Advertisement

Town hall a success?

Dear BTL,
I would like to say that it was great that Detroit is finally tackling the issue of homophobia/transphobia in our city. The hall was full of people, with energy
levels on high, to see what could be done to battle and end homophobia/transphobia.
I was at the Town Hall Meeting from 7-8:30 p.m. and never heard any of the
audience questions asked or answered. This was a bit upsetting since that is what this meeting was to have been about.
I give Charles Pugh high praise for coming out. You are going to be a great role model for the youth to show that they can succeed, in being both black and being queer. My only issue is when the panelists were speaking and have introductions, there were too many side comments and too much joking. Senator Hanson Clark was
even asked to finally "come out." This was very inappropriate and out of line. The joking came to a point where it seemed almost attacking.
With introductions taking so long, a few people started leaving, since the issues were not being addressed. I did hear that the meeting did get rolling, but this had to of occurred after 8:30 p.m.
I hope that this starts the dialog that was intended. Detroit has the potential of being a wonderful queer/trans safe place! I believe what needs to happen is people need to stop with labels and boxes and allow people to live the lives that are best for them. With the celebrating of diversity comes equality with the community. Without that sense of community and pride, will we ever get our rights? If we cannot get over our basic issues/prejudices as a LGBTQ community, how are we to be taken seriously by the heterosexual community?
We have a lot of ground to walk, but I am glad that the city of Detroit is ready to start the race!
Bill Johnson
Prevention Outreach Specialst
AIDS Partnership Michigan/AmeriCorps Team Detroit

Advertisement
Advertisement

From the Pride Source Marketplace

Go to the Marketplace
Directory default
Multi-service, multicultural organization providing HIV testing and counseling, prevention and…
Learn More
Directory default
The MSU Museum is the science and culture museum at Michigan State University and the state's first…
Learn More
Directory default
An endowed foundation for the purpose of granting scholarships to LGBT students in Michigan.
Learn More
Advertisement