In our sub-culture made up of many sub-cultures, labels have always been in vogue. Fag, queen, dyke, trannie, fag hag, and now we have added barebackers, gift-givers, and bug-chasers. Have we really forgotten what the meaning of the word "POZ" is and was? Have we forgotten all about our fallen brothers and sisters?
Jo-Jo and I represent two generations of club-life. I, the later. We have outlived most of, if not all of our worlds. Respectively, we present to you "The Ultimate Conversation". It is a conversation that we have shared with each other, and now with you. We hope that you will never have to engage in such a moment of shock and silence. But, we are not blind and know that many of you have and will.

THE ULTIMATE CONVERSATION (phone rings)

B.B.- Hi honey! What happen???
J.J.- I had severe pain and walked into the ER; they ran a bunch of tests. They found cancer! I don't have health insurance. I had to have surgery, and they also informed me that I'm HIV+!!! My levels are really low, so I have to start the cocktail immediately! And then, Chemo...

B.B.- My god, hon! We are now both fightin' the good fight together! You are at the beginning and I've been battling' since 1987 in silence. You know Jo, you are much stronger than I am, and it is a different time, you'll be okay. I hope 'ya know how much I love 'ya.
J.J.- You know, I went out the other day with my brother, just to clear my mind. I was talking to this really nice guy. When he went to get a drink, my brother's Diesel queen friends came running up to me. They told me that he had the "Total Package", and that I really shouldn't be speaking to him.

B.B.- What is it with this new club generation? I mean, lately, I've heard so much CRAP about how they treat each other.
J.J.- I said to them, "Isn't that for him to tell me?" They just blew me off.

B.B.- It seems to me that they, the new generation, have become so self-involved in their own club, sex, drugs, after hours, and Pfizer with Tina scene. They seem so Helen Keller about it all. You know like, if, one of them get sick, they just drop them like dead weight so they can keep up with the fast pace. I'm sorry, but life is not Will and Grace!
J.J.- Byrd, I felt so bad for him. He knew they told me, so he then avoided me all night.

B.B.- Isn't it funny, Jo-Jo, how we use to do drugs to be part of the life and now we take drugs to have a life.

Perhaps, I am a club relic, but I am truly proud to be part of this wonderful industry for 29 year. Yes, the rumors are true! I did do the door at the Last Supper. I have seen many of you and yours come and go. I no longer have any emotions on the whole death issue. I understand, now, that is it all a part of the natural cycle of life and spirituality. My true emotions are those of anger, sadness, and yes, joy/love. Bizarre huh?

We must return to those times, actions, and compassions of past decades. Many of you believe "The Package" is a just myth! Well, it's not! We must reach out to each other, of all labels and club generations. Many, of the new generation, have not yet experienced that moment when the world seems to stand still as their loved one breathes their last breath on this planet. We must embrace each other, stand with, not behind or in front of each other.
I am the first and last person many of you see at clubs and events, that is the life of a door whore. But, most importantly, I am now your silent reminder. Play safe, take care of each other, your brothers and sisters who are fighting the good fight need your love, compassion, and strength, now more than ever. For all the cares that are thrown to the winds, sadly at this rate, you will be in their situation one day!

To be gay, lesbian, and transgender means much more than just a fuckin' label. It means to be united and to be a family. These past months, I find myself wondering what ever happened to Act-Up and Queer Nation, and why did we not back them up? The battle is not over. Perhaps we have just forgotten our own history.

"I witnessed this injustice and I just let it happen! I didn't get involved in the process. I forgot to use my voice. I forgot to believe in myself. But, NOW, I know better. I know that one honest voice can be louder than a crowd. I know that if we lose our voice, or let those who speak in our behalf compromise our voice, well then, this country is in for a really bad haircut... So speak up America!!!"
-E. Woods - Legally Blonde 2