about this blog

I am a straight white male. I come from the most privileged demographic in existence. This means I am uniquely positioned in my community, and that I have the opportunity to speak and act with honor.

I consider myself an ally to the LGBTQ community. I've learned a thing or two about this, but there is always more to be learned. There is always room to become a better ally.

For the next year, I will devote time and attention to strengthening my ally voice. I'll do this through study and practice.

What does it mean to be an ally? I will explore this concept in a general sense, but also as it relates to my specific context in a small Midwestern city (called Springfield, OH).

Here's what you can expect from this blog:

Story. I am blessed to have gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender friends. In the coming year, I will continue to work and play with them and, when possible, engage in conversation about what it means to be an ally.

Church. In my city, there are 7 churches who have made a public commitment to welcome LGBTQ people with open arms. I will visit these churches, learn from them, and highlight the work they are doing. There are other churches in my surrounding area, and some faith traditions besides Christianity which I hope to visit as well.

Advocacy. I am a member of Equality Springfield. Equality Springfield is a local group that seeks to promote broader awareness of LGBTQ issues, participate visibly in the cultural life of our community, build coalitions of supporters, and contribute to the strength of the LGBTQ and allied communities by providing opportunities for fellowship. As the year unfolds, I will document some of our activities.

Awareness. I will attend events intended to give voice to the LGBTQ experience. I will read written works and watch films which give voice to the LGBTQ community, and I will reflect on those things here.

Reflections. I will say yes to experiences that might challenge me or stretch me as a person, and then I'll reflect on them. I may offer thoughts on current events, answer questions that have been posed, or share quick tidbits I have learned. And, you know me! There will probably be a little theology in the mix.

This blog is centered on my relationship with my LGBTQ neighbors, but it is possible and necessary to act as an ally to other minority groups as well, such as people of color, immigrants, and Muslims. So don't be surprised if you hear about these friends of mine too.

Consider this project  a one man listening campaign. An independent study in the art of being a good neighbor.

Because now is the time.