kevin aviance

I am lesbian who isn't too keen on public displays of affection. My British/Irish upbringing partly informs that behavior but the fear, however cowardly on my part, of being harassed is the overriding reason. But please know that I'm ashamed of myself for feeling like this. It's something about myself I actively try to change. I'm inspired by and grateful to the members of my community who give the big ol' F.U. to society and walk down the street hand-in-hand with nary a care about what the rest of the world thinks. I strive towards that. I really do.

I have publicly held hands with and kissed women in the past but what happened afterwards made me reluctant to do so again. We were catcalled, applauded and encouraged to give a free show by mindless male eyewitnesses. Not cool. But as off-putting as that brand of harassment is, it's nothing compared to what happened to Kevin Aviance. He was savagely beaten in the East Village this weekend. Words cannot adequately describe my sadness and disgust. I don't even know where to start.

Joe.My.God has information, reaction and an address where you can send cards and well wishes to Mr. Aviance.