Daniel Leary, co-Executive Director
Mountains don’t move overnight. Gay rights have much to gain before we reach total legal equality. Opinions, perspectives and beliefs are being voiced loudly and passionately on both sides of this debate, across the country. For every person, for every voice, there is also a different outline for change.
Americans control the landscape of our country through the power of election. We vote. We vote every time we buy a product, or watch a television show. We vote every time we don’t. And the people who make decisions, the people whom we often accuse of not listening or caring, respond. They respond to the greatest waves and the tiniest ripples. Wearing a Committed to Equality ring is a vote. It is not a strategy, or a candidate or a bill. It’s a vote that says being gay shouldn’t come with sanctions.
A young friend was struggling with the decision to come out of the closet. In his close-knit family, the topic of homosexuality was rarely discussed. He paid close attention any time the topic arose, desperate for a sign that his sexuality would be accepted if he told them that he was gay. In a discreet attempt to learn their hidden feelings, he told them about Committed to Equality. His mother looked up and asked, "Can I get a ring?"
Wearing a Committed to Equality ring is being part of the solution. The benefit will be the effect it has on the world around you. Gay teens are 3 times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual counterparts. They can find no way to survive in a world that doesn’t support them. Be an icon of support. Be an ally. Show them and everyone that being gay is no reason to hide, and that any restrictions the government puts on homosexuals is wrong. Wear a Committed to Equality ring and let your message of support come in loud and clear.