The First Midwest GLBT Conference will convene in Columbus, Ohio on Friday, March 16 through Sunday, March 18th, 2007. The location for this event is the Clarion Hotel & Suites, 900 East Dublin Grandville, Rd. The purpose of this conference is for individual and community empowerment, social networking, and educational opportunities for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender of color population within the Midwest region. This conference is concerned with the needs, life experiences, cultural appreciation and the advancement of the GLBT Community. Various issues will be addressed and specific topics will be discussed during insightful and provocative workshops and seminars. In addition, there will be electrifying entertainment and quality programming for the enrichment of all the attendees. Special guests include the very talented Steep Stewart, of the “Steep Stewart Show;” Mykle Kane, author of the exciting new novel, “Impossible Dreams;” and the First Lady of Columbus, Mrs. Frankie Coleman. Other activities scheduled include a cutting edge fashion show, an indoor pool party, a jazz reception and a hotel church service to round out the conference’s busy itinerary. This conference is so important for everyone, but especially for the GLBT of color population. Author and activist, Keith Boykin stated,” I have learn from experiences that the primary challenges facing black GLBT people are internal, not external. We have less to fear from others than we do from our own lack of self-respect and self-value. Our deepest wounds are usually self-inflicted, leaving behind the scars of internalized racism and homophobia. Through our silence, we have licensed and encouraged dysfunctional behavior by our friends, our families, our institutions, and our clergy. For far too many of us, this has become our reality.” For further information please contact the First Midwest GLBT Conference at (614) 370-1493.
Wanda Ellis who serves as the Vice President of the Stonewall Columbus Board of trustees will be stationed at the event to answer questions about SWC and to promote participation of the GLBT census.
