Upholding the Right to be Safe: Addressing Bullying Based on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity

Division of Gender and Cultural Issues of the Westchester County Psychological Association

in association with  THE LOFT: LGBT Community Services Center & Center Lane: Community Center for LGBTQ Youth Presents

Upholding the Right to be Safe: Addressing Bullying Based on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity

Friday, April 27^th, 2012

from 1-3 pm                                                                 

AT The LOFT: LGBT Community Center 252 Bryant Ave, White Plains

Bullying around issues of sexual orientation, non-confirming gender behaviors and dress is the second most common form of bullying, second only to issues of appearance.  With the passage of the Dignity For Students Act and its enactment on July 1, 2012, the purpose of this law will be to provide a safe and supportive educational environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying. 

This workshop will explore the psychology behind bullying directed at students who are, or are perceived to be lesbian, gay or sexual minority youth.  The presenters will share some of the theories of why bullying takes place and discuss some successful strategies of combating bullying and preparing students with coping mechanisms should they fall victim.  We will also share video clips from a student created documentary showing Irvington teachers, principals and students expressing their personal experiences and feelings about bias, bullying and acceptance.  It is a riveting experience to watch this film!  

This workshop is for school & child psychologists, education professionals, parents, and youth service providers. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own strategies on this issue to share with the group.

Gloria Batkin Kahn, EdD, ABPP, FAGPA, CGP, has extensive experience in working with teens, first as a school counselor for over 25 years, and now in her private practice and as a consultant to schools.  She is an Advanced Imago Relationship therapist, and one of the first 25 psychologists in the US to receive the Diplomate degree in Group Therapy.  In her private practice she leads coed adult and adolescent relational groups.  Dr. Kahn is immediate Past President of the American Board of Group Psychology; Past President of both the Westchester County Psychological Association, and the Westchester Group Psychotherapy Society.  She has published extensively on the subjects of adolescents, couples therapy, trauma, and group therapy.

James Stewart, LMSW, MDiv, MA, is Program Director of Center Lane, Westchester’s only community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, ages 13-21, with locations in White Plains and Yonkers.  Mr. Stewart has more than 20 years' experience working with adolescents and their families in schools, community, and hospital-based settings throughout the tri-state area.

Jennifer Kahn Ruoff, LMSW, MS Ed, has been providing individual and family counseling and support groups for families with children with special needs for over 15 years.  She is a Special Education Advocate who helps parents navigate the special education system and acquire the appropriate services for their children. Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Irvington Diversity Foundation Inc. which is an organization that helps create acceptance of diversity throughout the schools and community through promoting and funding student, teacher and administrator awareness and response programs.  

This event is offered at no cost as a community service but there is limited space.

Please RSVP at 914-723-3030 or email WCPA4U@verizon.net