LGBTQ youth in New Mexico, suicide rate among female veterans, New Mexico legislature special session

On the next New Mexico in Focus, we look at the needs of LGBTQ youth in New Mexico. June is national LGBT pride month. Young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender can face bullying and even homelessness after coming out to their families or classmates. NMiF producer Sarah Gustavus talks with a student and local leaders about what is being done to address these issues and protect students in New Mexico.

This week, the LA Times covered a new report on the suicide rate among female veterans. The report highlighted the need to look closer at the mental health needs and issues faced by women when they serve and after they come home. What does this mean for female veterans in New Mexico? Sarah Gustavus sits down with Patricia Gaston from the group Women Veterans of New Mexico.

Host Gene Grant and the line opinion panelists react to this week’s special session of the New Mexico legislature. Lawmakers approved a capital outlay bill that stalled in the regular session earlier this spring. The panelists also discuss Attorney General Hector Balderas’ investigation into the justice system and the future of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.

GUESTS:
Amber Royster, Executive Director of Equality New Mexico
Erin Northern, Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN)
Robyn Weekooty, high school junior
Patricia Gaston, Ret. Lieutenant Colonel – Women Veterans of New Mexico

LINE PANELISTS:
Russell Contreras, AP Reporter
Dede Feldman, former New Mexico State Senator
Dan Foley, former New Mexico House Minority Whip
Tom Garrity, the Garrity Group PR

CORRESPONDENT:
Sarah Gustavus

HOST:
Gene Grant

The Producer of NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS is Sarah Gustavus. Associate Producer is Kathy Wimmer. Funding for this program was provided in part by the McCune Foundation Communications Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation.

Episode 848 airs June 12, 2015