Today I am terribly sad to report that a wonderful community service organization I once worked with has come under negative attention due to the published writings of a current Board member. The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire. The Publisher has published a retraction already, I hope this organization also takes a public stand.
I'm am posting my open letter to the ICRME:
An Open letter to the ICRME,
The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire was one of the first places I found friends when I moved to Denver more than ten years ago. I quickly joined in the wonderful work being done by the all volunteer organization. The Colorado AIDS Project, Project Angel Heart, and Howard Dental Center were only a few of the programs that benefited from the tireless efforts of the diverse membership of the ICRME. Community spirit, leadership and education were the principles behind the ICRME's own White Rose Scholarship program.
This meaningful work moved me to serve on the governing council and Board of Directors as well as many campaigns for Emperor and Empress. I have held the ICRME in high esteem long after my life has led me in a different direction. In recent days the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire has become the focus of national attention, but not for the wonderful work done by the membership, but for an article published by one of it's current board members. ("Homo-Razzi in the News" by Benjamin Paige - 7 Year Old Transvestites in Public Schools -Gayzette) http://ai.eecs.umich.edu/people/conway/TS/News/US/Benjamin%20Paige/ben-paige-hi-res.jpg This negative attention demeans the hard work and generous giving of an organization that might otherwise be recognized for inclusiveness and community service.
Even though the publisher has printed a retraction the impact reaches the ICRME. I urge you to find a way to address these concerns. It is imperative to take action swiftly. The Imperial Court System must avoid the same appearance of division that the Human Rights Campaign fell into. It must stand as one LGBT community. As a leader among Colorado's LGBT organizations I am confident that the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire can take steps to preserve it's place in the community and my heart.
Sincerely.
Eden Lane
Saturday, March 8, 2008
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3 comments:
Gender dysphoria is clearly recognizable very early in human developement. Benjamin Paige's story only helps to better define the ignorance many people carry about this issue. I actually value the story because it reminds us of the work we still have ahead of us.
Thank you for sharing this.
The Imperial Court had nothing to do with this.
Anonymous...
The ICRME didn't publish it or write it... however the person who did write it serves on the Board of Directors of the ICRME. This reflects on the ICRME, but I have confidence that they will respond soon.
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