Q.E.D.: A note from Q Center’s Executive Director
QED: June 2010
At some point, most queer people feel the sting of degrading words spoken by cowards in gym class, passing cars, or behind our backs.
The Memorial Day weekend attacks in our bucolic and queer-friendly city of Portland have taken things to another level and forced us to ask why people are trying to hurt us. It turns out that predators target people who are perceived to be both vulnerable and socially isolated. Every day at Q Center, we work to reduce isolation in the LGBTQ community by offering opportunities to come together, connect with one another, and ultimately, break down what keeps us isolated. Yet here we were, in the middle of our perceivably safe community, vulnerable to the drunken whims of cowards and gay bashers.
It would be easy to simply close ranks and accept this behavior as inevitable. After all, if the New York Center’s rainbow flag could be burned outside their building and LGBT people in Texas could be rounded up like animals in their own bars, how could we avoid the occasional gay bashing in Portland?
The answer is simple: Portland isn’t that kind of town. Sure, police could be more responsive to violence against LGBT people on our streets. Yes, we could have better records of when those things happen. But two things give me hope: the resounding response from all avenues of the queer community, and the fact that our outrage has turned to action — practically overnight.
Within two days, Q Center was filled with people who wanted answers and who were ready to create solutions. We saw the rise of new leadership within our own ranks — including the courageous James Birch Campbell who took his experience as a “victim” and turned it into a powerful role as an advocate. What could have been a demoralizing event for James has become a vehicle for him to prove his mettle as a pillar of strength and persistence through peril. He is genuine proof that leaders are all around us.
And now there is Q Patrol, our own version of foot patrol that shines a light on the predators who lurk in the shadows. Starting in mid-July, Q Patrol will take to the streets. Volunteers will work in teams to watch the places where LGBT people gather. If something bad goes down, Q Patrol members will be there.
To succeed, we need all hands on deck. If you’re interested in joining Q Patrol — whether walking the beat on a foot patrol team, as a volunteer organizer/dispatcher, or as a donor — we have a place for YOU. You can learn more at www.pdxqcenter.org and on Facebook at “Q Patrol Portland”.
With the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in mind, we know that the LGBT community has a long history of fighting back, of rising up and of reminding those around us that we are not isolated…we are not vulnerable…and we are not victims. We have an opportunity to make history right now. Join us.
http://twitter.com/kendallclawson
Kendall Clawson
Q Center, Executive Director
