Dear John, This past Monday we honored a day of service in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, there is no escaping the realities of the other events that took place. The Executive Orders (EOs) have been far-reaching yet not unexpected, ranging from redefining the identities and experiences of our trans, nonbinary, and intersex loved ones to redefining birthright citizenship, from ending DEI initiatives to ending the United States’ participation in the World Health Organization. And while the EOs are fast, furious, and undeniably angering and frightening, it’s important to remember that few EOs can change policy immediately, nor can they immediately change regulations nor the law as established through statutes and the courts; litigation is sure to follow and, in some cases, is already being prepared. Remember: Your validity is not dictated by an Executive Order. All of that said, the message is clear that there will be continued aggressive attempts to deny inclusion, fairness, and justice to people across race, income, ability, gender, age, and sexual orientation. To see a Nazi salute from the stage further highlighted the darkness that descended. If you did not read my message from last Thursday, please take a moment to do that right now. It was and is a reminder that our love IS louder, and we will prevail. I also want to share with you our new issue of The PFLAG Banner, released on Monday. It’s a reminder that PFLAG is here, NOW and always, and our work must continue. At a time when kindness and respect are in short supply, we will foster community, providing a soft place to land in hard times and a loud voice of protest and action when the moment warrants. We will be present and there for you and your loved ones when answers and solutions are in short supply. In that spirit, here again are resources to take immediate action: You can also check out resources from our partners, including: I will once again quote Dr. King, ‘Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.’” Let your love be louder. |
