Welcome to a celebration of PRIDE and Frank’s coming out as an ally for the very first time…
Galvanized by so many heartbreaking, infuriating, and inhumane attempts to marginalize and demonize those who are “different” and those who support them.
Awakened by the realization that it’s not enough to merely be an ally in the privacy of my own mind, but that I need to publicly and enthusiastically stand up and be counted.
Energized to do so in support of every lonely, misunderstood person who is “different”… and with the hope of inspiring other allies still in the closet to stand up and be counted as well.
And so, on June 10, 2023, some super cool friends and I participated in the ABQ PRIDE parade–a joyous celebration of inclusion, peace, and love–and one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.
In the spirit of fun and wanting to contribute, not merely to spectate, we got together the day before and made some awesome posters…
All proudly and enthusiastically shared with everyone on parade day…
A message of love and courage to allies still in the closet…
Every one of us who comes out in visible support sets a powerful example. For one, it tells other closeted allies that it’s ok to think what they’re thinking and might inspire them to come out, too. But most important, it tells everyone who’s “different” that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with them and that they are unconditionally loved.
And a message of love and hope to everybody who’s “different“…
Please don’t lose heart. The number of allies is growing (even in some pleasantly surprising places) and the day is coming when you will not merely be tolerated, but fully embraced for who you are.
Good move!
Thanks for the resonance, Teresa, wherever you are!
I am back on the west coast of North America after a great time in Portugal (cut short by covid … but I’m recovering).
I agree with your post. It’s past time to speak up and demonstrate our support. Strength in numbers!
Boo on getting sick and cutting your trip short, but glad you’re recovering. Strength in numbers indeed, hopefully leading to a major tipping point. All the best.
I’d hardly call myself a closeted ally, but it’s seriously time to wear it on my sleeve. The infuriating rhetoric from our right wing politicians is beyond dangerous. Yesterday, I got a rainbow flag for my front porch. In my small conservative town, I’m sure gays want to know who their allies are.
You’re a good man, Jeff, and a fine teacher.
Thank you, Frank! As a gay man, it infuriates me to see the state legislative attacks on the LGBTQ community that are based in fear, hate, and—quite honestly—ignorance. To be honest, it also makes me anxious to see what’s happening, and makes me a little more cautious in how I move through life.
It’s up to *everyone* to put an end to this so, again, thank you for your support.
I, too, am infuriated by the hundreds of state legislative attacks. For what it’s worth, recent events compelled me to fight back in the courts by become a sustaining donor to ACLU, FFRF, and the Trevor Project.
I’m glad you’re here, Dan.