I remember the first gay Pride I attended while in college. It was in Juneau Park at the time, and I was part of UWM’s Gay and Lesbian Community group – now a more expanded and inclusive resource center.
There was a candle-lighting ceremony, with people from different aspects of LGBT life on the stage to start it off, pastors, professionals, activists and the like. I had the honor of representing “students.” Even more of an honor, I stood next to Miriam Ben-Shalom, and lit my candle from her candle.
It’s great to hear she is still out there fighting, and I want her to know that the flame she lit that day still has not gone out. It has spread.
Her courage and conviction have continued to inspire and motivate me. She may not be a drill instructor for the reserves anymore, but I suspect that there are many like me who are ready to keep fighting until we win, strengthened by her example.
Thank you, Miriam Ben-Shalom, and congratulations on your part in this most recent victory.
