Never Blend In

"My name is Harvey Milk and I am here to recruit you."

I saw Milk tonight. It was an amazing film, one that I'm still trying to articulate my reaction to. But I figure right after seeing it is the best time get down some initial thoughts. I think one of the hardest thing is that now, 30 years later, we are still fighting the same fight they were in the 70's. Things have come far, but there is still so far to go. Milk's fight against Prop 6 parallels, for obvious reasons, our recent fight against Prop 8. But that fight was won. Only to face more struggles down the road. The fight never ends. Not only are we fighting to gain rights, we have to fight to keep them. It's difficult to wrap my mind around the fact that lives have to be taken in the process. People are beaten to death, shot and killed, because of who they love. How can so much hate develop from something based on love?

Milk, the man and the movie, are incredibly motivating and inspirational as well. Though I hate that the fight must happen, I'm glad to see and be a part of the Gay Rights Movement. I love that Milk refused to clump gay rights into human rights. He insisted that it stick out, that it be a direct fight, a direct demand. Despite multiple assassination threats, Milk stood strong and put himself out there: a bravery I'm proud to see exists, a bravery I hope I possess.

I'm also disappointed that the film isn't more mainstream. But I also have the feeling that it will be a quiet success in certain circles, then word will spread, and it will be a hot topic everywhere.

For the High School Musical fans, (Emily!) Lucas Grabeel who plays Ryan in HSM plays Danny Nicoletta in Milk. I was glad to see him in a film where he plays a gay man, and openly so. We all know he's a giant queen in HSM, but of course they couldn't say that there.

May more and more people be recruited every day. One of Milk's points to gain support was that everyone come out. If "they" know one of "us" they'll be in support.

Maybe it's time.
I've got some Republicans to convert.