History serves a vital role in our lives. Without shared histories, we are often likely to replicate the harms of our past. GLSEN is an educational organization working in the U.S. that works to end discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, and to prompt LGBT cultural inclusion and create awareness in K-12 schools. Their timeline project provides a broad scope of LGBTIA+ engagement, activism, and opposition. This information is helpful as we all labor to fully eliminate homophobia and transphobia in our society. A society built on the shared principle of liberty for all.
As Women’s History Month draws to a close, reflecting deeply on the rich history of black women’s experiences in shaping the United States capital city and extending our conceptualization of liberty seems fitting. Historian Tamika Nunley does this work in her book: At the Threshold of Liberty: Women, Slavery, and Shifting Identities in Washington, D.C. In the text, she shares, “I was interested in how black women in particular were really testing the boundaries, the scope of liberty” in the nation’s capital. Stories of the perseverance of the woman featured can really energize us all!
Speaking of energizing, nature is a powerful force and remedy. This video featuring butterflies thriving in their natural habitats can definitely help us channel some negative energy. Yet, if laughter is the medicine you’re craving, why not check out Lori Mae Hernandez’s standup routine featured on America’s Got Talent?
