Saturday, December 18, 2010

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Ends!!

Iowa Pride Network hailed the end to the discriminatory policy that discriminated against gay and lesbian military service members, known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," today. The repeal of the policy helps our nation and military become a stronger, better force for the world.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

IPN is 2010 Characters Unite Award Winner!

Dear Friends,

I wanted to inform you of some great news!

I recently learned IPN will receive the prestigious 2010 Characters Unite Award from USA Network and Mediacom! 

As supporters and student advocates of Iowa Pride Network (IPN), you know how important our work is. You know that everyday, IPN advocates for the safety and well-being of Iowa's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students and educates them on their rights and resources.   It is because of this, and your continued support in making it happen, that I want to personally invite you to help us celebrate by joining us at a Celebration Luncheon, hosted by USA Network and Medicom on Thursday, December 16th at noon at the Marriott in downtown Des Moines. (Please see the invitation for details below)

The Celebration Luncheon is complementary to IPN supporters and student advocates and will be a great time to mark how far we have come in creating a more affirming state for LGBT people.

Hope to see you there!
Ryan Roemerman


 P.S. Please direct RSVPs or questions to Molly Scoles at Mediacom – mscoles@mediacomcc.com

(Click Invitation for Larger View)

Please RSVP by Monday, December 13

Ryan Roemerman co-founded Iowa Pride Network when he was a student at the University of Iowa and led the effort to establish and LGBT center on campus.  Ryan has since developed IPN into a nationally recognized state organization.  IPN works directly with students, helping empower them to start and enhance gay-straight alliances in their high schools and colleges, while building a statewide network that offers support, mentoring, educational, advocacy and networking opportunities.  Additionally, Ryan has authored the Iowa School and College Climate Surveys and newly developed "Safe School Certification Program" - a program that seeks to strengthen implementation of Iowa's Safe Schools Law, legislation for which IPN was a major proponent. 

Characters Unite, USA Network's community affairs program, was created in January 2009 to address the social injustices and cultural divides still prevalent in our society. Inspired by USA Network's iconic "Characters Welcome" brand and with the support of leading national nonprofit organizations, the ongoing campaign is dedicated to supporting activities and messaging that combat prejudice and intolerance while promoting understanding and acceptance -- on-air, online, and in communities across the country. www.charactersunite.com
 
For more information on Characters Unite and Ryan Roemerman, visit http://www.charactersunite.com/awards/roemerman