Statements: I am a feminist and as such believe that everyone should have equal rights regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, creed, sexual orientation, marital status, or parenting status. I also teach psychology, including Human Sexuality, at Cottey College in Nevada, MO; as part of that class I encourage students to develop a healthy sexuality. I am the sponsor for Pride Alliance, the gay-straight alliance student organization on campus, which will be participating in the vigil as well. I am also a mother of 2 children; I want them to grow up in a world in which sexual orientation is not a basis for hatred and violence and discrimination. These are some of the reasons motivating me to be involved.

Our vigil will focus on bullying and hate crimes. Whereas no known hate crimes have recently occurred in our state, it is a very conservative area, and students do fear the consequences of coming out or being outed. We would like an end to that fear.

My family will also participate in the vigil. I would like my children to know that sometimes you have to stand up for what's right. Although my son is not yet old enough to fully comprehend what's going on, I have already discussed the issue of sexuality and discrimination with my 6-year-old daughter. I think that this action will further impress upon her the importance of this issue.

To other straight people, including legislators and politicians, I would say that it comes down to basic civil rights. You don't have to like a person or agree with him or her, but everyone has basic human rights that must be recognized--our country is supposed to based on that principle. Let's truly live and be governed by it.

Nevada, Missouri

Produced byAtticus Circle and Soulforce

Produced by
Atticus Circle and Soulforce