Sunday Activities

Today felt almost as hectic as yesterday, although for different reasons. We awoke in our hostel for the first time and met for reflection and discussion, in which we shared the things that were challenging us so far  and responded to each other. Forming cohesive group bonds is something I think we're doing quite well so far this trip. I am hopeful that we have the ability as a group to resolve conflicts and help each other through challenges. After eating a delicious bagel breakfast with the rest of the hostel and reflecting, we headed to the Castro, the Original Gayborhood. This is where Harvey Milk's camera store and headquarters was located and where the San Francisco gay movement began. Walking among open queer couples of all walks of life and moving in between proudly displayed rainbow flags was heartening and affirming. We soon got to work, standing on street corner soapboxes and in parks handing out pamphlets for a march that we'll be helping to lead tomorrow. DOMA and Proposition 8 are going to be in the Supreme Court and we are trying to rally public opinion to hopefully influence that decision. More to come on that after the march tomorrow I'm sure.

Back at the hostel after a long afternoon outside, many of us are sunburnt, all of us having aching feet, and we were treated to an incredible woman named Zoe who used to work at Transgender San Francisco. She started off talking about basic trans* terminology, and then she got in depth into a discussion on the details of transition, trans* young people and the developments of recent years and shared her story of transition. It was really incredible to talk to someone so intelligent, articulate and really approachable who shared with us so much knowledge and depth. I felt personally really lucky to have been in the room with her and hope to correspond with her in the future.

We then enjoyed delicious stir fry with tofu cooked by the other San Francisco Catalyst trip and settled in for an evening of discussion, journaling, relaxing and for some, exploring the city.

-Christina Daily