Sunday morning, I learned that a population I am a part of was targeted by a gunman resulting in many deaths and injuries. That night there was a vigil that I did not go to. Monday morning, my wife was referred to as “your friend”. In the next few days I saw news stories, comments, and facebook posts about how people should react, and how people should show support, and what people should not do, and what needs to be controlled better, and what rights should not be taken away because of one person, etc…
While I did not attend the vigil because of prior commitments, I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel fear at the thought of gathering with other LGBT people and allies.
I did not correct the person who referred to my wife as a friend. Instead, I stayed silent.
I have been on the verge of breaking down since Sunday morning. Trying to process what is happening in Orlando, and my mind.
Sunday morning, I was told that I am someone. That I am good enough as I am. I read articles written by ELCA church members challenging the church to stand up against hate and to not be silent.
Yet I am silent.
I think about the non-violent protesters from the 60’s, the masses beaten and murdered before that.
I think about the LGBT population standing up against AIDS, and being beaten down.
I think about the survivors from those times and how my silence is still beating them down.
I am still processing, but am making this my first step in standing up and breaking the silence.
dreadedlesbian 