The Alliance Team in Action

Our team has had the honor of presenting at and attending a series of impactful conferences dedicated to LGBTQ+ inclusivity, student support, advocacy, public health, and research. Through these events, we have championed essential conversations and shared actionable strategies, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Our presentations have not only spotlighted critical issues but also fostered meaningful dialogue and collaboration. As a result, we’ve seen a significant positive impact within the communities we engage with, driving forward our mission of creating equitable spaces and empowering voices.

To invite our team to present, please email julio.flores@phimc.org.

Southern Illinois GSA Summit – October 2023 – Carbondale, IL Rainbow Café’s annual GSA Summit is an opportunity for local students, teachers, and other supporters to attend free workshops catered to their needs as LGBTQ+ students in Southern Illinois, along with the chance to network with other local clubs and educators. The Alliance Team facilitated two sessions that focused on GSA Best Practices and the Rights of LGBTQ+ Students.
	Creating Change 2024 - January 2024 - New Orleans, LA Creating Change is a one-of-a-kind organizing and skills-building event for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Our team had the opportunity to attend workshops to learn new programming techniques for LGBTQ+ focus services.
Chicago Public Schools Galaxy Summit - March 2024 - Chicago, IL The Alliance had the lovely opportunity to facilitate a workshop at the Galaxy Summit organized by the Office of Student Health & Wellness at CPS in regard to Inclusive Classroom Practices. “It makes me so happy to know that other educators are ready to create safe environments for our students because they deserve the opportunity to grow happy” ~ Teacher Attendee
	Panel Discussion at Trans Health and Wellness Summit - March 2024 - Chicago, IL The Spring Trans Health and Wellness Summit on March 29, 2024, was a day of dialogue, education, and advocacy, addressing diverse challenges faced by the transgender community. From trans health to housing inequality, mental health to funding disparities, Jay Diaz our coordinator had the opportunity to be part of a panel discussion regarding challenges Trans Masculine people experience when navigating the workforce.
	Youth Outlook’s 2024 Future Outlook Conference - April 2024 - Joliet, IL Our team had the opportunity to present on the importance of creativity when working with LGBTQ+ youth. During the session, attendees shared their experiences and best practices that they have used in their classrooms and spaces. 90% of attendees disclosed learning new ways of connecting with LGBTQ+ youth.
National LGBTQ Health Conference 2024 - August 2024 - Atlanta, GA The National LGBTQ Health Conference is a leading interdisciplinary event in the U.S., dedicated to advancing research and practice related to the health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ community. It brings together scientists, public health experts, and healthcare providers to address critical issues and promote professional development. The Alliance Program Director, Julio Flores, had the chance to present. His presentation highlighted a pilot project aimed at creating supportive environments for LGBTQ youth in school districts through policy development, youth-led initiatives, and adult collaborations. The National LGBTQ Health Conference also presented the opportunity to reconnect with peers and develop new relationships with people who hold very similar values and visions.
	Power of PFLAG Conference - October 2024 - Lisle, IL Julio Flores attended the Power of PFLAG Conference for a day of learning, networking, and celebrating the love, life, and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Julio facilitated a practical workshop designed to guide educators and community leaders in successfully integrating Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSAs) and inclusive clubs into schools and community spaces.