LGBTQ FAMILY AND FRIENDS EVENT SET FOR SUMMER | Business

Celebrating transitions and transformations, the LGBTQ Family and Friends Conference returns to Star Island for 2012 from Sunday, July 15 to Saturday, July 21.

This growing conference remains a welcoming opportunity for LGBTQ individuals and families. Experience with others the opportunity to share the challenging transitions and life-altering transformations we have faced.

Join in recognizing those transformations in a safe, fun space where all can give voice to that which longs to be free. Star Island provides a space where one can enjoy rare beauty and engage in relaxing, creative and educational activities.

Michele Angelo, Ph.D. joins the 2012 LGBTQ Family and Friends Conference as theme speaker. Dr. Angello works with gender variant youth and adults. She has presented internationally on her work with trans-youth and working with children of transitioning parents. She developed the first graduate course in the U.S. that focuses on clinical issues in transgender communities.

Rev. Nate Walker of the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia will act as minister of the week. Walker came out of the closet as a 15-year-old high school student. At that time his grandmother introduced him to the UU Fellowship of Northern Nevada because she knew they were welcoming and affirming.

Conference Chair, Sandra Greenfield, said, “In a world that challenges LGBTQ families to sustain emotional, physical and spiritual health, this first-ever six-day conference on Star Island offers a place to feel valued and safe enough to be visible. The week will provide information, advocacy, family activities, connection and spiritual enrichment while imagining a world without fear, stigma or isolation.”

Star Island CEO, Vicky Hardy, said, “Star Island was founded by liberal organizations known for demanding equality. The LGBTQ Family and Friends Conference showcases the true meaning of the Star Island spirit. We look forward to a long relationship with this new conference.”

To register for the 2012 LGBTQ Family and Friends Conference please visit StarIsland.org/LGBTQ.

The Star Island Corporation was established as a nonprofit corporation in 1916 to hold and administer Star Island and its historic properties for religious, educational, and kindred purposes. The Laighton family owned and operated hotels on the Isles of Shoals that attracted some of the most prominent artists and writers of their day. Some of the cottages on Star Island date back to the 1700s. Visit StarIsland.org for more information.