If you had told me one month ago, that on August 15, 2009, thousands of people would come together in over 55 cities, across the United States and Canada, to stand together and kiss for equality, I would have said, “impossible!”
But, in fact, that’s what you did. And now, the only thing I find impossible is being able to thank you enough. But I do thank you. From the bottom of my heart.
In just a few short weeks, you accomplished something almost impossible, changed hearts and minds, stood to represent equality for millions of people, spread love across the world, showed people that everyone has the right to kiss their loved ones, regardless of gender, and proved that peaceful displays of love can be farther-reaching, and more powerful and more meaningful than protests and hate.
To me, your hard work, your dedication to something so important and yet so simple, your desire to come together despite personal challenges, despite glaring heat, despite possible personal emotional discomfort, speaks more than words can describe. Yesterday, despite so many incredible challenges, hardships, and barriers, you made a decision to step outside of yourselves, and, for the good of all people, stand together, kiss, and say to the world, “A kiss is just a kiss – but don’t ever try to stop me from kissing the one I love!”
You said to the world that ALL people are equal, and reminded the world that ALL people deserve the same rights.
You did something even I, just a few short weeks ago, would never have imagined possible.
You are the strongest, most beautiful, courageous, and important people I know.
And for all your efforts, you have my thanks and gratitude.
Congratulations for participating in The First Annual Great Nationwide Kiss-In!
Given the incredible success you just achieved, we definitely will make this an annual event!
Please, continue to find small ways, daily, to fight the homophobia you discover in the world. Use the amazing power you created yesterday to fight for truth and equality, as you travel throughout your lives.
And remember, if you share your voice, and your love, you can make the world a little bit better, even with something as small and simple, as a kiss.