Local Activist to Go on Eight Day Hunger Strike for Equality
Posted on 08 June 2009 by Shout Melissa
In the wake of the California Supreme Court’s ruling on Prop 8 the LGBT community has made it clear that they will not stop fighting until Equal Rights are granted to all people. There have been rallies and protests throughout the state with thousands in attendance. Today, one local activist will make her own statement by going on an 8 day hunger strike for marriage equality and will be at Bixby Park in Long Beach from 1pm-8pm each day.
Andria Streeter, who married her wife Vanessa in November of 2008, is a resident of Long Beach and a Life Skills and Empowerment teacher at a local community center. Like many gay and lesbian couples, Andria and her partner had planned a 2009 wedding, but decided to take their vows prior to the November 8th vote, just to be safe. Although she is thankful that her marriage still stands, Andria said, “My heart hurts for my friends and family that cannot take legal marriage vows. I will not be able to fully enjoy the benefits of my marriage until everyone is equal. We will not be free to do so until everyone is. I know some people may not appreciate this analogy but back in the days of slavery there was a time when some slaves were freed while others remained enslaved. That was an injustice then and today is no different. History is repeating itself.”
Vanessa (left) and Andria at Day of Decision Rally
Today, June 8th, Andria will begin her eight day hunger strike. Don’t think the significance of this date or the length of the strike is lost on Andria. The date and length were deliberate. When so many have already rallied in the streets and many others are busy planning the next legal steps, you may wonder why Andria has chosen a hunger strike? “This is what came to mind when thinking about what could I do to bring more awareness and clarity to this awful injustice. I along with many others in our community were not PROACTIVE but REACTIVE before the vote in November. ‘If only I had talked to more people, we would not be in this situation.’ This is the sentence I have heard over and over since the election. I talked to my Mom about Prop 8 after the election. I thought she understood that this is a CIVIL RIGHTS issue not a RELIGIOUS issue. Honestly, I was scared to talk to my parents about Prop 8. My parents and family are strong, bold, faithful and filled with the Holy Ghost Christians. The (in a whisper) whole Gay subject has been a struggle in the past with my family. This is an issue for a big percentage of people in our community but honestly this has nothing to do with the church. My God is loving. So, I have made up my mind this time to be bold, strong, and PROACTIVE.”
Andria will have plenty of time to connect and speak with her community over the next 8 days. She will be at Bixby Park in Long Beach (Between Broadway & Ocean on Junipero) from 1pm – 8pm for 8 days. (Andria wanted to stay 24 hours per day but security, scheduling and legal concerns have prevented her from doing so.) This is the same park where our community has celebrated Gay Pride and rallied against Prop 8. So how can you show your support for Andria during these 8 days? Andria has only requested your good vibes and love and support and perhaps some water. You may also bring signs of inspiration or your message about Marriage Equality.
When asked what message she hopes to get across this week, Andria replied, “The message is way simple. Talk, Do Something, Be Proactive, and Something will happen.”
Below is a video of Vanessa and Andria speaking at the recent Day of Decision Rally in Long Beach.
I think this is a big statement and am touched that someone who already is married would stand up for our community in this way! This just goes to prove that we must DO something!!!
I agree that this community is REACTIVE and not PROACTIVE. If more people had not taken for granted that California was so progressive we would not be in this mess right now. More people need to stand up and do something whatever it is. Hunger strike, protest, talk to your neighbor. We have been set back years by this decision so now we must work even harder. Good for Andria for doing SOMETHING!
Andrea is a leader and a matriarch for us in our community. We are truely blessed for her insperation, determination and her commitment to improving the lives of GLBT citizens.
In the Interview, Andrea makes many powerful statements that we all need to fully understand and take action on. Lets all keep her energy going and show her support during the time she’s at the park and then after with continuing to good fight for our civil rights.
Props girl! You’re doing the work. Keep talking with those people and connecting with them. We change hearts and minds one at a time.
Andria you are in my prayers! This is such an inspiration and I know you are setting the foundation for something amazing! The community is extremely grateful and UFC family loves you!
Mom, you are so courageous and you prove it in many arenas. I Love you and respect you for standing up for a cause that above all promotes equality. I am positive that your commitment will help bring about a change. Stay strong, and I’l talk to you later.
Be carefull all you Prop 8 people; fasting is the holiest of demonstrations. When people fast, angels listen. Equality is just around the corner!
Thank you fasters for offering yourselves; your stomachs may be empty but your souls have never been fuller.
Andria is a shining example of how each and every one of us in our community can contribute in our own ways towards true equality of all people. True, our community HAS been reactive, but moving forward it is our responsibility to change that course, so that we can once again pave the way for future generations.
Being an activist just means you care a LOT about what you believe in. It comes in all shapes and sizes.
Andria, my hat’s off to you.
Andria your roar is mighty and I am so encouraged by your energy, your passion, your commitment and dedication.
I salute you!
Andria, The Bible says what is in your heart is what you really are, not what others think you are, or what circumstances force you to be (Proverbs 27:19). Your heart is the real you. It determines why you say the things you do, why you feel the way you do, and why you stand for what is right. Your Family at UFC Long Beach pray God continual to strengthen you.
Andria, from the day I meet you I knew you had the heart to change the world. You give so many of us courage and hope.THANK YOU!!! Stay Strong Queen.
Andria, I am so very proud of my friend. You are an awesome human being and I am so excited that the community is able to reap the benefits your intelligence and strength. We must see each other son. We have a lot of catching up to do!
May God continue to bless you and your wonderful wife!
Andria, you have been such an inspiration to me. You are smart, brave and beautiful women on the inside and out. To take such a powerful stand for our rights means so much to me. Always stay strong and know that I love you dearly.