|
|
|
|
|
|
June 1999 The Newsletter of CRA - Gay Chinese Organization in Greater Los Angeles Volume 4 Issue 7 |
I Marched in the CSW
Parade by Andre Ting But perhaps more troubling was my physical condition. Having lived in the suburbs for the last 20 years, I hadn't been walking more than half a block each time, and I was not in perfect shape. Besides, my left foot had been hurting recently. I knew the parade would require me to walk a good distance to the parade starting point, walk two miles or so in the parade, and walk back to my car which would be way east of Fairfax Blvd. Saturday night before the big day, I made up my mind to march. What the heck, I thought, at least I could try. I could always quit marching at any point. I thought I could hitch a hike with BARANGAY or GAPSN's truck if the pain in my foot got really bad. Came Sunday, a beautiful sunny day. The heat wave predicted earlier never materialized. When I arrived at David's house in West Hollywood, I saw a lot of familiar faces. I felt somewhat relaxed. Seeing other cheerful CRA members gave a cozy feeling. I was ready to march. Then the long wait. But it was fun, watching the GVA and GAPSN members rehearsing their dance the last minute. Beautiful bodies and drag queens were everywhere and everyone seemed happy and friendly. Finally, the time for us to join the march arrived. We were positioned among other Asian groups and the rowdy GAPSN contingent immediately preceded us. As we walked, I saw thousands and thousands of spectators along both sides of Santa Monica Boulevard. Men and women of all races, ages and attire, and children too. I noticed their reactions. We got a lot of cheers, thumbs-up, and respect, which I think we deserved. Before I realized we came to the end of the parade route. Yes, I have made it. My foot was hurting, but not bad enough to stop me from enjoying the parade. I was glad that I didn't quit and the whole experience was a lot excitement and fun. Now as I reflect on the experience I must say that it was a worthwhile one. Now I can tell all my friends that I have marched in a gay parade. I can say that I truly participated in a public event with other CRA members. But most of all, I have validated and enpowered myself. I have conquered my anxiety and fear. Now I know for certain that I am as good and as beautiful as anybody, gay or straight. I now understand what GAY PRIDE really means. For those of you who have never marched before, I strongly urge you to try it. At the CSW kick-off party, Rick said:"Don't do it for your organization. Do it for yourself." How true! It was truly a liberating experience for me. When you march, what you will get out of it is ten times more than you put in. Hope to see you at the next year's parade.
|
About CRA China Rainbow Association, a gay Chinese social support organization, is based in Los Angeles, California. CRA was established by volunteers to address the unique needs of the gay Chinese community in the southern California area in 1996. Our mission is to promote friendship and unity, provide assistance, foster social and political awareness, and enhance positive self-image among the gay Chinese. Many of our members are immigrants and CRA is striving to become a home for members away from home. |
||
CO-CHAIRS |
|||
Mail |
