Wanda Sykes, Julian Bond Speak at NAACP, LGBT Forum

Wanda Sykes, an out lesbian comedienne and Julian Bond, an openly gay former NAACP chairman, both spoke at the LGBT forum about gay rights. They made the case that LGBT rights are civil rights! For more information about this forum and to read a full article please see: http://newsone.com/nation/ggaynor/naacp-lgbt-forum/

Growing Leadership Film

Check out this video put out by the HOPE foundation, highlighting the leaders of organizations that work with the great community to make it a more welcoming place. This film focuses on those leaders that work so hard to increase acceptance and understanding for LGBT persons of color. It is one of a series that will be made. We hope you enjoy it!
http://www.modeldmedia.com/features/lgbt711.aspx

Unhealthy Eating Increases as Black Unemployment Rises

African-American unemployment is at 16.2% compared to overall Americans unemployment sitting at 9.2%. As unemployment rises, so do trips to fast food establishments due to their cheap offerings and ease of access. The quality of food is less, but so is the price and time it takes to get the food. With people trying to make ends meet by working multiple part time jobs or hunting for jobs, this makes unhealthy eating a sometimes necessary option. The foods at fast-food places are cheaper and more convenient but at the price of having more calories that fill you up less.
In a twist of irony, hunger is spreading with soup kitchens and food pantries are seeing a record increase in demand as the recession continues. One non-profit out of New York City reported over a 100,000 person increase in 3 years in people served. This unprecedented call for help reminds us to give thanks for what we have.

Focus on: Simone Bell

Simone Bell is an elected representative in the Georgia state House of Representatives. She is the first African-American lesbian lawmaker and has advocated for LGBTQ rights and health care throughout her political career. She was recently selected to speak at the San Diego Women's Pride Brunch. Please see her website for more information about this inspirational representative!: http://www.simonebell.com/index.cfm