Jason Howard Green

Jason Howard Green

Sunday, April 20, 2014

I'm From Driftwood: Sharing Our Stories

I just discovered this series of videos on the LGBTQNation site. The series is called "I'm From Driftwood." It is just a simple series of normal, everyday lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals telling their stories. Each post lasts only several minutes, but the stories are powerful in their uniqueness. Everyone has a different story to tell and it's wonderful to hear these stories from queer folks from around the country. You can find all of the videos on their YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/ImFromDriftwood

I have to express my thanks to this site for truly showing the diversity of the LGBTQ community. Their are stories from people of color, their are stories from the trans community, their are even stories from our allies. The videos are all very touching and intimate and I invite you to do your self and favor and review them. I've shared a few of my favorites below . . .


In this first video, Angela Gabrielle Lewis is sharing her story. She identifies as trans. When she was a teenager, her mom kicked her out of the house when she read text messages from Angela's boyfriend. Mom was not going to allow that "lifestyle" in her house. However, Angela had a strong will and a determined mind. Although she struggles immediately she would eventually return to school, receive her diploma and get into college. A very inspiring story indeed.
 


The story below is hit me very hard because I can relate to Eric's story. I have been very fortunate. I have a family that is accepting of me and my partner. When I came out in college I had a support group of friends that were there for me and allowed me walk in my truth and were there to support me if ever there were coming out pains. I am now very comfortable with who I am and I'm out in every aspect of my life. Although I realize how blessed I am, I have too many friends that do not have a similar tale. I have friends that have been kicked out their church. I have friends that no longer talk their family. I have friends that live double lives because they fear that if they revealed their truth similar consequences would befall them.  


And the story below is of Shara Dae. A profound, important moment in her life happened when she was asked the question, "How do you identify?" She was initially taken aback and had to ask for clarity in what the question meant. Shara was being asked if she identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual. It was first time she faced the question and in doing so faced herself. That same afternoon she would return to the home of a friend (someone she was hoping to develop an intimate relationship with)and her conversation was overheard by the friend's mom. Shara was then labeled the lesbian threat. Shara received a phone call that the entire neighborhood was at the home of Shara's friend discussing the fact she was a lesbian.  

 Thank you to LGBTQNation and to "I Am Driftwood" for these stories and for all of the terrific videos you have documented and archived.