Last October, Gov. Jerry Brown signed a California version of the DREAM Act, enabling “high-achieving” immigrant students here illegally to have access to financial aid from Cal-Grants at public universities and community colleges starting in 2013. The bill by Assemblyman Gil Cedillo requires that student applicants must first graduate from a California high school they’ve attended for at least three years; be in the process of legalizing their immigration status; and demonstrate financial need.
But not all students are “high achievers,” let alone free of the fear and confusion lurking in psyche about being an “illegal alien” in the eyes of the right wing law – especially if you’re an undocumented LGBT immigrant. TONIGHT at 7:00pm at the West Hollywood Library, some smart experts will discuss “Coming Out of the Shadows – LGBTQ and Undocumented” that might help clear up some myths and misperceptions. Co-sponsored by the City of West Hollywood, speakers include Thomas A. Saenz, President and General Counsel, The Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund; Lorri L. Jean, Chief Executive Officer, The LA Gay & Lesbian Center; Kent Wong, Director, The UCLA Labor Center; and several LGBTQ immigrant student activists. West Hollywood Councilmember John Heilman will serve as the panel moderator.
“Coming Out of the Shadows – LGBTQ and Undocumented,” will be held in the Community Room at the West Hollywood Library, 625 N. San Vicente Boulevard. Free validated parking is available in the 5-story West Hollywood Park Parking Garage. For more information, please call the Office of West Hollywood Councilmember John Duran at (323) 848-6460. To RSVP, please call (213) 629-2512 or email mbarragan@maldef.org
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Nice coverage for a very legitimate issue. Enjoyed the brief news update!