Rainbow flags attest to community’s humanity, acceptance

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, July 6, 2016

As a member of the LGBTQ community here on Vashon I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks for the rainbow flags flying across Vashon over the past weeks. The tragedy in Orlando had a chilling effect on me, as I am sure it had for many. The outpouring of visible love affirms my sense of safety, connection, and attests to the humanity of our community. I feel particular gratitude to the many businesses that hoisted the flags; to Sarah Wright, Kathleen Johnson, and Daphne Purpus who all acted quickly to organize this response of support, and in all the other ways our community expresses love ongoing to each other, not just in the midst of devastation, but daily as we acknowledge and uphold one another.

Thank you Vashon,

— Kim Newall