National Coming Out Day’s less than 48 hours away, but TR Knight’s so psyched that he’s filmed a PSA for GLAAD. The Grey’s Anatomy actor wants the world to know: “Gay and transgendered people are part of every community. We are your neighbors, your coworkers, your family…”
Ain’t no getting rid of us, so might as well learn to love us!
Meanwhile, in other NCOD news, GLAAD’s linked the October 11th event with the 20th anniversary of the AIDS quilt:
National Coming Out Day is observed every October 11. This year is especially meaningful, as 2007 marks the 20th anniversary of the 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington and the unfurling of the AIDS Memorial Quilt on the National Mall.
One reader asked us what we think of this potentially awkward association. Certainly HIV/AIDS isn’t simply a gay issue, but the closet (NCOD’s sworn enemy) has contributed to the spread of the virus. Thus, the dual celebration does have some merit. We’re a bit torn on where we stand, but we’d love to hear what you kids have to say. Should GLAAD tie the AIDS quilt in with NCOD?
kevin1217
Yes, The quilt is part of the March in 1987 and reflects our history. So of course it should be there. You can watch HRC’s video at http://www.hrc.org/issues/coming_out.asp Maybe that well help clarify.
abelincoln
TR is just so damn cute. I want one just like him.
mike/
Absolutely! Next to Stonewall, IMO, it is the second defining moment of our community’s becoming active, open and out. What would have been the scenario if we had all been able to be who we are?
You’re right that the proverbial closet did lead to the spread more than it should have. I think about the friends I miss because of HIV/AIDS and remember having to deal with their families who didn’t know that they were gay. Most of them dealt with anger that they didn’t really know who their sons, brothers, cousins, etc. were. The grief was double for them.
Don’t forget that the AIDS Quilt was first shown on October 11, 1987. The Quilt and the march are one.