Many folks around the nation celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  A man that stood on principle and believed that one day "all men would be created equal."  It is now the year 2011 and I am not sure if the phrase is in inclusive of us -- the African American LGBT community.

I am not diminishing Dr. King's dream, however, I think that we have more work ahead of us to get there.  Within or own community, we are stigmatized, ostracized, and criticized for living our lives the way we desire.  It is still taboo in the African American community to be gay.  We just don't talk about it for alot reasons but the dialogue needs to start somewhere.  Wouldn't you say?

Just like our ancestors, we are fighting to achieve the "American" dream and yet have been denied civil liberties that makes striving for the dream a lot more difficult. I'm not sure if the African Americans considers the similarities between the civil rights and gay rights movement because we, the black community, are to consumed with years of engrained beliefs passed down from previous generations.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I asm asking for ACCEPTANCE.  Differences make the world go round, however, they should not be utilized to condemn and oppress.  Be more open to others that are different and use that as an opportunity to establish new friendships.  Agree to disagree without disrepect.  Treat someone the way you want to be treated.

UPLIFT and EMPOWER!!

Until next time...

P.S. You know those state/federal taxes that I pay every year that assists in in the creation of laws and policies that deny me inalienable rights can I get those back--I'm just saying!!

Happy New Year!!  Welcome to The Real BGC (Black Gay Chicago), your place to find out about any and everything happening in the African American LGBT community and BEYOND!!

I am not one to create new year resolutions but the one thing that I will strive to do in the year 2011 and I encourage others to do the same is to be true to oneself.  Live your best life.  Do not let anyone limit your success, dreams, and capabilities.  SPEAK UP AND OUT!!

Last year, we heard of so many tragic stories of kids and others committing suicide because they were gay.  Let's not continue on this path.  Provide words of encouragement to someone in need.  Tell that person that it is ok to be who they are and F*** anyone else that feels otherwise. (sorry for the language I just get so passionate.) We need to SUPPORT each other more and take a STAND!  Let this be the year to do it.  With the passing of civil unions in Illinois and the knock down of Don't Ask Don't Tell, we are heading into 2011 with some amazing accomplishments.  I am inspired and you should be too!

I am truly excited about this blog.  Finally, a place where WE can be seen and heard...let's make it happen!!

If there is anything that YOU want to see posted on the blog, feel free to send an email to blackgaychicago@yahoo.com

Until next time...