This column is my first after a two-week vacation. So, this morning was my first opportunity to look over the last two weeks of Philadelphia Gay News. The first point that was clear was the pride I have in our staff who put out a first-rate product and deserve their status as the nation’s best local LGBT media. Then what became very apparent was the vitality of our community.
We have more events going on each week than in many even-larger cities. Our local activist groups have somehow found a way to work with those who really aren’t interested in politics. Our business community is booming. Our government is looking at new ways to incorporate our community into city projects and programs.
There are so many events that one could almost daily go to a fundraiser, banquet, sports game, religious service, seminar or planning meeting for yet another expansion of one of our current organizations, or to plan for a new one like the proposed LGBT youth home.
So on my return, and after looking over our community through the pages of PGN, it makes me swell with pride over what all of you have accomplished. The Human Rights Campaign rated Philly as the nation’s most LGBT-friendly city. You not only live up to that title, you’re trying to set a new bar.
Philadelphia, take pride: You are the best!
Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation’s most-award-winning commentator in LGBT media. He can be reached at [email protected].