Friends & Family: True Stories of Gay America's Straight Allies

With this collection of personal interviews, Woog (Jocks: True Stories of America's Gay Male Athletes) highlights the contributions of the many devoted heterosexual activists who give their time and energy to gay rights, but who are often overlooked in the lesbian and gay community's struggle for equality and acceptance. The book features outspoken, touchingly honest stories of families and individuals, from a self-proclaimed ""former redneck"" whose life changed when his son died of AIDS to the 12-year-old daughter of two lesbians who testified before her state legislature during a debate over same-sex marriage, to a Mormon couple who took on their church when two of their six children came out as gay. Looking beyond these activists' impressive victories, such as reversing harassment laws or starting groups that affected numerous families in their area, the book also provides valuable insight into the culture and the prevalence of homophobia today. Most of the battles that these individuals face are with school boards or church groups, showing that disputes over gay rights are frequently fought at the local level and often involve straight people who have friends or family members who are gay. By presenting activists from different religious and cultural backgrounds, and exploring their motivation for becoming involved in gay issues, Woog uncovers not only a strong political force, but also an array of ordinary people who deserve recognition. (Sept.)