As a person who spent no small amount of time protesting the Vietnam War, the administration, and any number of governmental policies....I've gained some perspective during the intervening years. My politics have NOT changed. I am just as appalled now, by the things I was protesting then, as I was at the time.
What I *have* learned, is how polarizing and ultimately self-defeating some protests can be. Unfortunately, many of the things that felt the most satisfying at the time only drove a bigger wedge between "us" and "them". Back then, I thought the goal was to convince "them" to see things "our" way, because IMO, the truth was on our side. Only now that I'm older, do I realize how unlikely it was that "in-your-face f**k you" tactics would inspire a shift in the opposite side's belief system. Guerrilla tactics and demonstrations by large numbers of angry protesters put pressure on policy that helped lead to the end of our participation in Vietnam, to be sure....but when it comes to effecting change in social issues, f**k you tactics have never been the path to winning the "hearts and minds" of the other camp.
As much as I still love a good, impassioned protest, I think a sick-out the night the Republicans plan to catch a show, would mosst likely reinforce unfortunate existing beliefs. It might make the acting community feel better to display their anger, but it'll do nothing to further gay rights. I say that much more is to be gained by introducing any and all theater attendees to the joys of live performance. Which just might lead some to start thinking about the actors, whose performances they have just enjoyed, as real people who have real lives and real loves....some of whom might be partners of the same sex.
And while we're at it, the same holds true for those of us who do not, shall we say, embrace the Republican agenda. We need to listen to what the other side is saying, because although we are likely to take issue...no one is ever ALL bad or ALL good; totally wrong or totally right. If we don't at least listen to what they have to say, no matter how ridiculous it might ultimately prove to be, we have forfeited the right to expect anyone to listen to us.
Sueleen Gay: "Here you go, Bitch, now go make some fukcing lemonade." 10/28/10