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28 minute read December 4, 2022
Congratulations to the 2022 Recipients of the HRT Access Fund
These recipients now have access to life-changing healthcare for an entire year at no expense to them, with complete lab work coverage and prescription drug coverage included.
Point of Pride has partnered with Plume to provide the HRT Access Fund: a unique scholarship-like program for trans folks who cannot afford or safely obtain gender-affirming hormone therapy.
This cycle, we were able to award 46 recipients access to life-changing healthcare for an entire year at no expense to them, with complete lab work coverage and prescription drug coverage included.
44% recipients are youth under 24
52% recipients are people of color
70% recipients have dealt with homelessness/housing insecurity, either currently or in the past
46% recipients are living with a disability or chronic illness
Many of these recipients also live in areas of the country where finding trans-affirming doctors is a challenge.
Carmen (she/her) is a 22-year-old trans woman who has been trying to access affirmative HRT since she was a young girl. Because she grew up in a conservative, low income, and immigrant family from South America, she's had challenges qualifying for proper care. Caelan is a full-time student pursuing a degree in business, and struggles to afford tuition and living expenses. She hopes to one day pursue a law degree at an Ivy League school. She shared, "As an immigrant, transgender and first-generation college woman, I am passionate about ensuring representation for the communities like mine, who often miss out on opportunities due to lack education, resources and support." In a free time she volunteers as a paralegal and non-profits, working alongside immigrant and LGBTQ+ community. She is excited for her future to "finally live my truth" and celebrated this milestone by enrolling in a ballet class, a dream of hers come true: "I am ready to see the mirror reflect the girl, the woman I know I have always been."
Willow (she/her) is a 28-year-old trans woman living in an area that has made transitioning difficult. She found Plume and was finally able to begin her HRT journey in late 2021. Although her mental health and overall well-being was improved greatly, she struggled financially to make ends meet and afford HRT access. Willow describes herself as a creative free spirit. She enjoys creating digital art, singing, makeup, drag, and tries to be a vocal advocate for the trans community (and LGBTQ+ community as a whole) whenever she can. "I can't express what access to HRT will do to make my life better. I'm lucky if I make more than $100-$200 a month as someone who is self-employed, and I wasn't able to afford HRT without sacrifices. Now I can breathe easier knowing I don't have to worry about how I'm gonna pay for my medication."
Eli (he/him) is a 24-year-old, disabled, hard-of-hearing trans male seeking testosterone to finally become who he's always known himself to be. He lives with challenges everyday to make ends meet to even pay bills and buy groceries. He lives in a state in the Bible Belt where doctors do not take him seriously when he says he's trans. He shared that he often struggles to feel like himself when constantly deadnamed and misgendered by those around him. Despite this, he still manages to hold onto the hope to become his full unique self. He describes himself as loving and kind, and devoted to his married partner: "We love each other without a shadow of a doubt, through tough and dark times." He is excited to see himself change into a handsome man and looks forward to proudly call himself a husband to his spouse.
Danielle (she/her) is a 23-year-old trans women who is currently unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. In the future, she hopes to access facial feminization surgery; for now, she is relieved to have her HRT access covered and allow her to focus on employment without feeling discomfort in the workplace. She shared, "I will be able to take care of all my daily activities without having extreme anxiety attacks due to not feeling comfortable with myself while not on HRT."
Destiny (she/her) is a Black trans woman and activist. She shared, "It's hard trying to achieve so many things relating to my transition, including physical changes and surgery due to how expensive it all is. It's been a struggle for me." Destiny describes herself as a a community mother to many queer folks in her live, and uses her personal space to house trans folks who need support. "I'm excited for post-op life," she said, "and to have that sense of completeness that has been missing: to wear what I wanted to and to express myself fully."
Amelia (she/her) is a 20-year-old trans woman seeking hormone replacement therapy. She has dealt with financial restraints preventing her from affording what she considers to be a "life saving" medication. She has experienced homelessness and housing insecurity in the past, but fortunately has managed her way into an apartment. With that said, putting aside money for the cost of hormone replacement therapy would come directly from other expenses and would but her at risk of housing insecurity again. Amelia enjoys reading, watching Netflix, spending time with her girlfriend, and giving her cat cuddles when he will allow it, which isn't as often as she'd like. She is beyond thrilled by the opportunity to receive this grant, and looks forward to not having to ration her 3-month supply of medicine she was prescribed many months ago. "I'll have the freedom to focus on what I enjoy in life, rather than stressing about where my next dose will come from. A massive weight has been lifted off of my shoulders.
Arlo (he/they) is a single parent of two children "who are my entire world." He shared, "It has been a dream of mine to be able to start this journey of living as my true self for years. Financially it has not been an option for me due to financial stress. I can not believe I have been selected and given this chance of a lifetime. I am beyond grateful and overcome with emotion at the mere thought of being able to begin this journey." Arlo says he likes to make everyone feel included and seen, and that it's his mission to make everyone he comes into contact with feel loved and supported. On receiving access to HRT, Arlo said, "It will dramatically impact everything. The weighted depression I feel daily from being stuck in this image that is not me, and the gender dysphoria will finally be lifted."
Fenris (they/them) is a 24-year-old currently struggling to recover from homelessness and the financial strain caused by it. They have fought paycheck to paycheck just to put food on the table and make sure they received their seizure medications at least semi-regular intervals. Their focus has mainly been stuck on survival, so they are looking forward to the relief this grant will provide. Fenris enjoys spending their free time taking nature photography and being with their pets. They are looking forward to having access to HRT to aid them in feeling more comfortable in their own skin and achieving the appearance that best fits them.
Oliver (he/him) is a 19-year-old trans man. He has been attempting to save money for a year for HRT, but paying for college and helping out his family financially has left little money for proper care. He is looking forward to the day he can finally start his transition and live happily in his body. Oliver will be a freshman in college in the upcoming year. He's had a huge love of cartoons from a young age, and hopes to get his degree in animation to tell his own stories. He's most excited to join male-oriented clubs, like the men's choir or sports teams at his school.
Allison (she/her) said, "This has been a long and arduous journey for me! I have been wanting to transition since I was 5 years old. Now I can finally begin my journey." In her spare time, Allison loves to work out, play guitar, and sing. She also enjoys the outdoors, playing with friends, and being social. "I'm a happy girl who tries to make the most out of life," she shared. "And once I receive my gender-affirming hormones, I will finally be able to feel like myself, too. I can't wait to be recognized for who I am both inside and out. Not to feel judged for being myself."
CJ (they/them) is a non-binary individual who recently decided to seek gender affirming care after years of not being true to themselves. CJ experienced issues with other providers, and struggled with appointments being canceled without their knowledge, and accessing bloodwork and prescriptions. Their health insurance does not cover their care, and after their fiancé was laid off, attempting to continue care became impossible. CJ enjoys working with animals, and tutoring local middle school students. CJ also loves spending time outside, camping and hiking with their dog. They are looking forward to living as their true self, and having access to a responsive care team that will work with them and answer all questions without bias.
Adé (they/them) has desired HRT for years but was unable to begin due to overwhelming financial challenges, housing insecurity, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare. Adé is a neurodivergent artist and dreamworker committed to unearthing errant, vital imaginaries and fruits of liberation possible here and now. They are currently working on a lyric essay that evokes the image of the mermaid as an emblem of disability. "Receiving this affirming aid cushions residual emotional and psychological trauma impacted by harm and neglect," they shared. They feel joy in the possibility, now, to gift gratitude to my body for surviving so much. They are thankful for this access to a special journey toward self-fulfillment, agency, and pleasure.
Shawn (he/him) shared, "I've been on and off HRT for around 3 years now. The times when I'm off it are usually because I don't have insurance and can't afford it." Shawn describes himself as kind, caring, generous, and funny – qualities that come in handy as a parent to 6 kids who keep him busy. He said, "I worry constantly about how I will get my T refilled and how much it will cost me. Receiving this award will help my stress and anxiety over missing shot day and being at peace knowing that I'll still have it even if I don't have the funds."
Ayang (she/her) is a 21-year-old trans woman who has recently got out of college. She wanted to start hormone therapy early on in her transition but due to unstable employment, loss of housing, and multiple switching of insurance companies, she was not financially able to. Student debt and medical bills took the forefront. The discomfort and anxiety of not beginning HRT left her feeling stuck. Ayang is an award-winning artist and a mental health advocate, dedicating the majority of her free time to illustrating mental health issues and topics. She shared, "This opportunity has relieved me of the stress that has been gnawing at my mind for the past two years. With this opportunity, I can finally start making those first few steps towards becoming the person I really am."
Aayren (they/he/she) is an 18-year-old disabled, neurodivergent, genderfluid person seeking HRT. They live with significant financial challenges: due to the high cost of living, she is barely able to make ends meet on his current income. In the past, they've also dealt with housing insecurity. After exhausting all resources to receive HRT in a timely and cost effective manner, he began to give up, being unable to afford the care she needs. As a result, they've remained feeling simply incomplete, and dysphoric. Aayren is a loving individual that enjoys taking care of their partners to the best of their abilities, and remains active in their community. He plans to major in Biotechnology, Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. She is passionate about activism, reading, writing, spirituality, and entrepreneurship. After having to move out at 18 years old and live paycheck to paycheck, they have found solace in embracing their love of the performing arts, and taking care of those they love. Aayren shared, "I'm excited to be able to walk around with confidence, and the idea of people being confused about my gender makes me very happy. I didn't expect to survive past middle school, let alone as long as I have, and I just want to live to be the fullest expression of myself as much as possible in this life."
Koda (he/him) is an 18 year-old black trans man. Having just graduated high school, he's struggled to land a job and deal with mental health issues and transitioning with little to no assistance from his unsupportive family. With having no financial support and trying to get himself on his feet, it's been nearly impossible to medically transition and feel comfortable in his own skin. Koda is an amateur voice actor and artist and frequently engages in musical/theatrical activities, such as guitar and singing. Koda is ecstatic to start hormone therapy. He cannot wait to have a voice that fits him comfortably, and a body that he can be confident in.
Athena (she/her) shared, "Living in such a small and conservative area, trans health options are very limited. Traveling to a bigger city that has affirming health care has always been one of my biggest concerns because I don't feel comfortable going far out of state to receive the help I need to start my journey." Athena describes herself as a a lover of music, art, and video games. She spends a lot of time working on hobbies and doing what she can to make the world a better place. "Receiving gender affirming healthcare would mean the absolute most to me," she said, "Gender dysphoria is really hard to deal with and I do my best to lower it as much as I can, but starting my medical journey would help the most for me."
Felix (he/him) shared, "All my life, I have know deep inside that I was a trans man. As I got older, it got much harder to be happy with the outside not matching the inside. Suffering from fibromyalgia made it hard to keep a steady income, and little by little, I started to lose hope that I would ever be able to see the real me in the mirror." Felix describes himself as a caring person with a wonderful partner and three awesome dogs. He looks forward to feeling more comfortable in the skin he's in. "With this grant, I have hope that I can finally see the real me when I look in the mirror."
Anthony (he/him) is a 28-year-old trans guy seeking gender affirming hormone therapy. As an LGBTQ+ Mexican immigrant in the U.S., Anthony has encountered several barriers in trying to be his true self, including cultural and financial ones. After a 24 year long journey to obtain U.S. citizenship, Anthony was ready to start HRT—then COVID-19 took the world by storm. After he and his wife experienced several hardships, Anthony decided to delay his transition until they could reach financial stability. Anthony has a passion for human rights, advocacy, and helping others. Having held several positions in his community within the Victim Services field, Anthony has helped people from all walks of life. An aspiring author, Anthony hopes to be able to mesh his passion for writing and advocacy so he can use words to help others in their own life journeys. He is very optimistic for life after starting HRT. Anthony shared, "I am beyond thankful for this opportunity, and I can't even put into words how much this means. I have waited all my life just to be my true self, and now I get the chance to do it. I know this will greatly improve my quality of life and help me become the best husband, son, brother, and dog dad I can be!"
Lisa (she/her) is a 58-year-old trans woman. Due to gender dysphoria, she has always felt like she was born the wrong gender from a young age; she is also on the autism spectrum, which makes it difficult for her to "function at more than the lowest-paying jobs." A recent infection which required two hospitalizations has forced her out of work for some time. Since returning, both jobs have only employed her for only 1-2 days a week, making it hard to afford gender-affirming care. Tina's loyalty to friends and work ethics are well known by acquaintances and co-workers. She is known for her completely over-the-top sense of dry, sarcastic humor, and a lifelong obsession with Titanic (the ship, not the movie) history. She shared, "Access to HRT will allow me to be the person I really am, and give me a sense of peace, and perhaps even enable me to move into a more productive job and live, allowing me to be financially self-sustaining."
Wren (he/him) is a 20-year-old disabled trans man living with PTSD. In a short time span he's gone from a dangerous home life, to foster care, to having to move to a rural area due to financial struggles. Despite the nearest city being over an hour's drive away, he still reached out to HRT providers there but was met with either no response or unaffordable prices. Living with transphobic family members, he's had to hide a part of himself he doesn't want to keep hidden anymore. Wren helps care for his disabled sibling, whose well-being is everything to him. He also loves his two dogs more than anything in the world. In the future, he dreams of getting a degree and making enough money to visit friends in Europe. Wren is excited to see what kind of man he'll be at the end of his journey, and to no longer hide or feel ashamed of who he is. He's looking forward to comfortably wearing men's clothes and having them look "right" on him. "I can't wait to be able to take selfies and be proud of them afterwards," he says. "I've been waiting my whole life to become the person I've always known I am on the inside, and now I finally get a chance to realize that. It's so amazing that it feels surreal."
Andrew (he/him) is a 22-year-old trans man who has been on and off of testosterone since 2017 due to money troubles, health issues, and housing insecurity. "There were many times I had to make hard decisions over maintaining my health," he shared. "There was a period when I was off of hormones for almost a whole year because I couldn't find ways to appointments or pay for the care." Andrew describes himself as a very kind person: he's always there when people need a laugh, some advice, or even just an ear. He strives to be the person he didn't have growing up. Being a full-time student, he's found it hard to focus on his studies while juggling two jobs—something he's done for as long as he can remember. "Receiving care is life-saving," Andrew said. "Getting so close to being who you are and having it ripped from you [for financial reasons] is heartbreaking. Sometimes there's nothing you can do but hope."
Zayda (she/her) has struggled in finding the funds to support her goals in her transition, having an incredibly supportive family, caring friend group, and incredible partner. Due to her limited education, it's been difficult to find any employment opportunities that provide enough money to support her and her medical care. "When your goal is just to survive, gender-affirming care has to become a secondary priority," Zayda shared. She also loves spending her free time playing video games, writing, and studying programming. She also enjoys fitness and assisting in local charity programs. To Zayda, there is no greater joy then knowing that she will wake up everyday with the medical care and support for her to continue becoming the person she always wanted to be!
Taylor (he/she) shared, "I'm currently working part time at a veterinary clinic while tackling life's challenges. Mental health, addiction, and disabilities are no obstacle with the help of access to gender-affirming support." Taylor describes herself as a kind, loyal, and goofy friend. He spends lots of time outdoors with Maggie, a German shepherd mix. "The future holds unknowns for all of us," she said. "I am anxious and excited to start therapy to determine what steps are next! Feeling comfortable again is the goal!"
Stephanie (she/they) is a 44-year-old trans woman who has rediscovered her identity. "At age 12, I first transitioned naturally as result of a hormonal imbalance. For 2.5 years, the transition took place, then was reversed. Two years ago, I've been led to change again. I know this HRT grant will help me live my life the way it was supposed to be." Stephanie lives with a disabled family member in a live-in caregiver capacity, providing care and medical assistance. "It is sad that I have lost so much time living as a different person, but it also gave me a life from a different perspective, giving me a broader knowledge and greater understanding I can use to better help others with."
Ezio (they/them) shared, "I came out to some close friends about medically transitioning, and then jumped through many hoops in the years that followed before I finally got my HRT approved. However, I then received a letter that I would not be covered as I was not a cis male. My medical team at the time did not advocate for me, and so I finally found medication outside of the system." Ezio describes themself as an artist, musician, and plant parent. "I practice meditation, and love art and music because it has always helped me center myself in hard times. I'm multi-racial and always take time to honor my ancestors. I'm neurodivergent and love the way my brain is wired. I enjoy helping and uplifting others in need, and volunteering when I can." Ezio is excited to get back to focusing on other parts of their transition and to lift the "brain fog" once again. "Having my HRT covered is such a relief off my shoulders."
Lyra (she/they) is a 32-year-old trans woman. Due to various factors including familial issues and a lack of stable income, it has been difficult to access care. One of their siblings who used to live with Lyra would threaten her with physical violence for doing such things as wearing her mother's high heels, which lead to a lot of self-repression. Despite some of the hardships with her family, she helps her mother care for her disabled father and is an aspiring network engineer. Lyra is ecstatic to begin the process to finally have a body closer to what she envisioned. "My only concern at the moment is the current political climate," she shared, "but despite, that it is a relief to finally start HRT."
Amethyst (she/her) is a 23-year-old trans woman. She shared, "All of the doctors near me have a wait list of over six months. I am eager to access a telehealth service because it will be the quickest way for me to get back on the HRT medications I need. I worry I am running out of time to get the full effects of HRT." Amethyst was previously taking estrogen but had to discontinue to the expense. She is excited at what the future holds now that she has access to the gender-affirming care she needs.
Shaun (he/him) is a 34-year-old trans male that started transitioning four years ago. He was living in a town in deep Southeast Texas that was very red. When he reached out to the local family practice - the only doctors in town - they all refused care for a trans person. The OBGYN was unsure how to differentiate the female care from trans care, and the endocrinologist notated that she never had trans patients before and would not care to now. Shaun was able to find a Planned Parenthood, but had to travel more than 3 hours away to obtain care. Shaun has a wife and two kids, and is an avid gamer who enjoys TV nights and cuddles with his family. Earlier this year, Shaun lost his job due to anti-trans discrimination, resulting in major financial challenges and credit card debt, on top of losing access to his health insurance. Shaun shared, "Having a way to get back on T without breaking the bank, would be life changing and get mental health care in the mean time. Cherry on top."
Taryn (she/her) is a 54-year-old trans woman who works long hours for to make ends meet. After years of fighting herself within and around her, she knew she needed to become her truest self to be happy, and so began HRT. The financial burden grew heavier, but she was happy and content for the very first time ever in her life. Taryn loves life and loves those around her. She values her family and always gives of herself and of her time to those in need and her church, where she's an active and involved member. The financial hardship is all that stands in her way of appearing to the whole world as she's meant to be. She shared, "I'm so excited to realize my dream of simply finally becoming who and what I've always been. I'll be Taryn, at long last."
Nekorrah (she/her) is a 22-year-old seeking gender affirming care. As an international student, HRT is much more difficult to acquire due to the high cost of medication, medical bills, and lack of insurance and transportation. In Bermuda, HRT was even more inaccessible. "There are no doctors with that specialty, and Bermuda is very conservative," Nekorrah shared. She is a frequent volunteer with SAVElgbt and works with them to coordinate efforts in Broward County, especially at her University, Nova Southeastern University. Outside of her community involvement in queer advocacy, she is deeply involved in the theatre community at NSU as a musical theatre major, taking part in productions and being a part of the student led production company known as "Stage 2 Productions." Nekorrah is thrilled to resume her journey to being her most authentic self and to finally feel complete and in control of her body and life. Nekorrah shared, "I'm excited to pick up my journey where I left off. For so long I felt like becoming my most authentic self was unreachable, especially after having to return to Bermuda. But now I have strength in knowing that my pursuit of happiness isn't over. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity."
Russell (they/he) shared, "My journey to obtain what I call my 'integration into self' has been a grounding and patient one. This journey simply fell into place in divine timing and I've been able to break free and learn more about myself everyday." They believe their freedom, joy, and sense of grounding are other characteristics that make them who they are. "There is simply no better feeling than existing in harmony with yourself. Receiving gender-affirming healthcare will bring me peace of mind knowing that there are humans out there that are able to be there for those that are significantly under represented and cared for."
Grizzly (he/they) is a 39-year-old genderfluid person. They decided to go back to school to better their family and life when COVID started. With the rising cost of living along and the loss of health insurance, they have found it hard to stay afloat at times for even everyday medication. Grizzly is very active in the community. They have a passion for creating safe places for queer youth, especially in the state of Florida. Grizzly and their partner started CampOUT Florida, which just had their first official over night summer camp focusing on the mental health and well being for queer youth campers this past summer. Grizzly is excited to not have to worry about receiving the resources to obtain medication and resources to take one huge thing off their plate while finishing school and focusing on camp to become its best potential while not having to sacrifice every day life saving needs. Grizzly is proud to be a living example for queer trans youth that it gets better and easier.
Jaecee (he/him) is a 24-year-old disabled trans man seeking HRT. He lives in financial hardship due to a series of traumatic events within the last three years, and has dealt with housing insecurity as a result. Jaecee's health insurance denied access to trans-related care. As a result, he has been living in a shell of who he really is. Jaecee loves to help others anytime he can. He loves spending time with friends and family. Kids are most important to him. He is excited to start HRT and see the changes so "I can begin to see who I know I should've been from the beginning. I'm ready for the changes so I can be more comfortable within my own body."
If you'd like to support this work, please donate or consider hosting your own fundraiser. As a volunteer-operated, trans-led organization, 100% of your donation benefits our recipients.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying for support, please visit our program's webpage to learn more.
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Authorities issue new search warrants in Kristin Smart case
By Kelli Johnson
LOS ANGELES - Authorities have issued multiple search warrants involving the Kristin Smart case due to the "high-profile nature of the investigation," the San Luis Obispo Sheriff's Department announced Wednesday.
The announcement also comes to "avoid the dissemination of misinformation," the sheriff's office said in a released statement.
FBI agents and Los Angeles County deputies served one of those warrants at a home in the San Pedro area Wednesday morning.
A witness told FOX 11 officials raided the home, which allegedly belongs to Paul Flores, in the 900 block of Upland Avenue. Flores is believed to be the last person who saw then 19-year-old Smart alive and has since maintained his innocence.
Her body was never found and officials declared her legally dead in 2002.
Officials say Smart was last seen walking with Flores, a fellow student, after attending a house party at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo before she vanished on May 25, 1996.
Kristin Smart went missing on May 25, 1996 while attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and has not been heard from since. (Photo by Axel Koester/Sygma via Getty Images)
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department says they have prioritized the case since 2011 and detailed what investigators and forensic specialists have done:
• The service of 18 search warrants
• Conducting physical evidence searches at nine separate locations
• A complete re-examination of every item of physical evidence seized by all agencies involved in this case
• Submission of 37 evidence items from the early days of the case for modern DNA testing
• Recovery of 140 new items of evidence
• Conducting 91 person to person interviews
• The writing of 364 supplemental reports
• Spending $62,000 in investigative expenses on DNA forensic testing and other things, and investing more than 7,500 employee hours on solving the case
Just last week, San Luis Obispo County sheriff's investigators confiscated two trucks that belonged to the Flores family in 1996.
The sheriff's office has also served search warrants for evidence inside four locations in California and Washington, according to Tony Cipolla with the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department.
Of the California locations, Cipolla says two are in San Luis Obispo County and the other is in Los Angeles County.
• FBI tells family of Kristin Smart, who vanished 23 years ago, to be prepared for news: report
• Break in the Cal Poly Kristin Smart case? Sheriff seizes trucks
The warrants are sealed by the court and no further details were immediately released.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Talanoa
Pope Brings Call for Dialogue to Congress
Posted by Joseph Robertson 153act on September 25, 2015
Pope Francis has come to the United States with a very clear and universal message: there are injustices no free and conscientious people can accept and against which all people of good will should work together. Challenges like climate change, immigration and income inequality are not ideological issues, partisan issues or issues of opinion or preference; they are deep moral issues. And we must do our best to work in solidarity, to oppose these unnecessary injustices.
During his address at the White House, on Wednesday, Pope Francis explained his view that "Climate change is a problem we can no longer leave to future generations." His Encyclical Letter Laudato Si': On caring for our common home outlined in great and poetic detail the many connections between religious respect for Creation, the Earth's life-support systems, and the ethical obligation to a practice of integral ecology.
His message has been, consistently, that we cannot make ideological, cultural, political or economic excuses for our ethical and moral failings. Where there is good to be done, we should be good. In a meeting with one of his emissaries, a few months ago, Pope Francis' call for all governments to use integral ecology as the guiding principle for all policy was reframed as "a very simple standard": You can be good, or you can behave in a way that degrades the world; why would you not just be good?
Today, Pope Francis addressed a joint session of the United States Congress. He is the first Pope to do so. He opened his address by saying: "I am grateful for this opportunity to address this joint session of Congress, in the land of the free and the home of the brave." It was a way of answering a welcome with a welcome, letting political officials who might feel defensive about their policy positions know he was there to speak to everyone, not to criticize inaction or ideology.
For this, the Pope received a standing ovation. He went on to frame the work of his audience, the US Congress, in terms of civic duty and moral heroism, saying "You are the face of its people, their representatives. You are called to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good, for this is the chief aim of all politics."
He added that "A political society endures, when it seeks as obligation to satisfy common needs by stimulating the growth of all its members, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability or risk." He said the members of Congress have been "called" to this mission by those who elected them.
For those who trace their service to religious faith, he reminded them that Moses represents the obligtion of the legislator to build unity and dignity through the establshing of just laws. "You are asked to protect by means of the law the image and likeness fashioned by God on every human life."
Pope Francis also said his address was really an opening of dialogue with the entire nation. "Today," he said, "I would like not only to address you, but through you, the entire people of the United States. Here, together with their representatives, I would like to take this opportunity to dialogue with the many people who strive each day to do an honest day's work, to bring home their daily bread."
He went on, to discuss the role every person plays in building and sustaining the society, saying: "These are men and women who are not concerned only with paying their taxes, but in their own quiet way sustain the life of society. They generate solidarity by their actions, and they create organizations which offer a helping hand to those most in need."
He argued against the "simplistic reductionism that sees only good or evil, only the righteous and the sinner". To the legislators who control the budget for the most well-funded military in world history, he explained that we are called to build a world founded in peace and justice:
"We must move forward together as one, in a renewed spirit of fraternity and solidarity, cooperating generously for the common good. The challenges facing us today call for a renewal of that spirit of cooperation which has accomplished so much good throughout the history of the United States. The complexity, the urgency and the gravity of these challenges requires that we pool our resources and talents and that we support one another with our respect and our convictions of conscience."
Pope Francis called for the elimination of all forms of slavery, including those now spreading due to the complex and deepening challenges of our time.
He recalled the march Martin Luther King led from Selma to Montgomery 50 years ago to fulfill his dream of full citizenship and civil rights for African Americans. And in what may become one of the most cited and remembered moments of the address, he said:
"I am happy that for many, America continues to be a land of dreams. Dreams which lead to action, to participation, to commitment. Dreams which awaken what is deepest and truest in the life of the people. In recent centurites, millions of people came to this land to fulfill their dream of living in freedom. We the people of this continent are not fearful of foreigners, because most of us were once foreigners."
This line drew applause from the entire chamber, including the Vice President and the Speaker of the House.
"I say this to you as the son of immigrants, knowing that so many of you are also descendants of immigrants. Tragically, the rights of those who were here long before us were not always respected."
Pope Francis called for "reciprocal subsidiarity in a constant effort to do our best. I am confident that we can do this," adding that "Our world is facing a refugee crisis of a magnitude not seen since the Second World War."
He reframed the Golden Rule in a crucial and specific way, reminding his audience that we must give what we seek:
"Let us treat others with the same passion and compassion with which we would like to be treated … If we want security, let us give security. If we want life, let us give life. If we want opportunity, let us provide opportunity. The yardstick we use for others will be the yardstick which time uses for us."
He waded into the deep and perennial controversy of American politics, the issue of abortion, in a subtle way, saying: "The Golden Rule means protecting life at every stage of its development." But true to his style, he took the energy that came to that phrase, from many conservatives in Congress, and redirected it, explaining: "This conviction has led me from the beginning of my ministry to advocate on different levels the global abolition of the death penalty. I am convinced that this way is the best, since every life is sacred."
The Pope also made sure to let his audience know that sustainability and climate action are not incompatible with free enterprise. He quoted his recent Encyclical, saying "Business is a noble vocation," and added that:
"It goes without saying that part of this great effort is the creation and distribution of wealth. The right use of natural resources, the proper application of technology, and the harnessing of the spirit of enterprise, are essential elements of an economy which seeks to be modern, inclusive and sustainable."
He shared his view that the people, Congress, and business culture of the United States must play a central role in creating the sustainable, inclusive, ethically integral human economy of the future. He said humanity must learn to "put technology at the service of another type of progress, one that is more human, more social, more integral"
Pope Francis cited Thomas Merton, who wrote in his autobiography that "I came into the world free by nature, made in the image of God." Merton also said that he was nevertheless, being human, given to selfish desires and also bound by the image of the world reflected in himself. He strove to overcome this contradiction, which can undo what is good in us. The Pope praised him for being a man of dialogue.
In what may be the central call of his address, Pope Francis called on his audience to "Resume the path of dialogue." He noted that "new opportunities open up for all" when there is active space for constructive dialogue.
I am writing this article from the offices of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum, in Minneapolis, where building durable peace through dialogue and engagement is a core value of the mission. This address has particular resonance for me, not only because of the connection between that mission and the Pope's message, but also because the work we do at Citizens' Climate Lobby—or through Geoversiv's reporting, or in stakeholder engagement with the UN system—is about dialogue for a more sustainable, climate-smart future, conducive to opening room for dialogue and for shared solutions.
He called on his audience to recognize that great political leaders initiate processes that enable dialogue and shared progress, and do not seek to take up space—a reference to both the selfish desire to occupy the stage and to the imperial quest to control territory.
By moving toward this culture of open and inclusive dialogue, Pope Francis said we can build a world where people's rights to liberty, dignity, and safety, are all protected.
He reminded us of the "four Americans, four dreams"; that gave structure to his address. He paired each with a word or two that defined how he viewed those dreams:
Abraham Lincoln—liberation
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—liberty and inclusion
Dorothy Day—compassion
Thomas Merton—hope and dialogue
He spoke of family, and how family life is being challenged by a general culture that seems indifferent to the quality and durability of our intimate relationships. He said many young people don't start families, because their opportunities are too few, while others don't because they have too many options to sort through.
He did not speak in favor of or against same-sex marriage. Though everyone could take from this section of the address what they prefer, it is also clear Pope Francis is continuing his push to depoliticize these issues, foster a politics of inclusion, dialogue, and compassion.
Pope Francis ended his address to the United States Congress with a time-tested sign-off for American political addresses, saying "God bless America." The phrase is often misunderstood as an expression of national pride, when it has generally been viewed as a sign of a political speaker's humility, faith, and sense of gratitude for what good fortune may come.
It is also popularly heard as a three-word prayer the speaker gives for the audience. Clearly, Pope Francis meant it this way. His use of the phrase stood out, not only because of his position as leader of one of the world's largest religious denominations, but because it had this subtle undercurrent of encouragement: he came with a message of inclusive, just, open government, in service of human dignity, and wanted to sign off by saying it is entirely up to us to make it so, to ensure our civic space is a landscape of possibility and mutual thriving.
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text:
Plethodon richmondiSouthern Ravine Salamander
By Angie Hastings
This salamander ranges from western Pennsylvania to Indiana. It occurs in the Lake Erie basin also (Harding, 1997). There are no conspicuous patterns of geographic variation in coloring or patterning, instead regional populations are distinguished by the number of costal grooves (Petranka, 1998).
The ravine salamander gets its name from inhabiting the slopes of woodland ravines and valleys, it is usually found under a flat rock. In the hottest parts of the summer they move into the ground, a depth of over a meter (3.3ft.) has been reported (Harding, 1997). Little evidence has been found to indicate that this salamander is territorial, it is in fact less aggressive than other Plethodon species (Petranka, 1998).
This species is very long and slender with short legs, it has been described as a "worm with legs," (Conant and Collins 1998). The tail of adults makes up about 50% of the total body length. The dorsal coloration is seal brown to nearly black but sprinkled with silvery-white and bronze speckles. The sides have very small irregular white blotches and 20-33 costal grooves (Petranka, 1998). The belly is dark gray with lighter gray speckles, leading to an even more heavily mottled chin. The adult length runs from 7.5 to 14.4 cm. (3 to 5.6 in.) Males are slightly larger than the females with a conspicuous mental gland on the chin (Harding, 1997).
ectothermic
Development - Life Cycle
The mating season for this salamander extends from autumn through early spring. Most females oviposit in deep underground passageways, and are likely to brood their eggs through hatching. Hatching occurs in late summer or early fall; however most hatchlings do not move to ground surface until the following spring. Hatchlings are light grey above with an immaculate belly, and reach an average length of 14-15mm. SVL. Females reproduce biennially. Male salamanders reach sexual maturity slightly more than 2 years after hatching while females begin maturing when 2 years old (Petranka, 1998).
When uncovered in a field, individuals may assume a coiled, motionless position, hoping to be less inconspicuous to predators. Individuals also have been known to avoid substrates marked with the scent of a major predator: the ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus). Courtship of the ravine salamander includes the tail-straddle walk like other Plethodontids. Body snapping and pulling are employed by males to abrade the skin of females to introduce mental gland secretions into the circulatory system (Petranka, 1998).
The Ravine salamander has a diet that consists mainly of small insects such as ants and beetles. They will also eat pill bugs, earthworms, spiders, and snails (Harding, 1997).
With their affinity to habitats with steep gradients, Ravine salamanders seem to be more specialized than other Great Lakes plethodon. They are important members to the woodland floor community (Harding, 1997).
Deforestation and urbanization are the primary factors that have eliminated the local populations of this species throughout its range (Petranka, 1998).
Angie Hastings (author), Michigan State University, James Harding (editor), Michigan State University.
animals which must use heat acquired from the environment and behavioral adaptations to regulate body temperature
A large change in the shape or structure of an animal that happens as the animal grows. In insects, "incomplete metamorphosis" is when young animals are similar to adults and change gradually into the adult form, and "complete metamorphosis" is when there is a profound change between larval and adult forms. Butterflies have complete metamorphosis, grasshoppers have incomplete metamorphosis.
Conant, R., J. Collins. 1998. Reptiles and Amphibians: Peterson Field Guides 3rd. ed.. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company.
Harding, J. 1997. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Great Lakes Regions. Michigan: University of Michigan Press.
Petranka, J. 1998. Salamanders of the United States and Canada. Washington and London: Smithsonian Institution Press.
Class Amphibia frogs, salamanders, and caecilians
Amphibia: information (1) Amphibia: pictures (648) Amphibia: specimens (13) Amphibia: sounds (20)
Family Plethodontidae Lungless Salamanders
Plethodontidae: information (1) Plethodontidae: pictures (74)
Genus Plethodon
Plethodon: pictures (16)
Species Plethodon richmondi Southern Ravine Salamander
Plethodon richmondi: information (1) Plethodon richmondi: pictures (1)
To cite this page: Hastings, A. 2000. "Plethodon richmondi" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed January 19, 2022 at https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Plethodon_richmondi/


will be held in the staffroom located in the school administration building on Monday 4th March at 6:30pm.
If you would like to become a member of the HRSS P&C, however will not be able to attend the AGM, please complete the P&C Membership Application Form 2019 (PDF, 117KB) and return to the school office prior to 6:30pm on Monday the 4th March.
This will be the only opportunity to apply to become a P&C member without being present at a meeting.
Membership applications can also be submitted in person for those attending. By becoming a member of the P&C you will be kept up to date with minutes of each meeting and upcoming Agendas and what's happening within the school.
All executive officer positions of President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer will be available for nominations and candidates will be required to be present at the AGM.
If you wish to nominate please fill in the attached Executive Officer Nomination form.