The Institute for Community Research (ICR) Sexual Minority Youth (SMY) Project will host a transition celebration on Wednesday, August 7, 2002 at Two Hartford Square West, Suite 100 in Hartford. The event marks both the expansion of the project as well as the transition of leadership from Donna Owens, who has headed the project since its inception to Kevin Trimell Jones who comes to ICR with a background in social justice education. The new phase of the SMY project will engage teens in youth-driven participatory action research to develop an increased understanding of issues faced by urban youth of color in Connecticut's three largest cities-- Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven. A particular focus of their research will be on the importance of family and religious networks and natural and formal support systems available through educational and other institutions.

Results from their most recent study, which explores "school safety for LGBTQ youth" will be presented by adult and youth staff who will also share some of their experience and involvement in the project and the educational and action strategies they have implemented. "I've been working here because I believe LGBTQ teens are constantly being mistreated, discriminated against, and misunderstood. I find in this job, my means of advocacy, and a method…to change the views of and to educate," says Nolen, youth research educator.

When asked by their peers about things they value most, urban LGBTQ teens often identify natural networks particularly family, school, and religion. These important natural supports are frequently withheld or withdrawn from youth who identify as LGBTQ. The loss is exacerbated for urban youth where supplemental resources such as gay-straight alliances in schools are most limited. Donna Owens, outgoing SMY Coordinator suggests that "families often interpret unhappiness and suicide tendency with their sexuality, but these things are usually the result of loss of significant supports. That's why this new phase of the project will provide significant information about this important issue."

"One key to the success of this project has been the partnerships and support from other organizations and individuals, who will also be recognized on next Wednesday, " says ICR's Associate Director of Training, Marlene Berg. Some of these partners include: True Colors, Inc., GLSEN-CT, Democracy Works, Hartford Public Schools, Hartford PFLAG and a host of individuals. Their support ranges from providing opportunities for youth to present at events to advising, collaborating and supporting the SMY Projects' development.

This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information, please contact Donna Owens at (860) 278-2044, ext. 258 or Kevin Jones at (860) 278-2044, ext. 275.