“Born This Way” discussion in Tempe

By Bobby Beverly

Tuesday, 11/6, was “Born This Way” night in Tempe. The intention of the evening’s theme was to help us get to know each other a little better by sharing with the group an artifact or story from our past that exemplifies when we knew we were GLBT. Mickale kicked things off with an ice breaker, the game “two lies and a truth,” where each member shared one factual piece of information about themselves and two lies, leaving the group to determine which was true. Our “Born This Way” discussion touched on a myriad of experiences highlighting the many ways the first moment on the road to self awareness can transpire. For some, the moment occurred very early on, signaling that they were Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender, while some had an inkling but no name for what they were. Others still had no idea until they were faced with some formative experience that clued them in to their sexuality or gender identity. Just as diverse were the reactions of those in each of our lives, some who were accepting, indifferent, or outright cruel. The stories shared ranged from funny to poignant, but each gave us more insight into who we are and where we’ve come from. We can definitely count on having a “Born This Way: part 2” in Tempe very soon.