Showing posts with label gay activism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gay activism. Show all posts

Monday, 14 January 2013

2013

Every year brings new dimensions that enable us to see things within a kinder light, and with more perceptiveness. New Years are a gateway to what the future holds and to greater understanding as the story unfolds. With 2013 ahead- I've decided to take a hiatus from The Righteous Gay and my blogging in hopes that I may reconnect on a greater level with my story as it unfolds.

Looking back on 2012, I am left smiling in awe. Having come out on the 1st day of 2012, the entire year was a journey for myself and I was capable of sharing some of these experiences with you and all the viewers. When I came out, I never expected to start blogging and in turn help so many people. Blogging has been such a gratifying and self-therapeutic experience, and I have come to learn a lot about the gay community as well as about myself. I've come to find that even though the community has its many down-sides, it also has its many up-sides and that it's inevitably what you make of it. (A change in your perspective could be the difference between an ending and a new beginning.)

What I've learned about myself is that I can make a difference, as can you. You and I were both born into this world, and some day we will both leave it. How we fill our time here on earth may differ, but neither of us is more worthy of living than the other. The Righteous Gay became my platform/ my persona that ultimately helped me become more comfortable with my sexuality and allowed me to explore my dreams and hopes for the future, so it is with a heavy heart that I type this post, for it will be last for some time. But before I do take this break- I wanted to leave you all with this final message: 

Being gay is not the end of the world. It's not. You don't have to fit a stereotype if it's untrue to your being but you needn't feel ashamed if you do. Your sexuality, just as your color, creed and age doesn't make you a lesser human and it should never define you. (All these things will never detract from who you are as a person unless you let them.) Remember to never use your sexuality as an excuse or as a crutch and to never become a victim of others' misconceptions. Your sexuality should be a form of empowerment. But most importantly, remember it's not that serious. So you like someone of the same sex? So does every 1 in 10 people.  
 
Final Thought:
It may not seem thought provoking or inspirational- but my message is simple. It's clear. My greatest hope is that I may return to blogging at a later stage with a greater understanding, but before I get there- I must experience more. I wish you all the best as your story unfolds and thank you all for your kind words, support and love.

Sincerely
Gregory, The Righteous Gay
xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Wednesday, 10 October 2012

National Coming Out Day 2012

Hey everyone! Happy National Coming Out Day!


Today I thought I'd create a short post just to reiterate the importance of days such as National Coming Out Day- which is celebrated on the 11th of October. I have shared My Coming Out Story, and I have before mentioned sites such as RucomingOut where you can read others' stories. There is so much one can learn from others experiences and it allows for greater understanding and also displays various approaches from which you might learn a thing or two...

On a day like this, one is reminded of the stature of the LGBT community. There are millions of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender citizens around this world that will be celebrating their COMING OUT and being who they are. Essentially National Coming Out Day can be seen as a day to celebrate your sexuality and being true to yourself. National Coming Out Day(NCOD) was founded in 1988 by a psychologist Robert Eichberg in New Mexico. The date was chosen as it was the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. After two years, in 1990, the day was already being celebrated in all 50 states of America and several other countries. Fast forward 24 years and it's a world wide event!


I recall this day last year: It was around this time that I had decided I wanted to come out, and I was just itching to shout out, "I'm GAY!". Fortunately, it never turned out that way and I took a more realistic approach to coming out, doing so only 3 months later. I feel it is important to remind you that you needn't come out on a day such as today if you feel uncomfortable with it. If today is not the day- then don't come out, rather just be thankful you are on this journey. However, being closeted should not inhibit you from celebrating on day such as today... Today is a celebration for surviving the name calling, the malicious remarks and all the hate you've endured. If you made it to today- you will make it through Coming Out.

Although today is a day of celebration, one should be reminded of the impact Coming Out has had on so many in the past. I ask that amidst the celebrations, you take a moment and remember all those who aren't as fortunate to be around celebrating a day such as today because of their circumstances. Also, take this opportunity to congratulate those who are open, as well as to educate others about NCOD.

Final Thought:
Today should be seen as a LGBT holiday! Whether open or closeted, today is a celebration of your sexuality and being true to yourself. Today marks the day when you look back and are reminded that it took a fighter to get where you stand today, and that same fighter will make it through tomorrow and the days, months and years that follow... (I have two videos to share: Diana Ross' I'm Coming Out and a video made for NCOD 2012) HAVE A GREAT NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY!!


National Coming Out Day 2012

A beautiful gay video of Diana Ross' -I'm Coming Out






Saturday, 8 September 2012

Oscar Pistorius: The Golden Boy


80 000 cheers makes it impossible to deny that Oscar Pistorius, the South African blade runner, has grown to become a household name and a Paralympic ambassador - but is he more than just an advocate for the handicapped?

With the recent Paralympic Games being held in London - I have been captivated by all these inspiring athletes and their incredible stories, but none more so than Oscar Pistorius. Oscar Pistorius was born November 22, 1986 without a fibula in each of his legs. It was decided that Oscar's legs would be amputated below the knees before he learnt to walk- as this would allow greater receptivity in mobility later on in life, and evidently prove to be his strength rather than his weakness. Oscar initially played rugby, water polo and tennis in Pretoria Boys High School (the highschool I too attended), and it was only after a rugby injury that Oscar began running, for rehabilitation. The rest is, as they say, history... Currently Oscar holds the world record for the T44 400m, and also the T44 4x100m along with his fellow team mates. Oscar is also the ONLY double leg amputee EVER to compete on the Olympic track and make the Olympic final.

So how does this incredible athlete relate to being gay?

After watching the Paralympic games one evening I realized that being handicapped can be likened to being homosexual in many ways. (KEEP READING!) Not only are both handicapped people and homosexuals treated as second hand citizens, but we both have an internal obstacle to overcome. Just as Oscar, and many other disabled athletes had to overcome their impairments, we as homosexuals have to overcome our internalized fear of being who we are. In no way am I trivializing being either handicapped or homosexual - I am just comparing the struggles we both endure, just as our struggles have been compared to many other civil rights movements. This leads me to the relevance of Oscar Pistorius and his story on a blog intending to help gay youth come to terms with their sexuality. Oscar was born without a fibula in each leg and yet it hasn't prevented him from running, let alone walking. Being a double leg amputee, it would go without saying that Oscar has had a great amount of obstacles to overcome, not only physically but mentally too. Yet, here he stands, a handicapped athlete, challenging able bodied athletes at the sport.

Oscar at 2012 Olympic Games

So we're born gay, just as Oscar was born without fibulae, and here we stand confronted with this huge life obstacle we call sexuality, which in many ways scares us just as much as a physical defect. What do we do? We do what Oscar Pistorius has done, we make our weakness our strength. Oscar may be an advocate for The Paralympics, but he represents something far greater! Oscar represents the outcome of dedication, appreciation and passion, all things we as homosexuals need to adopt. Dedicate yourself to making your environment an LGBT friendlier one. Appreciate who you are, and this life you've been given- do so by making the most of every moment. Lastly, what ever you do- do so with passion. Passion is what drives you to obtain the unobtainable and achieve the impossible. Passion will guide you to what you heart desires.



Final Thought:
Regardless whether you agree that homosexuality and being handicapped are similar or not, you cannot deny that Oscar Pistorius has made the most of what he has. You are in no way different to Oscar, and there is nothing you cannot achieve. Oscar looked beyond the ability to walk- just as you should look beyond the obstacle of coming out. Dream big. Dream of an accepting world, living with the person you love and being authentic to yourself. If you can dream it, it's yours for the taking!

Oscar will be running his final race this evening in The London Paralympic games. I wish him all the best in the 400m race. He has definitely reshaped the way I see handicapped people, as well as myself!  




I'd like to show people that if you put the hard work in and you believe in yourself, then you can do whatever you want to. - OSCAR PISTORIUS


Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Reasons I LOVE Being Gay

Admittedly, the posts this month have not been as effective/ moving as last month's. So today I have decided I would post something fun to read and, perhaps, more entertaining than before. I have composed a list. This list is entitled "Top Ten Reasons I LOVE Being Gay". It's rather self explanatory- but for those who do not follow- allow me to explain. This list is made up of reasons why I enjoy being homosexual... I cannot explain- rather read it! Your list may differ- but here are my reasons(starting from 10 working up to 1):


10.
Appreciation for both sexes. It would go without saying that I find men attractive- but I can also appreciate attractive woman. Many straight men are less fortunate in the sense that even if they believe another man is good-looking- they wouldn't dare admit it. Being gay allows me to say "You're good-looking" to both guys and girls without having to worry what is thought of me.

 
This Armani advert is a great example

9.
Ability to mock gays. I always say "the least gay thing I do- is allow my dog to pick out my shirts." This is just one of many jokes I make regarding my sexuality. It's great being able to joke about my sexuality- it often relieves tension in defensive conversations and can lighten a mood very easily. The reason this is only limited to gays is because if anyone else made these remarks- they might seem homophobic or rude. We, on the other hand, are just being comedic!


8.
Societal Pressure Relief. The term I have given to my 8th reason. "Queue the song Little Boxes by Malvina Reynolds." Societal Pressure Relief refers to no longer having to fit a norm. Being gay means- you no longer have the pressure to find a perfect wife (or for some husband) ,start a family, live in a perfect house and keep up with Jones'. Although- you could still do all above- it is no longer EXPECTED of you.

The "perfect" family

7.
Celebrity support. Ever stopped and thought- Charlize Theron supports my decision to marry someone of the same sex? Or perhaps that the president of America does too? It's so refreshing to know that Josh Hutcherson, the cute guy from The Hunger Games, is campaigning for people such as myself. With names such as: Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Drew Barrymore, Colin Farrell, Anne Hathaway and many more supporting gay rights- it's hard to not to boast!
Josh Hutcherson at 2012 GLAAD awards
   
Drew Barrymore for Marriage Equality

6.
Keeping in shape. It might seem contradictory- but being apart of the gay community does keep me in shape. Many gay men are in good physical shape- this just makes me more conscious of leading a healthier lifestyle than before. Although this topic is debatable- I still exercise on a regular basis- which is only beneficial for myself. Hence why it has made its place on this list.

5.
Positive Negativity. I have already mentioned it in a previous post. My 5th reason is Positive Negativity- letting "your hater be your motivator". It's inevitable that you will encounter some malicious people out their who will condemn you for being who you are- this is when you smile in knowing it will only feed your motivation and progression. I have gotten some nasty comments since coming out- they've just helped me grow into a better person!

4.
Meeting new friends. One of the scariest thoughts I had when coming out- was the thought of loosing all my friends. The reality is you probably might loose some friends- but on your journey you will come to realise that many of your friendships have strengthened. In fact friends whom you never thought would cope with the issue could positively surprise you! You will also meet new people and experience new friendships! 
  
3.
Being part of a cause. I love this reason. Majority of you have experienced a history lesson sometime in your life- going back in time and learning about defining moments- such as movements, riots and protests all done for a greater cause. Being gay automatically makes you part of a cause. We all play a part in society- and we all have the ability to change perspectives or even teach and help others about homosexuality. I think it's rather cool- writing history- as we make progression in the world regarding gay rights. 
   
Image taken: Stonewall Riots

2.
Loving who you want. The second reason I love being gay- is because I get to love who I want...Having the choice to love someone genuinely- with no pretense. Being gay means I get to experience my journey through life with another man, whom I love, beside me. This is probably the top of everyone's list...    

 

1.
Being myself. I know it might sound lame- but it is honestly my top reason. Getting to live a life of being honest with my family, and friends. The reason this is more important to me than love- is because I find you have to love yourself before you can love another. By that I mean accepting yourself for who you are... The best reason to be gay- is getting to live life genuinely!

Final Thought:
If you're still closeted and found yourself reading this list- my message to you would be; being gay has its negatives BUT it certainly has its positives too. If being gay was as horrible as many make it out to be- then why do so many still come out and live openly? It's easy to focus on the negatives, rather think of your own list! It needn't be 10 reasons- it could be one strong reason. At the end of the day- you should be conscious of why you came out or plan on doing so. There are so many reasons to love who you are- all you have to do is start looking...

Image Source: Google; Nobody Knows the Last of Me Blog
(Should any of the images belong to you- and you wish to have them removed- please notify The Righteous Gay)


Have a FABULOUS day. (Another great thing about being gay- using words like fabulous!)



 
  

Monday, 21 May 2012

International Gay News

Usually my posts are of more personal perspective- feature articles if you like. Today I've decided to do a post more news related. Usually I try avoid news related articles- seeing as the content can be rather saddening and uninspiring and instead I try keep content as positive as possible. Today's post will be no less enlightening than any before- perhaps you might learn a thing or two. I find that the more you educate yourself on topics such as these- the easier it becomes to educate others.

Recently, gay-related incidents have been the center of attention internationally. In the past month:
In America: A ban on same-sex marriage was approved in North Carolina when Amendment 1 was voted for by more than 60% of the state.
In Russia: Laws were passed in the city of St. Petersburg, banning any “public activities promoting sodomy, lesbianism, bisexuality and transgender identity", with similar laws being passed in other regions of Russia too.
In Iran: Four men have been sentenced to hang (death penalty) for partaking in homosexual activities.
In South Africa: A proposal was made by The House of Traditional Leaders to remove the term "sexual orientation" from the South African constitution. (The proposal was overturned).
In Zimbabwe: The Minister of Local Government, Public Works and Urban Development urged traditional leaders to seize land owned by gay and lesbian citizens.


With 78 countries  that still criminalise same-sex sexual acts and stories as above unfolding on a weekly basis- there still has never been a better time to come out. By that I mean that even though there is all this saddening news unfolding- the world is generally more accepting of homosexuality than ever before. Albeit slow- there is progression regarding acceptance of sexuality. For example- the American president, Barack Obama, came forward and verbalized his support for gay marriage- the first ever to do so. Famous actor- Will Smith and popular rapper- JayZ followed suit mentioning their support of both gay marriage and Barack Obama. In Malawi, the new reigning president has promised to overturn the ban on homosexual acts- Malawi being one of many African countries where homosexuality is illegal. In Havana, Cuba, Mariela Castro (daughter of the Cuban president Raul Castro) mentioned her fathers backing of equal rights for gays and lesbians. In England- British Prime Minister David Cameron has also expressed his support of the LGBT community.
  

Today it might seem like society hasn't made much progression- but perhaps in a years time that 78 figure will be a 75. Maybe majority of America will have marriage equality- setting off a chain reaction...Australia. United Kingdom. France! Lastly- that death penalty for homosexuality may be erased from our world. Regardless whether it happens in a year or not- Imagine it... It has to start somewhere. (There's a little activism in all of us)

Final Thought:
There is still a need for improvement regarding the position the homosexual occupies in present-day society. BUT this doesn't necessarily mean that the position we occupy is inert. Most importantly we have to support one-another as a community. It's inevitable that with greater support the world will slowly start to shows its true colors. I personally look forward to this day!

Oh! One last thought- if the American president supports gay marriage- then you certainly shouldn't be ashamed of your sexuality...

For more information regarding gay rights visit this Wikipedia page
 
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the four Iranian men that have been named as: Saadat Arefi, Vahid Akbari, Javid Akbari and Houshmand Akbari. 

The Righteous Gay will not be held accountable should you chose to visit any external links provided- proceed at own risk.





 

Wednesday, 16 May 2012

Prayers for Bobby: Mother's Day Special

"Before you echo Amen in your home or place of worship, think and remember.

A child is listening."


Mary Griffith

Considering it was Mothers day this past weekend- I have decided to post a story I felt I needed to share. This weekend I watched a movie titled "Prayers for Bobby" which is based on a biographic novel (true story). The story is of Mary Griffith- mother of Bobby, a homosexual boy who is at a crossroads regarding his sexuality and faith. The movie was very saddening but I felt that, due to it's fictional content, the story probably describes what many of you are experiencing. 
Mary Griffith and her son Bobby

I will give you a basic synopsis of the film. The audience is introduced to what, at first, appears to be a happy family- the Griffith's. As the movie progresses- it is learned that Bobby questions his sexuality and begins to realise his attraction to the same sex. Bobby's parents soon learn about his secret which is met with regret. After much therapy and church classes Bobby begins to believe he is "incurable" (which is true) and that he is going to hell (which is not true). This leads Bobby to become depressed and Bobby decides to take his own life. Mary Griffith, Bobby's mom, reaches the realization that homosexuality is not a sin, and as a result becomes a supporter of the PFLAG association going on to help others in the same predicament.   

So why discuss this for Mother's day? Mary Griffith- mother of Bobby- has a very important story to share. I believe there are two important things to be learned from her story. Firstly- it is not right to take your life because you are unhappy with your situation. Things do get better- it is with patience that you will come to realise this. Secondly- people can make a change. Mary Griffith's opinion on homosexuality has changed vastly. This mother had to endure the tragedy of loosing a son- before coming to realize that. Not everyone's story has to end like Mary's.
Mary Griffith at a PFLAG event

With mother's day having passed- many of you might have experienced mixed emotions on the day. Some of you would have enjoyed the day spent with the family- others, perhaps, did not spend time with anyone. What ever your situation- I think we all have to realize that certain people hold an important place in our hearts and lives. For me- my mother is one of these people. Although she is generally accepting of my sexuality, this is too a learning experience for herself as well as my family. People often become frustrated, despondent and regretful upon the learning of your sexual orientation. The answer is NOT in taking your life. I do not mean to trivialize Bobby's death. I couldn't begin to imagine the pain and suffering he endured but for all viewers who consider taking Bobby's route- I will have to stop you...

 Final Thought:
 Bobby's story is unfortunate- and the gay community has had enough misfortune already. Research more about groups/organizations/associations/meetings for people such as yourself. Learn more. It is important you do not make a permanent decision (such as killing yourself) based on temporary emotions. There will come a time where you will look back and be thankful you heard about Bobby and Mary's story- and you will smile knowing the story never ended the same.

To read more about Mary and Bobby's story- visit this link or read Prayers for Bobby.
If you are struggling with your sexuality and you would like to speak to someone going through the same try the TEEN LINE site - it is a step in the right direction. Also it is one of many sites/helplines. Alternatively you could send me an email @ gregodemi@gmail.com .

Left: The Griffith's    Right: Bobby     


I DO APOLOGIZE TO ALL THE READERS- THIS POST WAS MEAN'T TO BE POSTED ON MONDAY.

Wednesday, 9 May 2012

Positive Negativity


 We as humans all share one thing in common. We all have the ability to interpret information the way we choose to. Circumstance may lead you to believe that you're incapable of making an assumption without another persons opinion- this however is false. You're highly capable of it. This leads me to todays post- Positive Negativity. The concept is basic- yet difficult to apply. You decide whether it is applicable in your life.


In todays society almost everything is surrounded with some form of negativity. Homosexuality's biggest negative is homophobia. Majority of you have experienced homophobic remarks and perhaps some of you still do today. This may seem absurd but, what if I told you these remarks could lead you into a happier state of mind? By using certain information the way you choose- it may just be possible. "Let my haters be my motivators" or as I like to call it Positive Negativity.





Everyone has an outlet. Some compose music, play a sport, create art and some even eat. No matter what your outlet be, everyone has room for development or "bettering themselves". Bettering oneself is a difficult process- it demands a lot of time, attention and effort. Something that I find helps the process is the negativity that surrounds me. For instance when training- thinking of homophobic remarks allows me to push myself further. The beauty is that it needn't be just homophobic remarks- it may be anything negative. The aim is to achieve positive growth by motivating yourself with negativity .



With the fight for marriage equality and legalizing homosexuality taking part in certain areas of the world- the gay community will come under lots of scrutiny. These efforts will be met with a lot of animosity, hate and anger by the opposition. It may not affect you directly- but it will affect you nonetheless. During this time it is important we let our voices be heard, whether it is comforting a gay friend, partaking in activism or just saying your part. It is important you do not allow the hostility to get to you. Retaliating with anger is never the appropriate way to approach a situation. Be smart. Use their negativity to your advance. Allow them to fuel your progression.


On a personal note- I experienced a lot of homophobic mentality during high school. Due to me being closeted through out high school- friends were comfortable with my straight persona. This comfort led to many people relaying their thoughts about homosexuality, and their disliking of it, to me. Best friends would make distasteful remarks about gay men around me and I could not retaliate or defend them. I know many of you are experiencing the same as I did. As hurtful as it may be- you need to reassure yourself. Allow these moments of aggravation and hurt to build you up! In fact, these moments could be seen as having the upper hand.

Final Thought:
"God hates fags". "Homosexuality is unnatural". "Gays go to hell". Their intention is to break you down- do not allow them the pleasure. Apply Positive Negativity. The concept is basic and advantageous- should you have the ability to apply it to your situation. It may be difficult to apply but no one ever said it would be easy, however, IT WILL BE WORTH IT IN THE END.

I leave you with a quote from a speech by Nelson Mandela, "There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you."

I would also like to express my sadness upon the hearing of Amendment 1 being approved. The fight is not over yet!!!


Image Source: Google(Should any of these photo's belong to you and you wish to have them removed- notify The Righteous Gay)


Tuesday, 1 May 2012

Sport GAYmes

With the 2012 Olympic Games just around the corner (27 July 2012), I decided that a gay related sports post would be perfect. Many of us enjoy the Olympics- it's a time to support your country, watch endless amounts of your favorite sports and occasionally to stare at the hunks or babes playing the sports.What ever your reason may be, I have found a new reason (if possible) to watch the 2012 Olympic Games. Matthew Mitcham. That's my reason. Not making sense? Let me explain...


Matthew Mitcham is an openly-gay Australian gold-medal diver. In 2008 Mitcham won the gold medal for the 10m platform dive. Not only did he win the gold- he also received the highest single-dive score in Olympic history. (When we gays do something we always do it over the top). Mitcham will be competing in this years Olympic Games and will be the reason I am glued to the diving during the 2012 O.G.
(Above: Matthew Mitcham)

I have tremendous amounts of respect for openly gay athletes. In a field that can be very competitive and physically demanding- being open can make an athlete extremely vulnerable to the malicious critics out there. Their reward is in knowing that other LGBT athletes can dream bigger, now that they have paved the road less traveled. Gareth Thomas (Welsh professional rugby player), Anton Hysén (Swedish footballer), Matthew Mitcham (Australian diver) and many more are leading examples of just what possibilities await future LGBT athletes. These men are veterans in their sports and are proof that sexual preference is completely irrelevant when playing a sport. 


(Left: Anton Hysén. Right: Gareth Thomas)


Campaigns such as the "You Can Play Project" and "The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation" all combat homophobia and bullying in sports. The aim is no longer to keep your secret in order to play the sport, but rather to play the sport without any secrets or regrets. There is one site in particular I frequented whilst closeted and coming to terms with my sexuality- Outsports . I surprisingly found the link to the first article I read on Outsports- and to prove its authenticity there is a comment made by Gregory (being myself) expressing my opinions on the article dated 2011-09-11. Here's the link to Greg's first Outsport article

 (Above: Ben Cohen: Former England rugby union international player and his campaign)

Why not have a Gay Olympics? You may ask. We do have a "Gay Olympics". Two in fact. The World Outgames which will be held in Antwerp, Belgium (2013) and the Gay Games which will be hosted in Cleveland, USA (2014). They're both sporting/ cultural events hosted by the gay community to bring together gay athletes from around the world to compete. It's important we show the world that our community is not sport inadequate and that we are just as capable at pursuing sports we enjoy.

Final Thought: 
Support is essential in a community such as ours. If you're a gay athlete or even a sport fanatic reading this- know that you're not alone. Passion, dedication and fulfillment are what makes a successful athlete. Never doubt yourself- you can be a professional that happens to be gay. If you don't believe me ask Gareth Thomas, Anton Hysén or Matthew Mitchum.


Check out the "Ben Cohen interview" video or Gareth Thomas' "It gets better" video below:

Image Source: Google
Video Source: YouTube
Should any of these videos/images belong to you and you wish to have them removed- please notify The Righteous Gay immediately.
Also The Righteous Gay will not be held accountable should you click into any external links provided- you do so at own risk.
 

Tuesday, 17 April 2012

The Straight Ally

Whilst browsing through the internet I came across this campaign. Although they're appealing to a straighter demographic to help the gay community- I found it refreshing nonetheless. Many of you might have heard of or seen the co-founder Josh Hutcherson in the new film "The Hunger Games".

The name of the campaign is Straight But Not Narrow. And their aim is to tell the straight kids that gays are here to stay so get use to it...basically. Here is a link to their site http://www.wearesbnn.com/

And heres a clip with the easy to look at star:
Josh will be receiving the Vanguard Award at the 23rd annual Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) Media Awards for his work in supporting the LGBT community. Josh is not just a pretty face...

Another great campaign is the You Can Play Project 

 

This project was started to ensure equality within all sports for all athletes. To create a safe environment in which openly LGBT athletes can play regardless of their sexuality. You can check out their site and take the "Captains Challenge" at:  http://youcanplayproject.org/
The video stars a few athletes who all support the campaign. There are more videos on their site as well as on YouTube.

Final Thought:
What I find so refreshing about these campaigns is that it is no longer just gay individuals speaking up for the LGBT community. It's great to know you're not alone but even greater to realise that regardless of who you go home with every night- there are people supporting you. Big thanks to our straight allies!

Monday, 16 April 2012

The First Righteous Post

I want to keep this brief- although that may be difficult. I put a lot of thought into what the first post of  "The Righteous Gay" should consist of. Something bold I thought. Something different. Something new. Something. Anything... Well nothing came to mind. Instead I have decided to get a feel for things. So in the next few weeks you 3 viewers out there can expect to see more action on this blog (hopefully), and I will see more traffic... Wishful thinking?

 I have some great plans for this blog, however I do believe I need to spend a little more time getting use to this. I really am passionate about helping others and my intention is to do just that. If perhaps someone with an amazing mind happens to stumble upon this blog with any suggestions that could aid me in the right direction- I would be extremely grateful!

So in conclusion I leave you with a quote I enjoyed. "The important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself." - Gore Vidal.