Embracing the "Q"

This weekend I had the great pleasure of attending the Queer Coalition Conference held at Hendrix in Conway. The conference was organized by some truly incredible young people and I personally was blown away by their enthusiasm and dedication. One hot topic of debate centered around the use of the term "Queer" as an umbrella term in lieu of the alphabet soup "GLBTQQAAI.....yadda, yadda, yadda". I must confess that the term "queer" has always made me uneasy as it is a word that has been used to inflict hurt in so many people. However, after listening to the passionate arguments of many young people who embrace the term as an inclusive term of empowerment, I recognize the need to honor their wish to be identified as such. While I still believe that we should not force the term on those who do not wish to identify with what they feel is a perjorative and derogatory label, I will begin using "GLBTQ" when I wish to inclusively refer to our community.

I also want to help promote a fundraiser Wednesday night at Easy Street. I met 3 of the 4 Equality riders at the conference and I want to help get the word out so that we can send them off in style!

Equality Rider Farewell and Fundraiser!
Join us for an interactive night with Soulforce Equality Riders! Come say farewell, learn more about the ride, and be entertained by local artists!In March 2007, fifty-six young activists will board two buses and begin a two month long journey that will take them to thirty-two colleges that have policies banning the enrollment of openly Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer students. Through dialogue with administrators, faculty and students, the young activists of the 2007 Equality Ride will make clear the harmful effects of the false notion that homosexuality is a "sickness and a sin." To make public their case for equality, the young activists on the Equality Ride will hold vigils, Bible studies, class discussions, community forums, and press conferences.(More info at http://www.equalityride.com)
Amanda Harris, Kourt Osborn, Adam Britt, and Jeremy Gabbard will embark from Arkansas on March 1 to seek dialogue with these schools and spread a message of hope and healing. Join the riders for a fundraiser send-off event!

Wednesday, February 21, 2007Easy Street Piano Bar307 W 7th StLittle Rock7:00 PMFree food available, tip money at the bar will benefit the Equality Ride. The Equality Riders would greatly appreciate your support and donations.