Disappointing Turnout

[Mark Sweetland]

I know there are a number of people who could join this group, and am disappointed in the turnout ... so maybe I think it is not important to neighbors in the 19th Ward. If that is the case, keep silent and we will remove this site. Otherwise there is no point.

There is a large gay population in the Roxborough and Marlborough Roads, as well as some side streets. As well as others. The 19th Ward has the largest gay population outside of a small group on Park Ave and in Corn Hill, (who we could actually join up with, for Corn Hill.)

My own partner did not join. How apathetic is that? And people wonder why states don't vote for gay marriage? How stupid is that? You get what you deserve, and if you do nothing you get nothing.

[Anthony Fasolo]

Don't despair Mark, sometimes these things take time. I admit, I'm a bit surprised as well. I know there are quite a number of us on our street as well - but they are very quiet. In this day and age I wonder why some might be so reticent to be out.

[Margy Meath]

Mark, I'll join to support your efforts, but please don't assume that people who don't join are apathetic. Whether we like it or not, it can still be very dangerous for gay and lesbian people to come out. I'm not sure whether Marlborough has any different gay population than other streets in the 19th ward....... we better be careful about saying that or people will start selling their homes :-)

[Anthony Fasolo]

LOL!!! Hey ya know the truth is when we start moving into neighborhoods the real estate values go up! It think it's all the pretty colors and flowers and stuff LOL!

[Mark Sweetland]

Margy,

Points well taken. I doubt people will sell their homes, though! Also liked Anthony's comment. Oh, yes, and people of color are moving into the neighborhood, so sell your home and move to the suburbs (a comment on why the 19th Ward Community Association was founded, re: blockbusting.)

What year does that go back to? Anyway, I won't assume people are apathetic. I don't even think people have to come out, as it should not matter. What matters is being good neighbors.

[Mark Sweetland]

Yeah, they'll sell theirs and I will move in over there if there are any for sale! Good lord, your property values would go up!

[MacClurg Vivian]

Dear Mark, count me in as a visible ally to LGBTQ, etc. This may take awhile to build. And I am glad you included "allies", though there may be times when just your constituency may want to meet. As many know a feature of this oppression is to stay hidden in order to avoid attacks, verbal or physical and other repercussions such re work, relationships, etc. And as Margy said it IS still dangerous in some arenas. Thanks for your courage in going public with this group on Loc19. Looking forward to hearing more....

[John Boutet]

Very well said MacClurg. Count me in also Mark. Over the years our society has definitely made great strides in its acceptance and appreciation of G, L, B, T individuals but we still have much work to do. It is important for all G, L, B, T friends and relatives in our neighborhood to step forward and make themselves heard to make this a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

[Mark Sweetland]

John,

Thank you, your words speak for themselves. We do need to make this a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. And I think that is what the 19th Ward is all about! A great place to live. Especially thanks to individuals such as you.