Editorial: Visibility equals power

Being out is a statement of pride, not in being LGBT per se, but in being you. And it is only by living an authentic, true life that we can effect real change.
In this issue we write about many people who are openly LGBT, and because of their honesty and integrity, they are creating change – in their workplaces, in government and in their everyday lives.
In this, our Special Auto Issue, we feature Frank Markus, an engineer that has risen to be the technical director at Motor Trend, the world's largest automotive publication. Markus has never hid that he is gay, and he has gained respect and a strong professional reputation because of his talent and dedication. He has undoubtedly opened the minds and hearts of many of the automobile professionals he has come in contact with over the years.
At the auto manufacturing companies, the employee groups have been leaders in their companies and in the corporate environment as a whole in effecting change in the workplace. They were essential in getting domestic partnership benefits at the "Big 3" in 2000, and they have encouraged their employers to become major donors to LGBT and HIV/AIDS organizations. The employee groups have also lobbied their marketing departments to think about the LGBT community as a viable market for their products. We salute them, and offer congratulations to Les Hohman of GM for being named a finalist for the 2005 Out & Equal Trailblazer Award.
This week, Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced the promotion of John Burchett to be her new chief of staff. Burchett is now the highest ranking, openly gay governmental employee in Michigan's history. It is a testament to his skill and abilities, and to the Governor's commitment to diversity.
The governor of California should note these inspiring stories, as he prepares himself to veto legislation that would extend marriage rights to same-sex couples. His weakness stands in stark contrast to the power of an authentic life. He ought to spend some time with the dedicated people at Ford GLOBE, or sit in on a staff meeting led by Burchett, or watch Markus study the specifications of the latest engines before he unilaterally decides that LGBT people are not deserving of the simple right to marry. One wonders what he frightens him about marriage equality.
As we celebrate the people we have profiled in this issue, we can remember that being out has become easier. The stories being compiled by the Heritage Project at Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center are from a time when being LGBT and being out was far more of a risk. We need to remember these stories so we remember and build on our past, appreciate our current lives, and prepare for a brighter future.