Wahls’ Words

Though not directly related to street harassment, this video of Zach Wahls speaking in defense of his family has been making the rounds, and deserves to live on our blog. His presentation (at 19!) is flawless, and his case is moving. Consider this our weekend treat for you!

2 Responses

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1. Yale Cohn says:

   December 6, 2011 at 1:59 pm

   Here’s our interview with Zach about how his life has changed after this speech thrust him into the public eye, what it was like growing up with two mothers, what led him to decide to go and speak before the House of Representatives, and what other young people can do to fight for equality and speak out against intolerance.

   http://patv.tv/blog/2011/04/06/talking-with-yale-cohn-with-zach-wahls/

   Reply
2. Alex says:

   December 7, 2011 at 12:51 pm

   This video is problematic.

   his whole speech is based on the premise of his being “normal” and white and middle class and great at standardized tests and goes to church with his family and this is why gay people should be allowed to marry.

   and what if he turned out lie this? this shows that lesbians are invalid parents?? according to his logic, yes.

   there is something extremely problematic in the way he creates a “we are just like you” dynamic that 1) isn’t true, because diversity exists in every community, 2) invalidates this diversity and the experience of those who are not like him or of which his audience would not be “proud” to be a parent of.

   He is appealing to conservative family values and throwing the diversity of humankind and of queer folks specifically under the bus…

   Read an even more articulate critique here:
   http://www.socialjusticeleague.net/2011/10/fauxgress-watch-born-this-way/

   Reply