Satyrda saw Ashland welcome the 15th annual Southern Oregon Pride Parade. This was part of a three-day celebration of community and acceptance. Photos from Rep. Pam Marsh.
More available at Ashland.news.
SOPride Festival returns to Ashland for 15th year
I’m grateful that Ashland holds to its modern roots of trying to be inclusive, open, and accepting.
Michael Seidel, writer 
At the risk of being burned at the stake … I see absolutely nothing wrong with “gayness” but IMO, it’s between the people involved. Parades to “celebrate” its existence do nothing but incite the dissidents But then, people throughout the ages have always wanted people to “look at me … I’m different than you!”.
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I understand what you’re saying, Nan, but yes, keeping it on the lowdown didn’t seem to going well for most. I like the parade and its celebration, and its introduction to people who aren’t like me. I learn from them. Viva la difference. Cheers, M
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What do you mean that “keeping it on the lowdown” didn’t work well? I know of gay couples who don’t make a “big thing” of their lives and nobody bothers them. I think the problem arises when those who prefer the gay lifestyle start screaming … “Hey! Look at me! I’m different than you!”
Like the parade does.
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Yes, I know of gays who live low key lives, and nobody seems to bother them, that I know of. And good for them.
But there are others who did not or do not realize that others were like them, a situation that inculcated alienation and isolation, engendering loneliness and depression. Seeing others publicly display and acknowledge who they are gives them the confidence and courage to see and accept themselves, and really, to become themselves. It’s not necessarily about, “Hey, look at me, I’m different than you,” but, “Hey, look, there are others like you. You are not alone.” Cheers, M
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It’s just sad that humans can’t be themselves without having to qualify or defend themselves. And I point the finger at religion.
But that’s a whole different story …
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I agree, that is sad. And I will point to religion as one large cause but there’s socialization and education, too, IMO. Some just will not accept anyone different from them. Sad, sad, sad.
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Ashland seems like a fine place to live, all because of the people about whom you write, and the things they promote. Thanks, Michael! Wish I could figure out how to move there, but likely they’d prefer a business-person rather than a retiree. 🙂
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Hey, retirees are always welcomed in Ashland. Not a perfect place, and there’s a lot of conflict with the city gov and its citizens, but the town has great people. Everything possible that’s reasonable will be done to make you feel at home. Cheers
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