“It gets better” – Helping Queer Youth

Life for Trae Krum would most likely be considered normal given the traditional American narrative. The southern California native grew up in a religiously conservative household with her 3 sisters and mother and father, who affectionately referred to her as Tracy. Trae attended church, kept her hair long, wore dresses, showed cleavage, and dated boys. None of this, however, was normal for Trae.

“Living in the closet is almost as painful as what happens after coming out.” Trae said.

Her adolescence, a confusing and traumatic enough experience for straight, cisgender (biologically male or female) youth, was inundated with messages of homosexuality “is a sin” and “a choice”. So for Trae, who now identifies as Gender Queer and a Lesbian, becoming the person she is today involved forging an identity in the face of incessant invalidation of her very existence. Being a lesbian means that Trae is attracted to other women, while being Gender Queer means that Trae does not identify as male or female and sees her gender as being more “fluid”. Even as an adult, friends and family continue to tell Trae to “tone it down” or “keep it to herself”.

“People have told me numerous times that they ‘don’t want to see it’ or would rather I just ‘keep it to myself.’” Trae explained.

Trae’s experience, although unique in its own right, parallels the experiences of millions of gay and transgender youth across the country whose very identity is challenged and questioned. While the rest of us toe the line and play gendertyped sports, date members of the opposite sex, and dress in traditionally gendered fashion, many are severely punished for simply wanting to express who they are. According to Trae, the visceral reaction experienced by LGBT persons is unique to other nontraditional personal expressions. Trae spoke of our cultural binary systems that place matters of gender and sexuality into an “either/or” category in which people are straight or gay, male or female, masculine or feminine, etc. For those who do not fit into this binary system life can not only be personally agonizing, but socially punishing.

A report released by Advocates for Youth on the experiences of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) youth reveals a traumatic and nearly unbelievable reality. Close to 85% of LGBT students reported being verbally harassed in school, while 20% reported being physically assaulted at school. Additionally, 29% missed a class and 30% missed a day of school in the past month because they felt unsafe at school. The abuse is not confined to schools, as 26% of LGBT youth report being kicked out of their homes upon coming out to their parents. This has lead to LGBT youth making up 20-40% of homeless youth. The tragic reality is that these early traumatic experiences do not merely fall by the wayside as these youth grow and develop. The mindless phrase ‘what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger’ painfully ignores the residual damage caused by abusive environments and scarce sources of support.

So where does this lead? Do Lesbian women, gay men, and transgender persons graduate the traumatic experiences of their adolescence and enter into a much more welcoming and accepting adulthood surrounded by strong systems of support? People like Trae and syndicated columnist Dan Savage, argue that life does in fact get better in the hopes of reaching LGBT youth before they contemplate or commit suicide. United States surveys demonstrate that LGBT youth and adults are 2-6 times more likely than their straight counterparts to attempt suicide. Additionally, youth who face familial rejection of their sexual or gender orientation are eight times more likely to report a suicide attempt compared to LGBT youth in less rejecting families. In order to curb these disturbing trends organizations such as the It Gets Better Campaign and the Trevor Project specifically target the issue of suicide among LGBT youth. Dan Savage’s It Gets Better Campaign began with Dan and his partner posting a youtube video attempting to uplift troubled LGBT youth by telling them life gets better. They have found that having LGBT adults convey messages of hope and support can be a powerful tool in helping youth persevere in the face of immense rejection and hardship. The Trevor Project is a suicide hotline that offers support to LGBT youth who may be at risk for a suicide attempt. The hope is that LGBT youth will connect with the Trevor Project and receive crisis intervention to curb suicidal ideation or attempts.

Although Trae may not necessarily describe her life as being better now than before, she certainly represents that narrative. Trae is currently a PhD candidate in the Couple and Family Therapy (CFT) program and is part of a soon to be initiated LGBT Clinic that will provide counseling and medical services for LGBT youth. As a therapist, Trae can serve as both a clinical specialist helping LGBT youth experiencing psychiatric conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, etc. But as a Lesbian, Gender Queer person, Trae can serve as a beacon of hope for LGBT youth coming into the clinic. Trae goes on to describe:

“The most important thing to offer in counseling LGBT youth is support; to just offer a place that is safe and welcoming where they can express themselves fully.”

Youth who are Transgender and may be interested in transitioning their gender through hormone therapy will have access to medical professionals who specialize in LGBT care and counseling that will be best suited to their needs. Trae went on to emphasize that not only can our society be described as heterosexist (meaning heterosexual traits and relationships are emphasized while others are rejected outright or described as deviant), but even our counseling practices can devolve into harmful stereotypes as well. Many are aware of therapies such as reparative therapy in which counselors tell LGBT persons that they can choose to be straight, even though the American Counseling Association, American Psychological Association, American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, and many others have rejected the therapy, citing it as harmful to LGBT persons. But even mainstream therapies that do not discriminate based on sexual or gender orientation can sometimes place too much of an emphasis on sexuality, while forgetting that it is instead the harmful environments in which LGBT persons reside and not their sexuality or gender that leads to psychological distress. The point must be reemphasized that the relationship between psychological dysfunction and distress is not a causal one; rather, the psychological distress experienced by LGTBQ youth is a microcosm of lived experience in a heterosexist and homophobic world.

“It’s important in a therapeutic setting to affirm our LGBT youth. This can be as simple as having a rainbow flag in your office, or as involved as attending a gay rights rally. All of these indicate support.” Trae said.

As Trae continues to support LGBT youth in Iowa City and the surrounding areas, the issue of acceptance for LGBT people remains a significant civil rights issue in our time. For Trae, tolerance can no longer be the satisfactory minimum by which people absolve themselves of responsibility in a homophobic world. As Trae notes, “Tolerance lets you hate me, and devalue me without saying it to my face.” Whereas acceptance validates the lives of persons who are LGBT and places them on an equal plane with their straight and cisgender counterparts. In the recent elections LGBT persons saw some progress as same sex marriage ballots were supported and a gay marriage ban was voted down in 3 states. Moving forward, however, there continues to be a need to develop and implement supportive services for LGBT persons of all ages that validate their lives and accept them holistically.

The post LGBT Youth in Iowa City appeared first on KRUI Radio.

News Director Betsy Penisten spoke with actress Sarah Jessica Parker on an on-air phone interview yesterday about the importance of getting out to the polls and casting YOUR vote. Parker is best known for her role as the know-all sex guru Carrie Bradshaw in the popular 90’s HBO hit television series Sex and the City.

Sarah Jessica Parker on the Importance of Voting pt. 1

Sarah Jessica Parker on the Importance of Voting pt. 2

The post Actress Sarah Jessica Parker Wants YOU to Cast Your Vote! appeared first on KRUI Radio.

By KRUI News reporter Michael Gerald

 Early voting has represented many things this election cycle. It has been a political talking point, a political strategy, a motivational tool, and for many Iowans it has been represented by satellite early voting sites and door to door canvassing. Although early voting is available to voters of any party affiliation, according to Professor Timothy Hagle of the University of Iowa, historically Democratic voters are much more likely to vote early whereas Republican voters have higher turnout rates on Election Day. Although it is difficult to track the results of early voting, Professor Michael McDonald of George Mason University and the United States Elections Project has reported that currently in all reporting jurisdictions there have been over 29 million ballots already cast. Of those 29 million, the statistical breakdowns among the states show that the historical trends of high Democratic voter returns on early voting are mostly holding true. In Iowa, for instance, as of November 4th over 613,000 Iowans have already cast ballots and 42% have been cast by registered Democrats compared to 32% by Republicans. Similarly in Nevada, another swing state, over 701,000 early votes have been cast with 43% coming from Democrats compared to 37% from Republicans.

The news is not all bad for Republicans, however. In Colorado and Florida registered Republicans have an early voting edge of 3% and 5% respectively. What is the reason for the disparities? What is the significance of early voting, if any?

According to Professor Hagle one of the primary differences between the Democratic and Republican constituencies is age. Younger voters, specifically college age voters between 18 and 24, tend to vote more with Democrats, but have lower voter turnout than older voters who are likely to vote Republican. So early voting represents an opportunity, maybe even a strategy, to get younger voters to the polls. Professor Hagle noted that there are two typical types of early voting: voting by absentee ballot, and early in-person voting at satellite polling places. Historically early voting has been an avenue for people to vote who could not otherwise vote on Election Day at their respective polling place. These could be individuals who had moved away for school, those who may be out of town or working on Election Day, or even those who are ill and in the hospital.

Professor Paul Gronke of the Early Voting Information Center based at Reed College cites a Constitutional basis for early voting as a result of a 1999 ruling in Texas. The overall decision was that early voting does not decide the election prior to the first Tuesday in November (which is the Federal statute) and therefore does not conflict with Constitutional regulations. The recent expansion of early voting, and even the resistance to it, is a complex and multifaceted issue.

This still does not fully address the question of the significance of early voting in 2012 and why it has been a dominant topic in the conversations surrounding the presidential election. It appears to have become an electoral force for Democrats and a point of contention for Republicans. Katherine Valde, President of the University Democrats at the University of Iowa, spoke explicitly about the demographic differences between the parties. Katherine pointed out that not only are young college students voting as Democrats more often, but Democrats are also represented persons who are of low Socioeconomic Status (SES), and other communities whose votes may be difficult to ascertain. According to Kathryn, “Early voting gives us an opportunity to track these voters down.” Early voting from the Democratic point of view, represents not only more votes and potentially more electoral victories but also an opportunity to extend the opportunity to vote to those who may not otherwise be able to according to Professor Hagle. This is reflected in the early voting activities seen around Iowa City. While many took place on the University of Iowa campus, there were also early voting satellite sites at the Downtown Library, HyVee grocery stores, and the County Auditor’s office, just to name a few.

Early voting has not been without its detractors, however, as many states, particularly those with Republican Governors or Republican dominated legislatures, have sought to limit the amount of early voting and voter registration that can take place. Attempts to reduce early voting in Ohio and attempted voting requirements of a state-issued photo ID in Pennsylvania were both causes championed by conservatives in those states. When asked about this point of contention, Professor Hagle discussed the two different viewpoints surrounding the issue. Whereas Democrats may view early voting as a manner of expanding the electorate and giving voice to those who may be disenfranchised, Republicans view the early voting process as potentially harming the integrity of the elections by leaving the door open to voter fraud. “Republicans see concerns in terms of voter fraud, for example, people having been bused to more than one location or people using fake ID’s,” said Professor Hagle. These tend to be the concerns that Republicans focus on. Both of these statements represent the ideological viewpoint and are not indicative of a political strategy, which is what both parties have accused the other of.

It seems, then, that the significance of early voting depends on party affiliation and political strategy. Early voting in 2012 is expected to exceed the 41 million early votes cast in the 2008 election and going forward it will represent a larger issue within political campaigns. Whether early voting is seen as a political tactic or democracy-enriching initiative, it is growing in size and popularity among voters. Early voting’s impact on an election is hard to measure, Professor Hagle said. But there is little doubt that early voting is somewhat impactful as according to CNN both President Obama and Vice Presidential candidate Paul Ryan encouraged supporters at rallies to get out and vote early. Early voting is not Democratic or Republican. It is a significant part of the election process now and its significance should be measured. Interest in early voting colliding with efforts to restrict early voting (referred to as “voter suppression” by Democrats) has resulted in long lines and hours-long wait times in states such as Ohio and Florida; key battleground states in this election. The drive for undecided voters, or independents, is part of this heavy emphasis on the early voting process. Professor Hagle noted, “In 2008, 80% of registered voters among Republicans and Democrats turned out, whereas only 61% of registered voters not affiliated with a political party, referred to in Iowa as Independents, turned out.” Katherine Valde concluded, “Early voting is something that is extremely valuable and will become a large part of field organizing in the future.” Whatever one’s political affiliation, early voting is a significant part of the electoral process that deserves attention as we do not yet know its full impact or implications for the future.

The post The Big Bird about Early Voting appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Kaleb spoke with Obama Campaign’s National Communications Director Brent Colburn  in a 2-part on-air phone interview this afternoon. Colburn discusses what to watch for in tonight’s VP debate.

Brent Colburn 1

Brent Colburn 2

The post Obama Campaign’s National Communications Director Brent Colburn previews tonight’s Vice Presidential debate appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Betsy and Mike spoke with the president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund Cecile Richards in a 2-part on-air phone interview about the interest of Planned Parenthood in the November presidential election. Cecile weighs in on the issues greatly affecting women and discusses science, fact and belief on the basis of conception.

Planned Parenthood part 1

Planned Parenthood part 2

The post Cecile Richards talks Planned Parenthood interest in the 2012 presidential election appeared first on KRUI Radio.

News Director Betsy Penisten spoke with legendary American singer, songwriter and guitarist James Taylor in a two-part on-air phone interview about the importance of early voting.

_James Taylor Interview 1

  James Taylor Interview 2

The post James Taylor talks early voting September 27 appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Local News

Speeding and other drugs

Two men were arrested in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and caught in possession of 52 grams o f marijuana as the result of a high speed chase. According to Johnson County criminal complaints, 19-yeard-old Patrick D. James Jr., and 21-year-old Bernard J. Butler II were speeding on Interstate 380, traveling 80 mph in a 70 mph zone before being caught with more than a 10th of a pound of marijuana.

The men allegedly exited the Interstate onto the North Liberty exist and onto Penn Street before driving around 70 mph in the 35 mph zone. According to police reports, the car came to a stop before one of the men, Bernard J. Butler II ran from the car. After a short-lived chase, police allegedly brought the man to back to his patrol car.

According to police report, a large plastic bag containing 35 baggies of marijuana was found on Butler’s original escape route, with the help of a K9 officer. Butler allegedly was caught with another baggie of marijuana as well as $480 cash. Patrick D. James Jr. admitted to smoking the marijuana in the car after changing his story about why he did not pull over after seeing the officer. According to police report, a drug recognition expert found James to be impaired from the marijuana. Both men now face charges; James of eluding and driving while under the influence, and Butler; possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.

Furthermore, marijuana can also be used for medical purposes, but with a qualifying condition based on a medical marijuana doctor’s recommendation. There’s also a medical marijuana card that can be used when buying this to get big discounts. Marijuana doctors at DocMJ will make the process of applying for a MMJ card much easier.

New childcare center opens doors to community

The University of Iowa recently made plans to builder a child care center in west Iowa City due to a shortage of daycare options for families in the community. The University of Iowa Board of Regents began seeking third-party providers to build, operate and own the childcare facility. The center leased an area from the university off Melrose Avenue and Hawkeye Park Road. At least one of the Iowa City daycare operators fears competition with the new center.

Tom Moore, UI spokesman claims that current contracts with the centers will not be affected by the new facility, which will be open to the larger community of Iowa City. Currently partnering with 14 independent centers near campus, the university has a “campus connected” model for childcare.

The need for more facilities was found after a study of the local childcare center marked found the need for more childcare centers, especially for children of age 2 and younger.

The University of Iowa’s initiative to establish a new childcare center highlights the growing demand for accessible daycare options, particularly for families with young children. As communities expand and more parents balance careers with childcare responsibilities, reliable and high-quality providers become essential. While some local daycare operators express concerns about competition, the overarching need for more facilities is evident, especially for children under the age of two.

Beyond traditional daycare centers, families are also exploring alternative childcare solutions that offer personalized care and flexible schedules. Platforms like My Asian Nanny connect families with experienced and culturally aware caregivers, providing tailored childcare services that accommodate various family needs. Their wide-ranging service areas ensure that parents can find qualified nannies who align with their values, schedules, and caregiving preferences, offering an essential solution in communities where childcare shortages persist.

The new childcare center will open doors for the community, ensuring safety for children being watched at times that their parent and or guardian cannot.

Director at Melrose Day Care, Janet Copastick, fears that the opening of a new center could signal the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics to knock down her facility to make way for additional parking garages. Many houses in the area have been contracted to be demolished for an extra parking lot.

Non-stop bus driver hits, injures motorcyclist

An Iowa City bus driver has been accused of a hit and run last week, September 11 while on duty. According to police reports, the driver failed to come to a complete stop while operating a transit bus. 35-year-old Jamar D. Collin allegedly pulled out the bus in front of a motorcycle approaching on Court Street, injuring the driver before he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed.

According to police report as well as a recorded video and several witnesses, Collins witnessed the scene of the crash and was aware of injuring the driver before leaving the scene of the crime.

Collins was arrested and now faces a count of leaving the scene of an injury induced accident, a serious misdemeanor.

Sources: Iowa City Press Citizen

The post Thursday News Update appeared first on KRUI Radio.

State News

Bullying in schools under fire

In order to stop bullying in schools, all Iowa middle schools and high schools have been invited to submit a video about what their school has done to prevent bullying. By using on social networking sites, citizens will be able to vote on their favorite video, and the winning school will get $500 for bullying prevention. The government officer who is in charge of this event also said parents have a responsibility to monitor their children at home to stop bullying both on and off campus.

Local News

IMU to host annual career and job fair

The annual job and career fair will be held in the Iowa Memorial Union Thursday, Sept. 20. This year, there will be representatives from 140 employers collecting resumes and finding new employees and interns from the university. This number has been the highest in several years. Representatives from IBM, Panda Restaurant Group, Perceptive Software, Principal Financial Group, and Wells Fargo will attend this event.

President Obama’s extra costs

According to sources provided by the University of Iowa, President Barack Obama and his fellows cost the university $50,000 on their visit earlier this month, and about half has been reimbursed. According to UI spokesman Tom Moore, the applicable expenses have been reimbursed to the university. What apparently won’t be reimbursed is the cost of providing extra security.

Inmate MIA, serving 16-year sentence

42-year-old department of correction inmate Steven Adcock has gone missing. According to a Department of Corrections press release, Adcock was serving a 16-year sentence for three counts of third-degree burglary and second-degree theft before he went missing. Adcock is Caucasian, bald with brown eyes. He has tattoos on his arms, shoulders and chest.

Sources: Iowa Now, Iowa City Press Citizen, KCCI.com

The post Tuesday News Update appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Ben McKenzie-Interview-2_2

The post Actor Benjamin McKenzie on President Obama’s Heartland Tour 2012-Interview part 2/2 appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Ben McKenzie Interview-1_2

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