Vision Statement:
"To be a grassroots organization that moves to celebrate, support, and expand dyke, queer, and transgender vitality. To be non-violent, volunteer-led, and bring together persons across the boundaries of race, sex, gender identity, religion, body type, economic class, sexuality, ethnicity, age, ability, and geographical origin. To challenge those who believe they are not safe and eradicate their fears by providing safety through community. To let those outside the community know that we are their sister, their aunt, their uncle, their best friend; we are everywhere, and we are resilient."
On June 5, 2010, we held the first annual Southeast Michigan Dyke March and Rally in Ferndale, Michigan. Our goal is to make the March an annual event for the Southeast Michigan Area to promote the inclusion of lesbians, transgendered individuals, bisexuals, and others in the queer community. We do not exclusively include females in the LGBT community; we invite all genders and sexual orientations to support the dyke cause.
The Southeast Michigan Dyke March is based on a worldwide movement. We use the term Dyke March as a means of identifying with other Dyke Marches that came before us. The first march in the United States was held on June 24, 1993, in Washington, D.C. It was organized by the Lesbian Avengers, a group of women from New York City. Their first Dyke March consisted of 20,000 marchers and sparked a national movement. Since then, similar marches have been held in cities like Boston, Chicago, Toronto, San Francisco, Denver, New York and soon Detroit. (Source: About.com) While the word dyke can be offensive, using it in a context that promotes visibility, rights and inclusion can actually be empowering.
As a non-profit, we are excited and proud to bring the Southeast Michigan Dyke March to Ferndale.
Eric Folkmire, Networking & Media Chair
Julia LeBrell, Legal Chair, Volunteer Coordinator
Audrey Long, Rally Chair, Fundraising Chair
Nadia Maraachli, Financial Chair, Security Detail
How to contribute
Make a secure donation through Google Checkout or PayPal below, donate at any event or email us at semidykemarch@gmail.com to make a contribution by check or to donate goods.
Stay connected for more info and upcoming events:
email: semidykemarch@gmail.commyspace: myspace.com/semidykemarch
facebook: southeast michigan dyke march
twitter: @seMIdykemarch