who we are: An intergenerational organizing circle ranging in age from 30 to 85 plan and organize this event. Our oldest member, Malcolm Boyd, is an Episcopal priest who was active in the civil rights movement, is the author of over 30 books-- a 40th anniversary edition of his international bestseller Are You Running With Me, Jesus? was published in 2006. Mark Thompson is a former editor of the Advocate and author of five highly acclaimed books. Brian Gleason is a psychotherapist and filmmaker. We all volunteer our time and creativity because we believe deeply that youth truly does represent our future and we need to support and encourage them in concrete and tangible ways.
why we are doing this: It is very difficult being a young person in America today. Educational opportunities and meaningful employment are shrinking. If you are a gay or lesbian youth the situation is even often worse. Gay teens represent the highest suicide rate in the country. In the print media and on television gay youth are largely invisible. RISE UP AND SHOUT! was organized to identify talented gay youth, to bless and honor their gifts, and to give them visibility by spotlighting their genius at a showcase event at the Barnsdall Gallery Theater.
documentary film: A documentary film of the first Rise Up And Shout! event premiered to a packed audience at Outfest 2007, the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival. You can view a trailer and highlights on the documentary page.
For more information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
“Given half a chance, the youth will take their steps and trust the river of life. the bigger question may be whether a village can be created that can truly accept and receive them. those who wish to work as mentors and elders have to keep one eye on the youth—and another on conditions in the village.”
- Michael Meade, elder and storyteller
Promotional Materials & Other Downloads
Images
- Rise Up and Shout! Official Film Poster (jpg)
- Rise up and shout! Logo (gif) (eps)
- Rise up and shout! Logo w/o text (gif) (eps)
