It's been awhile since my last post due to job/school/etc., but I wanted to share my recent experience in San Francisco.
Earlier this year a sister that I met at Southern Comfort and I decided to spend a week in SF just to do a bit of sightseeing. I was a bit apprehensive at first, despite SF's reputation as being very accepting, but decided to "just live a little". Arriving a few days before Annette, I was able to take in both the Transgender Pride March on Friday and the main LGBT Pride Parade on Sunday. Like Phylis Anne in Manhattan, this was my first experience at such an event.
The newspaper reported that 3,000 - 4,000 people participated in the TG event, which is in its second year. The group was a mix of all ages, races and genders. The event began with a series of performances (music, spoken word and comedy) at Mission Dolores park. At 7:30p, everyone assembled for the march to the Civic Center approximately a mile away. I can't describe the feeling of solidarity I felt as we made our way through the streets and intersections. When we arrived at the Civic Center, several presenters spoke on topics relevant to the TG community. Most memorable was the address given by Gwen Araujo's uncle regarding the second trial of those accused of her murder. It was heartening to see so many people turn out in support.
Nearly 1 million were reported to have watched and/or participated in the main LGBT parade on Sunday. I arrived early enough to get a good vantage point for lots of photos (I've posted a few from both parades to the Photo Gallery). The parade lasted nearly four hours, featuring groups as diverse as Wells Fargo Bank, various churches (in support of the community, no less!) and LGBT members of SF Fire/Police/Sherriff's Departments. It was all a bit much for a girl from the South to take in.
After taking a look at some of the booths set up by organizations associated with the event, I decided to take in the Tibetan Antiquities exhibit at the Asian Art Museum. Leaving the comfort of the very accepting crowd outside, I wasn't sure how things would go in the museum itself. I shouldn't have been concerned in the least. Within a few minutes, a lady visiting from Australia struck up a conversation with me regarding American politics and the like. She commented on the festival outside saying, "You don't really know how good you have it over here in the States." There is still a long ways to go in the US in terms of rights and acceptance, but her comment really made me feel good.
On Monday, Annette arrived and we spent the next several days riding cable cars, shopping, getting makeovers at MAC and Nordstroms, seeing Alcatraz, visiting Napa Valley and hitting some of the clubs. Yes, a few people did a double take when we walked by, but the worst comment we ever received was being called "sir" instead of "ma'am" (and that only happened once or twice). It was an absolute blast. I have to admit that my opinion of going full-time would certainly change if I lived in SF or a similarly tolerant community.
My SO and I are planning a trip to New England in a few weeks. She suggested that we have a "girls day out" during the trip. THAT will certainly prove to be interesting (and perhaps a little strange). I'm still having a difficult time believing that I'm the same person who was afraid to get out of the house en femme just a year and a half ago.
Take Care
Angie
I'm glad you're back! 
