Meet the fabulous Betty Thompson, a 92-year-old powerhouse who has been making her presence felt at Pride parades for over three decades, proudly waving her beloved sign that reads, “I love my lesbian daughters. Keep them safe.” For Betty, spreading love and acceptance is a yearly tradition, and she’s determined to keep it going. “It means the world to me to carry this sign every year,” she told reporters. “At 92, I hope to continue as long as I can.”
A Journey of Advocacy
Her journey as a gay rights advocate began back in 1970 at the very first Pride Parade in New York City, just after her daughters, Lily, 70, and Emma, 68, came out. “I’ve been part of NYC Pride since day one!” she exclaimed, as the event commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots. Betty’s daughter Lily shared, “Mom really puts her heart into this. It’s her life’s work. She stands for equality and justice.”
The Iconic Sign
The iconic sign, painted by a city planner friend, has garnered attention both in-person and online. “She’s a social butterfly and loves the spotlight,” Emma added. In 1993, Betty modified her sign to include “Keep them safe” during a historic LGBT march in Washington, D.C., because she believes every protest sign should make a demand. The back of her sign also says, “A proud parent of lesbians.”
Touching Hearts
Over the years, Betty has touched countless hearts at Pride events, with attendees often rushing up to her, crying and asking her to be their mom. “She’s formed lasting connections with many people she meets,” Emma noted. “She’s truly a role model for how parents should support their kids.”
Changing Minds
Betty’s message of love has resonated so deeply that she started receiving requests to speak to parents of LGBT individuals. “I think I’ve changed a few minds, and I’m proud of that,” she explained. “All parents should embrace their gay and lesbian children; they’re missing out on so much if they don’t.” If her own daughters can’t attend, she brings along their friends, claiming them as her own. “People would ask, ‘Are these your daughters?’ and she’d say, ‘Absolutely!’” Emma chuckled.
Determined to Continue
Now, as Betty approaches 100, her health is a consideration, but she’s determined to keep attending. She has only missed one Pride event due to a heart attack. With a wheelchair on standby for when the heat and crowds get overwhelming, she’s still ready to wave her famous sign. “I’ve been there since the start, and the response to my sign has always been incredible. It inspires me to keep going,” Betty shared.
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Conclusion
In summary, Betty Thompson is a shining example of love and support for the LGBTQ+ community, and her dedication to her daughters and their rights is a testament to the power of acceptance. With her trusty sign in hand, she continues to inspire generations to embrace their true selves.