Happiest of Fridays, gang.
On Tuesday, the BF and I had an interesting event to attend at Cleveland’s City Hall—the first ever (and soon to be annual) LGBT Heritage Day. This wasn’t an event thrown together because of the Gay Games victory here in Cleveland (woo hoo!). It had been in the planning stages for months, thanks to the leadership of Cleveland City Councilman Joe Cimperman.
So, what is LGBT Heritage Day, you ask with a smirk? It’s an opportunity for us here in Cleveland to celebrate the local LGBT pioneers who have given their time, talents, and commitment to the LGBT movement and the betterment of our community. Six individuals or organizations were nominated by the community as “Shining Stars” to recognize on this first Heritage celebration. Among the honorees:
• The Very Reverend Tracey Lind for her work with the faith-based community and bringing multiple religions together for one common purpose—celebration of diversity.
• Isis Tiffany Soul for her commitment to transgendered individuals through her work with Cleveland Black Pride and for being the most fabulous first-ever Miss Black Gay Ohio.
• Dr. Henry Ng of MetroHealth for his outstanding dedication to the well-being and health of the LGBT community.
• Professor Susan Becker for her tireless efforts as an advocate and leader for LGBT students at Cleveland Marshall.
• John Katsaros, or as I like to refer to him, the “Mayor of Lakewood” for his dedication to continuously improving the local LGBT community through economic development and generous philanthropic support.
• And finally, selfishly, the Cleveland Synergy Foundation for bringing the global LGBT community to Cleveland.
Before this event, I knew two of the six individuals/organizations recognized. After leaving City Hall that evening, I was inspired by their commitment to our community and their passion for doing good, with or without a spotlight. I applaud the city of Cleveland for continuing this proactive outreach to the LGBT community by recognizing what vital members we are—and that we do make a difference. Other cities, and corporations for that matter, should consider sponsoring LGBT Heritage Days to loudly celebrate the legacy that has come before us. Way to go, Cleveland!
Now, back to pop culture Friday, clearly focused on ABC shows:
• Modern Family—has anyone watched this show yet? Brilliant! Love the gay couple with the newly-adopted daughter from Vietnam. The momentwhere they presented the daughter to the family with “Circle of Life” from the Lion King playing in the background was priceless.
• Brothers & Sisters—I am intrigued by this surrogacy storyline playing out between Kevin and Scotty. I like the role reversal—Kevin, who was always the life of the party, can feel his clock ticking, while Scotty is debating whether being a parent is right for him. Who knows where it will go, but if Sally Field ends up carrying their child, I am so over that show…until the next week.
• Desperate Housewives—Love the campy factor. Love the women. Love that it’s written by uber-gay Marc Cherry. But, what’s happened to Bob and Lee, the gay neighbors? They have all but disappeared from Wisteria Lane. There’s only so much Dana Delany a boy can take.
That’s it readers. What are your plans for the weekend?
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