In the wake of countless youth facing issues of bullying, low self-esteem and other negative factors, DreamGirlz Unlimited, LLC will host its first annual Gay-Lesbian–Bi-Sexual–Transgender-Queer–Questioning-Intersex (GLBTQQI) Issues in the African-American Community & Church Conference on Saturday, November 17, 2012. Slated to last from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. the event will be held at the Riverdale Government Annex, located at 6690 Church Street in Riverdale. DreamGirlz Unlimited, LLC is a 501(c)3 organization that introduces young women to more positive experiences in life by exposing them to cultural events, mentoring, womanly bonding, educational trainings, group workshops, and practical life-skills. Featuring open discussions from youth, professionals, the faith community and community leaders, the event presents a platform that will allow the issues of bullying, gang activity, sexually transmitted diseases and abuse – to include domestic violence, rape, incest, sexual, substance, physical and/or emotional, all of which research shows can be attributed to youth who have chosen and/or are struggling with their sexual identity. The conference will also offer valuable resources that would help strengthen and unify families and the faith community as they deal with the realities of this subject matter. “It’s a taboo topic, no doubt,” states Keba Green Founder and CEO of DreamGirlz, “but the days of silence for this critical matter are over. This event presents the opportunity to publicly take a stand that violence is not tolerated in our homes, workplace, schools, or communities, the conference will show that we are willing to stand together in making the world a safer place for all people.” Accordingly, the target audience for the day includes advocates, victims, survivors, faith-based organizations, community organizers, and stakeholders. Ms. Green adds, “There is a great division in the Black community on the cultural and theological understanding of sexual orientation that the media or popular culture gives credence. We should, as a community, have the ability and opportunity to hold different positions and not demonize what is perceived to be ‘different.’” Ms. Green, who is also the author of Not My Child: (A Self-Help Guide for Young Adults), knows firsthand the many challenges that stem from a child who struggles with their sexual identity. As the visionary for her organization and the conference, she looks forward to a number of resources coming together to address this most crucial issue in hopes of making a profound impact on all involved. For more details and registration information, visit www.growingupgrowingout.com. $25 Early Bird until 10/12/12. $35 Advance Registration. $40 at the door.