This Wednesday is the day when all gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgenders, and straight allies are encouraged to participate in a strike against the passing of Proposition 8 and the losses that the gay movement worldwide are experiencing.
On this day, participating involves calling out of work as “gay”(or as a gay ally), and using the time off to volunteer. It also involves eliminating yourself from the economy by keeping your computers (and the like) off, not making any purchases, and shutting down your company if you run one.
For those of us who can’t afford to miss school or work, it is encouraged that we still find some time on December 10th to volunteer, or at least let people know that we support gay rights, including marriage, in whatever ways we can.
“I think it’s a really interesting idea because it can show the impact that the gay community makes. My fear is that most people who take the day off won’t do any volunteering, but just use the time off to stay home and relax. I think devoting the day to service is a really positive thing. We had four really huge losses in this election that were devastating on so many levels. If people have the ability, I would encourage them to support LGBT rights and human rights in general by volunteering, and even just by speaking out, whether at work, or class, or to a family member. It is a day to encourage people to do what they can to participate in the process in any meaningful way.” -Sarah Parker-Holmes, Coordinator of the Center for Sexualities and Gender Diversity at USM.
“We’ve reacted to anti-gay ballot initiatives in California, Arizona Florida, and Arkansas with anger, with resolve, and with courage. NOW, it’s time to show America and the world how we love. Gay people and our allies are compassionate, sensitive, caring, mobilized, and programmed for success. A day without gays would be tragic because it would be a day without love.
On December 10, 2008 the gay community will take a historic stance against hatred by donating love to a variety of different causes.”-daywithoutagay.org