Orlando

[justinok]

OK so I've really struggling after the weekend and Orlando. Not just the event itself, which is unimaginably horrible, but what it represents. Clubs like Pulse were the only place I could find sanctuary when I was younger, where I could be myself and not be afraid. For someone to come into that safe place and violently murder people like me... and then to read that he was supposedly set off because he had seen two men kissing public a few weeks earlier. I just don't know what the world is coming to some days. Some of the comments online from people saying 'great that they're attacking perverts now instead of innocent people' was just the icing on the cake. It's been a horrible weekend.

[Paul]

Heya Justinok - nice to see you.

Things will change, things will change for the better. it's up to people like you and I to be the voice, arms and legs of that change and to put the anger to good use. Write to local MP's. Thank Dan Andrews for being an awesome advocate, write to newspapers, join lobby groups.

The man who perpetrated the crime in Orlando was gay and severely closeted. We need voices out there to people of ALL faiths to understand their teachings are about love, understand it's OK to be who we are.

Yes, easier said than done, but charity begins at home, so does change.

Paul xx

[Gruffudd]

Hi there Justinok,

I feel the same on one level, each time I get to thinking things are better something seems to happen. What I have noticed though is the reactions changing. It isn't just the same old activists, there are all sorts of others joining in solidarity. People bringing their kids and dogs, to demand something different.

Even with all of that, I can honestly say (without flirting) it makes a difference for me when you drop past here. You have integrity and what you say from your own experience has an impact. You have changed the world in a small way that is no small thing for me. Now I am quite happy to resume flirting, not that it will get me very far.

Rob.

[Starwolf]

Hi everyone,

I agree... the trouble with cultural change is that it can be so painfully slow...and human lifespan way too short. But momentum sets in and accelerates the process. It is good to know that the road will be smoother for next generations, distress and frustration less intense.

Being an oldie, I have seen a lot a change in the right direction (aging has its privileges !). And yes, there's a lot to do, a lot we CAN do. Regardless of sexual inclinations, striving for freedom is a concern for humanity at large. Seeing more non LGBTI people hopping on board in support is reassuring...because those are the ones more likely to create strife and division.