Rain Dove Dubilewski Instagram – One of only two of my college campus is speaking engagements in the past few years that hasn’t had protesters at it! Dont get me wrong, I actually really love having anti-trans or anti-lgbtq protesters at my events because they can be very rewarding to speak with, it’s nice to break into new communities, and I always learn new things. However, recently it’s become increasingly dangerous with open carry laws and the satisfaction of Twitter approved confrontational videos that people get- which encourages them to act more erratically than ever in the name of clicks or likes. Following me to the parking lot or into the bathroom at the end. It can get nerve wracking sometimes. While I am prepared to handle this kind of volatility- it’s hard for others who attend and are accosted. Who were just looking for a safe space or community.
I’ve never hired security guards my entire career, but I find myself prior to mid terms in the USA, feeling a rising tension. People taking blurry photos of me in grocery stores and posting on 4 Chan or to my DMs. People threatening to take action. People who know what I look like. But I don’t know what they look like under their anonymous internet cloak. It’s an interesting time to exist openly. We truly are on the brink of something wonderful or terrifying.
All this to say, despite the chaos- I have great hope in what the near future holds. I believe that good will prevail. Peace and freedom will prevail. And I trust with all that I am that it will be ok. So for now, we keep doing these university and college talks, living fully in trust. It will all be ok. Even better- it will all be wonderful.
You have something worth teaching too- what would it be? Something You loved, lived or survived? No answer too small!
Thanks @tacomacc for creating a completely secure and safe space for me to speak on identity, conflict resolution and LGBTQPIA rights. Your campus was gorgeous, students kind, and staff like Steve @dr.davi_docious , Sabine, and Sonja were welcoming and protective. Can’t wait to return!
#lgbtqia #conflictresolution #collegenews #exactly #positivenews | Posted on 05/Nov/2022 00:01:34
