As I have tried to see LGBTQ from a larger perspective than what my life in the relatively big city of Pittsburgh is all about, I have come to have an even more profound appreciation for PFLAG groups. Their work is immeasurable and essential to supporting LGBTQ persons everywhere. Butler is not what one might call a bastion of liberal thinking, and s for this group, like a number across Western PA to keep doing such important work is all important.
So, I was thrilled to see a GSA with so many smart, active and courageous young people involved, and exited to think about the role they will play is the struggle for full equality. They will be tomorrow’s leaders, helping to make gains on both the political and social paths.
PFLAG is also concerned with advocacy, but I think there is another aspect to what PFLAG accomplishes which may be even more far reaching, and yesterday’s picnic is a great example of that. No matter what rights we do or don’t have, we live our lives, form relationships, friendships and networks. We have families and create families. We work, and live our lives, and are there for each other when we are needed. We can’t wait for full legal protections and rights before we live full lives! We have to deal with things as they are, while at the same time pushing for change and full equality.