Gay Into Straight America: A Journey of Two Women and a Poodle

By M. Cathy Angell

Dotti Berry and Robynne Sapp of Bellingham, Washington, are about to embark on a yearlong journey called Gay Into Straight America. Leaving on September 11, they’ll head out in their purple suburban with their dog, Rylee Joy, for an adventure that will create meaningful connections with hundreds of people across the country. Dotti and Roby are committed to talking with people who are “wrestling” with their understanding of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) persons.

Through their interactions with people who are wrestling, they hope to dispel myths and fears that individuals have of GLBT persons and create a safe space for meaningful dialogue. Dotti and Roby both feel strongly about treating other people with respect and listening carefully to them, regardless of differences of opinions. These qualities combined with their friendly, warm personalities and excellent speaking skills make them effective ambassadors for this type of project.

During their journey, they will be speaking to groups and organizations, such as PFLAG chapters, churches, high schools, Gay/Straight Alliance Clubs, GLSEN, and colleges/universities. They will also have many informal conversations with folks they meet along the way.  Additionally, they plan to reach out to their own community of gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, questioning and ally persons, who, like others in society, often don't have a foundation for understanding transgender and intersex persons.

Dotti is a Life & Relationship Coach who is finishing her doctorate work in Human Sexuality, and Roby is a photographer, and formerly, a specialist in the medical research field. They were legally married in the spring of 2004 in Oregon, but their license was annulled a year later by the State.

Their commitment to take this yearlong journey, Gay Into Straight America, has been brewing for a long time. It was originally ignited by their involvement with SoulForce, which utilizes nonviolent resistance to raise awareness about spiritual violence against GLBT persons. They have also been active in talking with elected officials, appearing on radio programs, and have made a special effort to reach out to ministers who are wrestling with this issue.

If your PFLAG Chapter, church or organization would like to host Roby and Dotti while they are in your area, please contact them at Dotti@GayIntoStraightAmerica.com.

To learn more about their journey and/or contribute to their trip, please visit their web site at www.GayIntoStraightAmerica.com

Cathy Angell is a motivational speaker, photographer, and author.  Her award-winning book, My Spirit Flies: Portraits and Prose of Women In Their Power, depicts 35 "ordinary" women finding their power through their passions.  Her compelling black and white photographs, combined with insightful essays, create a roadmap that each of us can follow to claim our power and follow the passions of our hearts! Visit her website!