Statement: Growing up in Atlanta, GA, I was raised by a strong feminist mother. Through her example I lived a life full of diversity. When the AIDS Quilt came to Atlanta I was honored to read names off the long list of dead. As I became aware full on the reality of the haves and have nots I knew I could not stand on the side lines. Racism, sexism, homophobia are all connected. The connection is fear and ignorance. I raise my daughters to recognize the sameness and differences that all people share. I try to give them exposure to cultural, religious, and lifestyle differences. They are almost always ahead of the curve. They have no problem with Carlos wanting to be in a relationship with a man or Brenda marrying Diane. Love is love.

If some are not treated equal than all are in danger of losing their rights. It wasn't that long ago that 2 people of different race could not marry legally. We are appalled at the thought of a black woman and white man not being able to legally marry and receive all that comes with that privilege. To me this is no different. I truly feel that when my children decide to take the plunge into marriage that it won't matter if they are in love with a man or a woman. They will look back at us and know that the fundamental freedoms they have are because we stood in solidarity against fear and ignorance.

Des Moines, Iowa

Produced byAtticus Circle and Soulforce

Produced by
Atticus Circle and Soulforce