Dear Friends,
With all the horrible things going on in the world, I must say that what I find most disturbing are the attempts by state legislators (with help from the Supreme Court?) to strip LGBTQ citizens of their civil rights. Of course, some of these rights were mere glimmers of hope when I was a kid. But young people have grown to expect the blessings of liberty for all, while older Republicans are attempting to snatch those rights away.
Some of the grabs are subtle—cloaked in the guise of parental rights and religious freedom. Others are more overt and more comfortable for the “God Hates Fags” crowd. Perhaps the most shocking ones are the attempts to criminalize parents who are seeking proper medical care for their trans children. But all these atrocities and attempted atrocities are dangerous and pernicious.
I’ve never been an activist. I’ve tried to live an authentic life, and I share my husband’s view that it’s always important to be out—to be unapologetically visible. But the only time I ever marched was to protest the runup to George W Bush’s Iraq War. Sadly, even Susan Sarandon and Pete Seeger couldn’t stop that disaster.
I guess I’m saying I’m glad I have comfortable shoes and clothing for all seasons. Because this might be the year to hit the streets. Or something. I don’t know yet. But I think there’s lots to worry about. And there’s no point in pretending it isn’t happening. Wish I could offer solutions, but, of course, vigilance is always important. Thanks for letting me vent.
Bruce
6 Comments
jeffrey kelling · April 3, 2022 at 5:45 pm
Thank you Bruce!!
Bruce K Beck · April 3, 2022 at 11:21 pm
Than YOU, Jeffrey! It’s good to hear from you.
Liz Thompson · April 4, 2022 at 4:20 am
Well put. I’m just an ally for LGBTQ, as I have friends and family members who are LGBTQ. Similar situation over here in the UK, transphobia, government reneging on conversion therapy ban, etc etc. And with every other thing (climate, Ukraine/Yemen/Afghanistan and others, food banks), I’m working out how to build the barricades. I’ve form on this – 73 years old and an activist against nuclear weapons since 16.
Bruce K Beck · April 4, 2022 at 8:45 am
Thanks, Liz. It’s good to have you on the team!
Jim Weems · April 4, 2022 at 6:42 pm
I agree with your comments. I am also generally “just myself” though I will raise my voice against injustices when I see them. I also think this year may be the time when all of us need to “dust off” our marching shoes and our protest signs and chants… and, for EVERYONE’S sake, let’s vote like our lives depend on it (they might….)!
Bruce K Beck · April 5, 2022 at 9:33 am
Thanks, Jim. You’re spot-on! I think this election cycle may be the most important in a long time.