Dirty Hands

When was the last time that you got your hands dirty? Not in a dungeon or that back room of a bar. When did you last actively engage in your community? Has it been a month? A year? Longer?

Our queer community is built on the legacy of community service. 

We all need help at some point in our life. Whether it’s lending a dollar, a ride from the airport, or something more serious.  It’s a fact that at some point you’re going to ask for a helping hand. The same idea applies to our community members.  

There is no question that we've witnessed increasing challenges within our communities. From hateful legislation, to funding cuts on essential services, and even tragic deaths of our community siblings. It seems that every day we are slapped with another piece of breaking news. It is crushing. This highlights the need for tangible support beyond online interaction. We can easily “like” a post that we see online. We want to show support and let people know that we care. However, we live in public spaces. It is important for us to actively plug into our local network. The fundraisers, health clinics, and protests that aim to make a real impact in the lives of others need our help. 

So, how can you help? The first step is to listen to the voices around us.  It’s a lot easier to support when we listen to the first-hand lived experience of our siblings. I don’t have the magic answer for how to help everyone around me. However, if we want to help, we need to truly hear how we can best support, rebuild, uplift, and strengthen our siblings from their own voice. 

Showing up for those around us looks different case by case, but the critical decision is that we take action. Every effort made to support the community is showcasing that actions speak louder than words. 

I’m not asking for you to run yourself exhausted to the ground. Frequently being on alert to help others is exhausting. It is important to take time for ourselves, to rest and recharge. We need to enjoy peaceful moments with loved ones. This self-care is crucial for our overall well-being. Once our own tea kettle is full, we need to pour into those around us. Look outward to see where we can assist those around us. We owe it to one another.  

So, do you want to get your hands dirty with me?