An incident where I witnessed a group of people as the
target of bias, prejudice, and oppression actually occurred this past week.
Last night I went to the Philadelphia’s Gay Men’s Choir Christmas Show. I went
with a few close family members and the show was absolutely amazing! Earlier in
the week when I told an acquaintance that I was attending the show as my Friday
night event, I had a response which was the target of bias, prejudice, and
oppression against gay men. The individual made a comment that referred to gay
men in a very negative way and questioned why I would ever attend an event such
as this.
The way that this person looked at this show as a negative
event to attend because it was surrounded by the gay community is representative
of diminishing equity. This person did not look at it this event as a Christmas
show which was based upon the wondering music of the season with very talented
human being performing the joyful music of the holiday season. It was an injustice comment that was made and
example of what the LGBT community deals with on a daily basis.
During this incident, I felt very angry and offended for the
individuals who performed so wonderfully last night. How dare a person who has
no idea how much dedication and time these men put into the show question me on
why I would want to go support and see this show? I also felt sad for the
person who made this comment because they I was able to realize that they must
not fully understand the meaning of diversity.
The individual who made the negative comment would have to
branch out and learn the meaning of diversity in order to turn this incident
into an opportunity for greater equity. Next time. I will possibly invite this
individual to come see the show with me so that they are able to experience the
fabulous performers and this would perhaps take away from the negative outlook
this person has on the LGBT community.
Kaitlyn,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you enjoyed the performance. I hope that the person does come to terms with their prejudices against the LGBT community. Sounds like that person really missed out. Unfortunately a lot of people feel that way about sexual orientation. Maybe you could invite this person to a show without telling them who is performing until afterwards. That might let them see the LGBT community in a different light.
Luci
Thank you for sharing. The person you spoke with is missing out. It wonderful that the LGBT community where you are is lively and able to create a holiday celebration for all to enjoy. That is not something I have seen in my community and it worries me it is out of fear of the dominant group perspective that exists.
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