Baltimore OUTloud - Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trangender - LGBT - Equality - News - Arts - Culture - Baltimore OUTloud - An Independant Voice for the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community

A few days ago, while sorting through some old files, I came across a photo of someone I had at one time considered a friend and important part of my spiritual family and support system. Over time, however, our relationship changed in unpleasant and unpredictable ways. The day came when harsh and biting words were exchanged on both sides and we came to a heart wrenching parting of the ways. It took me many pain filled and sleepless months of prayer, introspection, and forgiveness “work” in order to move to a place of peace and acceptance of this loss of my spirit-friend.

The attack on Mr. Kenni Shaw was a shot heard ’round the world. Sadly, this incident is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. It is an indication of a more serious disease in the core of our collective character. Black antipathy toward “gay” people is featured in the work of the most popular black hip hop performers. But talking is one thing, violence another. And more people are finding it harder to ignore the anti-gay violence that plagues the black community, even though – contrary to stereotypes – African Americans account for the largest part of the LGBT community.

This Moment Of Transformation

On a chilly Christmas night, Kenni Shaw walked to a corner store in his neighborhood in East Baltimore. As he was walking back home, 5 to 6 men attacked him from behind. They pummeled his head and his face but they didn't rob him. They just beat him up or in Baltimorese, they "banked" him.