True Stories

I'm angry and sad. There are (plenty of) dark corners of the United States where, despite the clear intention of consenting partners, parents are forced to endure separation, death and loss alone, children are denied legal benefits by a system that purports to protect "family values," and so-called "morality" is held above human decency.

It seems Florida hospitals are free to ignore the legally expressed desires and intent of anyone they wish. This story from the Olympian illustrates the effect of institutionalized hatred and fear.

A family from nearby Lacey, Washington was recently forced to endure the death of one parent without the ability to be present, comfort her and say goodbye. Worse yet, a parent was forced to die alone and separated from her partner and her children. This despite having taken the steps required to express the legal intentions of the parents. I am crushed thinking of the children of this couple. I am saddened imagining the fear, confusion and agony that this parent must have felt separated from her partner of 18 years as she died.

This is twisted and sick. It is proof of a systemic hatred that pervades the institutional culture in this country. It is the embodiment of fear, ignorance and self-loathing that is perpetuated by people who are out of touch with basic human needs.

Please, readers, do not let this stop you from preparing proper legal expressions of your intent. Carry notarized originals in your travel documents. Have an attorney or advocate who can support you if needed.