I just posted the following in Safe Haven, and am posting it here as well, with minor changes. Please feel free to copy this post to other boards if the spirit so moves you.
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I'll be joining several functions related to Gay Pride Month for the first time in over 20 years. If you've never walked in a parade or been to a vigil or festival or other gay pride function, I hope you will this year.
For my fellow Americans, taking a stand this year is especially important, for obvious reasons.
But there are non-political reasons to get involved as well. Walking in a parade for the first time is a life-changing experience. Because of my pain, I can't walk in them anymore, so I'm doing other things, but I have fond memories of parades in years past.. It's a huge boost to your self-esteem and confidence.
Many straight people walk in Gay Pride Parades as well: they're for anyone who supports human rights for GLBT peoples. So invite your friends to walk with you. Some parades include a Gay-Straight Alliance group to walk with under their banner; or a Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (P-FLAG) group to join. In this way, straight people can identify themselves as a straight supporter if that's a concern for them.This year, we can support and celebrate the love between Ennis and Jack.
And we should.
