Texas School District Reinstates Original "Oklahoma!" Production Amid Community Backlash
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Texas School District Reinstates Original “Oklahoma!” Production Amid Community Backlash

In a remarkable development, the Sherman Independent School District in Texas has overturned a contentious decision that led to the removal of a transgender student from a high school rendition of the musical “Oklahoma!” The change in stance came as a result of extensive community support and backlash, symbolizing a triumph for diversity and inclusivity in school programs.

Unanimous Support for Original Cast Restoration

During a well-attended school board meeting on Monday, the district’s board members, in a unanimous 7-0 vote, agreed to restore the original cast and script of the musical. This move was prompted by the strong opposition from over 60 community members at the meeting, as NBC affiliate KTEN of Denison reported.

School Board Expresses Regret and Dedication

Board President Brad Morgan issued a sincere apology to the students, parents, and the broader community for the turmoil triggered by the original decision. He highlighted the board’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its students and preparing them for a complex and diverse world, acknowledging the significant repercussions of the initial ruling.

Spotlight on Transgender Student’s Participation

Max Hightower, a transgender male student at Sherman High School, had secured a leading male role in the play initially. The school’s introduction of a policy limiting roles to students’ birth-assigned genders resulted in Max being stripped of his role, a policy which also impacted other students cast in roles of different genders.

Shift Away from Gender-Based Casting Restrictions

In response to the community outcry, the school modified its position, removing the gender-based casting restrictions. They initially intended to stage a modified, “age-appropriate” version of the musical that would have eliminated Max’s major solo.

Community Advocates for Artistic Freedom

The sentiment of the community was strongly in favor of artistic freedom and inclusivity, with attendees passionately requesting the board to restore the original version of “Oklahoma!” and allow the students to perform without restrictions.

Student Grateful for Community Support

Max Hightower shared his gratitude for the overwhelming support, describing it as both emotional and empowering. He expressed his hope that the board’s decision to permit the original cast to enact the full “Oklahoma!” production would signify a more inclusive and accepting approach.

Inclusivity Wins in Educational Sphere

The reversal by the Sherman Independent School District signifies a critical victory for inclusivity within educational environments. It highlights the vital role of community engagement and advocacy in influencing policies that impact student experiences. The decision to reinstate the original version of “Oklahoma!” with its initial cast, including Max Hightower, serves as a powerful example of the effectiveness of community-driven advocacy and the advancement of diversity in all its forms.

©unitedradiance.org

Tragic Loss: First Nonbinary Mexican Magistrate Found Dead
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Tragic Loss: First Nonbinary Mexican Magistrate Found Dead

Jesús Ociel Baena, a trailblazer in Mexico’s judiciary, was found dead in their home in Aguascalientes, Central Mexico. Last year, Baena made history by becoming the first openly nonbinary person to hold a judicial position in the country, marking a significant milestone in the fight for LGBTQ rights and representation in the Mexican legal system.

Circumstances Surrounding the Death

The discovery of Baena’s body, along with another person believed to be their partner, has raised many questions and concerns. The Aguascalientes state prosecutor’s office confirmed the fatalities, with the victims showing injuries likely inflicted by a sharp object. Jesús Figueroa Ortega, the state prosecutor, noted the absence of signs indicating the involvement of anyone else at the crime scene.

Investigations Underway Amid Speculations

Mexico’s Security Secretary, Rosa Icela Rodríguez, announced that an investigation into the deaths is ongoing. With Mexico’s history of quickly attributing similar cases to crimes of passion, the true nature of this incident – whether a homicide or an accident – remains uncertain. This ambiguity has led to widespread speculation and concern, especially within the LGBTQ community.

The Impact of Social Media Visibility

Alejandro Brito, the director of LGBTQ rights group Letra S, highlighted the potential risks associated with Baena’s high visibility on social media. Brito emphasized the need for authorities to consider this aspect during their investigation. Baena’s online presence, while a source of inspiration for many, may have also made them a target, underscoring the vulnerabilities faced by prominent figures in the LGBTQ community.

A Call for Justice and Recognition

The death of Jesús Ociel Baena is not just a personal tragedy but a significant loss to the LGBTQ community and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance in Mexico. It underscores the challenges and dangers faced by individuals who, through their existence and achievements, challenge long-standing norms and pave the way for future generations. The investigation’s outcome will be closely watched as a measure of Mexico’s commitment to justice and equality for all its citizens, irrespective of their gender identity.

©unitedradiance.org

Navigating School Policies: The LGBTQ+ Experience in Pennsylvania
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Navigating School Policies: The LGBTQ+ Experience in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s approach to supporting LGBTQ+ students in schools has become a focal point of contention. With the state’s 500 school districts exhibiting varying levels of support or restriction, the experiences of these students differ widely across districts. While some have adopted inclusive policies, others have moved towards more restrictive measures.

Progressive Steps: Districts Embracing Inclusion

A notable segment of Pennsylvania’s school districts, approximately 30 as identified by the USA TODAY Network, has taken proactive steps to support transgender students. These districts have implemented policies that address critical aspects of student life, such as confidentiality in communications, the use of chosen pronouns, and access to facilities that align with students’ gender identities. These measures aim to foster an inclusive and safe environment for LGBTQ+ students.

The Counter Movement: Restrictions on Transgender Rights

Conversely, other districts have proposed or implemented policies that limit the rights of transgender students, particularly in areas like sports participation and facility usage. These restrictions often reflect broader societal debates and have sparked significant controversy within communities.

The Role of Advocacy Groups

The PA Family Institute, a conservative Christian nonprofit, has been influential in promoting restrictive policies. By engaging with school board members and district officials, they have shaped the conversation around transgender and LGBTQ+ rights in schools, underscoring the pivotal role of advocacy groups in these debates.

Seeking Student and Family Voices

Understanding the real-world impact of these policies is crucial. The USA TODAY Network seeks to hear directly from LGBTQ+ students and their families in Pennsylvania. Through a survey, the network aims to gather insights into how these students feel in their school environments—whether they experience a sense of belonging or alienation—and how much district policies contribute to these feelings.

The Way Forward: A Call for Dialogue and Understanding

As discussions around LGBTQ+ rights in schools continue, the need for comprehensive and empathetic understanding of the experiences of affected students and families becomes increasingly important. Pennsylvania’s varied approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools not only reflects the broader national conversation but also highlights the need for informed and compassionate policymaking at the local level.

©unitedradiance.org

Pete Buttigieg's Candid Rebuttal to Speaker Mike Johnson's Anti-LGBTQ+ Stance
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Pete Buttigieg’s Candid Rebuttal to Speaker Mike Johnson’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Stance

Pete Buttigieg, the openly gay US Transportation Secretary, has extended a personal invitation to House Speaker Mike Johnson in an effort to showcase the normalcy and love within a same-sex household. This invitation is a poignant response to Johnson’s long-standing anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, which has included calls to outlaw gay sex and claims that homosexuality helped bring down the Roman Empire.

The Discrepancy Between Past and Present

Johnson’s Controversial Legacy

Despite his recent declarations of love for all people during a Fox News interview, Johnson’s past is shadowed by editorial pieces steeped in severe anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment. His previous assertions—that homosexuality is unnatural and poses a risk to societal values—stand in stark contrast to the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ families across the nation.

A Shift in Public Discourse

Johnson’s current narrative, which appears to distance him from his earlier statements, reflects a broader societal shift towards acceptance and equality. However, for many within the LGBTQ+ community, the echoes of his past views continue to reverberate, contributing to ongoing dialogues about representation and rights.

Buttigieg’s Family: A Portrait of Equality

Day in the Life of the Buttigieg-Glezman Household

Buttigieg’s challenge to Johnson involves an intimate glimpse into his family life with husband Chasten and their twins. By sharing the mundane yet meaningful moments of daycare pickups and dinner preparations, Buttigieg aims to illuminate the shared experiences that unite all families, regardless of the parents’ sexual orientation.

Counteracting Darkness with Daily Light

In stark opposition to Johnson’s claim that homosexuality carries a “darkness,” Buttigieg emphasizes the love and joy within his family. His narrative counters fear and prejudice with the reality of a loving, functioning, and completely typical American family.

The Weight of Words and the Capitol Dome

Confronted with Johnson’s past comments, Buttigieg expresses the discomfort of navigating a political landscape where the highest levels of leadership have espoused views that invalidate the existence of families like his. The physical symbol of the US Capitol serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality for the LGBTQ+ community.

Conclusion: Challenging the Status Quo with Personal Truth

Pete Buttigieg’s invitation to Mike Johnson is more than a simple gesture of hospitality—it’s a strategic and heartfelt attempt to bridge the gap between divisive rhetoric and the reality of countless American families. It stands as a testament to the power of personal narratives in challenging outdated and discriminatory ideologies.

©unitedradiance.org

Shanghai's Halloween Escapade: A Masquerade of Freedom
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Shanghai’s Halloween Escapade: A Masquerade of Freedom

After years of pandemic-induced silence, the streets of Shanghai burst into a cacophony of color and life as thousands paraded in a four-day Halloween celebration. From Huaihai Road to Nanjing Road, a tapestry of costumes – from the fantastical to the satirical – carried the spirit of a city shaking off the weight of restrictions and expressing itself in ways typically muted by the watchful eyes of Chinese censors.

A Rare Oasis for LGBTQ+ Expression

In a society where LGBTQ+ visibility often faces suppression, Halloween has become an unlikely sanctuary for self-expression. Amid the ghosts and goblins, symbols of queer life emerged, a poignant reminder of the community’s resilience. Lucas Fu, reflecting on the shift since 2017, saw parallels between the Halloween festivities and the Pride events of years past, a fleeting moment of liberation and acceptance in a landscape often devoid of such opportunities.

Subtle Acts of Defiance

Delos Wu, alongside others, chose costumes that whispered rather than shouted. His choice, a nod to the queer comedy “Marry My Dead Body,” was a subtle rebellion against the grain. Similarly, Wakkii Zheng’s royal concubine ensemble was a quiet testament to the liberating power of Halloween, a night where the usual constraints on gender expression seemed to dissipate like fog.

Economic Ghost Stories: Humor in Hardship

The revelry also served as a stage for commentary on China’s economic downturn, with costumes humorously lamenting the job market and financial strife. Liberal arts majors and medical students donned beggar’s bowls, transforming their anxieties into a collective joke, a shared experience that seemed to make the burden a little lighter, if only for a night.

An Unfettered Jubilee Under Watchful Eyes

The police, present yet unobtrusive, stood as silent sentinels amidst the mirth. Their restraint allowed the joyous chaos to unfold, a rare sight of tolerance in a city known for its strict control. This Halloween showed a different face of Shanghai – one that was joyful and free-spirited, fostering hope for a future where such expressions are not confined to the anonymity of costumes and night.

Digital Ghosts: Censorship Amid Celebration

However, even as the physical celebration thrived, the digital realm told a different story. Posts capturing the night’s spirit faced censorship on social media platforms, a stark reminder of the boundaries still in place. Eric Ding’s words echoed the sentiment of many, a desire for the unadulterated joy of a self-chosen holiday to continue, a dream for Shanghai to retain its youthful exuberance in the face of authority.

In Conclusion: A Night of Many Faces

Shanghai’s Halloween was a prism, reflecting myriad facets of life in modern China. It was a night where the lines between celebration, protest, and hope blurred into a spectacle of unbridled expression. As the costumes are packed away and the streets return to their everyday rhythm, the memories of this Halloween carry the whispered question of what could be, a question that will linger in the air until next year’s masquerade.

©unitedradiance.org

Fashion Icon Takes a Stand: Donatella Versace Condemns Anti-LGBTQ+ Policies
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Fashion Icon Takes a Stand: Donatella Versace Condemns Anti-LGBTQ+ Policies

In the wake of the glitz and glamour of Milan Fashion Week, Donatella Versace, the creative force behind the Versace brand, has made waves not for her fashion but for her firm stance against the Italian government’s anti-LGBTQ+ policies. Her powerful speech at an awards ceremony in Milan has put her at the forefront of the fight for minority rights.

Versace’s Impassioned Plea for Equality

While accepting a prize for equity and inclusivity at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards, Versace delivered an impassioned oration that captured the audience’s attention and respect. She criticized the current Italian administration for policies that curtail the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, including attacks on same-sex parent recognition and family freedoms. Her critique extended to the freedom of expression and the right to love without fear.

Italy’s Contentious Stance on LGBTQ+ Rights

Despite legalizing same-sex civil unions in 2016, Italy’s restrictions on same-sex marriage and adoption remain firm, a position bolstered by the Catholic Church’s opposition. Versace highlighted recent regressive steps, such as the removal of non-biological gay parents’ names from birth certificates and a complete ban on overseas surrogacy, as indicative of the government’s discriminatory approach.

A United Front for Change

The esteemed designer stood alongside Alessandro Zan, a parliament member and LGBTQ+ activist, underscoring the need for legislative protection against discrimination. Although Zan’s proposed bill failed, Versace’s voice adds significant influence to the ongoing dialogue on equality.

The Government’s Silent Reception

The Prime Minister’s office, when prompted for a response to Versace’s remarks, remained silent, which speaks volumes in the context of the current social climate.

Community Applause for Versace

Members of Italy’s LGBTQ+ community have applauded Versace for her outspokenness, a rarity in the high stakes world of Italian fashion and business. Activists like Gabriele Piazzoni and Fabrizio Marrazzo have lauded her for breaking the silence and challenging the government’s overt discrimination.

The Fashion Industry’s Quieter Response

While Versace speaks out, the broader Italian fashion industry has largely remained silent, possibly fearing economic backlash. However, as protests surge and public opinion shifts, this silence may prove more harmful than supportive to the industry’s image.

Versace’s Legacy of Advocacy

This is not the first time Versace has championed gay rights; her advocacy is long-standing, with initiatives like the Versace Foundation furthering the cause. Her personal connection to the issue, remembering her brother Gianni’s coming out, adds a poignant touch to her public declarations.

Moving Forward

Donatella Versace’s speech marks a significant moment for Italy’s business and fashion communities. As an influential figure, her stance encourages others in positions of power to advocate for change, signaling a hopeful future for Italy’s minority communities.

©unitedradiance.org

Avon and Somerset Police Acknowledge Past Wrongs to LGBT+ Community
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Avon and Somerset Police Acknowledge Past Wrongs to LGBT+ Community

In a landmark statement, Sarah Crew, the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, has extended a formal apology for the historical mistreatment of the LGBT+ community by the police force. This act of contrition aligns with the Peter Tatchell Foundation’s #ApologiseNow campaign, which started in June and seeks to mend the strained relations between law enforcement and the LGBT+ population.

Campaign for Change

The #ApologiseNow campaign encourages police forces to confront and apologize for past actions that were harmful to LGBT+ individuals. These actions include invasive raids on gay bars, derogatory treatment, and discriminatory targeting of the LGBT+ community. Avon and Somerset Police have become the seventh police force to engage with this initiative, taking a significant step towards acknowledging past injustices and fostering a future of inclusion and mutual trust.

Painful Past, Hopeful Future

Chief Constable Crew expressed deep regret for the force’s historical conduct, acknowledging the “hurt, pain, and anger” caused, which eroded the trust and confidence of the LGBT+ community in the police. The apology comes after extensive internal consultations and discussions with community stakeholders, ensuring that the sentiment is backed by a robust action plan.

Building Bridges

Looking ahead, Avon and Somerset Police have committed to “starting a conversation” in the coming year to enhance local policing strategies. This initiative will include close collaboration with the community to ensure that the force moves forward with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and concerns of LGBT+ individuals.

Unambiguous Recognition

Sarah Crew’s apology was noted for its clarity and directness, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the force’s acknowledgment of past wrongs. Peter Tatchell, a renowned activist, commended the apology for its straightforwardness and the chief constable’s proactive approach to initiating positive change.

A Joint Journey Forward

The chief constable emphasized the importance of joint progress, stating, “Rather than us moving forward alone, I think it would be much more effective to move forward together.” This sentiment was echoed by Tatchell, who highlighted the campaign’s aim not to cast blame but to forge improved relations for the equitable treatment and protection of LGBT+ persons under the law.

Commitment to Honour Promises

The sincerity of the apology was bolstered by the confidence expressed by Peter Tatchell in the force’s commitment to their promises. It signifies a move away from shaming tactics towards constructive dialogue and actions that ensure equality, respect, and legal protection for the LGBT+ community.

Conclusion

The apology from Avon and Somerset Police marks a significant step in addressing historical grievances and building a more inclusive society. As police forces across the country are called upon to reflect on their past, this moment serves as a catalyst for change, symbolizing hope and the potential for healing long-standing wounds within the community.

©unitedradiance.org

Ohio Church Arson: Unmasking a Hate-fueled Offense
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Ohio Church Arson: Unmasking a Hate-fueled Offense

The quiet town of Chesterland, Ohio, recently found itself at the center of a disturbing hate-driven act. Aimenn Penny, a 20-year-old purportedly linked to a far-right extremist group, confessed to orchestrating a fire attack on a local church. His intentions? To deter two upcoming drag performances.

Breakdown of the Event

On the night of 25 March, the Chesterland church faced an unexpected threat. Penny unleashed a series of homemade firebombs, causing extensive damage to the church’s structure and defiling its signage. This brazen act led to Penny’s swift arrest within the same month. He was slapped with a slew of charges, among them dual counts of arson, illegal possession of explosives, and impeding religious freedom, a recognized federal hate crime.

Unearthing the Motive

Insights from the U.S. justice department shed light on Penny’s deep-seated intentions – to suppress the congregants’ right to embrace and celebrate their faith. Alarmingly, the FBI’s investigations tagged Penny as an affiliate of the White Lives Matter faction, infamous for its racially charged and neo-Nazi leanings. Eye-witness accounts recall Penny and his associates previously rallying against a drag ensemble, waving swastika banners, and spewing a barrage of racist, homophobic invectives, including the haunting “Heil Hitler.”

Tracing the Crime Back to Penny

Acting on an anonymous lead regarding Penny’s role in the arson, the FBI’s Cleveland branch tapped into cellphone location trackers, pinning Penny to the crime scene during the incident. A subsequent raid of Penny’s home uncovered damning evidence, from Nazi relics, a White Lives Matter of Ohio emblematic tee, to potential implements linked to the arson.

A Strong Stance Against Hate

The justice department’s response to the atrocity was unambiguous and fierce. Kristen Clarke, the assistant attorney general, underscored the severity of targeting religious sanctuaries, especially those championing the LGBTQI+ cause. She reaffirmed the department’s unwavering dedication to upholding every American’s right to religious freedom. Echoing her sentiments, Matthew Olsen of the national security division stressed that any form of extremist aggression, which undermines the nation’s core principles, will face stern retribution.

This grim episode underscores the ongoing challenges of prejudice. Yet, the relentless pursuit of justice offers a beacon of hope against such deep-seated intolerance.

©unitedradiance.org

Pushing Boundaries in School Athletics: The Journey of Becky Pepper-Jackson
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Pushing Boundaries in School Athletics: The Journey of Becky Pepper-Jackson

From a tender age, Becky Pepper-Jackson has been passionate about sports. The 13-year-old West Virginian’s affinity for running is evident, often jogging alongside family members. Now in eighth grade, Becky not only excels in sprints but is also a standout in field events like the discus and shot put. She characterizes her involvement in both as a mix of “raw power and elegant speed.” Her mother, Heather, speaks with admiration about Becky’s unwavering commitment, pointing out that she diligently practices her field events in their garden, come rain or shine.

Taking on a State’s Controversial Decision

In 2021, West Virginia’s Governor, Jim Justice, endorsed a bill prohibiting transgender girls from joining girls’ school sports teams, spanning middle school to college. This legislative move became the catalyst for Becky’s legal journey to assure her spot on her school’s female cross-country and track squads. The case has witnessed several twists and turns, with the latest session held at the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. The verdict from this court could potentially propel the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court’s attention.

U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. Supreme Court

National Debate on Transgender Athletes

The policy in West Virginia mirrors those in nearly two dozen other states that have introduced similar limitations on transgender student-athletes in recent years. Advocates of such regulations often contend that transgender girls have a built-in edge over their cisgender peers. Yet, this viewpoint has sparked considerable debate and resistance. Heather voices her exasperation with lawmakers, accusing them of politicizing the issue for electoral gains without in-depth analysis. “All we seek is acceptance, and she wishes to live her childhood. Being a child shouldn’t be this challenging,” remarks Heather.

Legal Standpoints and the Future

Both the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Lambda Legal, representing Becky, assert that the West Virginian statute contravenes federal laws against gender-based prejudice. At a recent court session, Joshua Block of the ACLU underscored that Becky’s medical protocols negate any purported athletic advantage often highlighted by detractors. Conversely, the state’s representative, Lindsay See, upholds the bill, suggesting inherent biological disparities between trans and cisgender girls necessitate gender-specific classifications in sports. The unfolding legal saga has the potential to make its way to the Supreme Court. Regardless of the final verdict, Becky Pepper-Jackson’s battle underscores the pressing debate surrounding transgender rights and inclusivity in scholastic athletics.

©unitedradiance.org

Human Rights Campaign Sounds Alarm for LGBTQ+ Community
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Human Rights Campaign Sounds Alarm for LGBTQ+ Community

In an unprecedented move, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization in the United States, has declared a national state of emergency for the LGBTQ+ community. This declaration comes as the community faces increasing threats and violence. Kelley Robinson, the president of HRC, has emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the dangers are “real, tangible, and dangerous.” The community is experiencing a surge in violence, discrimination, and legislative attacks that have tangible impacts on their lives and well-being.

Unveiling a Digital Lifeline

Responding to the crisis, HRC is set to release a comprehensive digital guidebook. This vital resource will offer health and safety information, an outline of state-specific laws, a “know your rights” section, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating life in states with hostile environments. The guidebook aims to empower and protect community members across the nation, equipping them with crucial information to navigate the challenging landscape.

Legislative Hostility and Community Resilience

The need for such measures has been spurred by what the HRC describes as “an unprecedented wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.” In the early part of 2023 alone, a staggering 417 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced across various state legislatures. This alarming trend represents a significant increase from the previous year and includes various measures designed to marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals.

Flashpoints and Fallout

The national state of emergency is not just a symbolic gesture; it reflects a series of distressing events that have unfolded in recent times. From the tragedy at Club Q to the slew of bills passed in Florida that restrict LGBTQ+ rights, the community finds itself at the epicenter of a polarized national debate. With the 2024 election on the horizon, LGBTQ+ rights have become a contentious issue.

Legal Battles Ahead

As the Human Rights Campaign continues to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, the U.S. Supreme Court is deliberating on a case that could have far-reaching implications for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly concerning the refusal of services based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for future civil rights cases.

Unyielding in the Face of Adversity

Despite the daunting challenges ahead, the Human Rights Campaign remains steadfast. The organization is clear in its resolve that the LGBTQ+ community will not be silenced or erased. With the firm belief in the resilience and rights of LGBTQ+ people, the HRC is gearing up to counteract any efforts aimed at undermining the community’s freedoms and rights.

©unitedradiance.org