DignityUSA Biennial Convention Review
The DignityUSA Biennial Convention has come and gone. The convention was truly an extraordinary event. Our hats are off to the Philadelphia Chapter for a job well done. From the opening liturgy, which with ended with a Mummers Band marching into the hall, to a concert with Jason and DeMarco, and the Parade of Banners, the opening session was truly remarkable and which most definitely set the mark for the rest of the convention.
The next few days were filled with remarkable speakers, fantastic workshops and cuisine which were spectacular. Our keynote speaker, Chrissy Gephardt gave an incredibly strong and inspiring keynote speech.
One of the most poignant moments of the convention came during the panel discussion. The panel participants were Gene Robinson, Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire; Chrissy Gephardt, daughter of former Senator Dick Gephardt; Tom Fox, former publisher of the National Catholic Reporter; and Harry Knox, director of the HRC Religion and Faith Program. At the end of the question and answer period, there was one time for only one more speaker, second in line was John McNeill. The young woman who was the next to speak yielded to Fr. McNeill. When Fr. McNeill went to the microphone, the members of the panels gave him a standing ovation (as well as the audience). Each of the panelists had something gracious to say to Fr. McNeill, yet Harry Knox gave Fr. McNeill a great complement when he said that Fr. McNeill had literally saved his life.
As it turned out, Harry Knox was a freshman at Ohio State. At that time, one of the only books in the library which presented homosexuality in a positive light was, The Church and the Homosexual written my John McNeill. Mr. Knox went on to say that before he found John McNeill’s book he had contemplated suicide. Reading McNeill’s book gave Harry the strength and dignity to continue with life.
The liturgy on Saturday afternoon was wonderful, leaving tears in many people’s eyes. During the liturgy, the reflection was given by Bishop Robinson, which left people laughing but yet gave us much to think about and to consider.
On Saturday night, the Dinner and “Sock Hop” began during the cocktail hour. The Cocktail Hour was enlivened by the appearance of several “party enhancers”, all dress in Fifties garb. The Dinner was filled by great conversation and great food. During the dance, the DJ had the crowd on their feet, playing great music, helping the crowd to relive their younger days.
The convention ended on Sunday morning with brunch. During the brunch the Columbus Chapter was given a Presidential Award for co-hosting a 2004 Membership Meeting along with the Dayton Chapter.
Our next convention is in Austin. Hope to see you all there in 2007.