Elder Sister,
A few years ago, I realized that many of my friends were part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Not with malicebut it got my attention. As someone who identifies as Christian and heterosexual, it may have been hard for others to understand. I kind of laughed at the time, but upon deeper reflection, I realized what they said was true. Many of my friends identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The reality for me is that I love people. I love all people. I grew up in a home where I never felt comfortable being my true self, so I hid my quirks and complexities in order to make it easier for others to understand. (i.e. making people happy)I know that sexuality is not something weird, but I believe it is a part of who I am. I have always felt like I wanted to accept people as they are. I never wanted anyone to feel judged or like they couldn’t be their whole self around me.
I want everyone I meet to feel safe with me. Safe spaces are so necessary in this day and age, but sadly, many of us don’t have them. I want to be able to provide a safe space for many. Growing up in a traditional Baptist church in the South, I saw the gay community being treated differently, avoiding and even shaming gay attendees. I have heard stories from friends of being called out by the preacher in front of the congregation and made a spectacle of.
I don’t think this is Christian. I think God loves everyone. We should love people and not judge them. In the end, which do you think has the most impact? Love or ridicule? With Pride Month coming to an end, I would like to recommend some movies that really helped me learn about the LGBTQIA+ community and the history of the movement.
It was during the quarantine that I started to learn more about my community, and I’ve learned a lot over the last few years. I think to better understand others, we need to learn more about their history. If you haven’t seen them yet, I hope you’ll watch these films and be more enlightened.
1. Paris is Burning (MAX, Amazon Prime)
2. The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (Netflix)
3. Inspection (on demand)
4. Pause (Hulu)
It’s one of my favorite shows, and if you watch “Paris Is Burning,” you’ll see how much the show is based on real stories and experiences.
What documentaries or films would you recommend to someone who wants to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community?
May God bless you.
Source: FabEllis – www.fabellis.com
