Open Letter In Support Of Derrick Martin….And How You Can Help
When someone takes a stand based on principle, fights the courageous battle , and leads the way for others, I think it essential that recognition and praise be made known.
When Derrick Martin of Cochran, Georgia decided as a gay young man he wanted to go to prom with his boyfriend he knew the decision would be hard. I am also sure he knew in his heart it was the only path to take in order to live authentically. He was able to gain the backing of the school board for his decision to be treated fairly, but not the support of his parents. As sad as this is to report there are news sources tonight stating that his parents have thrown Derrick out of the house and he is staying with a friend.
With that news comes our letter of support that was mailed to him at his school. You will note that we enclosed a small check and I ask readers to consider doing the same in honor of Derrick’s action, and to assist him at this time.
In part the letter reads…….
Derrick Martin, Class of 2010
Bleckley County High School
242 East Dykes St.
Cochran, GA 31014
(478) 934-6258
March 24, 2010
Dear Derrick,
I was delighted to read this morning that you had decided to ask that your rights as a member of the Bleckley Class of 2010 be respected, even if that meant you risked a certain level of adversity. Bravo, and more importantly, thank you!
Thank you for being a risk-taker because your decision to go ahead and invite a real date to your own Senior Prom, just like every other young person there, makes it a little easier for the next young gay person to feel good about himself and to participate fully in the everyday rituals of life. When you walk with your partner at the prom’s “Lead Out”, go ahead and let your classmates stare. Smile. Be proud. Know that every step you take that night is an educational moment, one by which you are helping others to see that being gay isn’t any different than being straight.
Before closing this letter, let me say that we are enclosing a little something here to help you make your prom night special. Please find enclosed a check in the amount of $10, to be put toward the cost of an elegant boutonnière for your date. A simple rose with baby’s breath pinned to his tuxedo’s lapel will be just stunning and make him feel as special as any of the other dates there that night. We wish you both very well and hope that your Prom night is memorable for all of the right reasons.
Very Sincerely,
