Thursday, June 23, 2016

Raising awareness

Ever since the shooting at a gay club in Orlando, I have been writing here about the anti-lgbt feelings that still exist in so many places and the ease with which people can access guns, and all of the killings that have happened as a result. I'm trying to keep some focus and to raise awareness. Yesterday the US House of Representatives did the ultimate act of raising awareness.

They were trying to do more of course, but the votes just weren't there. (It looks like a lot of people still need to be convinced). In Washington yesterday morning, House Democrats staged a sit-in on the House floor. Yup, a good old fashioned sit-it! Attempting to pass two gun-control measures, the Democrats were frustrated and angered by Republican's lack of action on the legislation, and so they got very visible. When was the last time you saw Congresspeople sitting on the House floor? Minority leader Nancy Pelosi was even wearing a rainbow wristband.

No, this isn't the end of it. We still need to actually do something about the guns, and about the hate. This though did get some attention, and that can be a good thing. It's interesting to me too that all of this is coming during LGBT Pride month. This week ahead is when many cities hold celebrations and parades. Seeing less anti-lgbt hate and seeing an end to all gun violence, would make for a great celebration!

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