October marks the celebration of 31 icons as part of the Equality Forum’s “GLBT History Month.” I’ll admit I didn’t know we had a month—but I am definitely going to register at Target to celebrate!
Check out Equality Forum’s Web site which lists the icons recognized each day of this month. Some personal favorites:
• Stephen Sondheim: I am a musical theatre groupie, and Sondheim is a master of the beautiful dance between words and lyrics.
• Alice Walker: The Color Purple is an amazing book, and an amazing movie. Walker’s ability to understand women, and the dynamic of women falling in love and appreciating each other, is unparalleled.
• Tony Kushner: Angels in America. Enough said.
• Rosie O’Donnell: Love her. Love her opinion, love her confidence, love her compassion for children and our community. Mostly, love that she put the women of “The View” in their place.
And today’s icon? Philip Johnson. He’s a Cleveland native (all the good gays are…), and an astounding architect, creating such visual works of art as the 648-foot AT&T/Sony skyscraper in New York City and the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, which is the largest gay inclusive church in the nation, with 3,000 regular worshippers. The Cathedral was described by Johnson as his crown jewel, because it sent a startling visual message that “all gay people are children of God, too.” Johnson came out later in his life, spending most of his life with his partner of 45-years, David Whitney. He died in January 2005.
These icons have helped our community in many ways, but mostly, their noteworthy contributions to society have helped others see us in a positive, substantive light. Many of the icons, including Sondheim and Kushner, communicate through their work, and in turn, spread awareness and appreciation for all of our contributions. Their spotlight helps us reach and impact audiences all around the world.
So, happy GLBT History month to us all. I’m proud of our history, but even more proud of the history we continue to make. To those of you who are pioneers in your field, and to those of you who everyday make a difference in someone’s life, thank you.
My contribution to GLBT History month? A pilgrimage to Miami Beach next week to see one of my icons on stage—Tina Turner. I’ll take photos of me and Ms. Tina for those interested…
Who is your icon? Let us know in the comments section below.
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