07/23/11 State Victim Assistance Academy Looks at Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender-Related Issues      The Rhode Island State Victim Assistance Academy, a project of Family Service of Rhode Island and Roger Williams University, focuses on gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender-related issues this Tuesday afternoon (July 26, 2 p.m.) at the university’s Baypoint Inn and Conference Center in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The Academy, which kicked off July 12, trains professionals who work with victims and survivors of crime, such as advocates for domestic violence victims, hospital interpreters and others within the public and private sectors. “A key lesson from the training is avoiding stereotypes that could re-victimize the victim,” said Family Service of RI’s Susan Erstling, PhD, who helped create the Academy. A case study used in the presentation is the story of a transgender woman who was physically attacked by two men--and then treated poorly by crews responding to the incident.  “You’re going to need your gloves for this one.  I am not going to risk getting AIDS,” says one emergency medical technician in the case study. The training will cover: Definitions, such as “transgender,” and “transsexual”; Using inclusive language, such as “Is there someone who can help?” instead of “Can we call your wife?” Being open and respectful so the victim is reassured there is some good in the world. The presentation will be made by Mildred Bates, DSW, LICSW, a professor at Rhode Island College’s School of Social Work who has presented extensively on topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity. While enrollment in the Rhode Island State Victim Assistance Academy has been finalized for this year, information about enrolling next summer is available by calling 401-331-1350, ext. 3200 or emailing hallas@familyserviceri.org. Funding for the Academy is from federal Victims of Crime Act funds through the Rhode Island Public Safety Grant Administration Office.  (end)