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A Few Words from Gay History Pioneer Jim Kepner

by Jim KepnerPublished: 2003Updated:

JIM  KEPNER

"Many of the men who picked me up so lovingly, would today be stigmatized as pedophiles. They were all kind and respectful and were very important to me. I've seen that same considered manner in most pedophiles I've known, though I don't share their love for children. ... Most, not all, men I've known who were as boys befriended by boy-lovers were grateful to them. Women who act seductively with boys (I often experienced that) are generally ignored -- probably just as well. ...

"The upbringing of girls and boys differs so much, that lesbians tend to view all intergenerational sex (or even adult hetero-sex) in "power" terms. Most, not all, boys see it as an adventure, or seek the love their parents fail to give them. ...

"Too many in our movement, victims themselves of prejudice and discrimination, pass those hatreds and fears to drag queens, pedophiles, bisexuals, leather men and women, transsexuals, and many other minorities within our community. We talk nicely about diversity, but practicing it is more difficult. ..."

               ~ Jim Kepner, pioneering gay activist, journalist and
                       founder of the International Gay and Lesbian Archives, Los Angeles.

 
 

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