to the top of a neighborhood overlooking the Castro and the city of San Francisco. As I sat in the living room of Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon enjoying the spectacular view from the small cottage they have shared together for decades, I thought how lucky I am . . . On this particularly beautiful February day, the three of us reminisced about what we were doing four-years ago at about this very same time. We, and the entire City of San Francisco, were living through the electric and historic "marrage moment". On February 12, 2004, I picked Del and Phyllis up at 8:30 a.m. and we drove to City Hall, where they became the first couple to be married after Mayor Gavin Newsom ordered the City and County of San Francisco to begin issuing marriage licenses to lesbian and gay couples. That day, and the 30 days that followed were among the most enthralling and exhilarating of my life. On March 4, those adrenaline days come full circle with our oral argument before the California State Supreme Court challenging the exclusion of lesbian and gay couples from the right to marry.

Click here to read more of Kate's Blog
http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=NrDIfWUMuQwcpH_mkKeffw..

Watch history in the making!

On March 4, 2008 at 9:00 a.m., the California Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in In re Marriage Cases, which challenges the constitutionality of state laws that discriminate against same-sex couples in marriage. NCLR Legal Director Shannon Minter will appear before the court in this historic case.

Watch the arguments online:

California Channel Live Webcast
click here to watch the arguments online http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=Xs401b1S4zrEZmRFTStBig..

Watch the arguments on TV in California:

California Channel Live TV Broadcast click here for your local channel listing http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=klR5f4QnwcdD0NcdPGKG_w..

Watch the arguments on TV in the Bay Area:

San Francisco Government Television (SFGTV) Channel 26
click here for programming information http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=v-hEAxJt2hYCbtNxW1lCPw..

Watch oral arguments at the California Supreme Court

Due to the large number of parties in these cases, seating in the courtroom is already reserved. However, public viewing of the oral arguments will be available on closed circuit television in an overflow viewing auditorium in the Milton Marks Conference Center.

Hiram Johnson State Office Building, Lower Level
455 Golden Gate Avenue
San Francisco, California

Watch oral arguments at UC Hastings College of Law

University of California Hastings College of Law is offering a live TV feed of the oral arguments, and is open to the general public. Panel discussion follows featuring Professors Hillman, Massey, and Weithorn.
http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=ranDzf57y3AayaZLIqRZ7A..

UC Hastings
198 McAllister Street
Louis B. Mayer Auditorium
San Francisco, California

Watch oral arguments at the San Francisco LGBT Center

The Center and Vince & Pete's Three Dollar Bill Cafe invite the community to watch the oral arguments on March 4. http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=Ohui08txxQO12RgEXV4a3A..

Three Dollar Bill Cafe, in the San Francisco LGBT Center
1800 Market Street (at Octavia)
San Francisco, California

Habitat for Humanity - March 1st

2008-02-21T23:31:00.000-08:00

Message from Jenn regarding the Habitat for Humanity event in March. Please contact her if you have questions or would like to volunteer.

Hello Everyone,

Just a reminder, this is a week from Saturday, and we still have 3 spots available. So please e-mail if your want to help out!

Here's the 411 on Habitat for Humanity. Our volunteer date is March 1st. I don't have an exact time, but it will start in the morning and go until the afternoon. We have room for 7 volunteers. (If more than 7 people want to volunteer we will just take the first seven people who respond to this email, and I will keep track of the next 3-5 alternates). However, please don't sign up if you are not committed to go. If something comes up, and you cannot make it, let me know ASAP so that I can try and fill your spot. Habitat only allows a small number of volunteers at the site, and they are depending on us to fill those 7 spaces. 8 members of LaRaza will be joining us that day, and I'm sure we can do a carpool to the buildsite (Sorry, don't know where it is yet).

As a point of information, there is a possibility, for those that do sign up, that the build day could be canceled. We spoke with Habitat at the beginning of the week, and their schedule is a bit behind, but I have no idea the likelihood that it will be canceled. I just wanted to give everyone the full scoop before they sign up.

Any questions or to sign up for habitat: jennifer.mauri@gmail.com

OK! I think this is going to be a great event, and I'm looking forward to building a house with my fellow Pridelaw-ers!
Jenn

California Innocence Project

2008-01-24T22:46:00.000-08:00

Check out the invitation here

Third Annual PRIDE/PRIDELAW Alumni/ae Fund-raiser

2008-01-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

Third Annual PRIDE/PRIDELAW Alumni/ae Fund-raiser:

Saturday, February 9
6 - 9 PM
Camino-Founders Courtyard (rear next to Sacred Heart Hall)

Please come support your fellow Pride Law members as they talk about their experiences at Lavender Law last fall in Chicago!

If anything, don't pass up the free food!

Contact List

2008-01-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

We are creating a contact list so that it will be easier for us to coordinate and plan events. For those who would like to be included on the Pride Law contact list, please e-mail usdpridelaw@gmail.com. If you do not want your contact info shared with the general membership, please let either Michelle or myself know.

We'll distribute a contact list at our next Pride Law meeting.

Habitat for Humanity

2008-01-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

Pride Law and La Raza are co-sponsoring an event in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity scheduled for Saturday, March 1st. The time and location haven't been finalized. For those interested in volunteering, please contact Jennifer Mauri at jmauri-10@sandiego.edu.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity, please check out http://www.habitat.org/