[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16385]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING SPECTRUM IN MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 9, 2002

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Spectrum, Center for 
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Concerns, on the occasion 
of its 20th anniversary. Spectrum began its work in 1982, under the 
leadership of Rev. Janie Spahr, and with the direction of Executive 
Director Paula Pilecki, Spectrum has continued to pursue its mission to 
``strengthen, mobilize and serve lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender 
and questioning people, and promote acceptance, understanding and full 
inclusion in Marin County.''
  Spectrum is the only organization in Marin County that focuses 
exclusively on addressing the needs of LGBT people. In twenty years, 
over 1,000 volunteers have helped tens of thousands of people come 
together to speak out against fear and discrimination. Spectrum works 
with a national network of social Justice advocates to make the world a 
more inclusive and safe place for all people. Spectrum recognizes that 
in a diverse community, it is important that people learn to respect 
each other and their differences.
  Spectrum plays an active role in the community, providing outreach 
programs that educate the community on LGBT people and provide systems 
of support for LGBT people. Spectrum's Speakers Bureau makes 
presentations to elementary, middle and high schools, colleges and 
community groups. Volunteer speakers share their personal stories to 
dispel myths and stereotypes about LGBT people. Spectrum's program, 
Rainbow's End, provides support for LGBT and questioning youth, 14-19 
years old. Community Connections focuses on LGBT seniors providing peer 
support, facilitating social groups and educational forums.
  Mr. Speaker, Spectrum has played a pivotal role in the LGBT 
community. The support they provide to LGBT people and the education 
they provide to the public has had an everlasting effect on Marin 
County.

                          ____________________