Gay woman expresses personal angst about the Orlando mass shooting and how it impacts the LGBTQ community as a whole
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I’m a gay American.
Born and raised in Indiana.
High school diploma and bachelors degree.
I’m a gay American.
My job is protected in some states,
Some can fire me.
I’m a gay American.
I had to fight to marry who I loved.
Some churches can turn me away.
I’m a gay American.
“Keep it to yourself.”
“Nobody wants to see that.”
“My religion says it’s wrong.”
I’m a gay American.
I work a full time job, I pay taxes.
I take my son to soccer practice.
I’m a gay American.
People hate me.
People judge me.
I’m a gay American.
50 people (possibly more) were murdered last night,
By bullets flying through a night club.
I’m a gay American.
June is Pride Month, a time for celebration turned into terror.
Because of a kiss between two men.
◊♦◊
I’m a gay American.
I do not deserve hate.
I do not deserve malice.
I do not deserve a gun pointed at my head, neither did they.
I’m a gay American.
I will not hide, I will not be silent.
Hatred will not win.
I’m an American….who happens to be gay.
“Land of the Free” includes ME. It includes US.
May the tragedy today, be the strength we need, to shatter every closet door.
I’m a gay American.
I will not go away.
Your hatred will not silence me.
I’m a gay American.
I will live freely.
You will never win.
I’m a gay American.
You are weak, you are hateful.
You showed this to the world.
I’m a gay American.
I lost brothers and sisters last night.
I will not lose my freedom or will to fight.
I’m a gay American.
And you will never change me.
I’m a gay American.
I shudder when they say your name,
Your identity is invalid,
Though I’m sure you believe the opposite.
I’m a gay American
You made the wrong decision
Your soul will pay the price
I’m a gay American.
I say it loud, I say it proud…..
For those that no longer can.
June 12, 2016
Previously published by The Angry Therapist blog on Medium