"I won't starve today. I won't even really be hungry. But I am starved to have the conversation about perspective and other words like: equality, democracy, freedom, civility, society."
– Julie Marcos
"Unfortunately, I've been one of those people who has been fired because my boss found out I was gay. It really sucks that even if someone had advocated for me during that time, it wouldn't have mattered. How sad that the ability to do your job has actually nothing to do with ability. Since when did the fact that I'm gay have anything to do with how well I follow directions?"
– David Worth
"My daughter Megh has always been my inspiration. She has shown me what strength, tenacity and courage looks like. I went to Megh and Karianne's wedding last month (which is not legally recognized in Michigan). I have never in my life seen such a peaceful and passionate love as I did that day. I could not stop starring at them, laughing with them and sneaking away to cry tears of happiness for them. I am striking today for my daughter and her wife–to fight for their right to get married in Michigan and have all the legal benefits as heterosexual couples. I will always be here as an ally of the LGBT community. I will stand up for equality, proud and courageous, just like my daughter."
– Kathleen Nickerson
"A straight man or woman does not have to worry about being fired due to their sexual orientation. This is inequality – period. I hope people realize this when it comes time for people to vote."
– Mark Green
"By now, the hype and excitement surrounding this campaign has died down and leveled off. This is when it is most important to stand up and stay strong. We need to make sure people see us, relate to us and know who we are. Even though many times you can't see inequality happening in front of you, doesn't mean it just goes away."
– Deb Holbrook
"Striking for equality started off with me wanting to contribute in a small way and bringing awareness of the importance of making the right choices in this year's upcoming elections. After my experience of sitting in the Affirmations 'fishbowl' this past Saturday and having 24 hours of my day focused on the strike it turned from an awareness initiative to being very personal for me. With every hour of experiencing hunger pains I was constantly reminded that we as a GLBT people are still suffering. Not that I ever lose sight of that of this sad reality, but to actually 'feel' it and be reminded of it for a full 24 hour period was not only sad but heartbreaking. I am still sitting with my emotions with all this and trying to come up with the words to fully articulate how this experience truly left me feeling. Sad, angry, broken, frustrated and dejected are just a few adjectives that come to mind."
– Zip Johnson
"There are way more serious things going on in this world that need addressing, yet they still want to target us. The LGBT community deserves the same rights as everyone else!"
– April McLeod
