Reclaiming Lesbian Pride

[I'mOneToo]

Hi Kobi,

I'm one too! A proud Lesbian, that is. Wish I could find my old button that says that, which was purchased probably sometime back in the early 80's at a women's bookstore (dyke heaven, back in the day). It's around here somewhere. I'm a reclaimer too. Never lost my self, just needs to be occasionally tuned in. Like when you are in the car, and the radio starts to receive static... just turn the button back to where the reception is clear and strong. Lesbian Feminism has informed my consciousness from an early age, and can't imagine tuning it out, or needing to. The fine tuning of my Butch self, is not my main focus in life. It's just what it is, not an affectation but my unadorned unassailable presence. I could lose my boots, or pants, or boxer briefs, and still be Butch.

But like a three-legged stool -- Lesbian/Feminist/Woman -- if any of those were removed I would fall down. There have been many splinters carved out of it and supports added underneath it, especially in recent years, but as long the three original legs remain in place I will always have a place to sit.

Originally Posted by Kobi

When I started this thread, I hoped it would not turn into a debate of terminology, or who owns what words, or who has the current rights to whatever.

I am a freakin lesbian - one of those relic women who wants to be with women who want to be with other women.

I am tired of feeling invisible in my own community. I am tired of feeling like a guest in my own community.

I just wanted a place to be where others like me can get together and say "hey yea we are still here and we are still ok and we still have a voice and we're not going away."

Is that too much to ask?