understand why folks often tear up when thinking or talking about
past Family Weeks. It was such a rewarding and meaningful
experience getting to meet the families that we serve.
I now have many lasting memories from Family Week. I think one of
the moments that really stuck with me was at the Family Dance on
Friday evening, which was one of the cutest things I have ever been
to! One of the girls from my Kidapalooza class, soon to be
8-years-old, Becca, decided that she wanted to dance with me.
Unfortunately, she could not find me on the dance floor since I was
outside handing out snacks to families. She approached many staff
on a desperate search for me. Eventually a staff member came out
to find me stating that a little girl was looking for me. As I
approached the entrance to the dance floor, I spotted Becca waiting
on the threshold with a big grin plastered across her face. She
demanded, “where were you?!” She grabbed my hand and dragged
me to an open spot on the floor. We danced together, along with
her little sister, for many songs while her mom videotaped the
experience. I could tell that it really meant a lot to her. It
meant a lot to me too.
through the week. I immediately started telling her stories about
all of the parents and children I had met, our conversations about
their homes in places ranging from my birthplace of Rhode Island to
Texas, and the deep gratitude and joy I felt from each and every
individual I had the pleasure of coming in contact with. I am now
convinced more than ever that any person who opposes the creation,
maintenance, and rights of LGBT families could not continue to hold
that stance after experiencing one day or even one hour in
Provincetown during Family Week. Having served as a day camp
counselor in the summers during high school, I did not notice any
differences between the families in Provincetown compared to those
picking up their kids after work in Rhode Island. I agree whole
heartedly with Family Equality Council’s belief that
love makes a family.
By the end of the week, I was overwhelmed with pride and joy when
looking back at the hundreds of families marching through the
streets during the Parade and while viewing the slideshow of
photos. At these moments, I couldn’t hold back the tears.
Thank you to all of the parents, children, loved ones, staff, and
interns who made my first Family Week such an incredible
experience.