Congratulations to Angela Brightfeather on being named Q-Notes Person of the Year.
People with both passion and compassion will not always agree on every issue. I will always stand either beside or behind Angela, a time that may come sooner rather than later. More on that to follow.
2008 was an amazing year, as they all are, but this year was one of more changes than ever. The cool thing about change, one leads to another....and another.
Each New Years Eve, I listen to this ABBA tune from 12/31/79. You can listen here if you'd like.
Happy new year to everyone, including those dear friends I will not see in '09.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Walkin' In Memphis
It may be time to rewrite the lyrics to that song because transgender people are quite wary of 'Walkin' in Memphis' these days.
Leeneshia Edwards, a transgender woman was shot in the face Christmas Eve in Memphis, bringing the total to three for the year in that city and four in the last four years. She remains in critical condition and they are seeking the assailant. You can read about it here.
This is on the heels of Duanna Johnson's murder in November, which followed an incident of police brutality during the summer. The lawsuit is still pending for the family on that one. The two officers in question have been discharged. The video is not fun to watch.
No doubt we will hear Ms Edwards defined by her ethnicity or personal life circumstance. As in the past, the inference may be that she put herself in a bad situation and deserved what she got. People actually do say that. My transgender friends who read this know what's going on. I'm writing for benefit of any non TG people who may read this.
We had to read the names of far too many murdered human beings November 20th. Any transperson could be on that list, me or anyone I know. It remains a fact people are stereotyped by preconceived ideas, many times by what they see on Jerry Springer. Thankfully, there are enough people putting themselves out there to the point people are learning we are quite the opposite.
The Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes Prevention Act is so vitally important. President Elect Obama has stated this to be one of his priorities. Let us hope.
Leeneshia Edwards, a transgender woman was shot in the face Christmas Eve in Memphis, bringing the total to three for the year in that city and four in the last four years. She remains in critical condition and they are seeking the assailant. You can read about it here.
This is on the heels of Duanna Johnson's murder in November, which followed an incident of police brutality during the summer. The lawsuit is still pending for the family on that one. The two officers in question have been discharged. The video is not fun to watch.
No doubt we will hear Ms Edwards defined by her ethnicity or personal life circumstance. As in the past, the inference may be that she put herself in a bad situation and deserved what she got. People actually do say that. My transgender friends who read this know what's going on. I'm writing for benefit of any non TG people who may read this.
We had to read the names of far too many murdered human beings November 20th. Any transperson could be on that list, me or anyone I know. It remains a fact people are stereotyped by preconceived ideas, many times by what they see on Jerry Springer. Thankfully, there are enough people putting themselves out there to the point people are learning we are quite the opposite.
The Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes Prevention Act is so vitally important. President Elect Obama has stated this to be one of his priorities. Let us hope.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Post Christmas
Christmas was unique in many ways this year. I did not see any of my family, which is something that brings sadness to all of us who are in this situation. I sincerely hope that changes. I did have email contact with my daughter, with the plan for us to have dinner soon.
Our Christmas Day open house at the LGBT Community Center was a major success. There were lots of people I met for the first time. I had an RSVP from the priest at a Buddhist Temple in Charlotte. He wanted to come and support our community. He was most welcome and a very nice gentleman to talk with. I hope we see him again soon.
The cool thing, and what we wanted was for people of differing faiths and orientation to come together to enjoy each other's company. It was a good thing to do and I'm sure we will do it again.
Christmas Eve I had lunch with Linda, a dear friend I had not seen in a while. In the evening we had a chili supper, then the Candlelight Service at church. It's always one of the more special times of Christmas and this year was no exception.
Melanie is having problems with her knees still, so we got together Christmas night. Otherwise she would have been at the open house Christmas day. All in all, a wonderful Christmas.
Our Christmas Day open house at the LGBT Community Center was a major success. There were lots of people I met for the first time. I had an RSVP from the priest at a Buddhist Temple in Charlotte. He wanted to come and support our community. He was most welcome and a very nice gentleman to talk with. I hope we see him again soon.
The cool thing, and what we wanted was for people of differing faiths and orientation to come together to enjoy each other's company. It was a good thing to do and I'm sure we will do it again.
Christmas Eve I had lunch with Linda, a dear friend I had not seen in a while. In the evening we had a chili supper, then the Candlelight Service at church. It's always one of the more special times of Christmas and this year was no exception.
Melanie is having problems with her knees still, so we got together Christmas night. Otherwise she would have been at the open house Christmas day. All in all, a wonderful Christmas.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The Day Before Christmas Eve
Below is a piece I posted two years ago today. I believe it is still pertinent in so many ways. Sometimes I need to search my heart and turn my own words into action.
12/23/06
The day before Christmas Eve is one of my favorites. The following two days are always busy. This day seems like a quieter time to enjoy the season, the music and the message.
I saw the bumper sticker today, "Let Peace Begin With Me". I began thinking of the Christmas songs we hear each year. We sing, "next year, all our troubles will be miles away". But we sang the same song last year and the years before that. Yet our troubles remain as close as the next moment.
We sing of "Peace on Earth", but we know lasting peace will remain elusive until the final day of judgment.
Where then do we find the peace of which we sing, or the freedom from trouble which we desire?
As with all things in life that truly count, a peaceful heart will come from within.
Peace will come when we accept ourselves as unique individuals, each with our unique blessing.
Peace will come when we accept others without prejudice of any kind, not merely a tacit acceptance to which we pay lip service, but acceptance without reservation or condition.
Peace from within will often require making a stand for what we know to be right, knowing it may not be popular with coworkers or friends.
Peace may entail becoming an advocate for those unable to speak for themselves. The needs are many.
Peace will not come by self promotion, or allowing our deeds to give us an inflated sense of importance.
Ultimately, peace will come when we accept the true message of Christmas, "For unto you is born this day, in the City of David, a Savior, which is Christ The Lord".
Once we accept the real meaning of Christmas, our view of our world, and ourselves is forever changed. A changed heart will be the source of our peace. As the bumper sticker said, "Let peace begin with me".
12/23/06
The day before Christmas Eve is one of my favorites. The following two days are always busy. This day seems like a quieter time to enjoy the season, the music and the message.
I saw the bumper sticker today, "Let Peace Begin With Me". I began thinking of the Christmas songs we hear each year. We sing, "next year, all our troubles will be miles away". But we sang the same song last year and the years before that. Yet our troubles remain as close as the next moment.
We sing of "Peace on Earth", but we know lasting peace will remain elusive until the final day of judgment.
Where then do we find the peace of which we sing, or the freedom from trouble which we desire?
As with all things in life that truly count, a peaceful heart will come from within.
Peace will come when we accept ourselves as unique individuals, each with our unique blessing.
Peace will come when we accept others without prejudice of any kind, not merely a tacit acceptance to which we pay lip service, but acceptance without reservation or condition.
Peace from within will often require making a stand for what we know to be right, knowing it may not be popular with coworkers or friends.
Peace may entail becoming an advocate for those unable to speak for themselves. The needs are many.
Peace will not come by self promotion, or allowing our deeds to give us an inflated sense of importance.
Ultimately, peace will come when we accept the true message of Christmas, "For unto you is born this day, in the City of David, a Savior, which is Christ The Lord".
Once we accept the real meaning of Christmas, our view of our world, and ourselves is forever changed. A changed heart will be the source of our peace. As the bumper sticker said, "Let peace begin with me".
Sunday, December 21, 2008
December 21, 2008
Last night was a little holiday party, which always reminds me how much I enjoy Christmas. Unfortunately there are so many others who are not enjoying the season, whether due to the economy, job loss, family loss or a combination of these things. As I have said so often, the peace we seek is already right there just waiting for us.
Here in Charlotte, we have decided to open the LGBT Community Center Christmas Day from 1 PM until 6 PM. There will be plenty of food and a time to meet some nice folks. If you live near Charlotte, or will be passing through that day, we would love to have you. It is not necessary to RSVP unless someone wants to let me know if they are bringing a dish. I'm keeping a list to be sure we have enough variety. It is also not necessary to RSVP to break bread with us. Send me an email if you need information or directions.
The really cool thing is we will always embrace diversity. Some straight allies are coming, along with a some folks who don't celebrate Christmas. We really can get together under one roof, no matter who we are, and enjoy each other's company. There will be music on the keyboard, which leads me to say I promised to not sing. That in itself should boost attendance.
Charlotte Gender Alliance will be moving into The Center on a permanent basis beginning with the January 3rd meeting. This will afford us so many more amenities and flexibility in our meetings. Most of all, it is a step towards a united LGBT community. It's not a quantum leap in unity but it's pretty cool.
Here in Charlotte, we have decided to open the LGBT Community Center Christmas Day from 1 PM until 6 PM. There will be plenty of food and a time to meet some nice folks. If you live near Charlotte, or will be passing through that day, we would love to have you. It is not necessary to RSVP unless someone wants to let me know if they are bringing a dish. I'm keeping a list to be sure we have enough variety. It is also not necessary to RSVP to break bread with us. Send me an email if you need information or directions.
The really cool thing is we will always embrace diversity. Some straight allies are coming, along with a some folks who don't celebrate Christmas. We really can get together under one roof, no matter who we are, and enjoy each other's company. There will be music on the keyboard, which leads me to say I promised to not sing. That in itself should boost attendance.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Interfaith Coalition
In September I attended a three day conference at Wake Forest Divinity School on 'Towards Building a Welcoming and Inclusive Church'. I've written at length on the importance of this, and addressing the chasm that exists between the LGBT Community and 'the church'.
A number of us from the conference have kept in touch since then. The folks in Winston Salem have organized an Interfaith Coalition. I joined them for last night's meeting. It is always good seeing old friends again and making new ones. There were representatives from the Methodist, Episcopalian, Pentecostal, MCC and United Church of Christ denominations.
Most importantly is the focus of the effort. Once we know our purpose, which had already been clearly stated, the next step is to define our goals. I heard some excellent ideas, one of which is group bible study to focus on our own innate prejudice. In other words, how can we ask a church to be Open & Affirming until we have searched our own hearts?
No one is perfect and each of us has personal issues. No one is exempt, especially me. To that end, it was suggested we have a series of bible study sessions to help us better deal with ourselves.
The churches which have had the courage to make an O&A statement should be honored. A lot of progress has been made in the faith community, but all you have to do is attend a Pride event to see how far we have to go. Someone last night remembered the protestor at NC Pride in Durham who carried a sign, 'you deserve hell'.
Unfortunately, some Christians are strident with their message to the point they drive a wedge between people. This is true in general, but especially where the LGBT community is concerned. That is an understatement of the highest magnitude.
As someone said last night, we carry signs in the Pride parade saying 'What would Jesus do? We would do well to ask ourselves that question. It's time we did.
A number of us from the conference have kept in touch since then. The folks in Winston Salem have organized an Interfaith Coalition. I joined them for last night's meeting. It is always good seeing old friends again and making new ones. There were representatives from the Methodist, Episcopalian, Pentecostal, MCC and United Church of Christ denominations.
Most importantly is the focus of the effort. Once we know our purpose, which had already been clearly stated, the next step is to define our goals. I heard some excellent ideas, one of which is group bible study to focus on our own innate prejudice. In other words, how can we ask a church to be Open & Affirming until we have searched our own hearts?
No one is perfect and each of us has personal issues. No one is exempt, especially me. To that end, it was suggested we have a series of bible study sessions to help us better deal with ourselves.
The churches which have had the courage to make an O&A statement should be honored. A lot of progress has been made in the faith community, but all you have to do is attend a Pride event to see how far we have to go. Someone last night remembered the protestor at NC Pride in Durham who carried a sign, 'you deserve hell'.
Unfortunately, some Christians are strident with their message to the point they drive a wedge between people. This is true in general, but especially where the LGBT community is concerned. That is an understatement of the highest magnitude.
As someone said last night, we carry signs in the Pride parade saying 'What would Jesus do? We would do well to ask ourselves that question. It's time we did.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Christmas party
Last evening was the Kappa Beta Christmas party. I intentionally don't talk a lot about myself in this blog because it would be boring, but I was given the greatest honor I've had in a long time.
A Kappa Beta member, Dyana Lea passed away this year. She was well past eighty years old and was active until the end. She was an inspiration to anyone who knew her.
A Kappa Beta member, Dyana Lea passed away this year. She was well past eighty years old and was active until the end. She was an inspiration to anyone who knew her.
The Kappa Beta Board of Directors presented me the first 'Dyana Lea Memorial for Outstanding Service to the Transgender Community'. Above is a photo of my dear friend Nancy presenting the award. I was almost speechless; note the 'almost'. You can click to enlarge
Real achievements are never accomplished by one person. Rather, each organization or outreach is but the sum of all the parts. Our success or failure is dependant upon each other.
If a group member touches one life by listening to someone in need, they may have accomplished as much as any activist. In a large sense, each of us is a representative of our community. Activism takes many forms.
I often wonder how many people read this blog, but if you are contemplating visiting a support group, you will be a valuable addition wherever you live.
I attended a laser workshop last week. I am seriously considering laser aesthetics as a new career. There will always be the debate between laser and electrolysis as to which is most effective. Each has it's place in the right situation and perfomed properly.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
December 7, 2008
Yesterday morning we had a Sean's Last Wish board meeting in Greenville, SC at 8:30 AM, followed by a volunteer meeting at 2 PM. I think there were 9 new volunteers which is a wonderful show of passion and support.
A videographer taped The Day of Remembrance ceremonies in Charlotte which we viewed during the volunteer meeting. I swear I got as emotional watching this as I did during the event. It's just such an overwhelming feeling when you think about all the people we don't know about who are suffering abuse.
Incidentally, if you are looking for a unique Christmas gift which will make an impact on the life of the giftee, I would encourage you to consider the book, 'Crisis' by Mitchell Gold. Sean's story is this book, as well as that of certain men and women who are quite well known. If you purchase through the website, profits go to the foundation. There is still time before Christmas.
I got back to Charlotte in time for our Charlotte Gender Alliance meeting at 7 PM. It was a busy day, but filled with events which are vitally important.
A videographer taped The Day of Remembrance ceremonies in Charlotte which we viewed during the volunteer meeting. I swear I got as emotional watching this as I did during the event. It's just such an overwhelming feeling when you think about all the people we don't know about who are suffering abuse.
Incidentally, if you are looking for a unique Christmas gift which will make an impact on the life of the giftee, I would encourage you to consider the book, 'Crisis' by Mitchell Gold. Sean's story is this book, as well as that of certain men and women who are quite well known. If you purchase through the website, profits go to the foundation. There is still time before Christmas.
I got back to Charlotte in time for our Charlotte Gender Alliance meeting at 7 PM. It was a busy day, but filled with events which are vitally important.
Monday, December 01, 2008
December 1, 2008
Today is World Aids Day. Two friends and I went downtown at noon to pay respects during the ceremony and reading of the names. A church service was held this evening.
Naturally I thought of The Transgender Day of Remembrance and our reading of names. If we are to become one community, and I believe we must, all segments of that community need to be supportive of each other.
Many years ago there was debate about the wisdom of the transgender community aligning with the LGB community. You still hear it occasionally. What I thought of that issue now or then d0es not matter. It's been done and we'd best realize we are eternally classified as one community. I guess you could say we are joined at the hip. We need to be joined at the heart.
We are certainly not at the forefront of that goal in NC, but I believe we are doing better. I found it noteworthy that we had more gay and straight allies attend our event than we did transgender people. I have to admit that gives me reason to think we have some work to do in motivating our own people.
Naturally I thought of The Transgender Day of Remembrance and our reading of names. If we are to become one community, and I believe we must, all segments of that community need to be supportive of each other.
Many years ago there was debate about the wisdom of the transgender community aligning with the LGB community. You still hear it occasionally. What I thought of that issue now or then d0es not matter. It's been done and we'd best realize we are eternally classified as one community. I guess you could say we are joined at the hip. We need to be joined at the heart.
We are certainly not at the forefront of that goal in NC, but I believe we are doing better. I found it noteworthy that we had more gay and straight allies attend our event than we did transgender people. I have to admit that gives me reason to think we have some work to do in motivating our own people.
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