Queer Liberaction founder, 5 other members ejected from meeting for demanding that Rainbow Lounge discussion be moved up on agenda
Queer Liberaction members this week were cheering two QL members who were ejected from the council chambers during Tuesday’s Fort Worth City Council meeting, saying it was the insistent demands of Blake Wilkinson, Nicki Kerksieck and other QL activists that convinced council members to move discussion about the recent raid at the Rainbow Lounge up from the end of the evening’s agenda.
But others that attended the meeting said actions by the Queer Liberaction activists were embarrassing and did nothing to further efforts to address the raid and its aftermath.
The uproar started early during the six-hour-plus council meeting when Mayor Moncrief attempted to begin discussion about the election of a new mayor pro tem. At that point, Wilkinson stood and asked that the council "kindly move" discussion regarding the Rainbow Lounge raid higher up on the agenda.
Moncrief refused, saying that the agenda included a number of issues of great importance to many of those attending the meeting, including the mayor pro tem election and discussion of possible budget cuts that could affect the city’s program to aid the homeless.
Wilkinson, however, refused to sit down and repeated his demand, telling councilmembers that’s "sorries are no longer good enough" and accusing them of trying to "sweep it [the raid] under the rug."
"We’re sick and tired of being put at the end of the list," Wilkinson said. "We’re tired of being told to sit in the back of the bus."
As Moncrief repeated his call for Wilkinson to sit down and stop interrupting, Wilkinson was joined by Kerksieck and Queer Liberaction member Rick Vanderslice. At one point during the prolonged verbal sparring, four QL members who had been in the hall outside the council chambers rushed to open the chamber doors and began chanting, "Hear us now!"
Wilkinson later identified the four as Joe Remsik, Daniel Cates, Jason Williams and Corbin Bates. He said they, too, were escorted out of the building and off the city property by city marshals.
Another man in the audience, wearing a yellow "Fairness Fort Worth" button, stood and walked around Wilkinson, telling the activist loudly, "You’re embarrassing me! I am going home."
Shortly after, reportedly at the urging of openly gay Councilmember Joel Burns, Moncrief had city marshals remove first Wilkinson and then Kerksieck from the room. After the two had been escorted out, Vanderslice and two other QL members, later identified as Rich McPhee and Joanna Bernal, continued to call for the council to move the Rainbow Lounge up on the agenda. Eventually, after Moncrief threatened to have them removed as well, the three resumed their seats and remained quiet as the meeting continued.
Moncrief eventually did move the Rainbow Lounge discussion up from the end of the agenda, but not until after going through extensive public comment on both the mayor pro tem election and the possible budget cuts. The only items left on the agenda after the Rainbow Lounge discussion were regular action items that did not include public comment.
Wilkinson said Wednesday that he felt "very good" about his actions at the council, and his efforts had succeeded because the discussion about the raid was eventually moved higher on the agenda.
"I was just requesting that it be moved off the last of the agenda, that we not be treated with the same back of the bus treatment we have gotten for the last 40 years, two weeks and two days," he said, referring to the time that has passed since the Stonewall rebellion.
"That’s the big question here. Are we going to keep sitting back as a community and allow our elected leaders to tell us what’s good for us, to take a back seat approach and wait for something to happen," Wilkinson said. "We believe we have to take a more pro-active approach. And it worked. They capitulated. They moved it up on the agenda, and we did get an apology, no matter how weak and watered down it was."
Wilkinson also defended Queer Liberaction’s"direct activism" philosophy in general, saying it is "a tactic that has been used in historical context throughout all successful civil rights movements.
"This is what we do. Go on our Web site and ready our mission statement. It says we are a direct action group. And last night was an example of direct action," he added.
Wilkinson also said he was disappointed at the reaction of other LGBT people in the council meeting.
"Yeah, I was disappointed. I understand the position some of them are coming from, but we could have been calling the shots. If the whole group had stood up together and said let’s get this issue resolved right now, it would have happened right then."
He said he finds it frustrating that "some people feel the only path to righteousness is sitting quietly by and waiting," and he doesn’t believe Queer Liberaction deserves the criticism it gets from those who prefer a less confrontational tactic.
"We understand if you have a different approach to things, but don’t actively discourage direct action," Wilkinson said. "Ghandi used direct action. Martin Luther King Jr. used direct action. What Rosa Parks did in sitting at the front of the bus was a whole lot more disruptive than what we did last night.
"There is a time and a place for all sorts of action. What we did was right," he added. "The position of the police department and the city council from the start has been wanting to shove us under the rug. We just stood up for ourselves and said, not this time."
But others see it differently. They, too say there is a place and a time for direct action, but that Tuesday’s council meeting was neither the time nor the place, and that Wilkinson’s action served only to hinder progress."
"I was ready to stand up and just ask him, ‘Blake, where do you live?’" said one man at the meeting, referring to the fact that Wilkinson is not a Fort Worth nor a Tarrant County resident. "He doesn’t live here, and we don’t need him here. As far as I am concerned, he can stay in Dallas."
And another person suggested that the city marshals had stepped in just in time.
"He didn’t do anything but cause problems," the woman said. "I tell you what, if the mayor hadn’t had him taken out when he did, we were about to get up and handle it ourselves. It was embarrassing. And it didn’t do anybody any good."
What QL did was maybe not what some would have done, but usually what is right is not what is popular. Perhaps the fear of being embarrassed, the fear of being made to look bad or get our hands dirty is what has held us back. I respect what Blake did much more than anyone who was willing to sit there and wait to be last. It showed courage to do something that he knew would only get him ridicule from the majority of the community. It showed heroics. I am PROUD of him.
Dallas Voice:
Not even Fox News would try and spin this article as “fair and balanced.†Where is the other side of the story? Why is the Voice giving Blake’s ego an open platform?
Bake does not represent the LGBT community of North Texas. Why do you continue to portray him as a leader? What does he lead?
I demand that Blake Wilkinson apologize to the LGBT community of North Texas for embarrassing us, and acting like a child. I’m even tempted to start demonstrating at his meetings until he does apologize.
QL is an embarrassment, and I wish the Voice would stop legitimizing this phony organization. Seriously, how many articles are you going to run about this guy? They have done nothing for our community, but take credit for the work of other organizations and individuals.
Again, I believe it is time for our community to demand an apology from Blake Wikinson and Queerliberaction.
QL can’t hold others accountable – while refusing to accept accountability for its own actions.
Daniel:
“I respect what Blake did much more than anyone who was willing to sit there and wait to be last.”
What Blake did was look like a fool.
Have any of you ever been to a city council meeting before? Do you understand how agendas are set? That Fort Worth has the same system each and every meeting.
Blake isn’t Rosa Parks, and Fort Worth isn’t 1955 Montgomery, Alabama. This was a few, ignorant five-year-olds throwing a fit – while wasting the time of city officials and ACTUAL Fort Worth residents who were there to legitimately discuss the issue.
And how dare you continue to degrade honorable representatives of this community with your “anyone who was willing to sit there and wait to be last.â€
At the end of the day QL got what it wanted – another headline and a few photos. Screw civil rights, equality, and justice – its time for another QL publicity stunt.
QL has been exposed as a fraud.
One thing Blake did not do was resort to name calling, who is acting like a five year old? Why the voice chose to moderate your comment is beyond me.
Oh, and I am an actual Fort Worth Resident who has been to my fair share of Council Meetings. I am aware of the rules and understand that sometimes they need to be broken. Thanks.
Daniel,
I have supported some of the actions of Queer LiberAction. The street events have been very effective at bringing needed attention to a crisis. We demanded a “day in court” or a “place at the table.” On Tuesday night we were given that opportunity. But what Blake and Queer LiberAction did at that meeting no longer spoke for the community.
I know that I will have many in QL not agree with me, but I think I speak for others in my next few statements.
I supported Daneil’s actions at the police forum in Fort Worth, because the opening remarks of Chief Halstead were dismissive and demeaning of the concerns of our community. When you spoke up in that situation I was in support.
In one place Elizabeth Pax, who I have worked with on QL projects as well as others before QL took off has said that the organizations with in the GLBT community are not fighting, that it was silly. I am sorry Elizabeth, we are in disagreement with you and the methods used at the Council Meeting.
In another place Mr. McPhee has said that there needs to be communication among the different groups in the community. Well on Tuesday night the majority of us present spoke very directly to Blake. He WOULD NOT listen.
Rev. Steve Sprinkle supports what they did at the meeting and says that now that things are happening they should be justified. I will agree with the street protests, but the protests inside of the Fort Worth City Council and the way they were carried out I don’t support. I don’t believe that Blake’s actions in any way affected the council meeting’s agenda.
Blake tries to claim his actions come from the philosophies of people like Gandhi, Rosa Parks, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I am sorry they don’t. These people believed in civil disobedience but not “direct action” that QL likes to use. If Dr. King, or Gandhi wanted to bring their needs up on the agenda, they would have done something more along the lines of standing up as Blake did and asking to be heard. When refused — instead of arguing with power — they would have said, “Then Sir, I will stand here in silent protest until I am heard.” Then have stood there as a sign of the oppression they felt. At about fifteen minutes of so, another member of QL could have stood up and asked to be heard, and when refused — stood there in silent protest. Now if Mayor Moncrief would have thrown you out then, I would have agreed that he was over-reacting and he would have been the one who lost moral ground. If after three hours there were six or ten of you standing in SILENT protest then you would have gained moral ground. The philosophy of these great leaders was to let the world see the oppression by their silent protests — not their yelling.
The philosophy of QL is more of the philosophy of ACT UP and the likes of Larry Kramer. Their type of protests have a place and time. But it is a kind of protests that should arise after a great deal of neglect and trouble. This was the first real opportunity that the Fort Worth City Council had a chance to hear from the community. If this had been going on for several months. If the city of Fort Worth and the FWPD had not brought forth a report and actions after a few months, then I believe I would have joined you. Direct action has a place an time, Tuesday night was not that place or time.
Lastly I want to say that those who believe that QL’s activities brought the item forward on the agenda, I personally believe are sadly mistaken. I can almost guarantee you that there had been discussion throughout the day and that it was going to be brought up at the moment it was.
You want justice. Well you also have to let others have justice. Homelessness is a justice issue. An issue that the city needed to discuss. You want justice. Well you also have to fight for other people justice. The death of Brooklyn by a dog deserves a hearing and a city’s mourning. You want justice — I am sure that part of the slapping down of Councilwoman Hicks was because of her fight for justice — ours and others. She deserved us to respect the time that the council was demoting her in such a public way. These actions of justice also had to be heard. There were other JUSTICE issues at the meeting that needed to be discussed.
I want to continue to support Queer LiberAction. But if they are going to simply be a direct action group that seeks justice at the expense of others and refuse to communicate with the larger GLBT community and they continue to refuse to listen to others (as they did at the meeting when we as a community vocally spoke) then I am sorry I will have to find other ways to support the efforts for change in this world and our metroplex.
They now have an opportunity to be a part of something greater or choose a different path. Let us hear their choice.
@Brandon,
Part of the frustration from the community in dealing with Blake is his approach is not a two-way street. Take a majority consensus in a specific approach, if it does not meet his agenda, he continues to go his own way regardless of the potential harm he may cause. Bottom line, he does what he wants and he is always right. There is no compromise.
His (QL) efforts to help other community members coordinate the rallies in FW is no doubt commendable. But he MUST realize that he is not the only one who made these happen.
This did not reach the attention on a national level because of him alone either. It was a community effort, period. Some silently made contact with influential people who could bring a spotlight to this, while others contacted media outlets and yet others posted information on blogs seen around the world.
Many see his actions as destructive, and in some cases they most certainly can be. Making a name for ones’ self by being consistantly in media does not constitute forward movement.
I have hesitated in commenting because of past attacks here by him and others acquainted with him. I left because the focus was not the issues of our community, but my approach. (City Hall Rally & Light A Light vigil) Recently, I commended him in harnessing this type of action, however now sadly believe those were premature.
We, as a community, need each and every person to come out and work towards forwarding our equality. How can this be done when some will refuse to work with him or be at events–guilt by association?
I fear for the reputation his name will hold in the future to some outside out community. Not everyone reads Instant Tea or knows that we “all” don’t agree with him on some content. Tuesday’s outburst is certainly one I disagree with.
I just wonder how many new activists we have lost because of situations like this in the past 9 months who were galvanized to step up for the first time.
Daniel:
If you had been to city council meetings before then you would have known when such topics were discussed. That the mayor wasn’t trying to insult our community, but perform city business in an orderly and fair manor. There is a reason people applauded when you were thrown out of the meeting.
Instead of allowing the city council meeting to continue – YOU started screaming “Hear us now!†Ironic – since the point of the meeting was exactly that… to hear us.
Through this entire ordeal QL has claimed that nearly every person in Fort Wroth government is a bigot – including LGBT allies. How exactly do you plan to accomplish anything when you refuse to deal with these leaders?
Blake Wilkinson is not a citizen of Fort Worth (He is barely a citizen of Dallas), but there were dozens of Fort Worth citizens patiently giving up their time to speak on behalf of the LGBT community – these are the same people you accuse of sitting on the back of the bus!
There were dozens of others, like Blake, who traveled to Fort Worth. These people filled out cards and gave Fort Worth residents MORE time to talk. But I guess QL didn’t want those people to speak, or for the city to deal with these issues – instead QL decided to waste 30 minutes with a childish outburst.
Marlin and Etta:
I respect both of your opinions and comments. I know several people who are involved in QL, and until now I never really paid much attention to the organization. I know there are some passionate people in the group who truly believe in LGBT civil rights and are doing their best to move our community forward.
But the group’s leadership went to far Tuesday night – they brought harm upon our community, and they should apologize and take accountability for their actions.
Thank you for sharing your insights and voicing your opinions. I’m afraid I’m a little to upset about this issue. QL doesn’t understand the damage they are doing.
My hat’s off to Blake and Queer LiberAction for finally standing up for our LGBT community when no one else will.
All of the great leaders of civil rights movement had to make a fuss to get heard and the current LGBT situation is no different.
I’m tired of giving money and votes to politicians and receiving nothing but table scraps in return.
The reason the LGBT establishment wants us to sit back and wait is that they are addicted to big corporate contributions and don’t want to risk offening anyone too much.
Corporate donations is the drug and they are the addicts, and the LGBT community suffers because of it.
I would also point out that it was Queer LiberAction’s outbursts that directly led to the Mayor’s apology (which was later recanted making the Mayor look ridiculous).
After he was safely beyond the reach of the 10pm news, the Mayor allowed the item to be moved up right after 10:30pm.
Brandon,
Blake is more brave than you could ever dream of being. What have you done for the community besides comment about what you don’t like? Theres a term for you in internet lexicon. Keyboard Courageous. Way to go.
Civil liberties require use to have power and meaning. Dissent was a foundation stone for this country and for Texas.
QL has every right to speak as they see fit. QL is no more subject to a community vote that Aunt Lula-Mae’s tea party
“Blake is not Rosa Parks” is a ridiculous statement. Blake has no need to ask permission any more than Rosa Parks did. To paraphrase….
I just wonder how many new activists we have GAINED because of situations like this in the past 9 months. I just wonder how many new activists we have GAINED who were galvanized to step up for the first time.
QL actions are very much in the spirit of Montgomery and of Stonewall. The status quo may be comfortable and familiar for some but is equally poisonous for others. Crawl out of your shell and look around, injustice abounds.
QL has succeeded in getting people up off their recliner and out in the streets. Complain all you want but recognize that 100’s of people are speaking and participating across the political spectrum as a result of QL.
The people who need to apologize are those playing fast and loose with facts and with highly personal accusations. You want respect?
You have to earn respect by respecting others whatever their beliefs. Democracy is a verb that assumes citizen action and reaction results in healthy dialog, accountability, and positive change.
I’m pound of anyone that stood up to the ft worth council, I don’t care if he lives in New York, good job, seems no one in Ft worth stood up with him, so don’t complain were all family
The QL in the opinion of my college campus’ GSA is a menace to our society. Our GSA went to support the Prop 8 Rally held a few months back and these people preached nothing, but hate.
We are suppose to persuade and help change lives and minds of people who view our lifestyle differently, not damn them to hell.
Who does the QL think they are to claim that they are fighting for my rights when they are targeting the very same people I live right next door to, the people I work with, and etc?
As far as I concern, these potential gay-lovers are also registered voters… tell them why they should help us… show them why.
Arthur said, “QL has every right to speak as they see fit. QL is no more subject to a community vote that Aunt Lula-Mae’s tea party”
If they choose to use the phrase we — the Queer LiberAction group, request . . . I would agree.
But at the Fort Worth Council Blake presented himself as speaking for all of us. I didn’t ask Queer LiberAction to represent me at the Fort Worth City Council. I came to ask Fairness Fort Worth to speak. I signed a card for one of their group to speak.
Listen to the words of Blake, at least in my interpretation he seems to be saying we the hundreds of people here are requesting that you move it up. We were not. Blake and Queer LiberAction were making the request. I say let them speak for themselves next time and I will sit back out of their way.
You can hear his words and the community’s response on this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3wO7x1v1xM
and
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXADWJ1-PEo
I attended the entire session of the FW City Council and I agree with those who have rightly dismissed QLs tactics as entirely ineffective if not counter-productive. (Despite the laughable spin suggesting they helped move agenda items before the Council!)
The results of the protests and the demands made of our public officials, (i.e.: full Internal Affairs investigations by FWPD and TABC which will be reviewed by the US Attorney’s Office), were accomplished by the efforts of the FW Gay and Lesbian community and our organizations- City Council members Joel Burns and Kathlyn Hicks- and with pressure from State Representative Lon Burnam and like allies. The TABC corrective actions taken also resulted from organized public pressure and specific demands for redress.
Make no mistake, the Fairness Fort Worth speakers and the others who spoke before the council, gay and straight, young and old- THIRTY OF THEM- fully aired the grievances of the community. Council members were chastened and the Chief of Police was solicitous, in person, of many of the people in attendance who had been affected by the incident. Contrast these results with the muddled and insensible approach of QL.
I offer the example of Rick Vanderslice who repeatedly interrupted the mayor and others after two protestors had been walked out of the room- and while advocates for our homeless waited. (They were there to BEG not to have their budgets cut by perhaps as mush as THIRTY PERCENT. This represents a catastrophic blow to the homeless, drug and alcohol abusers and persons with HIV/AIDS who live in our city.) (Also, many of them had donned “Fairness Fort Worth†buttons as a sign of support.) But, when Rick was called to speak, after having signed up to do so, he WASN’T IN THE ROOM and DIDN’T SPEAK! He and the others were outside mugging for cameras! It was late- our portion of the meeting ran to midnight- but I assure you the victims, their supporters and the Council members were all there! SO, look rationally at the tactics and strategy of QL. The few members present demanded to be heard FIRST and then sought out camera time while the work was ongoing in the Council Chamber! This speaks, I fear, to the real motivations of QL.
One further point, in this article Tammye Nash characterizes Blake Wilkinson as having “kindly asked” that the agenda be altered for discussion of the Rainbow Lounge incident. Use of the phrase in the article is so complete a misrepresentation as to be almost a fabrication. I never heard him say “would you kindly†anything! He attempted to speak over everyone, and continually made irrational demands and statements. Tammye seems to serve as an apologist for QL and that fails to jibe with competent journalistic standards. I complained earlier to her and John Wright in Emails, and I say again, that the continual use of the pictures of those who created a minor and petulant disruption as opposed to using, for example, images of the victims of that night who spoke, is insulting and bad narrative for a credible news organization.
Progress for the GLBT community will come through intelligent use of the media and the courts. QL’s tactics and strategy lack intelligence and are a non-starter. They are strictly for neophytes and do not serve to further our goals.
@Trace
Just want to make sure that there is no misunderstanding. QL did not organize the Prop 8 Rally, although Blake did participate in initial organization.
QL was formed immediately after that rally, out of Blake’s disgust with me for not allowing a spontaneous march and no speaking points on religious groups involved in Prop 8.
I hope that your GSA did not associate JTI with the comments you mentioned, because I went **way** out of my way to ensure messages of that sort were not present.
Please contact me at stoptheh8@ymail.com should you have any issues about the Prop 8 Rally. I certainly do not want JTI’s organization of that rally tarnished.
Thank you :o)
former JTI-Dallas City Organizer
I keep seeing terms like “brave” and “courageous” being applied to Mr. Wilkinson. But I wonder, was it brave, or was it just brazen?
Fighting for equality certainly takes courage, and we should all strive to be courageous. But that is not the only virtue. What about patience, understanding, consideration? An ability to listen to others; to provide reasonable, accurate, and persuasive arguments; a sense of professionalism, integrity, dignity? Don’t any of these things matter?
So if you think Wilkinson was brave, tell me: How do you rank him in regards to these other virtues?
Wow… I’m a little disgusted with all of the personal attacks flying around in here. I’ll just say that, as long as I’ve been out in Dallas, I’ve never had an opportunity that has made me feel so empowered, so proud to be lesbian as when I attended the rallies organized by Queer Liberation. I admit, I winced when I heard of the actions in the city council meeting but I also do feel that history is on the side of QL. Every action they take may not be 100% correct but the spirit of the action is something I’m inspired by.
We do ourselves a disservice when we make these personal attacks. QL has an open forum where we can all constructively criticize. Let’s all take a deep breathe and realize that we have just won a victory with the TABC. No one pass blame or take credit. A victory has been won for this whole community. The City of Fort Worth has yet to take any responsibility and we must focus our efforts there. Please, please try to be loving to one another as we are bound to have dissagreements. People misstep, people are apathetic, people are overzealous. The spirit of the movement is in the right place.
Have we all forgotten what we were just celebrating? Stonewall was all about standing up, speaking out, and causing one hell of a fuss. Why do we celebrate Stonewall but vilify Blake?
If you don’t like his tactics, don’t participate in them. He is not a villain. He is someone who cares about OUR rights.
I wish you would all look back at history. Rights for African Americans, women, Latinos, etc. don’t come easy. Those in power and feel morally superior don’t give up their power without a fight.
Throughout history people fighting for their rights seem to spend a lot of time fighting with each other. Do a little research. This had been played out time and time again, but it doesn’t have to.
I just recently listened to a lecture that spoke about a woman’s group back in the 70’s. They were mad at a magazine and raided one of the top guy’s offices and didn’t leave (many hours passed) until they met their demands. The guy did. I don’t remember the details, but the point is that this works whether we like it or not. And this tactic has been working for a long time. What do you bet those women were vilified? As a woman who has rights because of a lot of uppity women, I thank them and honor them for all they have done for me.
People will do a lot to avoid the kind of press that Blake will bring you. People will think twice about things. He helped keep this in the news along with others.
It doesn’t help anything to argue amongst ourselves. Find your way to make a difference, allow others to do the same, and appreciate everyone who is willing to push for our rights. They’re long overdue.
@Kerrie
I am not demonizing Mr. Wilkinson, only questioning his tactics and his choice of time and place. I certainly don’t doubt his sincerity, either. But I do question his wisdom. There may be a time for that kind of action, but not when you were given an opportunity to speak before the council. Maybe if they had flatly refused to hear from the GLBT community, but that was not the case here.
@Verity
That’s your opinion that it was not the time for that kind of action. Blake’s opinion is different. I don’t think there’s a way to prove you’re right and he’s wrong or vice versa for that matter.
Why can’t it be that he got a lot of attention, showed his anger, and informed everyone there that this might happen again if they don’t do something.
In addition, others made their voices heard by speaking to the council directly.
I’m glad there were both groups of people there. Movements need both calm and passion. Both have value, and both care about our rights. That’s a good thing.
@Kerri
I’ll grant that it is difficult to know what is right and what is wrong, or what will ultimately hurt or help in the end. If we could see the future, things would be so much easier in a way.
However, I certainly don’t think it was professional. And I highly doubt it was persuasive for anyone who already disliked us.
Well, well, well…..If it isn’t Mr. Cates and the QL boys back in the spotlight again, but only this time the shoe is on the other foot. How does it feel now Mr. Cates and Mr. Wilkinson to not be heard and to be ousted for rocking the boat ?? not very pleasant is it ??
However, as you had so clearly stated in response to a commentor in a previous article:
https://dallasvoice.com/artman/publish/article_11523.php
“some people want to be miserable…… let them be.”
and also
“Why not start your own organization? If you feel the current organizations do not meet the needs of our community then create one that does, I highly encourage it!”
So Mr. Cates and Mr. Wilkinson I ask you the same question. If the Ft. Worth City Council is not meeting YOUR agenda or needs for the DFW GLBT community, then why don’t you form your own City Council ??? Perhaps you could call it “HL” – Hypocritical Libertarians……
I agree with many of the commentors here who question the tactics you used at that meeting. While I agree that my views and comments aren’t very popular around here either, at least they are presented in a manner that addresses the core issues and is not for the purposes of media fame and glory or dictatorial oratory….
But what did you all accomplish ??? An apology and movement up on the agenda (both of which were probably done as a pacifying and good riddance gesture)….. And what message did that little demonstration send to your political “notables” on your Facebook friends list Mr. Cates. Were they impressed by your “activism” ??? Was the core issue resolved ??? I didn’t think so………
I think it is time for you “activists” to learn a few things about political debate and professional etiquette, especially in a historically conservative environment as the Ft. Worth City Council….There are ways to get your point across strongly by speaking the language they only know and understand, not by how you think the rest of the world is supposed to bow down to the Cedar Springs “activist” way of doing things.
Have some self-respect for yourselves first before demanding it from others, as for instance I saw that not many of you QL folks, if any, had on a suit and tie at that meeting or made any attempt to make an appointment to see either the Mayor or any of the City Council members to discuss the issue civilly in private.
I would encourage you QL folks to take a few classes in sociology, business, debate and speech and then you will be qualified to speak at such an event. Quite frankly, you activist “leaders” made a mockery of the community at that meeting and to the issues that are important to many of us.
As I had said before in a previous comment, Its time for NEW leadership in the community !!! These pretentious media “figures” aren’t doing the job !!!
And Steve Friday, Bravo concerning your observation about the connections in the media circle and the biased and protectionist journalism which accompanies the Nash/Wright media crony clique. Another prime example of our journalistic “leaders” showing the rest of the world that we don’t have our act together as a community……..
Queer LiberAction wants to know what you think of their actions.
https://www.queerliberaction.org/
find the blog by clicking on the “Stonewall 2009” button and then the “QL Blog” button. Then you can write to them directly.
They have a topic area set up just for responding to the question of what people thought about their actions at the City Council meeting.
Guinea Pig asked if QL had made, “any attempt to make an appointment to see either the Mayor or any of the City Council members to discuss the issue civilly in private?”
I would be interested in an answer to this question.
I am a long time resident of Fort Worth (owning a home here for over 12 years).
I have left numerous messages and emails to the mayor’s office and have yet to receive any responses.
Mr. Mayor if you are reading this, will you please call me?
I have left numerous messages and emails with Councilmember Joel Burn who is supposedly representing the LGBT community on this issue. I have yet to receive any return phone calls. At the council meeting’s end, Joel’s partner and Joel did come by and introduce themselves. They gave me alternate numbers and asked me to contact them via that method. I’ve left messages at that number and haven’t yet received any responses.
Joel, if you are reading this, will you please call me?
Kevin C
@Marlin
QL has been contacting the city of Fort Worth, but no one will even talk to them.
The latest example is the so called LGBT liaison, who won’t meet with even the Fort Worth branch of QA or Fort Worth members of QL.
QL is forced into protests and disruptions when they are excluded.
Excluding people is undemocratic and just plain morally wrong.
Marlin, if you are truly interested in helping with this issue, I would encourage you to call or email the Fort Worth Police department and ask them to include the Fort Worth branch of QL.
“QL is forced into protests and disruptions when they are excluded.”
So let me get this straight: QL goes to the City Council meeting, disrupts the Council, insults the Mayor, embarrasses the community, and then is surprised when no one wants to meet with them. Then, to top it off, they claim victory and congratulate themselves for a job well done. Now they threaten to act out like 5 year-olds again saying they are being “forced into” that behavior? It sounds like you’ve created your agenda and everyone else be damned – ‘you’re either with us or against us’.
BTW the FW liaison hasn’t even been on the job a week, maybe you’re not the top priority. Now all the established organizations (who have done decades of courageous work while Blake was in grade school) have been insulted as “Back of the bus” apologists. The actions of QL are immature at best.
@Steve Friday
Just so you know, the terms “kindly ask” and “kindly request” are direct quotes from what Blake said when he first stood up and interrupted the council meeting. He said it more than once.
@ Mark G.
Okay now you are talking. You want direct action, right? If you have not been heard then you need to take your issue to the fourth branch of government — the press.
First we need documentation
Phone Log: We need a log of every call that you have made to the city offices. The time, the conversation and any results. Also a copy of your phone bill(s) would be helpful — please feel free to redact personal phone numbers that you don’t want the press to publish. Also, then we can ask through Freedom of Information the matching information from the city, who I am sure records every number that comes in to their phone bank.
Email Log: We need a copy of every email that you have sent (be sure it is time and date stamped, because it will need to be matched against the city’s records. Which we can demand through FIA also.)
Letter Log: We need copies of every letter that Queer LiberAction has sent as a group asking for meetings. Most especially is you used the time honored method of registered mail to be able to show that they did receive the mail. That the Mayor’s office received a registered mail and someone in the office signed for it is proof that they can’t say we never got that. Hopefully you have sent at least one registered mail to each and every council member, Chief Halstead, the LGBT liason, the city secretary, city manager, and any other officers/agent of the city government.) Also, since this is a political organization, I hope that you consistently used your letterhead (listing your office address(es) officers(with phone number and email contact information), and constituency — i.e. representing 500 Queers of North Texas), so that it’s presence would be seen over and over again. Also, copies of each and every letter could be published on your website like other political organizations do. This will also help sway public opinion and generate public support.
Return Information Logs: Please have copies of every piece of information that any of the above mentioned offices/people returned to you, even if it was generated by automation.
Second: you need to get a reporter to work with you to expose this terrible neglect. I won’t recommend who you might contact but there is a lot of liberal press in this area that would love to get onto this story. Also I know of several nation blogs that would love to do a story on the neglect that the Queer community is receiving.
I can see the headline now — “Queers Ignored in Face of Tragedy”. Just remember — good journalism needs good evidence that you will provide above in your logs.
This can garner you press that you so desire. It will sway people like me who will then be able to say — Oh they have contacted the mayor 25 times by phone, email, and letter, and gotten nothing.
I would also recommend that you begin to work with other groups that might be in contact with the city offices, and use them as liasons. If Fairness Fort Worth or Lambda Legal or The Fort Worth Gay and Lesbian Alliance or Tarrant County Stonewall Democrats already have a contact, seek them out for help in who to see and who to contact.
This is how democracy works. We all work together to find answers and solutions. The bad part is the solutions won’t make everyone happy. The good side is that justice is usually served over time.
We can have a Boston Tea Party to gain attention. But we also have to have a Constitutional Convention to put things back together. We are at the putting back together stage, so lets see how we can work in that framework now.
First, if you are a member of QL submitting comments please, IDENTIFY yourself as such in your posts.
(I’ve also noticed examples of QL kids “interviewing” each other in Youtube submissions as if they were simply the “man on the street”. I’d like to warn them not to dissemble when trying to “report”. Don’t fabricate- it’s always found out and makes all of US look foolish.)
I’d first like to caution people who continue to mischaracterize QLs disruption as required because we ‘need to be heard’, ‘we were refused’, ‘we have to fight for our right to be counted’, etc… QL simply demanded to go FIRST there had been no attempt to prevent anyone speaking. Get that distinction clear in your mind. (I’d also mention, as I previously did, that the QL members- I specifically mentioned Rick Vanderslice- failed to appear and speak when they were later called.) Once you’re clear on the situation the minor disruption doesn’t have any “heroic” or “brave” aspect to it. It was just a strategic and organizational misfire. It just appeared to the vast majority in the chamber as petulant which a civil rights movement can’t appear to be and succeed.
I also feel that QL decided that WHEN we spoke was the only thing left to milk this situation of. Defining itself as a direct action organization QL needs grist for that mill and lacking any substantive complaint they ginned this up to have a reason to protest something. I have dismissed QL from the list of credible community organizations because they lack any accomplishments other than kissing booths and poster parties. They’ve consistently made unsubstantiated statements and irrational claims in public which only serve to put our community’s legitimate claims at risk.
Lastly, in answer to Tammye Nash’s comment @me, the protestor may have used, “… the terms “kindly ask” and “kindly request”…â€, but they were in no way an attempt at opening up discourse nor civil dialogue. His demeanor, tone and the appropriateness of interrupting someone else speaking to begin with, did not bespeak any “kindly†intent. My criticism of your reporting of it was that it gave the impression as written that he had been trying to politely interrupt and make a demand. Which I hope was unintentional, otherwise I stand by remarks about becoming an “apologist†for QL. Journalism 101- Reporters are not supposed to be advocates.
I’ve complained to you and John Wright about covering the wagging tail and missing the dog in your coverage of this event, about poor journalistic habits, and about confusing your opinions, (which belong in EDITORIAL and OPINION pieces labeled as such), with quality reporting of the news. I believe that as the only gay newspaper left in Dallas it’s incumbent upon you to practice a high standard of journalism.
I was going to say the same thing Tammye — those are the words Blake used. His actions didn’t match the words, at least as the kerfuffle continued.
Moncrief deserved every bit of what he got. So do all of the Ft. Worth City Council members except for Zim Zimmerman who was just elected. There have been complaints about the FWPD before now and the Council has ignored us as nay sayers. I hope we keep packing the council chambers and demanding answers from Moncrief and anything else we want. Ft. Worth is one of the most poorly managed cities on the map. Take a look at the finances and it is plain to see.
I wonder if QL has watched the city council meeting The Voice posted today: https://dallasvoice.com/instant-tea/2009/07/20/video-of-ql-members-being-tossed-during-last-tuesdays-city-council-meeting/.
If not, now might be a good time to reflect upon your actions.
Can anyone blame Mayor Moncrief for kicking QL out of the meeting? They were disrespectful, disgraceful, rude and harmful to the LGBT cause in Fort Worth. It was Joel Burns, openly gay Fort Worth City Councilman, who requested their removal.
I am still demanding that QL and Blake Wilkinson apologize to our community. If you want to get yourself on TV – go do it in a way that doesn’t hurt the LGBT community and our common struggle for civil rights and equality.
Brandon
Your outrage and anger does not equal hurt to the LGBT community in our common struggle.
I am guessing you to be appalled and outraged by Cleve Jones, Larry Kramer, and Lt. Dan Choi.
Cleve and Larry are our esteemed elders who have been at the front of the fight for inclusion and equality from the beginning and whose work and voice made possible this very forum.
I say to QL and Blake, do what you believe is best. I support your exercise of the freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom to petition the government for redress. Even when I disagree with you, I support you.
I have said this before. Contact QL and talk with them face-to-face. Your opinion does count as does your community involvement. Find common ground and build from there.
Arthur said: I say to QL and Blake, do what you believe is best. I support your exercise of the freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom to petition the government for redress. Even when I disagree with you, I support you.
—–
Arthur,
Those who disagree with QLs actions are not trying to infringe upon their freedom of speech. This isn’t a question about freedom of speech, as they were not denied their freedom of speech. They had the opportunity that night, but they decided to make scene instead. And no one is saying their opinion doesn’t count, either. (I’m sure QLs opinions are pretty much in line with the rest of the community’s.) If QL had behaved appropriately I’m sure the LGBT community would be thankful for their participation, instead of being angry or embarassed by them now.
What you are doing here is trotting out noble sentiments and cherished American freedoms (speech, assembly), when those are not what is under scrutiny here. What is being scrutinized is the very specific behavior of QL at the meeting.
Perhaps you are not doing it deliberately, but your tactics here are not conducive to real debate, and quite honestly, it is a very common tactic used by conservatives to rationalize their hate speech and misinformation by making emotionally-charged appeals to freedom of speech and other American ideals with the aim of actually closing down debated on the issues.
The real issue before us is: Was QLs actions helpful or harmful?
I agree with “Verity Manumit”, that Arthur’s comments are too general and lack meaning related to what the article being commented upon describes. QLs actions attempted to deprive the “freedom of speech” Arthur reveres from others without a voice- our homeless. And Verity and others have pointed out in countless posts above the right to speak was assured at the meeting.
What’s more I’m not sure I’d, “guess” that someone, (Brandon), “… was appalled and outraged by Cleve Jones, Larry Kramer, and Lt. Dan Choi.”, nor can you compare the demand of 9 or 10 protestors assuming unto themselves the right to demand we be jumped ahead of others to speak, with protests related to AIDS treatment, funding, drug costs and other issues brought to public attention by the protests of Larry Kramer and others.
Verity
You can talk down to me and be disrespectful because of why?
Let’s be clear, I have not engaged in hate speech or misinformation, that is your implied characterization of me and a cheap shot that has nothing to do with real debate.
As to the questions, “Was QL’s actions helpful or harmful?
That cannot be answered until the community meets and sets shared goals and objectives. I believe your question is putting the cart before the horse.
As I have posted before, we are a diverse community that includes all races, creeds, and classes. We share a sexual orientation. It is difficult for such a diverse community to reach consensus.
I have a long history of fostering and encouraging debate and education. I work as a teacher. I donate 40 to 50 hours a month to community groups across a wide spectrum of causes and interests. I read extensively in a wide range of subjects and in several languages. I delight in learning, and in expanding my appreciation of human diversity.
I welcome debate in a framework of mutual respect and appreciation.
I believe that QL’s actions will have long term positive benefits. This is different than saying helpful or harmful.
A likely outcome of QL’s actions is they will be ignored by the people they are trying to influence, and more moderate voices will have greater credibility.
I believe QL members understand this dynamic because they did not resist being escorted out of the council chamber nor did they engage in unlawful activity.
The real issue before us is the what effects will the Rainbow Lounge raid have on the LGBT community, on the City of Ft. Worth, and on the State of Texas.
Arthur, are you the same Arthur who had engaged in a similar off-topic debate in the following article ??
https://dallasvoice.com/artman/publish/article_11475.php
And a rather distasteful debate at that……..
I’m sure we are all thankful to you and the “elders” for your past work in GLBT activism (no need to reiterate your resume here….), however this is 2009 and activism has changed considerably in the past decade, especially in the growing awareness of holding accountable our so-called “activist” leaders who make everyone else in the GLBT community look bad in the public eye. And this is only one example of such. We haven’t even got to the ones who sell us out to politicians and corporate America.
Concerning the freedoms that you cite, when was the last time you saw everyday GLBT folks enjoy the freedoms you support ? Most folks I know are more concerned about the freedom not to be discriminated against in their workplaces, in public housing, in the right to marry, in the right to speak or write without censorship etc…
As inferred by many of the commentors above, these QL people had the right to attend the meeting, they had the right to voice their opinion and they had the right to their own opinion. The fact of the matter is THEY BLEW IT by presenting it in the wrong way !! Plain and simple !!
Regardless of how strongly we may disagree on a passionate subject, we are still human beings and each human being has a right to be treated with human respect, which apparently these few didn’t do. Certainly, it would have been a different story if these folks knew the mayor and the city council members personally and the meeting was an open impromptu forum, but to my knowledge, neither was the case here.
Perhaps this incident sent a message to other GLBT “activists” out there that just because a person waves a flag, shouts “EQUALITY” through a bullhorn and has a few VIP notables on their facebook friends list, that doesn’t necessarily give them the right to bully people or force their agenda onto them at will, nor does it make one an instant community “leader” or “spokesperson”……. except of course in our own GLBT media, where such actions are condoned and such perpetrators are welcomed with open arms.
Arthur said: “You can talk down to me and be disrespectful because of why?
Let’s be clear, I have not engaged in hate speech or misinformation, that is your implied characterization of me and a cheap shot that has nothing to do with real debate.”
Actually Arthur, I think I was actually quite polite, and I certainly don’t think my opinion was a cheap shot at you. Also, I didn’t say you engaged in hate speech. I said your arguement utilized the same tactic as the conservatives who use inaccurate hate speech and then shout “freedom of speech”. I thought my point was very well articulated, and you are reading something into it that is not there.
“As I have posted before, we are a diverse community that includes all races, creeds, and classes. We share a sexual orientation. It is difficult for such a diverse community to reach consensus.”
But you are doing it again. No one will disagree with the above statement. And that is not what is the focus of this debate.
“I have a long history of fostering and encouraging debate and education. I work as a teacher. I donate 40 to 50 hours a month to community groups across a wide spectrum of causes and interests. I read extensively in a wide range of subjects and in several languages. I delight in learning, and in expanding my appreciation of human diversity.”
That’s very good to hear, and very commendable, too. But I was not commenting on your worth as a person. How could I? I don’t even know you.
“A likely outcome of QL’s actions is they will be ignored by the people they are trying to influence…”
Then why do you support their actions so much? Would it not have been better to use an approach that did not encourage the people you wanted to influence to simply ignore you? I think so. For that reason I’d say QLs actions were harmful, not helpful.
Verity
I support QL because they exist and because they are a part of the LGBT community. I support QL because tomorrow’s leaders will emerge from QL.
I talked about the diversity of the community because that is relevant to this discussion. We are neither a unified body with a single voice nor a single agenda community.
I respect your opinions and speech. We simply disagree.
Guinea Pig
Why would anyone want to claim leadership with such derogatory and cliche’ ridden statements exposing them as bullies who are pushing some sort of agenda?
I am curious who is being bullied? and what agenda you are talking about? I am also curious how this connects with the City Council meeting?
Are we talking about the bullhorn that Harvey Milk used? or something more recent?
As a leader, I speak from my experience and observations. Is this what you mean by an agenda?
Likely, we simply disagree on tactics and appropriateness.
correction, please / sentence to read
I support QL because some of tomorrow’s leaders may emerge from QL.
mea culpa. Arthur
Arthur said: “I talked about the diversity of the community because that is relevant to this discussion. We are neither a unified body with a single voice nor a single agenda community.”
That is very true. I don’t disagree with that. But I think QLs agenda was no different from anyone else’s there. Everyone wants the same thing: to get to the bottom of this, and hold the abusive cops accountable.
I just don’t see how QLs actions were a viable means to that end.
Score again to Verity and others arguing against letting inane “free speech” and “diversity” arguments pass for topically relevant and pertinent.
And frankly I have to argue to a teacher that the remark, “… I believe that QL’s actions will have long term positive benefits. This is different than saying helpful or harmful.”, when describing something as “positive” almost by definition means IT IS “helpful”, makes no grammatical OR rhetorical sense.
Arthur,
With all due respect sir, I fail to see the “leadership” in the manner in which you debate with people of differing opinions. And besides, could you be more specific as to what you are a “leader” of ?? Certainly, I have never heard of you prior to this forum……..
My “clice’ ridden statements” and questions have everything to do with the City Council Meeting. In fact, I will answer your questions with the facts we know to be true.
“Why would anyone want to claim leadership with such derogatory and cliche’ ridden statements exposing them as bullies who are pushing some sort of agenda?”
Well sir, wasn’t it YOU who had stated in a previous comment above, and I quote:
“Dissent was a foundation stone for this country and for Texas.”
Yes, but how quickly you are willing to label that dissent as “derogatory” and ridden with “Cliche’s” when folks choose to dissent against your “leaders” in the QL group…… How blatantly hypocritical !!
“I am curious who is being bullied?”
Don’t you know ?? Didn’t you see the film clip ?? Clearly, the Mayor and the City Council members were being bullied by Mr. Wilkinson and others from QL. Otherwise, why else would they be asked to leave and escorted out ?? Was that because they were gay as well ?? Hardly not !!
“and what agenda you are talking about?”
Well, wasn’t there a demand to move the Rainbow Lounge issue further to the top of the agenda ?? Wasn’t this why the protest began ?? So the agenda was clear, to appear to coerce both the Mayor and the City Council members to modify the City Council agenda to meet the demands of Mr. Wilkinson and the other QL “leaders” or otherwise known by the “cliche'” as The Be-All-Tell-All of the GLBT “movement”.
“Are we talking about the bullhorn that Harvey Milk used? or something more recent?”
Again, we all recognize your love and admiration for Harvey Milk so there is no need to beat a dead horse (used figuratively…),however as a “leader” , certainly you know that bullhorns are used many times in activist rallies. The correlation is a given.
“As a leader, I speak from my experience and observations. Is this what you mean by an agenda?”
Well let’s see….. If you are using your past “esteemed” achievements, biased observations or in-the-box experiences in an attempt to give credibility to your argument so that others will be awed by your qualified political wisdom, then I suppose this does constitute a personal agenda.
I wish you current “leaders” and QL folks all the best. Quite frankly, in today’s political culture, you all are going to need it…..
Guinea Pig
You do not get to question my leadership because this series of postings has to do with the city council meeting.
The “bullying” of the city council members was free speech, there was no harm to anyone. The QL folks accepted the consequences, exclusion.
This is hyperbole and snide and thus unnecessary, “demands of Mr. Wilkinson and the other QL “leaders” or otherwise known by the “cliche'” as The Be-All-Tell-All of the GLBT “movement”.”
If you are angry, please simply state that you are angry.
You don’t love and admire Harvey Milk?
And the paragraph that begins, “Well let’s see…” is a personal attack and cheap shot that does not advance this discussion.
Steve
Long term positive results are different from QL actions at the City Council meeting being either harmful or helpful.
The modifier is long term.
There are good arguments for both QL actions being harmful and for QL actions being helpful.
Everyone (any new voices)
I have some questions.
What was your personal benefit in attending this meeting?
Was there a change in city council members attitudes as a result of the Rainbow Lounge raid and as a result of this meeting?
Do you have expectations for the results of the police investigations? or do you prefer to wait for the release of the investigations?
Arthur,
Nice comments in the following article about this Rainbow Lounge issue, especially the ones about “censuring” an individual who happened to disagree with you…… and also attempting to hinder someone’s constitutional right to free speech, wrongly labeling them as attacks and snide and whatever else terms you wish to use to thwart someone from expressing views which are different from yours….. (aka bullying tactic)
https://dallasvoice.com/instant-tea/2009/07/08/gearing-up-for-the-july-12-rally-in-ft-worth/
https://dallasvoice.com/instant-tea/2009/07/08/gearing-up-for-the-july-12-rally-in-ft-worth/
this is the corrected link / the 12 became 1 2 in your post
@Lauren- I agree that we shouldn’t fight about credit, but don’t be fuzzy about how political change is MADE. We can’t afford to be naive or misinformed about politics. Practical and effective efforts need to be realized and failure has to be openly discredited. We need solid strategy and implementation to succeed in our struggle for civil rights.
In that spirit I have to reject your assertion that, “… history is on the side of QL.”- it’s not when they fail. History is on the side of dissenters when they are able to educate the public about unjust laws and hence gain understanding and support from those on the sidelines. To do that takes competent organizing, clear cut aims and tactical thinking. You don’t squander public goodwill and sympathy with senseless demands to be heard first above other aggrieved communities. We take to the streets to draw attention; we sit at the table to make change!
@David- “… seems no one in Ft worth stood up with him.”, and @Lauren- “… The City of Fort Worth has yet to take any responsibility”
Read the prior posts THOROUGHLY and let me reiterate who did what in Fort Worth and what the results are.
Todd Camp, (who founded and has run the QCinema Film Festival there for ELEVEN years), who was present at the raid, along with others, organized protests within twelve hours of the incident. Fort Worth’s gay and lesbian community, along with its straight allies, was in front of the Court House demanding redress MONDAY AFTERNOON.
Joel Burns, our openly gay City Councilman, and with support from others in city government, as well as with input from pre-existing organizations in our town, framed demands for;
1) Investigations of the incident by TABC and FWPD,
2) An independent investigation of the incident,
A group to spearhead these efforts, Fairness Fort Worth, was organized the next day.
Despite initial missteps and after misleading/incorrect statements from city and state officials the city leaders were ultimately forced to recognize the problems with the raid. They had actually acquiesced to our demands BEFORE the City Council even met on Tuesday July 12th. Both of the investigations being demanded were under way and the mayor had announced that reports from both agencies would be reviewed by the US Attorney’s office.
The win our community enjoys, (the TABC Administrator’s blanket condemnation of it’s officers conduct, the ongoing investigations and the US Attorney’s involvement), are such clear and substantive victories as to be unassailable.
These results are fruits of the gains made by knowing when to protest and when to organize and participate. They stem from having created allies and gotten officials, (gay and straight), at many levels of government elected BEFORE the Rainbow Lounge was ever opened. The disruption caused by a tiny minority of unthinking and self-aggrandizing neophytes was NO help and was a very small sideshow- despite the impression sadly created by the Voice’s rather skewed reporting.
While I do not agree with Blake’s tatics I support his right to free speech but I for one felt we were herad and listened to.
@Steve – I appreciate your response and think that we’re not very far off in our perspectives. I was no saying that the people of Fort Worth have done nothing, I was saying the City of Fort Worth has not taken any responsibility. Yes, they are investigating but they have yet to take any responsibility.
I, too, was there at the steps of City Hall the day after the raid with Todd Camp. I was so proud to see people pull together. I agree that the actions taken at the City Hall meeting were a bit much for the setting but that in no way discounts the good that I’ve seen come of the QL organization throughout this process of finding justice in FW. I was also at the subsequent protest at the City Hall in FW put on by QL. There is much good coming out of this organization and we’re throwing the baby out with the bathwater when we’re not willing to cede that.
“We take to the streets to draw attention; we sit at the table to make change!” I couldn’t agree more! We need both. Let’s not rip QL to shreds when they are such a young organization and one of the only that I’ve seen be effective at the “we take to the streets to draw attention”..
I’m with you Lauren!
After a thorough pubilc paddling and some time out I hope QL will think more deeply about future direct action.