Bleckley County principal commended for allowing gay couple at prom

Dear Principal Masters,

I am a 68 year-old gay man in Atlanta and I want to thank you for your courage in doing the right thing in the prom situation.  I grew up in rural north Florida and I know this had to be a very difficult decision for you.

I was born in Valdosta and at age 20, in 1961, I almost committed suicide at the University of Florida because of the fact that I knew I was gay.  Fortunately, I met the love of my life at age 23 and we spent 42 years together.  He died in 2006 of Parkinson’s.  He was completely helpless his last six years and I cared for him 24/7.

We will always be part of this society and with the wisdom of educators like you, someday this type of thing will not be a big deal.

Sincerely,
Winston Johnson
Atlanta, GA

Johnson sent this letter to Bleckley High School Principal Michelle Masters for allowing gay teen Derrick Martin to attend prom with his boyfriend. Speaking out? Share your letters with [email protected].