Press Release from the Rainbow Sash Movement, August 28, 2009
On October 11, 2009 Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) people will march on Washington DC. The March was called for by Cleve Jones a gay activist and founder of the Names Project. We believe this march to be about justice, and fairness for Gay Family Values. This is why the Rainbow Sash Movement is endorsing this march.
Our endorsement of the March is not based on whom or who has not given their stamp of approval. Our support is based on the biblical call for justice for all humankind. The detractors of the March have every right to voice their opposing opinion; however, what they do not have a right to do is engage in name calling and innuendo.
We believe our movement is larger than the petty clash of egos that is taking place around the march. We call on all to listen to their better angels, and temper the mean-spirited attacks. Cleve Jones like the rest of humanity is far from perfect, and like the rest of us is entitled to his good name. Whether we have enough time to organize for this march or not is no longer an issue, the march is going to take place.
Not unlike the original March on Washington in 1979, the air is alive with drama. But success or non-success of this march will depend more on our ability to find common ground, and listen and respect each other even in our differences. This will define the success of this march. We are a community of wonder, and at the same time all too frail and human. Our divisions can make our family stronger, or they can tear us apart. Which will it be?
Members of the Rainbow Sash Movement will jump on buses to go to March from all over the country. For many this will be their first march. Others will have attended previous Marches, all will be coming with Hope that in the face of fear we are able to stand with our feet firmly planted on the earth and call out for justice.
This march is not so much about numbers as it is about courage: the courage to stand up and be counted. For the March detractors if you cannot march with us for whatever reason at least remember us in your prayers. We may disagree on the March but I think you would agree that the Liberation Movement sparked by Stonewall is alive and well not only in our hearts, but in the hearts of those whose shoulders we stand on.
Finally we are calling for support for this March and all its many organizers across the nation. We ask if you cannot march with us that you pray for a safe march.
