I’m not sure whether it’s because I’m gearing up to bawl my eyes out at Milk today or not, but this remarkable, heartfelt speech in support of same-sex marriage equality by (Republican and former police chief of) San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders had me reaching for the Kleenex.
I’m not going to weigh the effectiveness of Sanders’ powerful story (and example) against that of the massive protests and demonstrations following the passage of California’s Proposition 8. They each serve vital roles in the struggle for full equality and respect. But the unifying principle is that we must not be hidden, we must not be cowed and we must, each and every one of us lesbian and gay people, perform a simple and terrifying act.
We must come out.
We must come out so our families and friends and employers can see that we are not some frightening “other”. We are people woven completely into the fabric of every corner of society, strengthening and adding colour and form to the fabric. We are everywhere. These are our lives.
Make yours count.
Happy Thanksgiving, America. Thank you for Harvey Milk. Thank you for Jerry Sanders.
6 comments
“We must come out”. Agreed. Living honestly, overcoming fear, and living by example is perhaps the highest level of activism we as gay people can engage in. It is so much harder to hate something you are familiar with and have a fondness for. Our interactions with others are extremely important to make this a personal issue with them. A very Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours Mr. Stewart
Okay. That made me cry.
and thank you.
You own stock in Kleenex or something, is what I’ve finally figured out.
this reminds me of when daddy bush broke down when jeb didn’t regain the governorship of florida, but with vast differences.
i bet this man will be asked on the ellen show very very soon.
I lost it as soon as he reached for the water. I just knew he was going to break down. I am so proud of this man. The fact that this old white republican (forgive me, but really) could have such a change of heart really gives me hope. And now that you have made me all weepy, my nose is stuffy. Thanks.