World AIDS Day turns 30 years old today. The very first global commemoration to raise awareness of the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) was observed on December 1, 1988 – seven years into the struggle against HIV/AIDS. Normally, this type of anniversary would be a cause of celebration. However, the fact that humanity still suffers from this disease is no reason for jubilation. Yes, we have had a few remarkable successes in fighting this pandemic; but the fact remains that we continue to lose both lives and talent.
Category: reflection
Reflections: End of November, 2018
November, 2018, was most definitely not the month I expected it to be. As those of you who read ReNude Pride regularly already know, my father died on November 11. This event happened unexpectedly following his diagnosis of stage 4 cancer of the colon, liver and one kidney on October 28. Mercifully, it wasn’t a protracted end but was swift and relatively pain-free. Which does beg the question: “How the hell do the doctors or any of us really know how painless any death truly is?”
Black Friday: The Madness Begins
Despite what the featured photograph and title may infer, the designation “Black Friday” has nothing whatsoever to do with a racial reference. Instead, the term “Black Friday” is what is known in the U.S. retail industry as the official first day of the Christmas holiday shopping season. It is the day after the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday (always the fourth Thursday in November) which means it is always a Friday. The “Black” designation is in reference to the customary business practice of posting commercial profits in black ink and commercial losses in red ink.
Tomorrow Is USA: Election Day
In the USA, tomorrow is Election Day. In every voting district, the entire U.S. Congressional House of Representatives is standing for election. In the U.S. Senate, many Senators are also facing their constituents today. It is not a presidential election year (we could not be so fortunate), but we do have a duty and obligation to determine policies and governance for the next two years. Please, do not stand around waiting for others to decide for you. Please get out and exercise your choice for our future if you have not already done so.
A Penny For My Thoughts: Are We Muddying The Rainbow Flag?
Last year (2017) when a revised version of the rainbow flag was unfurled in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA in honor of Gay Pride, it generated quite a controversy. It continues to create heated debate now, more than a year afterwards. This uproar is all centered on a version of the rainbow flag that Philadelphia chose to symbolize their support of all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation, and their commitment to respecting diversity. Honorable intentions and no disrespect were intended but obviously not taken by everyone.
Continue reading A Penny For My Thoughts: Are We Muddying The Rainbow Flag?
Thursday Footnote: Ton Dou Arrest
This “Friday Footnote” post I’m publishing here a day early, Thursday. I’ve already composed my “Bare GLBTQ History Month” feature for tomorrow (Friday). Rather than update or trying to re-schedule, it is far easier for me to publish this now. Many of you commented and/or contacted me on Anthony Lynn Douglas’ arrest in New York City in early September at the petition signing for his Bare Body Freedom movement rally in Times Square. He and others were permitted by the New York City to be completely bare at that rally.
New Class This Year!
The new academic year began for me almost weeks ago. A new journey with new faces and new students to enlighten and to inspire (hopefully). It is also exciting for me, personally and professionally, as I am one of a team of three professors collaborating on a new class being offered this semester. As this upcoming November 11, 2018, marks the centenary of the signing of the armistice that ended the Great War of 1914-1918 (World War I), this particular class offers a retrospective on that event, the “war to end all wars.”
Reflections: End of August, 2018
Aretha Franklin
Queen of Soul
1942 – 2018
The entertainment world collectively mourned the loss of Aretha Franklin, affectionately known as the Queen of Soul, during this month. Ms. Franklin, born on March 25, 1942, died after entering hospice care on Thursday, August 16, 2018. She was 76 years old. I personally never knew her, but I grew up in the era of her music. Being Deaf, I never heard her sing but I did read the lyrics to her songs and fully recognize and understand her tremendous impact on the popular culture.
Dive Into August!
It’s now or never, folks! Let’s get ready because before we all know it, there’s a very massive change approaching and time is running out. The clock is already ticking and the next we know, it will be the beginning of Autumn, 2018! There, I wrote the unspeakable! Today begins the first day of the final full month of Summer, 2018. Next month, the seasons will change and this one will be over. History. Past. For a summer-freak as myself, the days of doom and gloom are upon us all.
Skinny-Dipping Photos
As unbelievable as it may seem to some, there are instances where we may encounter a less-than-blissful skinny-dipper (naked or nude swimmer). More often than not, there are usually extenuating circumstances that create this anomaly. Most people are sublimely relieved to be experiencing clothes-freedom and a leisurely swim simultaneously. When we think of recreational swimming, it is associated with freedom from stress and other worldly cares and responsibilities. It is, under normal situations, an activity that is performed after our toils and professional duties are long over.
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 