Me, Myself and Why. Supporting equality

Me, Myself and  Why

My brother, brother in law and myself, Anita

I have had a lot of people ask “why the rainbows.”  My first response is always “why not!”  Why shouldn’t everyone be an advocate for equal rights?  I’m constantly confused as why one individual would have greater rights than another.

I decided 2019 would be my year to come out of the closet as an ally and advocate.  I think it’s best to show up and celebrate those who [are] typically most marginalized within queer spaces and media, e.g., trans and gender-nonconforming people, people of color.

Since my siblings came out as LGBTQ after high school I really realized how ugly and unfair the world can be.  And now living in Oak Harbor I see that we still have a long ways to go before our LGBTQ community is treated equally.

So far this year I have had two pride booths in Oak Harbor and have helped sponsor a pride picnic in Langley.  My belief is, if I can plant one seed with a mom that they can accept their child… if I can plant one seed with one business owner that they can be an ally… if I can plant one seed with one child that there will be an adult that will accept them…if I can adjust one person’s thoughts to “why not?” instead of “why?” I believe we will all be on a better track to a happier, healthier tomorrow.

And why PFLAG( Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)?  I discovered the group almost 30 years ago when I moved to Houston.  I was absolutely terrified for the safety of my siblings after they came out.  And mad that they suddenly didn’t have the same rights as their straight sister.   It was a great organization for me then and today I feel there’s an even greater need (with the rise of hate and lack of inclusion) to have this support organization for parents and friends of lesbians and gays.

I have seen a lot of change in my own life this year.  My brother and his husband have been my greatest support group.  This feels like the best way to give back.  So tomorrow(8/11/19) you can find me in Oak Harbor, WA handing out rainbow flags, stickers and hugs.

Anita Johnston with her brother, brother in law and his mother.

Anita Johnston and her brother Dale on an Alaskan cruise.

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