Today marks the beginning of the program Awareness Days 2003: Proud to Be, the 11th annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Awareness Days on the Homewood campus.

The three-week series of events is organized by the Diverse Sexuality and Gender Alliance, an undergraduate group that hopes to inspire greater activism and awareness by bringing to campus individuals at the forefront of the queer rights movement. Among those scheduled are Public Radio International contributor David Rakoff, MTV's Real World 11: Chicago cast members Chris and Aneesa, and transgendered activist Daphne Scholinski.

Opening ceremonies, with music and refreshments, are at 4 p.m. today, March 31, in Levering's Sherwood Room. Speakers and other events are as follows:

Chris and Aneesa from MTV'sReal World 11: Chicago will talk about being openly homosexual on an internationally popular television show. Wednesday, April 2, 8 p.m., Glass Pavilion, Levering.

David Rakoff, humorist, author and contributor to This American Life on Public Radio will give a reading from his recent work, Fraud, with a book signing to follow. Monday, April 7, 8 p.m., Great Hall, Levering.

The Rev. Irene Monroe will offer insight into the lives of queer people of faith. Monroe, who was recently featured in the PBS documentary series In The Life, writes about African-American gay and lesbian culture and the treatment of women and homosexuals by religious institutions. Wednesday, April 9, 8 p.m., AMR1 Multipurpose Room.

The comedic film Kissing Jessica Stein offers a refreshing take on the subject of sex and the single girl as Jessica, frustrated with the quality of men she meets, decides to answer a personal ad in the "women seeking women" section of the newspaper. Thursday, April 10, 8 p.m., 3 Shaffer.

Leslea Newman, author of Heather Has Two Mommies, The Femme Mystique, Out of the Closet and Nothing to Wear and other works, will discuss some of the controversies surrounding her books; homophobia; censorship; and family values in the 21st century. Monday, April 14, 8 p.m., Great Hall, Levering.

Patrick Webb, an accomplished and controversial figurative painter, will speak about his work in a slide lecture, "Punchinello and I." Tuesday, April 15, 5:30 p.m. 101 Mattin Center.

Transgendered activist Daphne Scholinski, currently an artist in Washington, has appeared on 20/20, Dateline and Today to discuss her experiences with adolescent psychiatric abuse. She is the winner of a Lambda Literary Award and finalist for a Books for a Better Life Award. Wednesday, April 16, 8 p.m., Clipper Room.

Drag Show and Dance, a DSAGA tradition, will feature well-known drag queens and kings as well as Johns Hopkins students. DJ Rosie of Coconuts will provide music. Prizes will be awarded to the best performers. Friday, April 18, 8 p.m. Great Hall, Levering.

Hate Crimes Vigil. A candlelight vigil, featuring speakers and personal stories, to show unity against crimes fueled by discrimination. Tuesday, April 22, 8 p.m., MSEL Quad.

For more information, contact DSAGA at 410-516-4088 or [email protected].