My First Demonstration

The first time I marched in a demonstration, the clamor of rain hitting umbrellas drowned out the speakers.

The ecumenibus had brought gay Lutherans, Jews, Catholics, and Episcopalians to Sacramento to march for legislation to protect folks from homophobic employers. I had come with a seasoned campaigner and had followed his advice to bring an extra set of clothes in a plastic bag.

I bought a button commemorating the march, which would grow into a collection, and marched proudly with my group, Lutherans Concerned for Gay and Lesbian Understanding. At the end of the march, we stood in a downpour to hear encouraging words from the leaders of the effort and our political allies. But the rain thundering down on our umbrellas made their words unintelligible.

Back on the bus, in dry clothes, I felt so proud to be part of a savvy group that was working for such a worthy goal. I had tried on the role of activist, and it fit.