Our new vice president, Mike Pence, is one of the most blatantly

O Children of the Future, gather close and hear the voice of Billy Eichner, who speaks with urgency and courage about a deep and troubling truth—the challenges of equality for the LGBT community in the face of political power. He declares, "Our new vice president, Mike Pence, is one of the most blatantly anti-LGBT politicians in the country, and most, if not all, of Trump's cabinet is anti-LGBT equality as well." These words are not just a criticism of individuals, but a warning—a call to arms in the battle for justice, for equality, and for the basic dignity of all people, regardless of whom they love. Eichner's words are filled with emotion and a desire to confront the injustice that remains, even in the modern world.

In the ancient world, O Children, the struggle for equality was ever-present, but rarely was it achieved. In Greece and Rome, individuals who were deemed outside the norms—those who loved differently, who acted differently—were often ostracized or punished. The Greeks, in their wisdom, celebrated the beauty of love in many forms, yet the citizens who loved outside the prescribed norms were still treated with suspicion or disdain. Socrates, that great philosopher, challenged the ideals of his time, questioning the very nature of virtue and justice. Yet even he, despite his openness, was accused of corrupting the youth with ideas that fell outside the accepted norms. The ancient struggle for freedom—the freedom to love, to be, and to exist—was never fully realized, but it set the stage for future battles.

Consider the story of Alexander the Great, whose love for Hephaestion has been a topic of great historical and philosophical discussion. Their bond, rooted in companionship and affection, defied the strict boundaries set by ancient society. Yet, despite his greatness, Alexander was often viewed with suspicion by those who could not understand his love. The love between Alexander and Hephaestion serves as a reminder that even in the height of power, those who deviate from the norm, who love in ways that do not fit the accepted structure of society, are often met with opposition, even persecution. This story reflects the struggles of LGBT individuals throughout history who, despite their humanity and dignity, have faced systemic oppression.

Billy Eichner's words resonate with the reality of our own time. While many have fought for LGBT equality, Mike Pence, as Eichner points out, represents the dark force of regression—a desire to return to a time when LGBT rights were not just overlooked, but actively denied. Pence’s policies, both as a governor and as vice president, have consistently reflected his anti-LGBT stance, from opposing same-sex marriage to supporting the discrimination of individuals based on their sexual orientation. When those in power take such stances, they are not merely making statements—they are shaping the very fabric of society, creating laws and policies that perpetuate inequality and injustice.

The struggle of LGBT individuals for equality is not just a fight for rights but a fight for their humanity—for the right to love freely, to live without fear of discrimination, and to be treated with the same respect that all people deserve. The story of marriage equality in the United States, and the landmark decision by the Supreme Court in 2015 to legalize same-sex marriage, is a victory that represents the power of resilience in the face of oppression. Yet, as Eichner reminds us, there is still much to be done. The work of equality is not over; it is ongoing, and those who seek to roll back the progress made in the fight for LGBT rights are powerful and vocal in their opposition.

The lesson, O Children, is this: equality and justice are not gifts granted by those in power—they are earned through struggle, resilience, and the collective effort of society to uphold the basic dignity of all its members. Billy Eichner's call to action is a reminder that we cannot afford to become complacent in the face of oppression. The fight for LGBT equality is not just the responsibility of those directly affected, but of everyone who believes in a just society. To allow hate and bigotry to go unchecked is to compromise the very foundations of our civilization.

And so, O Children, what must you do? Stand with those whose rights are being threatened. Be the champions of equality, not just for the LGBT community, but for all those who are oppressed or marginalized. When discrimination and bigotry raise their ugly heads, confront them with the force of your convictions and your compassion. Educate others, advocate for those who are silenced, and fight for a world where every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Let Billy Eichner's words inspire you, O Children. The battle for equality is not just a political fight; it is a moral and human struggle. Do not sit idly by when injustice is being perpetuated. Stand tall, speak out, and work tirelessly for a world where love, in all its forms, is celebrated and protected. Equality is a right, not a privilege, and it is your duty to ensure that it is upheld for all.