My Cardboard Balcony

I've Got Friends There by Belinda Roddie Sometimes, when she dreams, she doesn't feel so alone anymore.

Hey, everyone. This week, I decided not to write a Storyteller. Instead, based on two conversations with someone I thought was a better friend, I am sharing some articles and personal essays from other authors instead. Please read them. Maria Ranger: Some things are basic human rights, not debate topics Alyson Escalante: Transgender Rights Are Not Up For Debate Johnny Silvercloud: False Neutrality Is Making Americans More Stupid Naomi Schalit: A philosopher argues why no one has the right to refuse services to LGBT people Laurie Penny: No, I Will Not Debate You Also, here are some comics to peruse: (Partial comic by Jacob Andrews) (Filled out template by u/SkynetJusticeWarri0r on Reddit)

Sharp Objects by Belinda Roddie Please put down the sword, sir. 'Tis not for you.

As I get closer to starting up the school year with full distance learning, I still love how I can enjoy theater and return to acting in some form. I've been able to play roles I never thought I'd be able to play, and I've made amazing friends. I love having a space to discuss drama, writing, storytelling, and my own life saga. I love being able to discuss LGBTQ+ issues with fellow members of my community. I've needed that for so long. Remember, I was the only openly gay teacher at the last high school I taught at. Having artists and teachers around me who are also queer is a big deal. People will try to hush me because they don't want to hear what I have to say. Heck, even people I thought were friends have done that. But for years now, I have always been unapologetically me. And that's not gonna change. Next week, I'll be returning to work via video call to do some PDs. Welcome to the new age, people. Have a great night and a great weekend, every...

Say It With Me by Belinda Roddie My identity as a queer person is not up for debate. You may have the right to try to debate my identity. I, consequently, reserve the right to think you're a bigoted asshole. I am not obligated to give you a platform for your hate. I am not obligated to shut up about my identity for your comfort. You choose to be neutral? I consider you on the side of the oppressor. You do not get to escape the consequences of problematic ideologies you may have. If you can't debate a passionate queer person, that's a you problem - not a them problem. We will not apologize for being passionate about our identities. We have been bullied, mocked, shamed, ostracized, and murdered for generations. I don't have time for your request for discourse over my right to live a happy life based on who I am. Don't like me talking about it? I didn't get to talk about it for almost ten years. Go off to your bubble and feel comfortable the...

Cat Nap by Belinda Roddie Snoozin' Susan was sleeping when the atomic bomb was dropped.

The Great Pretender by Belinda Roddie Why was it that my lies felt like the truth?