Elizabeth Edwards, symbolism, and substance [View All]

[dsc]

I remember my first gay pride parade. It was in Chicago and I was totally amazed. It was one of the longest parades I have ever seen and people running for governor, treasurer, congress, and a host of lesser offices were featured in this parade. For a small town boy who often wondered if he were the only gay person on planet earth. Not only was I not alone, but people actually wanted our votes.

Now Elizabeth Edwards (maybe Elizabeth Kucinich will beat her by a couple of hours) will be the first spouse of a presidential candidate to speak to a pride event. I will admit, this impresses me to some extent. This is a very tangible symbol of the arrival of gays and lesbians as a potent political force. I don't know if I am going to vote for Edwards, but I am surely more likely to do so now than yesterday.

Sometimes symbolism illustrates substance. Time will tell if this is one of those times.