Florida Republican introduces anti Transgender Bill

[Carolyn Marie]

What I do participate in is helping actual people. Be it individually, or through working on a trans focused charity foundation. I'd rather directly make people's lives through direct action, then hanging out on the sidelines and cheering or heckling politicians based on their position. Just my view of thing though.

Ah, but that is part and parcel of activism, too. There are many facets to being an activist, not just the political end of it. I think its great to do those kinds of things, Sarah, whatever you choose to call it.

Carolyn Marie

[VickySGV]

About 95% of my "Activism" is in having bona fide friends, both in and outside the TG community who have nothing to do with writing laws or passing them. On the other 5% it is also bona fide friendship with those involved in the realm of politics who do write the laws, many of whom are friends since the beginning of mud who have seen me transition. No losses there happily. I must live in a good place.

I can name drop on "Spotlight" names in the Trans* advocacy circles, and could have a place in them if I would like sometime, but I think even those of us who post here when we are helping a crisis or just shooting the breeze still have an effect on the broader community, and WE CARE which I see as the greatest activism of all.

[JJ]

It seems to me no matter the cause that activism which is hostile and confrontational is almost always counterproductive while those who stand up with dignity and strength can change the world and move mountains. When India wanted it's freedom there were open rebellions that resulted in deaths and increased hostility all around while one gentle man stood up and broke the rule of the British Empire where guns and soldiers always failed. The same for the civil rights movement. I understand the anger that invokes radicalism but we don't celebrate Malcom X -there are no holidays in his honor but his words are still quoted around here by the bigots to justify their anger. We do honor Dr King who embraced humanity-as Ghandhi did-while standing firm for his beliefs.

The other lesson there is that when things need changed and someone is effective the price they pay can be very high. No one should make the decision to change society without being aware of and accepting the possible consequences. And I somehow suspect only by being willing to sacrifice yourself-not necessarily your life but certainly your personal self interest- can you really make positive changes in a leadership role.

I do know that whether in personal relationships or in seeking societal changes hostility backfires and entrenches your opposition rather than effecting positive change. If I do not respect someone as a human being with the freedom to express their views and live their lives no matter how deeply I disagree then I cannot expect to have those rights granted to me.

Johnny

[Guest April Kristie]

Activists usually speak their minds, and let those who need allies In this world know they exist and support them. It is those individuals who are apathetic and keep their mouths shut that damage any platform that wishes to move forward. Whatever your activism level, I sincerely hope you do well and good for someone other than yourself in this life.

BTW today was "random acts of kindness day", hope you spread the love and payed it forward somehow.