For Today

Understanding LGBT Inequities in America Today

Concerns about the visibility and safety of trans folks are increasing. Seven transgender women have been murdered so far in 2015. 

University of Washington professor Kristina Olson and Rice University professor Michelle Hebl are hosting a discussion about the rising number of children who identify and live as transgender and ideas on how to pass protective laws and eradicate discrimination.

The lecture is a part of the 10th Annual Allen L. Edwards Psychology Lectures series, The Psychological Science of Inequity and Inequality.

Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: Understanding LGBT Inequalities In America Today, Wed, Mar 4, 7pm, University of Washington, Kane Hall Rm 130, 4069 Spokane Ln, Free with registration

For Friday

Powering a Better Government with Better Technology

People like to talk about improving our nation's infrastructure as a key step in bringing America up to speed and improving the safety and wellbeing of its citizens. But they are usually talking about our physical infrastructure: our roads, bridges, and electrical utility grids.

What of our digital infrastructure? 

Jen Pahlka, former U.S. deputy chief technology officer, believes integrating new technologies into government systems will have a lasting positive effect. Think of the initial rollout of the Affordable Care Act's web platforms, and how an entire narrative against the ACA's implementation could have been negated on the outset as thousands of individuals enrolled in health care plans via an easy-to-use, functional website. Instead, it was exposed how government technology is still behind the private sector.

Pahlka will talk real-world examples of how to simplify government services through efficient use of new technologies, and how us civilian folk can help.

Advance Notice for March 27

Understanding North Korea’s Global Position

After The Interview questionably lampooned the North Korean government, you'd like to hear what an expert thinks, right? Seattle-based journalist Blaine Harden will be talking about his latest book, The Great Leader and the Fighter Pilot, which is a continuation of his work in chronicling the isolated socialist state.

Harden hopes to touch on the forgotten details of the Korean War, how American involvement is connected to modern day conflict with the U.S., and what the early days of North Korea can teach us about its current power status and its relationship with us.

Understanding North Korea's Global Position, Fri, Mar 27, 7:30pm, Seattle Town Hall, 1119 Eighth Ave, $5