What will we remember about this year in the Upside Down? No, doubt most of the memories will be of COVID, BLM, unemployment, quarantines, and social distancing. The list of cancellations is nearly endless, and we’re only halfway through the year.
However, we’ve also experienced many history-making moments: favorable SCOTUS rulings; the Commonwealth passing laws that finally protect us from most forms of discrimination; solidarity with the African American community as we support the BLM movement; and simple acts of kindness for our friends and neighbors.
Primarily due to COVID and its impact, we were not in a position to publish a print version of OutLife757 as most of our distribution locations were closed or events cancelled. But we can communicate virtually, and we have assembled a Best Of OutLife757 edition highlighting the moments and amazing people that comprise our community.
In this edition, we’ll revisit our uplifting interviews with Portsmouth activist Klu Atkinson, educator Vee Milosevich and Wesley McKee, the Cox High School duo behind their GSA. We’ll visit with the doctors of the CAN Clinic who are keeping our community healthy, poignantly remember the last days of the Hershee Bar, and say farewell again to The Wave owner Tommy Pruitt. Dr. Charles Ford of Norfolk State University reminds of the origins of Hampton Roads Pride, and we reconnect with four budding leaders of the queer community.
There’s new stuff, too. We’ll check in with our vital LGBTQ non-profits and how they are faring during the pandemic, analyze what the SCOTUS ruling from June means for all of us, and, last but by no means least, celebrate our 2020 Best of GAY HRVA Reader’s Poll winners.
There’s much to be concerned about now, but by looking back, we are reminded of all the wonderful people, organizations, and events that keep us resilient, thriving, and moving forward. Enjoy!
Until we meet again, stay healthy, keep washing your hands, wear a fabulous mask, and take care of one another.
We’ll see you on the other side.
Eric and Andrew
