Peterson spoke forcefully and eloquently at the rally (they had an open mic), stating that we already have the right to marry whomever we choose, and it's insulting that we have to ask permission. He also said that we are being treated shamefully, but ended with a quote from Langston Hughes' poem, I, Too,
"Besides,
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed--"
And the crowd cheered as we saw how beautiful we were.
The following photos are courtesy of Gina Richards.
In other news, Dan Gonzales and I were quoted in an interview by the Denver Daily News. I particularly enjoyed the comment below the article where I'm referred to as 'this "Bakke" girl.'
On Tuesday, I'll be giving a talk at the Women's Circle at the local GLBT center. The first time I ever told my story was at this group, three years ago, so I'm coming back now to tell it again, but more importantly, to talk about the Ex-Gay Survivor movement that has been launched in the last few years. If you're in Denver and want to attend, email me for more information.
I'll close with another quote by Langston Hughes (who was also gay):
"We younger Negro artists now intend to express our individual dark-skinned selves without fear or shame. If white people are pleased we are glad. If they aren't, it doesn't matter. We know we are beautiful. And ugly too... If colored people are pleased we are glad. If they are not, their displeasure doesn't matter either. We build our temples for tomorrow, as strong as we know how and we stand on the top of the mountain, free within ourselves."
you are a blogging fool! And I miss you.
ReplyDeleteSisterlove, you and Petersen are two people I am VERY proud of. Your journey's haven't been easy.
ReplyDeleteI attended three rallies, one before the election, two after.
Had to do it in a wheelchair, because I had surgery on both legs three weeks ago.
These rallies are impressive for many reasons, that they have been orderly, that they have MUCH diverse representation from every human being regardless of color, culture or religious affiliation and many straight allies were showing their love and commitment too.
Looks like the 8 supporters are using this righteous pain and anger from gay people as an excuse to hide, instead of truly stepping up and giving any good justification for THEIR actions that directly affect thousands.
You rock. I hope to see you sometime and I know that all of us were together in spirit as we respectively hit the streets.
I got together with a favorite recently married couple last night to work out a theatrical response to all this. And I"m working with other advocates on bringing black folks together with us for a family reunion.
So far, this family feud blows and we can't let these negative emotions flare or fester.
Love you, and keep up your fine work!
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