National Equality March executive committee member Mark Reed (shown above), a successful Dallas business owner, says he’s given away about 12 airline vouchers so that others from the local LGBT community can attend the event Oct. 10 and 11 in Washington, D.C. One of those airline vouchers had gone to Blake Wilkinson, founder of Queer LiberAction. But according to e-mails I received today from both Reed and Wilkinson, Reed has canceled Wilkinson’s voucher over comments critical of the march that were posted on QL’s Web site. QL, along with the Gay Liberation Network in Chicago, has been trying to organize a protest outside the White House during the first day of the march. According to a “Call for a pro-LGBT picket of the White House” on the front page of the QL site:
“The organizers of the Sunday, October 11th March on Washington have placed almost their entire focus on Congress (which will be out of town) and almost none on the President. Indeed, rather than making demands of the President, the official march Web site goes out of its way to praise ‘Obama’s Mobile Messaging Team (for) Donating Services To The National Equality March!’
“By targeting congressional districts and lobbying Congress in an effort to win legal equality, the organizers’ strategy looks suspiciously like a drive to elect and re-elect Democrats in the 2010 bi-elections, rather than make uncompromising demands on this President and his Congress.”
Here are portions of an e-mail Reed sent to Wilkinson yesterday in response to the above comments:
“I am canceling your free ticket to Washington and informing you in time so you can still make affordable plans.
“Although I was tempted to wait [until] one day before the march, that is not my style … and [would be] fostered out of anger that unlike you, I have learned how to control.”
In response to the first paragraph from the QL Web site above, Reed wrote, “LIE. We didn’t praise Obama with this message. We were pointing the credibility of the group that has volunteered for this effort.” In response to the second paragraph, Reed wrote, “LIE. You obviously haven’t read anything about our strategy and I do not have time to explain it to you.” Reed then goes on to say:
“As someone that has been working extremely hard to help promote the march, I am very disappointed that you have not done jack shit to help. Instead, you are posting lies on your Web site and Facebook page about the organizers of this event.
“Dante & I have tried to be a support to you and your efforts. No more. We are now starting to believe what many of your enemies have written about you. So sad.”
And here’s Wilkinson’s response to Reed:
“I find it interesting that you’re canceling my ticket because of a difference of political opinion. What it boils down to is it my way or the highway, literally. I’m so disappointed with you and Dante. I would have thought that you would have tried to understand where we are coming from with QL. I have tried over the months, but I guess I have failed.
“As I said on the phone, and have said a million times over, if there is misinformation or differences of opinion I’m always happy to meet. I offered to meet your co-organizer to go over this stuff but she preferred to send me an email with corrected information. Yours is the only e-mail I have received.
“If you don’t like dialog or criticism then get out of politics. Just because you have gotten inspired to do something, which is great, it’s disappointing that because we disagree you’re using the only thing you have to try to squelch the fire, money. I, we, can’t be bought.
“So, as always, the phone is always on and I’m happy to meet. I’ll be eagerly waiting for your call and you and Dante’s generous support once again.”
Ok I’ve generally supported Blake in his efforts and believe there’s a lot of their protests re: Rainbow Lounge were responsible for some of the apologies and findings in those reports.
However, it’s kinda stupid to accept a free plane ticket from Organization A and then go on to criticize said organization in an email to all your members.
NEM was totally in their rights to cancel that ticket.
Don’t bite the political hand that feeds you, Blake.
Black is so over….he has no common sense and he is leaving Dallas anyways. And, with the way he acts I bet he will be run out of town…..
Mark works his ass off everyday for the march. He gives his time and $$ to the march and asks for nothing in return except for passion for full federal equality.
What does Blake want? I guess his name in the paper…….
My favorite comment from Blake…”I’ll be eagerly waiting for your call and you and Dante’s generous support once again.” Has he lost his mind or what? Me thinks he is going to be waiting a LONG time for that phone call.
To quote Larry Kramer, who was honored in last weeks Allan Ross Freedom Parade, and who sat down with R.J. and me for a long recorded conversation soon to be posted on our site http://www.rickandrj.com, “Activism is informed by anger. If you’re not angry enough, you wont act.” I would add if you don’t act it will not get done.
In the Best Way to Freedom and Equality Debate, co-sponsored by The Dallas Voice and Rational Radio AM 1360, Blake and I attempted to explain why any civil rights movement requires many fronts and tactics to achieve success. We also asserted, with confidence, the idea that power does not willingly give in to sharing itself. Political parties, institutions, even individuals, give up or share portions of their power, when required to. This fact of human nature and group dynamics isn’t bad or good. It just is the way it is. Politics is about the possible. It’s the process we use to create a more just nation and a better future. QL has adopted the Larry Kramer model to fight for our equal rights. We also respect all the others working for the same goal in their own ways.
Over my career, I’ve been lucky to meet and interview some amazing, important people. I’m not someone who is too easily impressed with puff and pomp or fooled by media face-time junkies. I want all of you to know that there are few people I’ve ever encountered in my life who have impressed me more than Blake Wilkinson. He knows our GLBT history and rights movement history well. He cares deeply about justice and fairness. And, most impressively, he uses his passion, fire, even anger to energize his efforts. What’s not to admire and respect about that. I know him well enough to know he will never abandon his core beliefs and values. But I also know it’s not an easy experience to see and hear yourself attacked so often and for so long. That Blake continues the work, full force, anyway, makes him a hero to me. And a treasured friend.
rick vanderslice
I reluctantly admit: I relish the irony of Blake Wilkinson criticizing Mark Reed for adopting a ‘my way or the highway’ approach after the as-of-yet unrefuted claim that he removed two people from the leadership board of his organization over political disagreements. Love. it!
I have never and will never question Blake’s commitment and passion about LGBT rights. Anyone who has felt discrimination surely wishes to see its end.
BUT, Blake seems to have a clear sense of entitlement as evidenced by his response to Mr Reed. For instance, he concludes his response with his expectation that his way of thinking will prevail over that of one who has just ‘gotten inspired to do something’ (as opposed to someone who has been involved in LGBT activism since his glorious return from ‘one of the most advanced countries for LGBT equality’ – see his quote in This Week in Texas) and that the funding would be restored.
To Blake I would echo his own sentiment. If you don’t like dialog or criticism then get out of activism. He has received a great deal of criticism, and the critical voices are mounting. Instead of heeding and learning from it, he has opted for a ‘stay the course’ mentality characteristic of another, very similar leader with whom we’re all familiar.
‘Power concedes nothing without demand.’ A favorite QL quote. Often, it concedes nothing despite demand. This ‘fire,’ as Blake calls it, is not effective in and of itself. We’re not dealing with cavemen spooked by flame (though it may seem like it) but a political machine. Effecting change without tactic and awareness of mechanics is as effective as ‘demanding’ that your computer work correctly.
C:\Applications\Equality Now — were it only so simple.
Perhaps he’ll have time to think it over on the drive.
Sorry, guys. I’m with Blake on this one.
Mark should’ve done his research before giving out the vouchers. If he had done this he could’ve contacted those organizations that he felt would benefit from the free vouchers but he didn’t. He gave them out, then realized some of the organizations weren’t on the same page…and decided to take them back…?
Not very smart and mature. Yes, he has every right to do what he did, but it’s like he’s the Nelly Olson rich-girl from Little House On The Prarie telling Laura and Mary Ingalls that he’s taking back his toys cause they’re mistreating them.
Blake, don’t ask for an apology…just chalk it up to a learning experience.
I have heard both sides of this continuing debate between Mr. Wilkinson and those from the community who oppose him and I would like to add my perspective to each opposing side.
To those “activists” and critics who oppose QL and Mr. Wilkinson. I have heard you all strongly denounce the organization and its leader, but it appears that your criticisms always seem to be centered on personal attacks towards Mr. Wilkinson rather than attempting to criticize the issues that are being raised. Is there some sort of clandestine conspiracy and personal vendetta that you critics have against this person ?? Or is it that becaused he ruffled a few feathers and bruised a few egos in the Dallas gay “political power circle” and you all have taken it upon yourselves to gang together to ruin this person’s credibility and oust him from Texas politics ?? A procedure which is often practiced within the “pink mafia” but is effectively covered-up by the gay media and the activist leaders. Quite frankly, I am still at a loss as to what exactly your counterargument is and the point you are trying to make……..
Dallas and Texas in general is the epitome of status quo ideology and resistance to change and none more is it apparent than in our very own GLBT community. The argument always seems to be, “Well we have been doing it this way for years and it works (by our standards). Don’t come in here and try to change our way of doing things. (even if it involves corruption)”
So I say to these opponents, just because you might grease palms with HRC or hob nob with the elite at Black Tie or are those who are trying to be accepted in Dallas gay society by accepting the status quo of others, that doesn’t give you the right to retaliate against, gang together and conspire against an individual just because he or she has a different view than yours……………….I’m not sure if you all realize this, but left unregulated, your little vendetta against QL and its leadership may very well lead to borderline criminal activity.
Now for Mr. Wilkinson and QL.
While I understand and support the passion and drve which fuels their ideology and agree with their desire to achieve full equality for everyone, I am disturbed that Mr. Wilkinson and perhaps others at QL are not seeing the crucial value of tempering that passion when speaking at venues which have traditional, conservative and unyielding format processes in place. While Mr. Wilkinson and others have every right to be angry, the manner in which they are addressing that anger is in my opinion very ineffective and will ultimately result in the alienation of those very people who we want to listen in the first place……………. I mean really, one can’t expect someone to adopt a street protest form of dialogue and debate when all they are used to every day is years old bureaucratic procedure dictated by Robert’s Rules of Order……….
So I say that Mr. Wilkinson and QL should be open to different ways of channeling their anger so that the same point may be delivered in a way that others who are stuck in traditional, conservative bureaucracies will accept. I am not in any way proposing that they kiss their ass or give in to them, just adjust your argument style appropriate to the audience you are addressing.
Lastly concerning this airline voucher business, was this really relevant to this issue or is there more as to how you obtained these vouchers Mr. Reed and whether this activism agenda and retaliatory act was really your doing or if it was at the behest of the airline’s GLBT political leaders……………………Just an observation.
I’ve been very critical of Blake in the past. But I think he is growing in a good direction. Blake is allowed, like all of us, to learn from his past mistakes and to grow into a better person and activist. At least he has passion and is trying to do something. I still do do not agree with Blake and QL on many things, but I also do agree on many things. If we do not agree with him, we should try to help guide or pursuade him to our thinking rather than try to squash his passion and run him out of town on a rail. I agree with QL’s “Call for a pro-LGBT picket of the White House” and their reasoning for same. I also agree with Israel’s comment. Pretty much hit it on the mark, as usual.
LMAO!!!! Why am I not surprised Israel…… I mean, I love ya guy, you are a talented individual…. But, seriously????? And if you’re going to respond to this post Israel, be sure you read this one first, k
And Rick…. I’ve said it before on here and I will happily say it again. You are old enough to know better. You guys are such hypocrites. It was funny at first watching you guys stumble all over yourselves only because of the way you shrugged off the major accomplishments of the last several decades that have been made by more established organizations in Dallas. But now it is just sad. and really embarrassing to watch. I used to follow you guys closely just to witness first hand how a group could be so ignorant and naive. but now it’s like a train wreck but instead of sadness I’m left feeling embarrassment. There is a great deal of work to be done in this city and groups like QL just cant cut it. Unless their leadership and format/structure are changed to one that better serves the community it is supposedly standing up for. Shouldn’t the advancement of our rights be the ultimate goal? And not just the method in which we reach that end?
I will agree with you Israel in one respect. Blake should not ask for an apology…….. He should be apologizing. Too the people he has doped into following him on this non-sensical journey of meaningless (or results-less may be a better word) protesting that has done nothing but bring bitterness and divisiveness into our community because of Blake’s, and several of his lackeys, comments that have denigrated all of the hard work put in by countless individuals from Dallas and around the country that has brought us to the place we are now. I will not hold my breath for that apology, much like Blake should not hold his breath for that phone call he so ignorantly expects.
Get to hitchen Blake, D.C.’s a long way…………
Hey, I have a question. Why was Larry Kramer selected as Honorary Grand Marshall of the Allan Ross Texas Freedom Parade? Do you think that, maybe, his long and successful work in direct action activism and politics had something to do with his place of honor in the parade and at the rally? Or, as is the case with far too many Dallas gays, was the consideration and value of his selection more about snaring a famous name, a celebrity gay to bring more importance to us? I also wonder if many Dallas GLBT’s really know anything about the successful activist work of Larry Kramer. If many of you quick draw critics were familiar with his work in ACT-UP! and the Gay Mens Health Crisis you would not be so shocked and bothered by the activities of Queer LiberAction.
Disagree with the political philosophy behind the direct action activism of a Larry Kramer or Blake Wilkinson as you will. But be prepared to explain away the many successes realized from these tactics. Frankly, a good debate is what Blake and I have been wanting to engage this entire community in from day one. We are still willing. Anyone interested? Anyone? Or will it just be about correct clothing, proper manners, deference to authority and respect for turf.
I still remember one of our younger QL members asking me a simple but very important question the morning of the Million Gay March and Rally. The buzz of news about the Rainbow Lounge Raid several hours earlier was everywhere. This early 20 something gay man simply asked me this: “Why has it taken 40 years and we still don’t have our equality and freedom?” I quoted Larry Kramer, “Because we haven’t demanded it enough.” I could have quoted MLK, Rosa Parks, Harvey Milk and many others, of course. But Larry Kramer did just fine. We even sometimes have to risk embarrassment and insult. If it is important enough to us, we will. I’m confident that young member of Queer LiberAction is ready to give what it will take. I still hope enough in the GLBT community, both here and nationally, will. But it will only happen when we can get past the silly and petty. If we’re just going to be about hissy-fits then let’s all have a united one about our lack of equality and freedom in Dallas and in Texas and in The United States of America. Just a thought.
Well, Rick. It is nice to see that you have not lost your touch after all of these years when it comes to speaking in grandiose generalities that seem to over look the meat of the “critic’s” arguments. I think you would be hard pressed to find anyone who knows me that thinks I feel that “Direct Action”, or protesting for the rest of us, is not necessary. In fact I think it can be a critical tool in the effort of over coming the apathy that has historically plagued our community, our cause, and our movement over all. My position has and will always be (unless some critical changes are made) that QL and other organizations like it do not tend to stick around or have lasting impacts on our community. QL is an organization that only engages in protest/”direct action” style activities. You guys do not sit down at the table with willing participants of our government to ENACT change. You guys do not conduct yourself civilly when given a platform to speak in meetings where your voices could make a real difference. You guys dont provide a constructive outlet for your members after the rallies are over. You guys even resisted an organizational structure until here recently and I dont even know to what extent that has actually gone into place. Not only have you guys failed to do any of these things but you guys started from the beginning with your direct criticism of other groups in Dallas that have made MAJOR strides over the last several decades. Criticism is fine. But to COMPLETELY dismiss the advancements in our own community that are a direct result of these organizations…….. To say that their method is flawed because it hasn’t brought change fast enough…………….. Really. Well what change has QL brought? What measurable change have we seen in our community as a result of QL’s formation? I know you guys haven’t been around that long but, come on… You’re all about the quick results that you think Direct Action can bring about all by itself. So show it to me. And, you know what? Please, quote Martin Luther King. Please. Martin Luther King directed large scale protests, but he also sat down with leaders to find a way forward. He also encouraged his community to be more than they thought they could be. He also provided them with a direction to point their lives in after the rally’s were over. If you would like to talk about hissy-fits then you should look no further than the leadership of QL itself. There have been several instances where Mr. Wilkinson has conducted himself in a childish manner because his views were not adopted by the majority. And he then goes on a tirade, attempting to trash other groups in town by referring to them as the ‘Establishment” or using other childish language to dismiss any advancements they have made. Dont you think that we would get further as a community if groups like QL could partner with groups like DGLA? I do. But I dont see how that is even possible when QL and it’s leadership bite the hand put forth by organizations like DGLA when it is extended. You are a hypocrite, Rick, when you say that all of this is silly and petty. You are a hypocrite because you call for unity in one breath and then your organization destroys any hope of that with the very next breath. Rick, you speak in generalities that over look the heart of the problem and my entire point. These things I have outlined are the real problems with QL. Try and explain them away, dance around them, or simply dismiss them all together. But they will be your organization’s down fall in the end. And I would actually like to see an organization LIKE QL stick around for a little while
Mr. Duckett,
Could you please be more specific in detailing exactly what “major strides” that DGLA and other GLBT non-profit organizations have made over the past year besides greasing palms with corporate America ?? In your previous comment you listed nothing tangible………….
And even so, if the GLBT organizations in which you defend have made such great “strides” for our community then why did we lose two bars on Maple, lose a historic GLBT bookstore that was a hallmark piece of Dallas GLBT history, a food pantry which had to relocate, and most recently, the loss of thousands of city funding for AIDS programs ……….
Tell me, where were your organizations then ??? What sort of “strides” did they make in protecting those GLBT establishments and funds ??? I’ll tell you, NONE !!!
So until you can provide some concrete tangible cases of how your current organizations have made such great “strides” for the Dallas GLBT community, then your argument will continue to fail miserably.
Is this the last QL-Blake Whatshisname story? Please. We are way beyond pathetic.
Oh, and QL has never accomplished anything but publicity. That’s their only game. That’s Blakes purpose.
Dear GLBT “non”-Realist,
I think your rants on this article and others prove you are feeble minded and dont quite deserve a “detailed” response. LOL especially considering you would blame the closing of businesses in the area on organizations whose goals are political in nature and not on a recession which has plagued our nation for a couple of years now. Hang in there buddy. Maybe one day you’ll find that clue you so desperately need. And try posting with your real name instead of hiding behind a fake one. Might lend some credence, just sayin’…..
😉
May I quickly clear up a misconception that seems to be particularly prominent in Mr Vanderslice’s defenses?
Blake Wilkinson is not the incarnation of direct action activism. Criticisms of Blake Wilkinson are not criticisms of direct action. A defense of direct action is not a defense of Blake Wilkinson.
It follows from Rick’s argument that criticism of Blake is a criticism of homosexuality, as that is what he practices (and, of course, he IS the only homo in Dallas, right?) .
No one is arguing that direct action is not useful or necessary. We argue that criticizing the organization and aim of an event after accepting assistance from the organizers is not direct action. We argue that blatantly disrespecting other leaders, their groups and their accomplishments is not direct action. We argue that alienating the LGBT community at large and then holding a press conference to speak on their behalf is not direct action.
Direct action in Dallas didn’t begin when Blake got to town, and it’s not going to end if he leaves.
And it follows from your argument that criticism of Blake is a criticism of homosexuality, as that is what he practices (and, of course, he IS the only homo in Dallas, right?) .
And furthermore, it was a full hundred years after emancipation that the rights of racial minorities were federally affirmed. It’s been 40 years since our ’emancipation’ and it will be 40 more until we get our rights if we can’t stop petty infighting and begin to work together with mutual RESPECT.
My reaction is that the cancellation of the airline voucher was distasteful. I would think that anyone who is familiar with the personalities of LGBT activists would realize from the start that someone like Blake Wilkinson might say or write something controversial (as in the case of oh, I don’t know, maybe Larry Kramer?) I think the host of the airline ticket made himself look graceless, rather than the other way around. But that doesn’t mean I agree with Wilkinson, just that the whole thing smacks of petty, retaliatory crudeness.
Dear Damien Duckett,
After reading this drivel it’s time for a *second* person to ask regarding your comment “I think your rants on this article and others prove you are feeble minded and dont quite deserve a “detailed” response….”
I patiently await your “detailed” response to someone who has used their real name or I’ll assume that Mr. “non”-Realist was correct in his posting making you look even more foolish in the end.
Now be a good boy and stop mud flinging and start listing factual data… You know how to do that don’t you? Or did mommy and daddy waste their money on college tuition? Show us who the real feeble minded is by offering your unselfish compassion and wisdom for the rest of us here to read. Or you can simply take the ‘back seat’ and ignore this request and show us which hole you really speak from.
As an unbiased observer, I think it would’ve been appropriate for Mr. Reed to contact Mr. Wilkinson directly and ask for clarification of his comments before taking such drastic action. THEN, after that conversation, he should’ve made his decision. Sometimes misunderstandings get blown way out of proportion, and this is probably a good example.
Well, since you asked so nicely Mr. Wagner….. Three things in particular stand out in my mind the most in regards to the strides made by DGLA over the past year. One of them would be the very successful PAC endorsement process we went thru earlier this year ahead of the May elections. I’m not sure if you are or are not familiar with the PAC process for the DGLA but it is a grueling process in which the committee members interview all candidates for office that seek the endorsement of DGLA. We sat down face-to-face with many individuals who were running for elected office to represent the people and actually got to have a discussion with each of them on their feelings toward the GLBT community and how they felt they could best serve our community. and we were even afforded the opportunity to educated several of them on misconceptions they had held in regard to city policies that have to do with the GLBT community here in Dallas. And after all of that was over we made our endorsements and several of our candidates won their races. Thus the creation of allies/advocates in positions of power to actually enact the changes our community needs to see enacted. The second Stride DGLA has made this year is the activation of our community council. This is the brain child of our president Patti Fink and is probably the most significant and important thing DGLA has done in years. Essentially, DGLA is recruiting and will place individuals in every district of our city, and in-fact county at large, to grow support district-by-district and be a direct link to each district’s council person to make the needs of that district’s GLBT population clear. DGLA’s community council is an amazing effort in bringing about change for each and every district in this city. Third, DGLA has begun its GLBT sensitivity training program for the Dallas Fire Department. DGLA has been conducting the same sensitivity training program for over a decade now in the police department (free of charge, period) and we are very happy now to have made this significant stride into the fire department with the assistance of Chief Burns and the assistance of Councilman Dave Neumann. Building these relationships is helpful and has proven to be highly effective for DGLA. The effort now turns to veteran officer training for both departments. These things are only a small fraction of what DGLA does in the course of a year. Our members are asked to sit in on meetings, offer guidance to officials, and many other completely behind the scenes efforts that never get credited to us because the credit is not what we seek. We seek the advancement of our community’s cause here in Dallas.
Anything else you’d like to know. I’d be happy to educate you……..
Since I’m not from Dallas, I don’t know what goes on in your local LGBT politics….BUT, I do know this: Mark and Dante have been unbelievably helpful and generous when it comes to the National Equality March. I did read the comments posted on QL website concerning the march, and was confused and I guess, disappointed. The text messaging people approached us, not vice-versa.
How anyone thinks that we are holding Obama’s hand, is beyond me. We want EQUALITY, not crumbs. If Democrats aren’t delivering, we’ll work to remove them from office too!
I was actually sitting in Mark’s kitchen when he telephoned Mr. Wilkinson about these statements. There was a discussion between two adults attempting to remedy the situation. Mr. Wilkinson apparently chose to keep the comments up, therefore I believe Mark is well within his rights to revoke the free ticket. I mean, come on!
@Damien Duckett – Oh ok, as DGLA’s web host for ten years I can assure you I know what they’re all about..
But what I never did quiet understand was how quickly they canceled their accounts and ran to another, more expensive web hosting provider following my life threatening illness which resulted from being hit by a 19 year old drunk driver on cedar springs and knight street.
No cancellation phone calls, no cancellation emails, and no cancellation payment of their monthly billing statement to DIVANET DATA SERVICES even though I had undergone tremendous recovery and continued to keep the business running for another three years. I found that rather odd since back in the old days I was the only openly gay web hosting provider in the entire metroplex. So much for the focus on “Supporting Your Family” huh?
Oh trust me, they know who Rick and Wynn Wagner are and attended the 300+ turnout to the annual Dallas Garden Party hosted at our home on Maple Springs Blvd. with many high profile political celebrities.
But I don’t need to broadcast all that crap.. I’ve done my activism time and I’ve changed the negative thought process of the anti-gay agenda with whatever political and/or economical shock value I chose to use regardless of the toes I might have stepped on. The bottom line, FAIR is FAIR regardless how politically correct things were handled.
Activists will *NEVER* focus on political correctness or the masses but will scream and yell until someone takes the time to at least see the same situation from more than one narrow minded angle. Period. Not in agreement, not in disagreement, but to see and understand it from more than just ONE perspective.
There’s structured butt-kissing and then there’s cold hard facts presented in such a way that the recipient is shocked to learn truths that they never encountered before.
Blessed Be, Namaste’
SILENCE=DEATH
IGNORANCE=FEAR
Can we ALL chip in and buy Blake another ticket?
I’m thinking a one-way ticket to Canada. Please.
Funny, if you already knew then why did you ask for “details”??? :-/ Then I provide you with details and you try and bring up something that there is no way for me to know about that had to have happened YEARS ago and has absolutely nothing to do with QL, Blake Wilkinson, “direct Action”, Plane tickets, or NEM. Sorry guy. Just not gettin’ you…….
I think that the comments left by Frederick, Trooper, and Andrew are spot on……….
The reason I asked you for details was simple and similar to your words.. “there is no way for me to know about…” and I’m sure that you’re not the only one on the planet who could benefit from being able to read the details which you so clearly announced. (thankyouverymuch)
I now have no interest in any further involvement with regards to the National Equality March agenda and I have made my final decision on the issues based on the exchanges mentioned here.
Rather than engage in an opinionated sparing contest with you or anyone else here, I’ll simply nod my head, shake your hand and say: “Bless your heart” and as I leave.
Buh Bye…
Maybe this cancellation as a “direct action” result of Blake openly attacking another group (that funded his flight) fighting for equality will teach young Blake a lesson and he will learn from this experience?
Nah…I doubt it. I agree, let’s pitch in for the one plane ticket for him to get out of Dallas. The bad Karma Blake has brought to Dallas needs to go.
LMAO!! Oh good lord!!! GLBT non-Realist, you are either A) on crack, or B) one of those conspiracy theorists that sits in his underwear in their basements with news paper articles plastered on the walls. Just for you, here is my personal email address damien.duckett@gmail.com. Feel free to email me anytime. I would even be happy to meet you for coffee (in a public place, in broad daylight of course) to go over all of these UNBELIEVABLE accusations you make.
From June 25 Instant Tea
Queer LiberAction founder Blake Wilkinson said the country’s current economic straits mean a march on Washington in October would put many people in an “either-or” dilemma.
“It’s a good idea if people are able to afford the $700-or-more trip to Washington. But I don’t think most people can afford that. They have to choose: Either go to Washington for the march or invest in the movement right here in Dallas. If I have to choose, I choose Dallas.”
Hmmm….looks like Blake will be doing some local organizing that weekend.
I
We waste an awful lot of energy in Dallas talking about “characters,” and very little time trying to figure out HOW we can achieve LGBTQ “full equality.”
We have no strategy or plan. Perhaps that is why we don’t really get excited about anything anymore. Instead, we relish the “disagreement.”
I have enjoyed reading commenting on your site. I believe it is both entertaining and helpful for the community. I wish it would inspire solutions, not just complaints.
I think we all understand that the gay community doesn’t really have a leader (sorry Cleve) and of the hundreds of different groups, none seems to be about our “full equality.” Each group is working in a particular area, hoping to achieve something to add to the equation. But, it’s all very incremental and doesn’t inspire many people in our community. HRC just lobbies politicians and they have had minimal results (after 28 years and $200 million). Legal groups produce results that simply swing back and forth, win one, lose one. GLAAD polices public comments. Direct Action lacks “targets,” so it’s hurry up and wait.
Statewide efforts center on winning a particular political battle. Local efforts help with HIV and AIDS. Brad Pitt utters something helpful every once in a while. Larry Kramer wakes from a nap and scolds us again (perhaps right on target). Obama promises (with at least one hand on the Bible) and Barney babbles. It’s just a whole bunch of gay “noise” and no measurable results.
What becomes very clear is that even after 40-50 years of being somewhat organized – we still don’t have a “strategy” to win. No plans, either. In fact, none of the hired guns will even make a “projection” about when we might obtain our equality. Because of this, we can never win. We have no way of deciding where and when to even provide our resources and no exciting (feasible) strategy to inspire the community. It’s so bad we herald Will & Grace as an accomplishment.
We know what the problem is – we’re not equal, but I have never seen a cohesive plan to solve it. My background is in entrepreneurial ventures (as an Angel Investor) and we know that problems are never solved without a good idea, strategy and plan – that the money will follow.
I’d like to believe there are some very clever, creative and crafty individuals within our Community that are willing to create a solution. Maybe they just need an invitation or challenge.
It’s important.
I’m spokesperson for Fairness Fort Worth and on the Diversity Task Force which was formed because of the raid on the Rainbow Lounge but I’m writing just as an individual. First, I will admit that I’m new to being involved in LGBT issues so I have no idea about who has done what for the community in the past. However, I’ve been actively involved with social issues in Fort Worth for over thirty years so I do know about activism. I have met Blake, attended one of the protests and was at the City Council meeting when he was. Do I share his approach? No. Do I respect his right to have his approach? Yes. I’m not defending him or scolding anyone else or vice versa.
The reason I’m writing is because I’ve read all the comments so far, a lot of energy has been spent on them and I keep thinking “Where is this getting us?”.
EQUALITY. Isn’t that what we are after; isn’t that desire our common bond? I’m not smart enough to know exactly how we get there or who gets us there but what’s more important to me is that we GET there. All of these comments aren’t getting us anywhere. Can we not just cut everyone a little slack here? I know this sounds so naive and probably I’ll get raked over the coals for saying it but can we not be a bit kinder to each other?
To Jon, Andrew, Rick and some others: Thank you for the useful and thoughtful statements. Yes, let’s all realize this isn’t about Blake Wilkinson or a “Blake Wilkinson”, if you will. And if who has the most desire for our freedom and equal rights is the only point, then we all continue to, if not lose, not win. Last evening Blake and I were reading through this discussion and began to brighten up as the thinking focused more and more on the big picture. Every time we Gays do this good things happen. Sure there are scars still healing among us and between us so revealed in this conversation, but we see a real opportunity for us, all of us, to regroup. Andrew is correct in his assessment. All of us in this thread must see that. Maybe that is why we’re having tissy-fits with each other. We’re taking our frustrations out of each other, ourselves. We’re involved people, all of us. We all care very much. All of have talents to bring to the Movement. But, as Larry Kramer said to me in an interview for http://www.rickandrj.com, “To have a Movement you’ve got to Move.”
If our tribe can create such wonders as A Chorus Line, The David and John Waters we can get reacquainted, get organized and get effective.
I willingly offer my flat in Turtle Creek if Jon, Rick, Andrew, Damien, Karl, John, and others, meet up and start a meaningful conversation that can produce the real result we’re after, our equal rights.
Oh, and Patti and Erin, Joe, Israel and John Wright. You’re invited too. But by then we move over to Blake’s ’cause he has more space. Nothing fancy. Maybe some beer and munchies and serious, productive conversation among friends.
Does anybody have a better idea? Let me know:rickvanderslice@gmail.com.
rick vanderslice
Did I miss something? Why aren’t you inviting Mark Reed?
Thanks for the offer, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ve done my activism time
Based on the responses I got in return, I no longer care about change since the only “movement” I see happening in the Dallas community is today’s men being forced back into their little closets.
Maybe the key to all this argumentative slashing is to just shut up and walk away and let the “other guys” worry about fighting the political foolishness. After all, the majority of people in this stated voted for George W. Bush and we now see what all that got us.
Then when these guys see enough of their friend die for lack of healthcare for their “gay plague” and then when enough of them get fired form their jobs for being a “rump ranger” or evicted from their apartments etc.. Then and only then might they take the time to “MOVE” in a positive and progressive manner.
Nahhh.. I’ll try to go to the next Queer Liberaction meeting but I no longer have an interest in defending my past accomplishments and freedoms since I know in my heart that my home state of Connecticut was the first on the east coast (yes even before New York) to have anti-discrimination employment laws to protect gay people because of me and my group member’s yelling and screaming. And since my Aunt Julie used to date Sen. Dodd back in the old days I know more than enough about how political loopholes and palm greasing works.
Since all the ney-sayers seems to know better these days, I’ll quietly sit in the back row, and let them run the show since they apparently “Know Better” but have yet to prove it.
Thank you for the offer Rick, but in this case I will regretfully decline.
Since I’m at a point in my life where there is little the feds can do to jeopardize my freedoms or legal abilities regarding me and my significant other because we took the time to use the legal system like a double edged sword capable of cutting “them” back in return, there is little more for me to gain from my involvement in today’s issues. And rather than force my wisdom and sole proprietor business knowledge upon anyone, it’s best left for those who request it.
Instead, I’ll just sit back and remain focused on the “Wynn and Rick Wagner Gay Scholarship Fund” https://www.gayfund.org/ and quietly giggle over the foolishness I see in this community rather than share my suggestions on progressive change.
Rick Wagner said:
“Thanks for the offer, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ve done my activism time.”
I’ll bet that isn’t true. None of us are “finished” until we have full equality. We need to change the conversation to “winning,” and develop a real strategy. There is plenty of room at that table. I think everyone an agree that we haven’t figured out “how to win.” Your efforts, like everyone else that cares, are helpful/valuable.
Our challenge is not to just “get along,” but to get it done. Full equality for all LGBTQ is the only result we will accept.
I accept the challenge/invitation from Rick V., and I expect everyone else to do the same. No excuses – it’s too important.
Mark Reed is, of course, welcome. My named list of invitees ended with the word “others” which was meant to open it up to all who were interested. Since Mark had not joined in on this conversation, he was not top of mind, but he is one of us, he cares, and he is welcome. Hey, John, I hope you will bring Tammye Nash and Robert Moore with you.
Any one else?
rick vanderslicce
Hey Rick,
If you recall, I emailed you last evening wanting to attend. I have yet to receive a response back to my e-mail…………….
I care too, but it appears I am not invited.
So much for “and others”………………
Very interesting. The subjects of the post say nothing while a dozen others engage in a slug-out of marathon proportions over five days and counting. Is this a record for Instant Tea or at least worthy of honorable mention?
To everyone interested in gathering together in person for some beers/pop and conversation and see what happens let me start off by suggesting a time and place. If it won’t work for most let me know what would. Again, don’t you all think it would be more useful to do this before leaving for Washington? Blake will have to start pedaling his bike by next Thursday to get to D.C. in time. Just kidding.
Blake and I suggest this coming Monday evening or Tuesday evening at 7 PM. I know that is short notice, but it’s a starting bid.
rick vanderslice
I have booked a private room for Thursday evening from 7-9 pm. I will ask Tammye and John to post an announcement.
if i were the area, i come to andrew’s meeting. sounds like a damn good idea to me – bring people together in a room, hash things out, get off the PC and phones, talk to each other – then come up with a public plan to win some victories. just like the old act up days, we need a sold plan from which to operate and coordinate activities, and we just don’t have such a plan right now. thanks, andrew, for pushing your idea and getting the room to get something going.
As I responded on on the newer Instant Tea Blog titled “Do we need a new game plan for full equality?” let me respond here. Blake and I will be happy to attend the get together next Thursday 7 PM to 9 PM at La Madeleine on Lemon Ave. Now, who else is going to join us? I hope we hear from all of you here on these posts.
rick vanderslice