There were a lot more people at this Diversity meeting than Cory had expected. It felt a bit like a party, but not completely. The drama teacher, Ms. Thatcher was the facilitator.
But many were mingling. Taking advantage of the treats. Finally they, Cory and Roger, found a place to sit down in the lunchroom. The group took up just about a fourth of the room. There might have been almost thirty. Cory wasn't sure what he was expecting. Still he felt a little dizzy being with so many with alternative lifestyles. He looked around. So many he had no idea they were into this. Many, he even knew. And he could see they were looking at him differently now.
"OK, people, this will probably be our first and last meeting here," Avery, a girl who a big winner for improv, got up then, dressed as if she were ready for a tournment in her sharp navy suit with a pink bow tie.
Naturally, she got some 'aw's then.
"How could this happen? Other meetings go on here everyday after school?" Someone said.
"I know, but there are a couple of church groups that are singling us out," she told them. " That's why we're stuck with the Diversity club instead of what we actually are, a Gay Straight Alliance. Our best bet is to find a community center to meet next time. There's even a church that's offered. And no they aren't trying to convert anyone. Although, this was so handy to meet here right after school. I'm not guaranteeing a next time, folks." she sighed. "There are so many things I was wanting to get to. Politics. Just feeling OK enough to talk about who you are. I had high hopes for us." She then pointed to a girl with a messenger bag, displaying various pins. "Candy had made up all these buttons. Some just for support to sale. And some that you could wear to make people aware of our cause."
Cory wasn't so sure he was ready to wear a pin. He looked over at Roger who was already sporting a pink triangle on his hoodie. It was making Cory a little nervous. By the way she talked, they could start a riot. Cory didn't want to be in a riot.
"Why are we here, again?" He whispered to Roger as a few were getting up with testimonies about their own personal battles at school and at home about being gay or bi.
"You have to feel good about yourself. You have to be brave. You can't just hide under a rock forever." Roger didn't even whisper.
Cory just nodded. What could possibly go wrong?
GLSEN
PFLAG
No Name Calling week Jan. 26-30
I just went to SMASS (sexual minorities and straight supporters) today, and it sort of reminded me of this. Except here, people are a lot more accepting. And they have food.
ReplyDeleteAbout last chapter: Eric should really send this letter. It's so beautiful.
ReplyDeleteAbout this chapter: That's sad that the club is going to be chucked outof the space where they have settled! I wish them luck finding a new home.
Can you believe it, I wasn't even at the computer yesterday??
I like the links that you posted. hmmm..interesting.
ReplyDeleteI'll have to remember that about the no name calling week coming up.
ReplyDeleteWell, looks as if Roger might be more prepaired about this kind of stuff than Cory. Maybe it'll open his eyes up.
the brother is very very good, he's starting to blow kisses and do other cute real people things like that!!!
ReplyDeleteas for the shoes, they madden's have made one apperance and the converse hacent yet...im saving them for this volley ball game (more on that next wedensday!)
and by the way, i was refering to the fact that I was pathetic for crying, not that the letter was pathetic!!! The letter was beautiful, and i loved it! He should send it
and i know what movie you're talking about, but i cant think of the name either haha!!!
hope all is well :)
xxoo,
raigan