Many of us already make substantial contributions in our communities, but now is the time to step up our voluntary efforts and make clear to our fellow citizens that there is no "us" and "them" only people helping each other.
In war-time UK, civilian women were asked to don "WVS" uniforms (Women's Voluntary Service) and contribute where needed.
In modern cultural war-time United States, we ask you to affix the "QVS" letters to your person when you engage in volunteer work. Let your service be counted and let the "QVS" label start conversations with both fellow volunteers and the people we serve.
This movement is DIY. Please create your own logo with the letters "QVS." Knit it into a sweater, scribble it on a "hello my name is" sticker, embroider it onto a head scarf, print your own buttons, etc... We are a beautiful and diverse community. Let's work together and show our diversity.
IF YOU CURRENTLY DO VOLUNTEER WORK:
Excellent. Keep up the good work. Create your "QVS" insignia and wear it!
IF YOU CURRENTLY DO NOT DO VOLUNTEER WORK:
Pledge to contribute to your community in a way that uses your talents and gives you joy. Try to give 5 hours a week. Beyond helping the cultural war effort, you'll find that giving your time is a great way to feel good about yourself. Find a volunteer gig, create your "QVS" insignia and wear it!
General clearinghouses for volunteer opportunities nation-wide:
http://www.volunteermatch.org/
http://www.volunteer.gov/gov/
http://www.hud.gov/volunteering/index.cfm
A couple of Lady Liberty's favorites:
http://www.foodnotbombs.net/ (feed the homeless, learn vegan cooking and promote peace - a multitaskers delight!)
http://www.freeclinics.us/ (find your local free clinic and work to support their important work caring for the uninsured and underinsured)
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2 comments:
Absolutely superb idea and I support it 100%...however...I personally do not use the term "queer" to describe myself. In fact I find it very offensive whether it's used by anti-gay activists or my own people and I would never tag myself with such a demeaning word. My only suggestion then would be that you modify your idea to include the abbreviation GVS (Gay Voluntary Service)for those of us who feel as I do. Thank you.
Wonderful variation on a theme! Start the conversation with whatever acronym makes you comfortable. The point it to make ourselves visible as the invaluable members of our community that we already are.
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