To the lesbian who was afraid to tell me,
I know you thought that I would call you a sinner; that I would be disgusted with your lifestyle and walk away before you had time to hit on me. That I wouldn’t want to be your friend because then everyone will think I’m a lesbian, too, and I would never want anyone to think that about me.
I am so sorry.
I’m sorry that society has drilled into your head that a religious person can’t love you. I’m sorry that there are girls who are so self-centered that they think that since you like girls, you must want them. I am so sorry that in today’s world, being called a lesbian is an insult, as if it were an indication as to who you are as a person.
To the black boy who’s tired of being ignored,
I noticed your jaw clench when the Trayvon Martin case was brought up. I know you hear everyone saying it was his fault he got shot. You see the police brutality and the acts of violence against young, innocent kids who just so happen to be black. You hear people saying it's not happening and racism is only in your mind.
I am not against you.
I am sorry that people are claiming that racism is no longer an issue when it is still so very alive. I’m sorry that people are disregarding it. I’m sorry that you have to be afraid. I understand why you're frustrated. Just know that there are people on your side. #BlackLivesMatter
To the transgender woman who wants to use the same bathroom as me,
I see the look of fear on your face as you enter the door that says “Women.” I know that you saw the news last night, and you saw the hate that HB2 caused. You saw people protesting and their assumptions that you will rape them. You heard their accusations that you are delusional and you chose this life and that you are a danger to the public.
I am not afraid of you.
I am not afraid that you are pretending just so you can sneak a peek. I am not afraid that you are going to sexually harass me. I am not afraid for my safety or for the safety of those around me. Rather, I am afraid for you. I am afraid that the bullying will get to your head and you will make a rash decision. I am afraid that society will cause you to be so fearful that you choose to live a lie. I’m so sorry you can’t be yourself.
To the Muslim dad down the street,
Yesterday I overheard you saying that you were worried your Turban would draw attention. You talked about how you are always “randomly selected” for additional security screenings at the airport. You cried about the cruel jokes your daughter comes home from school and repeats to you. You’re worried for her safety because others are so afraid of her.
I am not afraid of her.
I know both she and your family practice a peaceful religion. I will not move when you sit beside me at the DMV. I will not blame you for 9/11 or other acts of terror. I’m sorry that the actions of a few have influenced the opinions of many. I am so sorry that parents teach their children to fear you and don’t put a stop to the insults.
We are not all the same. I am on your side.
Sincerely,
A Straight, Cisgendered, Christian, White Girl.
