Another Merry Christmas to the LGBT community on Christmas Eve when Leeneshia Edwards of Memphis, TN was shot in the face, back and side. It appears from the wounds that Leeneshia was shot at close rang while getting out of a car. Police have not been able to interview the victim as she remains in critical condition.

Felix Pearson, age 19, Kenneth Monroe, age 27, and Darriel Wilson, age 20 were murdered in their residence in New Orleans on December 18, 2008. The initial reports indicate that the three men were gay and one possibly a transgendered person. Although the reason for the murder is currently unknown, the investigation has not ruled out a hate crime.

Unfriendly, anti-gay, heterosexuals have attacked the marriage issue and the LGBT community has stood its ground, highlighting historical evidence, state law, U.S. law and regulations. The community has even had to defend itself against the Bible, just like many other minorities over the years including African Americans and Jewish people. But what is this talk of civil marriage equality really about? Surprisingly, it’s not about marriage at all, it’s about freeing a people from the fetters of bigots, extremists and homophobic people in society. It’s about no longer being afraid and about being allowed to live and pursue the American dreams of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.