Today was a tiring but fulfilling day. I was up at 5:30a.m so I could make myself eggs and coffee before driving to the train station. I got there early and sat around for a bit before stepping on and sitting on my half-asleep ass for thirty minutes. I left the first train and got on the next one that took me deeper into Miami. I got off the train and walked a mile to the Human Rights Campaign office. I got there thirty minutes early. I walked by a million pretty flowers. I met some more coworkers and we took the train downtown. We had breakfast together and started canvassing at 11. From then until 4p.m so many amazing and also ridiculous things happened. For one, as you can see, my cheeks turned red.
Canvassing is something I never thought I’d see myself doing but it’s clear to me now that if you’re working toward a goal that you’re passionate about and an issue you believe in —convincing others comes natural.
Most people said they didn’t have a minute to spare. Most people said they were too broke to help. Some people, the reason I go out there to spread the word, were outraged when I told them that it’s legal in 29 states to fire someone for being LGBT. Them supporting us (not just monetarily) means the world to me, although getting them to become a partner of the HRC is the most important part of the job.
Then there are the people who are ignorant and full of hate. I asked one lady walking down the street if she had a minute to support gay and lesbian civil rights and she laughed and said “I think they should be medicated.”
Okay.
The first person I approached with the same question said, immediately, “Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?” to which I replied “I have tried but that’s not for me. I’m glad it’s worked out in your life but I don’t think Jesus would have hated someone for being gay. We’re all human.”
This job is going to be tough. But someone has to do it.
Also, on my second day I was already asked if I’d want to be a Campaign Director.
Whawhaaaat!!!? I guess I’m really good at this.
