Equality Maricopa, formerly known as the GLHRA (Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Association), recently changed their name in order to reflect a desire to be more inclusive of the entire community that this employee group serves.  On December 1, 2007, Equality Maricopa held a planning retreat at Phoenix College to generate fresh ideas, foster new leadership, and identify potential new goals for the organization.  Twenty-one employees, representing nine colleges and the district office, attended the retreat, indicating a growing desire amongst people to connect with other MCCCD employees who share the common goal of supporting the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) community.

As there were both previous and new members of the organization in attendance, activities were designed to open communication channels, build a sense of unity, and identify goals for the future.  Goal-setting and visioning for the future of the organization included serving as a support network, fostering a safe academic environment and campus climate, and providing education on LGBTQ issues.

Previous accomplishments of the organization include the addition of domestic partner benefits to the MCCCD employee benefits package, the inclusion of “sexual orientation” in MCCCD’s non-discrimination policy, the development of EOLT’s Safe Space (an educational and ally training program designed to increase awareness and sensitivity to LGBTQ issues), an annual Convocation/Reception recognizing LGBTQ faculty, staff, and students for their successes and contributions to the MCCCD community, and various educational and social events throughout the district.

The Equality Maricopa meeting schedule is as follows:
            February 21st at 3:30 p.m. (SMCC, Room SU100BC)
            March 27th at 3:30 p.m. (location TBA)

Also, save the date for the 2008 Spring Convocation on May 3rd with distinguished guest speaker Neil Giuliano, president of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD.)

For more information about Equality Maricopa, please visit the website at http://www.maricopa.edu/glhra/.

Article submitted by Julie Holsten, SMCC