I’m writing from the observation deck as our cruise ship sails towards Juneau Alaska. About 100 LGBTQ persons are turned into squealing children as we watch whales frolicking in the water around the ship. Everything outside in my view is breathtaking. At moments, advocating for LGBTQ Rights seems so daunting and intense. Full equality is essential, and yet at a moment like this, as I look out on glacier, forest and ocean, everything falls into[Read More…]
I am however, going to become a broken record telling all my readers why it is crucial to turn out and vote in every election. Because Freedom is free, and the cost of freedom is voting.
While it advances an end to discrimination, Equality PA has begun the process of asking, “What’s next?” To answer this important, strategic question, they need your input.
The time for full non-discrimination protection for all Pennsylvanians is now.
Heightened Scrutiny, and treating LGBT as a protected class opens the doors for full equality, and such a decision could bed part of the Supreme Courts ration ale in there decision expected before the end of the month.
People all the time ask what LGBTQ activists ought to work on after marriage is complete and nondiscrimination is done. We have to care more about our youth and end bullying and brutality.
Pride is all about a conscious effort to examine the status quo and decide where to add your voice for change. For Pittsburgh Pride, in 20125, the issue is complex. Do you support Roots Pride Pittsburgh or the status quo?
The Delta Foundation has another Pride in the Street with a performer who is mostly marketed towards the gay make constituency that Delta doesn’t recognize that they cater to. This is not progress, it is the status quo.
Pittsburgh PrideFest and the PrideMarch are two events where you prompt change by being present and a part of them. We need to occupy these events and claim these spaces as fully inclusive.
I believe a planned facilitated meeting is potentially very good first step and I will publish more about it when available. But it is just one step, and much more will be needed in time. Every journey has begin some way however. The decision to bring Iggy Azalea ended up causing a reaction and that reaction is the start of a journey that may create greater inclusion, greater diversity and real respect.