Seven Straight Nights
Activism by a COLAGEr in Houston

Montrose Counseling Center
401 Branard St. Houston, TX 77006
October 11th at 6pm and concluding at 7am on the 12th.

Invitation to participate from COLAGE Speak OUT member Caitlin:

When I was in the fourth grade my father came out of the closet as a gay man. I have never been so proud of him. Unable to marry, have children, or live peacefully without fear of violence, he chose to closet himself in order to attain the simple human rights the rest of us simply expect. He has a loving partner of 8 years yet marriage is not an option. They have been denied basic protection, liberties, and human rights because of who they love. I know first hand that love makes a family complete, and I consider myself lucky to have gotten an extra father. Homophobia and discrimination have permeated every aspect of our society as we stand by silently. Many of us know that the oppression of LGBT individuals is horrible and wrong, but few have found an outlet to express our disapproval. The result is that issues of equality are labeled as "gay issues" or seen as radical demands of the few. It's time we change this misconception by choosing to follow our LGBT friends, neighbors, family, and fellow Americans and declare our intentions to be counted. Seven Straight Nights can allow allies this opportunity. I want to be a part of a generation and a nation that refused to be silenced and forget about the rights of their neighbors, friends and families. I want to be remembered for my love of people regardless of who they love and my ardent support of equality. That is why I am involved in Seven Straight Nights. So that I can support those brave and wonderful individuals who have been forced to stand alone for so long and to show them and the world that they must no longer fight alone.

That's why I want you involved. I want to stand shoulder to shoulder with my LGBT and allied friends at an event that will send a message: equality matters to everyone. Seven Straight Nights for Equal Rights is a nationwide effort led by straight allies across the nation and we will be heard by America. In Houston, I am looking for people to tell their stories. Bring your whole families and tell us how you work together. How your children stand up as allies or second generation proud LGBT individuals. You all represent a part of equality that is very close to my heart because I've lived it. If you want to be involved in any way please e-mail me. From 6-10 we will be telling stories, sharing experiences and getting to know each other. After that the vigil will begin. If you can spare an hour of sleep in the middle of the night, please sign up for a shift at the event website. This is just so I know I won’t be alone and that we will have a strong showing for the entirety of the event. If you're not from Houston go to sevenstraightnights.org and find a location near you! I can't wait to meet you all and please contact me with ideas, suggestions, or stories you wish to share.