Throughout the recent years I've heard many straight people casualy use the word "gay" while describing something undesirable or of less importance. Many times I've tried to look the other way or even put on an expression as if I didn't hear it.  I did hear it, we all heard it.

These are photos from Fresno City College's 2nd Annual Pride Day, celebrated on Tuesday, April 24th. Local groups and organizations manned booths and tables. There were also mock marriage ceremonies, poetry readings, music and dance and LGBT speeches. The event celebrated the common humanity of Fresno City College GLBT students and their straight allies. For additional information contact club President Katrina Rios @ 559-519-0470 or advisor Jerry Thurston @ 559-442-4600 ext 8455.

I suspect most of us recall the rhyme, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”. Like much of what we’re force fed as children, Americans abandon the message in favor of political and social control. Other lessons are equally false, such as “all people are created equal” and “let he who is without sin cast the first stone” or even “all good things come to those who wait”. American history literally overflows with adages we inflict on undeveloped brains to foster the illusion of a perfect country. It’s easier on the heart than the truth, but it’s misinformation, nonetheless.