Our BE HEARD section features statements and stories from various NOH8 participants about why they felt it was important to get involved with the NOH8 Campaign and what their own participation meant to them. The wide variety of submissions reflect the diverse range of supporters that have joined the NOH8 Campaign since its inception, each of them sharing their own personal experiences and revealing the story behind their own NOH8 Portraits.
If you’d like to submit your own contribution to the BE HEARD Project, please e-mail your story with a link to your photo(s) to info@noh8campaign.com.
Breaking Out of My Cage, by Kate P.I’ve thought a lot about why I needed to do this photo shoot. The campaign itself was a no brainer. It’s beautiful and it’s important. And I am a firm believer in the power of connecting visually with people and that by seeing what “you hate” or “don’t understand” “you”, whoever “you” are ,will come to understand better and fear less which |
Hands Across the Sea, by Dietmar & KarstenI was following the NOH 8 Campaign for about two years on Twitter when I read their tweet that they would be in Provincetown, MA , on August 22, 2011 for a photo shoot. I got excited. That would be during our stay in P'town; my boyfriend and I planned to spend our annual vacation in America . So, when I packed my bag for the States I made sure to have two white t-shirts for |
Why James Doyle of 'A-List Dallas' PosedI heard about the NOH 8 shoot the morning of the event. I was bound and determined to make it in for a picture. I was always bullied for being gay throughout elementary school, junior high and part of high school. I don't understand the hate that people are raised with and why they continue on that sort of behavior. Being gay does not define me as a person , it's simply |
Until We Are Victorious, by Taylor CI posed for the NOH8 Campaign because I believe in equal rights for everyone. I am straight and it breaks my heart that people in my life that I love are treated as second class citizens because of whom they love. After the passage of Prop 8 I got involved with several grass root efforts to overturn the proposition. I will continue to stand up for equal rights and fight for the right to marry for all people until we are victorious. |
Invalid in Texas, by Hal W.I posed for NOH 8 for equality for all people. Me and my husband had to go to another state just to get married. While our marriage is valid in another state, it is invalid in Texas . We should all be able to get married to the person we love, no matter what the gender or sexual orientation. We are not second class!!! -Hal W. Dallas Open Photo Shoot |
Music Knows No Bigotry, by DianeMy brother is gay and about gazillion of my friends are gay. I wanted to be a part of this shoot because of all the amazing people in my life who deserve to have the SAME rights, not different or special , as I have. And the same opportunity to fail at marriage, like I have. I will never understand the bigotry heaped on love . I play in the Oak Lawn Band here in Dallas , which |
Why NOT Pose? by Kandis S.We chose to pose, because we knew our photo would have so many meanings to so many different people. We hope that when you view our photo you see the total meaning of what NOH 8 stands for. Our personal view represents that we stand by Equality , being Out & Proud Lesbians, & Interracial Dating/Friendships . The whole experience at the Dallas |
Why We Posed, by Cindi and TanyaWe posed because we feel it's very important to be fully out for future generations. |
Overcoming DADT, by AVER President Danny IngramIn the spring of 1994 I became one of the first service members to be discharged from the military under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" following a statement I made in support of presidential candidate Bill Clinton's promise to lift the ban in 1992. I remember being called into the office my commander in 1993. There were three of us in the office, the commander, who |
Holding My Head Up High, by Chris S.I'm so thrilled my best friend Deena and I got to pose for the NOH 8 Campaign! It means so much to me as an openly gay man to spread the message of tolerance in my community. It's important to me because no one person is better than any other individual, and as a gay man I only ask for the same rights and privileges given to anyone else. I hold my head up high when I walk |
Redefining Rebbetzin, by Richard A. Walter-JerniganMy husband and I posed for our NOH 8 photo at NC Pride in Durham, NC on September 24, 2011. As a rabbi and rebbetzin for the LGBTQIA community and others who feel displaced and run off by many Jewish congregations, we wanted to have a way to let our LGBTQIA youth and adults know that there is at least one rabbbi and rebbetzin they can turn to that will understand and will |
"Hope for Teens" Gets InvolvedHope for Teens posed for the NOH 8 Campaign during the Durham Pride event held in September . We are an anti-bullying and anti-cyberbullying non-profit organization in North Carolina and could not pass up the chance to "practice what we preach" if you will. Our primary demographic are LGBT Teens and young adults but we do address bullying issues for ALL teens; |
Moving Forward Together, by Adam & Joshua"Since the NOH 8 Campaign had been something that we'd both followed for a while we decided that it was something that we wanted to do together. We wanted to show our support together and celebrate the fall of DADT ." - Adam (left) & Joshua (right) "I come from a very religious Catholic family and one of the ways that I was able to learn about the world was through |
My NOH8 Story, by Reginald ForestI posed for the NOH 8 campaign because I wanted to add my face to the increasing number of voices responding to hatred in our communities. Growing up, I was often picked on and bullied. I remember my peers yelling, “You are a FAG!” even before I understood what that meant. This occurred from 1st grade through 10th grade. Even in my church, the other kids picked |
Why I Posed, by Steve ReederGrowing up, all I wanted to do was play guitar in a rock and roll band. However, back in the hard rock heyday, it appeared the territory of only straight white males. I knew I could never pretend to be something I was not, and thus put off all dreams of the rock and roll stage for fear of rejection or even bodily harm. Since then, I've gained the life experience |
To Proudly Say 'I Do,' by Chase SteinI posed for the NOH 8 Campaign because I hope to one day be able to proudly say " I do ," and I wholeheartedly believe that NOTHING is more important than equality for all people. Chase Stein GLSEN Media Ambassador |
Sounding Off, by ACBelow is something I wrote to my friends on Facebook about things which arose from questions asked about my NOH 8 photo, I hope you like it and support it! Thanks again for all everyone on the NOH 8 Campaign Staff does everyday! Given the circumstances of today and the things that have been said or gone on in the past couple of months I guess it's time I've said a couple |
Being A Citizen of ChangeI participated in the NOH 8 Campaign to say after 54 years that I will no longer tolerate being treated like a second class citizen. I want everyone to live in a world where they are free to love who ever they want and where hate is not tolerated. Change can only occur when ordinary citizens do extraordinary things. That means every one of us has a role to play, no matter |
A Thank You from GLSEN Student Ambassador Benjamin O'KeefeWords can not describe my sincere thanks towards the NOH 8 Campaign. One , for volunteering to come out and shoot myself and my coworkers at the GLSEN Media Summit . It was an incredible experience, and I am so honored to be a part of this incredible campaign. It is so great that GLSEN and the NOH 8 Campaign were able to work together and hopefully there will be opportunity |
Britain's First "IT Boy" Emmanuel Ray Sounds OffI am very honoured to be representing both the British and Asian GLBT communities and showing my support to this ground breaking campaign. NOH 8 not only raises the important issue that is Prop 8 but also mirrors our continuing struggle for equality. I stand for every gay Asian who has had to fight prejudice and homophobia and all GLBT people around the world as |
Flying Around for a Photo, by Kevin NorteWe received the e-mail about the beautiful NOH 8 photo on the day we read the transcript of Meet the Press on August 14, 2011 . I said (censored) and my husband named the photo, "Here's To You Michele Bachmann." Anyway, we are from West Hollywood and were to travel to London to celebrate our 33 years together - 3 of which were married . We had planned to get a NOH 8 photo |
Why I Posed, by Ann Harada"I'm so excited to be photographed as part of the NOH 8 Campaign ! Who wouldn't want to be part of something that stands for liberty and justice for all ? " - Ann Harada Broadway Performer ( AVENUE Q ) Ann Harada with Broadway Colleagues Anne Fraser Thomas & Raymond J. Lee |
Passion from Broadway, by Steven FerezyMy experience with the NOH 8 crew was so great! It never ceases to amaze me how our community really bands together and does truly amazing work. Broadway has been so passionate about equal rights not only because it affects so many of our own , but because Broadway is all about being different . Broadway is the ultimate risk taker and the actors, composers, directors, |
A Small Piece of a Large Puzzle, by Dan DomenechEach photo for the NOH 8 Campaign is a small piece of a very large puzzle . The thousands of photos taken have not only shown the big picture but created a platform for people young and old to show their support to further the fight for human equality. I'm proud to have my piece fit in with the rest of you all. I moved to New York to star in Rock of Ages - just in time to witness |
Making a Change, by Michele MaisMy name is Michele Mais . I was born in NYC but have been living in Los Angeles since 1987 . I returned to NYC almost 3 years ago to perform in the Broadway Production of ROCK OF AGES , a show that orginated in LA. In 200 8 I was working in Ireland - 2 of my best girlfriends got married to each other in San Francisco . I was sad I couldn't attend, but thrilled they could be |
"A Positive Influence," by SheilaI wanted to do this to support all of my gay friends, but more importantly to be a positive role model for social justice for my high school students. I teach at a high school that is predmoninantly Hispanic . Unfortunately, the culture can be very homophobic. As a well respected teacher , I knew that I could be a 'positive influence' . Best regards, Sheila SAN DIEGO |
A Spiritual Awakening, by Becky N.To make a long story short, I'm a second generation " Fruit Fly ." I have grown up with the gay community my entire life and both of my parents are completely accepting of the gay community. They are not just accepting of the Gay community; they raised us accepting everyone and anyone. I grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan , which isn't so accepting or understanding |
A Picture is Worth 1,000 Words, by Jacy ToppsI participated in the NOH 8 Campaign to say I will no longer tolerate being second class . I want future generations to grow up in a society where hate is not written into law ; a society where they are free to love who ever and how ever they wish. "A change is brought about because ordinary people do extraordinary things." — Barack Obama Jacy Topps VOLUNTEER W NEW |
Soul, Spirit, and Heart, by Patrick LaraMy partner and I have been together for 6 years. We posed to support each other. My partner has muscular dystrophy . His doctor said he would only live until he was 21 . I've taken such good care of him, and he has made it to 27 . In December, he will be 28 . He is the love of my life and I can't wait to marry him. It's been a tough road and people always ask why ; it's because I'm |
Why We Posed, by Christy MiersI'm the Mother and the boy is my Son . Both of us are gay and deaf . Thought you'd like to know that we inspire a lot of people. My son was struggling to keep himself in the closet while he lived with his dad . I thought he needed his daddy as a role model while growing up. I was wrong. They are day and night. I finally had him move in with me last year. I gave him my support |
Why I Posed in AustinWe posed for the NOH 8 Campaign to support the greatest cause of all ..... equality . W AUSTIN OPEN SHOOT TEXAS |
Why I Posed Again, by Thomas GeraciLast year, I was thrilled to be able to pose for Adam Bouska and the NOH 8 Campaign . I knew it would be a great way to show support for those who have little or no voice in our society. It started out as a protest of Proposition 8 in California , became a platform to speak up for every one’s right to marriage, and now has come to mean even more than that. I had taken my |
Straight Support, by Anthony TilghmanMy name is Anthony Tilghman & I am a straight male who posed for the NOH 8 Campaign in NYC because I think everyone is entitled to their own options and have the right to choose the relationship/partner they want to choose; 'cause its not about race, color , or orientation. It's about who is right for you and who will support you no matter what. Thanks to NOH 8 for |
Still Standing, by Terrence F.This is my second time attending the NOH 8 photo shoot. I drove up to NYC from DC to take the opportunity to make my voice heard again . I work in the HIV/AIDS health care field in Washington, DC. I chose to again use that platform for my NOH 8 picture. My NOH 8 is me standing up against hate and stigma for all the residents in the Nation's Capital and the world currently |
Live It. Learn It. Spread It. by Annette R.NOH 8 is something I've grown up to know and live by before it even existed. So when I heard and learned about the NOH 8 Campaign , I knew I had to be a part of it. Growing up in the "hood" has never been easy but I learned that my family came first no matter what choices they made, and for us, that was just every day life. After getting married, I made sure to educate |
Strengths and Weaknesses, by Taylor HorneMy name is Taylor Horne and I am pretty much known for my style of dress and my politically driven and theatrical photographic works. I was a volunteer for the NOH 8 shoot on May 13th in New York City . Let me start by saying how fortunate I was to be part of such an incredible experience and to be part of the last NOH 8 shoot in NYC before the new legislation in NY to allow |
United We Stand, by Blake Alexander HealWhen I first came across the NO H 8 Campaign , I knew from that very moment I had to participate. The meaning & power behind the whole purpose of this just screamed out freedom to me. I come from a family where I am the 3rd gay child ; I have an older brother that is gay and an older sister that is lesbian. I really wanted to play my part of the role in the campaign about |
In Partnership and With Love, by Benjamin Phillips-LeseñanaAfter 17 years of being together , with the last 3 years legally married , my husband Lonny and I long for the day where equality prevails over discrimination. Recently, an openly gay elected-official had said (and I paraphrase), "...I can officiate marriages, yet unable to get married to someone I love . I can organize blood drives , yet I am unable to donate ..." |
Why I Posed is Simple, by Nikki BlonskyWhy I posed is simple. I believe in a lot of things, but a few in particular: love , support and equality . Having gay freinds and family members, I wanted to remind them and the world that I love, support and will always fight for marriage and any cause for equality in the LGBT community. I may be a straight woman, but I have a heart and mind that loves everyone . NIKKI |
Shed Your Gloves, by Lou AnnI did wear red gloves for a specific reason. Gloves provide a barrier to whatever you touch - you can never truly feel what you touch. Only when people shed their gloves , their prejudices , their hatred , can people really understand - or feel - how their actions impact others. I covered one eye because when you only see with one eye, you lose your depth perception |
My Voice by Rob HuffordWhen I first learned about the NOH 8 Campaign , I knew it was something I had to be a part of . I noticed on the site that there would be a photo shoot held in Palm Springs, California . This posed a bit of a problem since I reside in Phoenix, AZ . 500 miles, 8 hours and 2 tanks of gas later , I was proud to say that I stood up for something that meant so much to me. I stood up for |
Nature vs. NurtureGrowing up, I heard gay slurs from my father and disgusted remarks from my mother. These comments stuck with me, not because I agreed with them, but because even as a young child I knew they were wrong. |
Professional Iranian Basketball Player Behdad Sami speaks out about why he posed for the NOH8 campaign.“The reason I decided to get in contact with NOH8 and show my support is because I believe it’s already tough enough for the Gay community to receive support, let alone if you are of Middle Eastern decent. There are so many middle eastern males and females around the world that have been silenced by force not only fearing what their traditional families will |
I Kissed a Girl and I Liked It by Liz HansonI will start off by saying that I am a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints otherwise known as Mormon. Since the day I found out about the NOH8 Campaign I have wanted to participate and wondered if I would ever get the opportunity, partially because of location and partially because I wondered if I would ever get over the fear of my loved ones judging me and allowing myself to have a NOH8 pic taken and put out there. |
Family, Time, & Tradition by Chris WogamanMy pose for the NOH8 campaign was filled with symbolism both personal and of wider-reach. This pose represents family, time, tradition, my personal and our communal struggle for equality and justice. |
Accepting Myself by Kareem MerchantBefore I came to terms with my sexuality, I was always afraid to be myself. It was as if I had done something wrong. Now that I have accepted it, I want everyone who may feel a little different to experience the same joy the I feel today. I want them to have a voice, I want them to be heard! |
Choose Equality by Melissa BellI am a straight female living in Los Angeles, CA. I am a supporter of the NOH8 Campaign because I believe strongly in having a CHOICE. I think that the primitive way of thinking where everyone does and lives the same way is not only outdated but unrealistic and limiting. Love does not know boundaries, color, sexual preference...love is selfless and applies to all things, regardless of where something or someone is at. |
Three Years Later by Kelly S.I posed for NOH8 because at the age of fourteen I realized that I was a lesbian. Three years later I am co-president of my school's Gay Straight Alliance and I have come out to my parents and everyone at my school. I found the NOH8 campaign last year and thought it was a powerful movement and hoped I could take part. |
Teaching Respect and Equality by Joe B.I have been a high school health teacher for 9 years in a school outside of Seattle. I advise the Gay-Straight Alliance Club, teach students about respect and equality, and also find time to Volunteer in my community. |
Love Not Hate by Amy MarmolejoI chose to do a NOH8 photo for many reasons, obviously first being HUMAN RIGHTS. I will NEVER be okay with the thought of telling people who it is they are allowed to love or to marry. |
A Simple Ceremony by Dr. Michael Santone and Brian BlatchleyWhen Brian (the chef) and I (the Psy NP) decided to get married, we quietly left New Orleans and flew to Greenwich, CT. We told no one; we wanted the day to be about the commitment we were making to each other. |
Why I Posed by Rev. Dr. Beth LaRocca-PittsThe state doesn’t get to say who’s married and who is not. God says that. |
Don't H8 Your Body by La'DiosaAs an on-air personality, model, and beauty pageant Queen you would think I would have a high self-esteem. What people really don't know or see is that I am actually very shy and very self conscious about my body. I've always had a small figure from childhood through teenage years and still do now. |
For My Fallen Friend, by Brittany YarakI posed with a photo of my best friend, the late Benjamin Gilbert . His suicide last year is largely due to his sexuality and the hate that regrettably surrounds the LGBTQ community. I can't express enough the respect and passion I feel for this campaign. Ben was so full of laughter and life. Everyone always asks me why he killed himself. It was the hate . His everyday |
The Love of My Life, by Anthony VarrecchiaI NEEDED to be part of the NOH 8 Campaign as it is VERY personal for me. Staten Island is where I grew up. I was bullied, ridiculed, humiliated and pushed around throughout my school years. As I got older, it did get better. It wasn't until I was in my mid 30's that I finally accepted the proud gay man that I am. The whole world opened up..and so did I. My photo arrived! I |
A Painful Reminder by ValerieThis past weekend I was reminded why what everyone at NOH 8 is doing is so important. My brother's partner of almost thirty years died after a lengthy illness. When people ask me which of my family members passed away, I want to be able to say "my brother-in-law" , because that is what he was. Except in the state of Wisconsin, there is no "in law" about it. For almost |
Mexico. Religion. Love. By Rosa FraustoI have two reasons why I posed for NOH8. First reason: For my cousin, Mayela, who lives in San Luis Potosi, SLP Mexico. She came out a couple years ago and was the first in our family to do so. I went to visit her for a family wedding down in Mexico and my aunt prohibited my cousin from inviting her girlfriend to be her guest at the event. This obviously hurt her and |
SKATE AGAINST H8 by Nicholas LaRocheInterview & Article By Jamie M. Blanchard via Figure Skaters Online With duct tape over his mouth, former U.S. Junior Men’s Champion Nicholas LaRoche is speaking out. LaRoche, who currently coaches at the Toyota Sports Center outside of Los Angeles, is one of the more than 8,000 people who have become the face of NOH8, a public campaign for equality. LaRoche, |
Talk Hard Activism by Mr. WorldWideMy name is Ronnie (a.k.a. Mr. WorldWide) and I am a Radio Broadcast & Social Networking Engineer. I work with grass-roots, social change organizations, campaigns and support groups towards a better atmosphere & awareness. I used to work in FM & Satellite radio, but now I Podcast on the Internet. I have worked with organizations such as Free Press |
Finding My Path by Melanie CabardoThe photo shoot at the W Hollywood in November happened to be the third I attended within less than a year. Each time, the experience was completely different, adding more precious memories to my life that these photo shoots have created all on their own. I have always been someone who has worn my heart on my sleeve, speaking out for my wants, needs, and beliefs. |
Why I Posed by Lara F.I posed because I believe that everyone should have an equal right to love, whoever it may be. Let your heart love , let your self be free. Lara F. W Hollywood Open Shoot |
BEING A LEADER by AlanaI Posed because I Believe in Being a Leader! I was tired of all the HATE towards Muslims, and kids being bullied at school who can't get a good education because of it. I realize that you will not stop HATE entirely, but we can make people more aware of it. And if people would only educate themselves then they just might learn to understand other's religious beliefs |
HEAR ME NOW AMERICA by David Victor PavonI POSED FOR THE NOH 8 CAMPAIGN FOR MY GOD GIVEN BIRTH RIGHTS. RIGHTS THAT HAVE BEEN STRIPPED OF ME BY MY COUNTRY. I FIGHT TO REGAIN THE RIGHT TO BE ME, TO BE HEARD, TO LOVE & FOR THE SAKE OF HUMANITY. I FIGHT FOR MY FREEDOM AGAINST HATE, BIGOTRY, PREJUDICE & RACISM. NOT A SINGLE PERSON ON THIS PLANET SHOULD BE JUDGED FOR THEIR RACE, COLOR, CREED OR GENDER. |
Why I Posed by Mandy SkeelsI posed for this NOH 8 picture because hate is NOT an Aggie value and because everyone deserves to marry the person they love, regardless of sex, race, etc. All <3, No H 8 . Mandy Skeels Texas A&M Open Shoot |
I Want to Be Heard by Jaclyn P.I posed with two of my closest friends because we believe in equality . The main reason I decided to pose was that I'm bisexual and my mother is very judgmental and old-fashioned. Unfortunately she raised me to believe that it was wrong to be attracted to girls so I pretty much tried to ignore the impulses until I got involved in my local gay community and felt that |
Why I Posed by Joe MageeI believe that discrimination of any kind is unacceptable . Whether it be to serve our country or express their love in marriage, the GLBT community should be given the same rights Americans enjoy. Justice and equality no matter what race, religion, or sexual preference . -Joe Magee |
Starting Conversations by Wayne H.I posed for my 17 nieces and nephews. I believe that bigotry, prejudice, oppression and hatred have no place in our society. I believe we must fight until there are equal rights, HUMAN rights, for all. I wanted them to see that it is something worth fighting for. My brother gave me the honor of giving his first son my name. As my nephew grew up, there was a time that he |
Why I Posed by Adam H.I proudly posed for the NOH 8 Campaign because it is, unfortunately, necessary at this time. I spent over 12 years of my life in the military serving this country. "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" is the "unalienable right" granted to each of us by virtue of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. We cannot -- and should not -- settle for less. -Adam |
The Power of Words by Carrie BergenI posed in this photo with my older brother Chris. Growing up, Chris was always considered a little different. His peers played football, he liked horse back riding and figure skating (we were a skating duo). He preferred to help me pick out my outfits and help me with my hair and makeup instead of doing what the other guys were doing. He would put on |
Coming Out Christian by George McGoldrickI was 17 and about a month away from graduating from high school. I attended a Christian school with very strong values. At this point I knew I was gay and had come out to my closest friends at school. The environment was very small and I had very little exposure to the gay community at the time. Our classes began every day with prayer. One morning I was trying |
Why I Posed by Nicole BaconWhy did I do it? As a Str 8 woman I have gay friends who I love to death and want to see happy. I am interested in government and follow what is happening in the world of politics. I do believe in the constitution that it say all men are created equal, this means all of huMANity , men, women, transgendered and I believe the government has no right to tell you who you can |
Sounding Off by Joseph C. RochaWHY I POSED By Joseph Christopher Rocha "During the photo shoot, Adam - who I first met when I discharged from the military three years ago - said to me in conversation, “You know, I never meant to be an activist. I just felt I had to do something .” I could not have bonded with him more over any other sentence. I immediately thought of that Spring day, the 27 th May |
"Never Forget" by Lowell KaneIn my NOH 8 photo I am holding a pink triangle armband from Poland that gay men were forced to wear during the Holocaust . Today we reclaim this symbol from history and empower ourselves with pride ...but we must also never forget. This item, along with posters, photos, and buttons from GLBT history are on display in the GLBT Resource Center at Texas A&M University |
BE HEARD by Amanda BrunsI took my photo with my sister, my best friend . My sister and I posed to show that we believe the GLBT community should be equal to the Straight community. I posed for her in the NOH 8 Campaign as well as others in the GLBT community. Everyone deserves equality in all forms, regardless of who they love. THANK YOU FOR COMING TO A&M ! Hope to see all of you again soon |
Why I Posed by Mikelina BelainehFirst off let me say how much I appreciate you guys coming down to Texas A&M and doing the photoshoot, it was truly an amazing event to get Texas A&M moving in the right ( and less hateful ) direction. The fact that we had no protesters says a lot. I posed and volunteered at the NOH 8 photoshoot because first off I am in love with my partner (in the picture with |
Why I Posed by Tom RoccoI am an actor/singer in NYC and I have been with my partner, Matt, for 21 years . In June of 2007 we drove to Niagara Falls, Canada , to get married. The impetus for this was that our then-Governor, Elliot Spitzer, passed a law that if one was an employee of the state and had a same-sex marriage somewhere where it was recognized as legal , New York state would then |
Why I Posed With My UterusIn the last 9 years I have given birth to seven children. Three are my own and four (two sets of twins) are babies I birthed for two different Gay couples. My Uterus is an Ally . I consider my Surrogacy for Gay Men my own Uterine Activism . I feel strongly and passionately about Equality and figure, if I don't have tons of money to donate to the cause, I at least have a Uterus |
Why I Posed by Patrick Anthony"Why did I pose? I posed because I was the bigot. I was the hater. I was the person who denied who I am and in doing so denied those around me. I have been a wedding officiant for three years. I have married over a hundred couples. When I first got started in weddings, I turned away every single request to preside over a Civil Union ceremony (the NJ equivalent of same-sex |
Why I Posed by Jason Ford"I strongly feel that gay rights & equality is the biggest civil rights issue of our time. I took my photo because I wanted to lend my face & voice to an already strong & powerful movement. I want to be able to look back 50 years from now, when we are all equal, with my children and show them that daddy played a part in history." -Jason Ford |
Why I Posed by Mark Thoresen"Just because I'm straight and have never married doesn't mean others should be denied that right. Who is anyone to tell another who they can love? " - Mark Thoresen |
CELEBR8 with NOH8 by Terrika Hooks"When my partner and I saw on FaceBook that NOH 8 was campaigning here in DC we knew we had to be a part of that. We had just celebrated our one year anniversary and we knew we had to show all the love and support that the campaign has showed to our community. We wish to marry and become same sex parents here in DC pretty soon." -Terrika Hooks |
Posing for Future Generations by David Smith"I posed for NOH 8 so that future generations don't have to go through the same things as I have.. I want future generations to be able to look back and say why in the hell were people so bigoted against two people loving each other???.. Why was it that two people in love could not get married when this is a free country and we all should have equal rights?? And I will be |
Why We PosedI have been behind this cause basically since I first heard about it. When my LA friend Sarah posed for a photo... and shortly after, more of my friends in LA were posing, I wanted a photo of my own . I followed Prop 8 when it was on the ballet in California and kept hoping to see that after all these years, our country was starting to open up and wise up. I was, like |
NOH8 Just Aloha by Jenn LaganseThe reason i posed was because i wanted to show the aloha spirit . When we're raised in Hawaii a lot of us local kids are taught to respect one another. Which is why when you come to the islands, you will see the diversity of our community and all of us share that aloha spirit with one another. A lot of people know that aloha is used as a "hello" and "goodbye." Aloha also |
Why I Posed by Christian PaigeMy name is Christian Paige , and I posed because NOH 8 is a powerful movement for equality of all kinds, and I believe that my life as Gay, Black, HIV Positive man and the message of NOH 8 will help tear down the stigma behind being HIV Positive, will force people to want to get tested, and will help others to love life after being diagnosed!! |
Why I Posed by Kristi Blicharski"I support the NOH8 Campaign for so many reasons, I could go on and on. The most important reason is simply because it's right. The time is now for equality for all. It always has been." -Kristi Blicharski |
Why I Posed by Martin SophaI posed because I know what it's like grow up gay in small-town, Texas and I wanted to let gay-youths know that they're not alone. -Martin Sopha |
Why We Posed by Briana LambertI'd love to share a brief story. I was in Los Angeles from my home in the Washington DC area for a convention. Hollywood UMC is my friend's church, and a group of us wanted to support the church, their AIDS walk, and the community by posing. There were a few locals in my picture, but the rest of us are scattered from around the world--Australia, England, Northern California, |
Why I Posed by Alexie Agdeppa"I support NOH8 for my family, for the dance community, for all those who choose to live their lives truthfully. " Alexie Agdeppa; Dancer/Top 11 finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Season 7 |
Why Mr. Phillippines USA 2010 PosedMy name is Kevin De Leon and I am this year's Mr. Philippines USA 2010 . I posed for the NoH 8 Campaign because i believe that everyone should have the right to freedom. Love is infinite, indefinable and in todays society, we are held up by laws and regulations. What kind of laws are we respecting when its depriving us of what we as human being need; LOVE! Everyone |
Why We Posed by The ClarksWe live in Utah, the headquarters of the LDS Church . In a community strongly influenced by the church's stratagem for Prop 8 , we want to encourage people to think for themselves, think about equality for all. We believe in love, not hate, and we have always been there to take a stand for all people, and being part of the NOH 8 photo shoot was something we felt very |
We Want to BE HEARD!After many people have viewed the photo of Michael and I, as a gay rights activist I think it's time for the minority in our own community to speak up and be heard. |
"In the Heights" and NOH8 by Rick CarotoRick Caroto's Portrait & Group Shot with actress Isabel Santiago In October 2009 we began the 1st National Tour of "In the Heights". We left behind our families and our friends to tell the story of "Heights", a musical about home, family and finding where you belong. About 6 months into the run of the tour I came across a NOH8 Photo on one of my friends Facebook |
"Do Ask... 'Cuz I Want to Tell" by Christopher VillanuevaMy name is Christopher Villanueva and I'm a Marine posing for the NOH 8 Campaign . One of the greatest right that this country allows us is the right to expression. If you ask a hundred people what love is, every person would give you a different answer, and every person would say that was ok. If we're ok with the dynamic expression of love as a whole, why do we |
Posing for My Family by Chase HardinWhy did I pose for the NOH 8 Campaign ? For my family. Armed only with this photo, a picture that simply implored the world to reject hate, I came out to my extended family with the following e-mail. Hey guys! I'm sending out this picture to family in hopes that it might help everyone better understand me and what the photo stands for. For those of you who don't know, |
Why I Posed by Jonathan DavisWorking in education here in Arizona at Scottsdale Schools for the past 5 years has reminded me how cruel kids can be to those who are different than them. I posed for the NOH 8 Campaign for the GLBT children who still are made fun of, picked on, bullied, discriminated against, etc. in hope of decreasing discrimination in their lives ahead of them. Jonathan Davis |
Why We PosedIt was important for me to pose for the NOH 8 Campaign with my partner because I want the world to know that we are JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE!!!! We are in a relationship, we have good days and bad, ups and downs just like any other couple, and we deserve to be treated EQUALLY and without predjudice and hate. Lora Jacobson Scottsdale, AZ Open Shoot |
Be Heard: Isiah Thomas & Joshua Zeke ThomasWe are Isiah and Joshua Thomas. We posed for the NOH 8 Campaign because we believe that all hate and discrimination is wrong. It is time for full equality and equal rights for everyone, regardless of race, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. |
Standing OUT and Standing UP, by Stephen LedesmaI recently just embraced my sexuality and as of the year 2009 I had to endure many struggles that homosexuals go through such as trying to be accepted by family and friends, prejudice, etc. Living in a very conservative and religious household , I had to find ways to be myself as well as support my own thoughts, beliefs, and values without jeopardizing |
Why We Posed for the NOH8 CampaignWe have a California Proposition 8 same-sex marriage. We were heart broken when Proposition 8 passed. All of our friends, family and coworkers were ecstatic about President Obama's victory. Everyone was talking about what progress this election meant for equality, but for us, one of our basic civil rights was taken away at the voting booths. We moved to New |
To Judge or Not to JudgeWhat makes me to participate NOH8 photo event? The answer is pretty simple. They were there for me and I want to show that I am there for them too. When I faced the hardship, many Christians I knew backed off while gay and lesbian people came in and support me. |
Why I Posed by J.T.I was proud to talk about my photo and the NO H8 campaign because I didn’t need an invitation from a friend to do this. I walked up and down that block looking for the location on my own. This was my own accomplishment and I am so glad that I did. |
Why Our Family PosedHate isn't a way of life - love is the answer! We're here to make a difference and show that families come in every shape, size and color! Our family's story is one of hate, love and everything in between. My partner and I (commitment ceremony in December, 1995) had long been working on adoptions... |
Why I Posed by Shante "Boss Lady" Broadus"Supporting the NOH8 campaign meant a lot to me personally. Everyone deserves to experience love, no matter their color, race, or gender. I have employee’s and friends that are in same sex marriages, I did this campaign with them in mind. I also wanted to set an example for my children, teaching them not to judge and support! ((No Hating STOP hating on love!)) |
Why I Posed by Cathy DeBuonoMy name is Cathy DeBuono, and I posed for the NOH8 Campaign because more than ever it has become apparent to me that we as a community need to push back, fight back, and speak up for ourselves. We have been too complacent and too patient with the ignorance around us for far too long, waiting for folks to catch up. It's time to refuse it, time to draw lines in the sand |
Why I Posed by Dalila Ali RajahMy name is Dalila Ali Rajah and I posed for the NOH8 Campaign because art is one of the most powerful movers of hearts and minds . It is time for full equality and equal rights for everyone. I am committed to transforming the dialog between the African-American community and the LGBT community so that we can move forward with a new mutual understanding and respect. |
Why I Posed by Tatum DeRoeckA short answer to the following question: “Why was it important for you to be a part of this campaign?” I will do anything I can to help fight for equality. I would wear a red cape, pink tutu and green socks everyday if it made a difference. However I think duct tape is much more significant in conveying the silencing of our rights. |
Why I Posed by Nikki CasterBecause I sincerely believe we're all equal and deserve to be happy as much as the next person. The NOH8 campaign is a beautiful way to express that voice, without having to say a word. |
Why I Posed by Suzanne WestenhoeferBecause the work is just not done yet people!!! |
Why I Posed by Shawnee HarkinsTo be a part of this campaign is very personal. Our faces need to be seen...not just our voices. |
Why I Posed by Courtney JacksonThe NOH8 Campaign is a movement that I couldn't wait to be apart of. Hate is only a frame of mind and if we can change that through beautiful photos of self expression, I'm all about it. |
Why I Posed by Sandra VallsMy name is Sandra Valls and I posed for the NOH8 Campaign because I believe that no one wins if some are losing. It's important to be a part of this campaign because I believe all people should have the right to love and live their lives however they choose. I am huge advocate of human rights and through my comedy, light the lamp of hope in people's hearts to live their |
Why I Posed by Meghan McCainI was so honored to be asked to pose for the NOH8 Campaign. I am a proud member of the Republican Party and a proud supporter of marriage equality. I especially love the incorporation of the little elephant with his tusks duct-taped in the photograph. Marriage equality is not just a Democrat or Republican issue, it is a human one. Read More Here |
Equal Rights for AllI posed for the NOH8 Campaign because I believe in equal rights for everyone. I am straight and it breaks my heart that people in my life that I love are treated as second class citizens because of whom they love. After the passage of Prop 8 I got involved with several grass root efforts to overturn the proposition. I will continue to stand up for equal rights and fight |
I Can Make a DifferenceAfter yes on Prop 8 passed, my girlfriend and I were left in dismay. We had discussed getting married before the vote as a political message in case we didn’t win but we were sure we would win. We were devastated when we were denied our rights. What we opted for instead was to file for a domestic partnership since that is what we had to settle for. Meanwhile, |
Making a StatementI chose to pose for the NOH8 Campaign because the ignorance in our country really frustrates me. I 've always been a bit different: when I was a elementary school student I would go to school and play with Barbie dolls and the other kids would ridicule me; now about ten years later I 'm a full time college student and Next-Generation New York City Club Kid, |
Why I Posed by Abiola AbramsNOH8 Campaign NYC. Why Straight People MUST Participate. People have asked me many times, Abiola, why did you participate in the No H8 Campaign? They've said, Abiola, you live in NYC not LA, your books, columns, Web TV series and blogs are about heterosexual love. You have a strong fan base that has followed your fun stories about your love of and dating mishaps |
Why I Posed by Nathan ManskeLast year I started a website, www.ImFromDriftwood.com, which collects true stories by gay people from all over the world, in hopes of helping gay teens feel not so alone. I believe that belonging to a group, feeling accepted and knowing that you're not the only one out there is the first step to every gay persons path to happiness. The NOH8 Campaign, while |
Transgender IssuesThis blog is about my recent experience in the Family Court system. The Honorable Joseph P. Brannigan has imposed many restrictions. Some of which egregiously violate 1st amendment rights of freedom of speech and expression. Judge Brannigan has prohibited me from discussing "transgender issues" |
Called To ServeCalled to Serve The military continues to operate under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, which even the Pentagon says is unsubstantiated. As General McChrystal asks for more troops in Afghanistan, one gay Navy vet offers his service to his country in spite of the policy that would deny him. By Christopher T. Landavazo On May 13, 1996, I raised my right |
Why I Posed by Jay MaroseWhy I Posed for the NOH8 Campaign by Jay Marose Posted: July 9, 2009 11:26 PM This is why I posed for the NOH8 Campaign , a silent photographic protest. As a publicist, it is second nature to opt out of photos. I have a wonderful collection of pictures of famous clients or amazing events with only my black clad arm or leg in frame. However, when I first saw the NOH8 Campaign |
Why I Posed by Jill BennettMy name is Jill Bennett and I posed for the NOH8 Campaign because it's time for everyone in our community to take a stand against intolerance and hatred. B e i n g i n v o l v e d m e a n s b e i n g v i s i b l e - t o o u r s t r a i g h t a l l i e s , to our f a m i l y , our f r i e n d s , a n d especially to those who oppose equal rights. The supporters of Prop 8 need to see our faces, feel our presence and to |
Why I Posed By Ohene CorneliusI am a supporter of freedom. The right to be, say, and speak. The acceptance. I might not always understand, but for me this picture means I'm listening. |
Scott Herman on Why He Says NOH8Scott Herman on Why He Says NOH8 By Advocate.com Editors Fitness model and personal trainer Scott Herman first stepped into the public eye when he joined the cast of the 21st season of The Real World, set in Brooklyn, N.Y. Now Herman has taken to the Web to talk about his support for marriage equality after posing for the NOH 8 Campaign, a move that he says, despite |
