Sincebil.jpg Bil is enroute to DC for the March on Washington (I had a lapse in priorities and am going to a They Might Be Giants show in Chicago, but alas...), he asked me to take care of the contests this weekend. However, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention one thing:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIL!

I've posted a picture from his younger, more innocent years... before he became to cool for that extra "L." To celebrate, we're giving away five autographed copies of Mitchell Gold's book "Crisis: 40 Stories Revealing the Personal, Social, and Religious Pain and Trauma of Growing Up Gay in America." This amazing book compiles the stories of 40 different Americans from different walks in life, but all sharing the same pain from being a gay teen growing up restricted, rebuked, and reviled. These stories explain why the March on Washington is so important; there are teens killing themselves because they don't know what else to do. It isn't just about marriage, its about the right to live your life without fear.

Did I mention Mitchell Gold autographed these 5 books? Check out after the jump on how to snag a copy for yourself.

From CrisisBook.org
The book's contributors reveal what made them feel alone and unloved-- and at times so hopeless suicide seemed the only option. And they suggest ways to help the next generation of teens. These stories are also lessons in perseverance and achievement, showing the inner strength of the contributors and inspiring us all with their triumphs against the odds. Learn the harm religion-based prejudices cause, see the dangers of "cures" like reparative therapy, and get insight into the question of sin and homosexuality that divides many churches and families today. Become better able to help gay kids in your family, congregation, or classroom. Understand the importance of electing candidates who support equal rights and strive to protect all our children.

Here's how to win:

  1. Post a comment with your birthday wishes for Bil, and since none of ya'll got him a present (shoot, we're giving you presents!) write what you would have gotten Bil if you had, and money was no option. It's the thought that counts right?
  2. Bilerico contribs aren't eligible to win, but you can, and should comment with your birthday wishes.
  3. Contest runs from now until Midnight, October 9th, which I know is actually the 10th.
  4. 5 random comments will be picked from the eligible comments below, and each winner will be sent one of five autographed copies of Mitchell Gold's book.

To learn more about the book, visit CrisisBook.org. I also encourage you to visit an organization that Mitchell Gold founded, Faith In America. FIA was created to to educate the public about the harm caused to gay Americans when religion-based bigotry and prejudice is used to justify condemnation, discrimination and violence toward this minority population group.

Happy Birthday Bil!

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