Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Journal Four: Holding On Reflections

One of the profiles that meant the most to me in Holding On was Sylvia Rivera and Deputy Inspector Seymour Pine, Veterans of the Stonewall Riots. This profile meant a lot to me because it is such a big historical landmark for the gay and lesbian community. It also stood out to me because it was one of the few profiles where two people told their story and were basically "enemies" when it took place, but they came together and told both of their perspectives. They overcame their differences to share their experience. Because of the Stonewall Riots, a lot has improved in the gay community. Even though the gay community is still trying to pass certain laws and fight for more freedom, we have come a long way and I think that is a huge accomplishment.

Another story that really stood out to me was Dan Barlow the fundamentalist Mormon and mayor. I belive this was an important profile because it really opened up my eyes to the freedom of religion. I also think it's really important for society to see that arguments over religion are still very present in differnent parts of our community today. I liked Barlow's profile because it shared a lot of history. The author also shared with us how Short Creek and the community was afterwards. It shared insight on the aftermath which a lot of the other profiles didn't provide.

I believe both of these stories showed the theme of freedom. From someone's religion to someone's sexual preference and beliefs, having freedom of these choices should be one's own. I definitely think that both of these are presented and worked on in today's world. I don't think society will ever stop fighting for their freedom, no matter what that freedom entitles. Both of the profiles showed a group of people standing up for their beliefs and I think that is very powerful.

3 comments:

  1. I thought it was interesting to see how broken up he was. Usually as a society we don't want to see men be weak and display emotions, and I like that he is expressing his love for his children, community and faith.

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  2. I really liked that profile also, it was the only one that showed both sides and thought it was cool how they came together also.

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  3. I like how you connected the two profiles by the theme freedom. Although they are both fighting for different freedoms, it's nice to see that people have to urge to stand up for what they believe in. I agree, very powerful.

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