This past weekend, we went to see the Seattle Pride parade. The weather was perfect with it being in the upper 80s. Downtown Seattle streets were lined with thousands of parade-watchers on both sides. Gardens were flowing with cold beer and refreshing malt beverages. It was a grand celebration as I, my husband, and others were clapping and cheering as more than 100 groups passed by, which included community organizations, supporting businesses, and elected officials.
The Dykes on Bikes and the SQream Scooters roared down the street to announced the start of the two-hour long parade. Right after them was a group that caught me off guard. In a good way.
It was the American Veterans for Equal Rights.
I mean, I expected to see loud (both in dress and personality) drag queens, hot gay guys, leather-clad lesbians, etc. (Sorry for the stereotypes!) However, to see men and women dressed in military uniforms, proudly carrying flags of the United States and of the different branches of the military was definitely not expected. It was a surprising sight and it brought tears to my eyes. (It was good thing I was wearing my dark sunglasses!)
I haven't followed the gay rights issue recently, so I'm not sure how/if the government views have changed about homosexuality and the military. However, I do remember watching one of those 48 Hours-type shows about how the government had this "Don't ask. Don't tell." policy. It was distressing and I found it quite ironic. These men and women were fighting to uphold Americans' rights, but yet our governing bodies would not protect theirs. Ironic, yes?
As I saw these Veterans walking down 4th Ave, so proudly and publicly supporting the lifestyle, human nature, and belief of equal rights for ALL, I truly felt proud to be an American. I felt, for a short moment, I was living in a United States where the out and proud weren't judged for who they are and what they believed in, and where homosexuality were nationally embraced and celebrated. Thanks to the American Veterans of Equal Rights for bringing back the hope that one day a United States like this can be achieved.
Maybe next year, we'll see the Boys Scouts in the Pride Parade. But until then, I salute to the men and women of the armed forces and to everyone who believe in equal rights for all, not just the rich, straight, and uni-racial relationships.
Happy 4th!
The Dykes on Bikes and the SQream Scooters roared down the street to announced the start of the two-hour long parade. Right after them was a group that caught me off guard. In a good way.
It was the American Veterans for Equal Rights.
I mean, I expected to see loud (both in dress and personality) drag queens, hot gay guys, leather-clad lesbians, etc. (Sorry for the stereotypes!) However, to see men and women dressed in military uniforms, proudly carrying flags of the United States and of the different branches of the military was definitely not expected. It was a surprising sight and it brought tears to my eyes. (It was good thing I was wearing my dark sunglasses!)
I haven't followed the gay rights issue recently, so I'm not sure how/if the government views have changed about homosexuality and the military. However, I do remember watching one of those 48 Hours-type shows about how the government had this "Don't ask. Don't tell." policy. It was distressing and I found it quite ironic. These men and women were fighting to uphold Americans' rights, but yet our governing bodies would not protect theirs. Ironic, yes?
As I saw these Veterans walking down 4th Ave, so proudly and publicly supporting the lifestyle, human nature, and belief of equal rights for ALL, I truly felt proud to be an American. I felt, for a short moment, I was living in a United States where the out and proud weren't judged for who they are and what they believed in, and where homosexuality were nationally embraced and celebrated. Thanks to the American Veterans of Equal Rights for bringing back the hope that one day a United States like this can be achieved.
Maybe next year, we'll see the Boys Scouts in the Pride Parade. But until then, I salute to the men and women of the armed forces and to everyone who believe in equal rights for all, not just the rich, straight, and uni-racial relationships.
Happy 4th!
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