This past week has been quite a week. First personally, I went to see the lasted offering from Mirvish, "Kinky Boots". The story tells the story of two men, who are very different, who share one thing in common. Both men wanted the acceptance of their fathers. Eventually they learn that by accepting the other man for who they are, they learn to accept themselves.
Then came yesterday. After much heart wrenching debate, heated rhetoric, threats of violence, and even threats of suicide, the Supreme Court of the United States, in a 5-4 decision, made same sex marriage legal in all 50 states. Now in Ontario, we have had such laws since 2003. But to see the laws changed in the land of the "Teapartyers" was quite amazing. Right away 35 major companies released advertisements showing that they were in favour of the decision companies like AT&T, Procter and Gamble, American Airlines, General Mills, Starbucks, Coca Cola and other companies are all sporting the rainbow flag today.
The fact that the Supreme Court decision came on the same weekend that many major cities have Pride Celebrations seems significant. Pride started in many of these cities as a very political celebration for the LGBT community. Then allies and friends joined the festivities a few days later. Now Pride has become a celebration of how our communities have turned away from hate and discrimination and are moving to acceptance.
Society still has a long way to go. Women still earn a fraction of what men do. Racism still exists in subtle and not so subtle forms. Homophobia is still out there. The able bodied still have an advantage over those with physical challenges. Those whose first language is not English still find they are overlooked for promotions. Unfortunately we do not treat everybody equally. But maybe as we see the rainbow flags flying during Pride and in television and radio ads, we can realize that acceptance others is not only possible, but it is the right thing to do. And as we accept others, may we find acceptance ourselves. Blessings
