Even though I had 6 1/2 hours of sleep last night, I’m still battling fatigue after a long week, but in particular yesterday which was the Day of Silence. The national campaign brings to the forefront the need for love and acceptance in our society, in particular for LGBT people. It is a day calling for change but also recognizing victims of homophobia, discrimination, and bigotry.
Our students helped me set up around 9:30am shortly before the UI LGBT Resource Office/Pride/etc. set up their booth. This was the first time our displays were next to each other which I actually enjoyed. What was of particular interest again was watching Christians walk by who were confused by our presence on the Quad.
All in all, I believe the day was a success. But as I discussed with some of the LGBT leadership, that the Day of Silence is probably more successful and apparent in high schools. But on a campus of 42,000 students it might not have as great an impact. I did help generate ideas to help with next year’s campaign. Perhaps a Day of Recognition in conjunction with the National Day of Silence, and still serving as a resource to local GSA’s.
The time on the quad was followed by the Break the Silence Rally at the Alma Mater. Of particular interest was the Die-In, stage by high school students. I love the activism, passion, and energy of the teenagers who showed up. Several speakers from different RSO’s spoke plus other community groups.
PFLAG then hosted a reception for students and their parents for Mom’s Weekend. Though it would have been nice for more parents to show up, it was still an enjoyable time for people to get to know each other and hang out after a long day.
The 3rd Annual Hug-In was held last night from 10pm-12:30ish. The effort was implemented to combat hate with expressions of love and acceptance. Just 2 years ago, this area on Green Street was the site of a hate crime which brought little attention to the problems of homophobia. Armed with flowers, candy, and balloons, the Hug-In made the statement that the Hate needs to stop. Though a little awkward at times with certain passers by, the general response was positive. It was an excellent demonstration of the direction in which we need to head as a society.
Thanks to the young adults from Excel Campus Ministry who helped serve: Kelly, Jesse, HDavid, Crystal, Daniel, Jonathan, Ben, Felix, Bridget, Pam, CJ, Erica, Gerald, Lee, and Rachel. Thanks to Tim, Debra, Cindy, and Joel from PFLAG. And thanks to the UILGBT Resource Center: Leslie, Katie, William, Kyle, Casey, Nirali, etc. And thanks to Will and Alex for helping me to man the corner of Sixth and Green in the cold 
What a day! Let’s keep going.
“Hope will never be silent” – Harvey Milk
