Although this subject isn't specifically related to DP, I thought there would 
be a number of people on this
list that might benefit from and be interested in the information. 

Read this only if...
YOU want to make a difference in the fight to end discrimination based on 
sexual orientation; 
YOU want to help fight the war against AIDS:
YOU want to stay informed about the politics, laws and issues that affect the 
rights and health of gays,
lesbians and bisexuals:
YOU want to be more then an observer in the battle against the lies and 
distortions of the radical right...

Read this to become involved in the HRCF's FAN (Federal Advocacy Network). 

About the Human Rights Campaign Fund and FAN:
--------------------------------------------
HRCF, the nation's largest lesbian and gay political organization, fights to 
end discrimination based on
sexual orientation and to protect the safety and health of lesbian, gay men, 
and bisexuals. We work at
the national level and with members locally to: lobby Congress on federal 
issues; fight anti-gay initiatives
where you live; and support candidates who believe discrimination based on 
sexual orientation is
intolerable. 

HRCF's FAN is a network of empowered, local volunteers trained in state-of-
the-art mobilization and
political techniques. FAN members influence lawmakers and public opinion pro-
actively, and combat the
radical right on issues affecting G/L/B people.

Why is FAN needed?
-------------------
The anti-gay bigotry that is rising up all across America due to the radical 
right organizations that have been
operating at the local level through volunteer-based campaigns. The 
unfortunate passage of local anti-gay
ordinances has shown us that we need to intensify OUR efforts at the local 
level. Gay men and lesbians,
their friends, and their families must become more organized and more visible 
at the local level.

How is FAN organized?
----------------------
The key to a successful grassroots network is the organization of thousands 
of dedicated volunteers
committed to using simple "tried and true" techniques-- over and over again. 
FAN is a team of citizens
who use grassroots know-how to successfully influence elected officials and 
public policy. HRCF's FAN
provides its members with all the training materials, and information it 
needs to be successful. There are
3 levels in the FAN; A State Coordinator, a Congressional District 
Coordinator (CDC) for each
congressional district in the state, and the Citizen Advocates (CA). Citizen 
Advocates are the backbone
of FAN.

Who is a Citizens Advocate (CA)?

--------------------------------
Anybody who wants to make a difference in the lives of gays and lesbians in 
your state and the nation.
CA perform the majority of the work that influences elected officials. 
Without CA's there is no FAN.
FAN is a local volunteer network, it can't work without you.

What are a CA responsibilities?
-------------------------------
Any or all of the following:

Action Alert Participants - All CA participate in the action alert network, 
in which they write or call their
Congressperson or Senators monthly on a targeted issue.

Campaign Volunteer: CA are volunteers in political campaigns for
HRCF-endorsed candidates.

In-district lobby visits: CA take part in lobby visits when Representatives 
and Senators are in their home
state. 

Letters-to-the-Editor: CA write proactive letters to newspapers and magazines 
on gay and lesbian
concerns.

House parties:  CA host house parties to introduce their friends, neighbors 
and associates to HRCF and
FAN.

What can you do to get involved?
--------------------------------
If you are interested in become a Citizens Advocate you can respond to this 
message to CompuServe
account 71213,266.
Send your      Name
               Address   
               City, State ZIP 

	       and telephone # to become involved in the phone-tree.
          
You will be added to the Action Alert mailing list of FAN and your 
Congressional District Coordinator
will be informed that you are a new Citizen Advocate. If you need more 
information let me know and
I will put you in contact with your state and/or district coordinator.

Make a difference, Get involved!

     Sue Spielman
     Congressional District Coordinator - MASS, District 7