To the editor:
My husband and I attended PRIDE on Sunday, June 1st. We are two heterosexuals who have many GLBT friends and attend a church that is all affirming and welcomes everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re at on life’s journey. What we experienced at PRIDE was a time where all GLBT’s come together no matter their race or sex to enjoy a day of music, food, friendship, economic information and vital community awareness. There were booths set up regarding public information. The Nashville Peace and Justice Center, the ACLU, the Nashville Equality Project, gay friendly real estate agents, vital health organizations and the American Chapter for Separation of Church and State are just to name a few. There were also religious organizations that had taken the initiative to organize information and committees welcoming all, reminding everyone to “Love one another as I have loved you”.
Our decision to attend Pride was because we support and love our friends and because PRIDE is an important event to them, PRIDE has become an important event to us! While we weren’t too sure of what to expect, what we experienced was a time of love and friendship with no worries of criticism or gawking because you want to hold your partner’s hand. What I witnessed last Saturday were a group of people who pay mortgages and worry about crime, are concerned about peace and global warming along with the rising prices of gas and food. A group of people who want the best education for their children and want every American to have health insurance. A group of people who are obviously animal lovers based on the number of dogs that were at the event. People who pay taxes and vote. They even take their garbage out to the street, just like we do! People just like me, except for the fact that they are gay.
What I am saying is that no one should judge anyone until you actually get to know that person. Know who they are and how they think. Our GLBT friends are the most loving and welcoming group of people that we have the joy to know. Open your minds and your heart about individuals who are gay and I believe you will be pleasantly surprised.
Sheila A. Hobson
Goodlettsville, TN