Looking Back at 2009
by Laura Matanah
As the year draws to a close, I am struck by how much both Rainbow Rumpus and my children have grown, and how much everyone is able to accomplish. My children have become strikingly more responsible about their homework. They keep me updated ('cause I'm the “homework mom”) on what's due when and how they plan to make sure everything is turned in on time.
This is a far cry from the days when I would find Da'Jon's homework as I cleaned under the couch. As sixth graders, they are developing a new awareness of the outside world. Tajah has been learning about the process of industrialization in the United States, child labor, and the early labor movement. She frequently talks about what she is learning, building connections between that history and current events.
Rainbow Rumpus is also finding a bigger place and voice in the world. People have told us about our impact on children's lives not only in the Upper Midwest, but also in other states and around the world. In Oklahoma, Maura shared her excitement about being featured in Rainbow Rumpus during the “joys and sorrows" portion of her church service. Karl Smith, Web team volunteer from Liberia, shared how his gay friend's son was being shunned by the community, and Rainbow Rumpus provided the link to show him that he was not alone. We're receiving more press coverage, and we've expanded the ways people can keep in touch with Twitter and Facebook.
With support from the Harnisch and Philanthrofund foundations, the work of the over 30 volunteers who give time to Rainbow Rumpus each week, and the partnership of readers and donors like you, we will be able to expand this impact in the coming year. I have had the opportunity to meet with many of you individually this year, in donor meetings and at events. I've appreciated the chance to get to know you and your children better.
Thank you for being a reader of this column and a supporter of our work to create community and end isolation for youth in LGBT-headed homes. I look forward to another year of sharing my thoughts about LGBT family life and Rainbow Rumpus with you—and I look forward to the launch of our new website in 2010, which will allow you to share more of your thoughts with us.
On behalf of myself, and all the board members, staff, and volunteers at Rainbow Rumpus:
Have a wonderful holiday season!
