fuckyeahgenderstudies:

George Takei vs. Tennessee’s “Don’t Say Gay” Bill

A video showing George Takei standing in front of a Japanese painting on what seems to be a set of panels.

On screen the text “George Takei, Actor and Activist” is shown in the lower left hand corner.

He says: “Hi, I’m George Takei. A bill recently approved by a Tennessee senate committee would prohibit teachers in that state from discussing homosexuality in the classroom.” while  an image of the Tennessee state building is shown.

“The so-called ‘don’t say gay’ law is premised on the misguided belief that by not talking about gay people they can simply make us disappear.”

“I’m here to tell Tennessee and all LGBT youth and teachers who would be affected by this law that I am here for you. In fact: I’m lending my name to the cause.”

“Anytime you need to say the word ‘gay’ you can simply say ‘Takei’. For example, you could safely proclaim that you are a supporter of Takei marriage.” (A photo of his wedding is shown, with him in a white suit)

“If you’re in a more festive mood you can march in a Takei pride parade.” (A picture of George Takei standing up in a car, wearing a dark shirt with green, purple and brown leaves on it, holding his hands out wide with a pride flag in his left hand. People watching the parade can be seen in the background.)

“Even homophobic slurs don’t seem as hateful if someone says ‘That is so-o-o Takei’ and around the holidays you can sing:” (he sings) “Don we now our Takei apparell.”

“Speaking of apparell I’ve created… a T-shirt.” (an image of a pink badge is shown with the text “It’s OK to be Takei!” next to a symbol that looks like the symbol of the Federation but in pride colours)

“I hope you’ll wear it proudly.”

“We also have buttons, mouse pads, and mugs.” (images of these are shown)

“All in time for Takei pride month.”

“And all proceeds go to charity.”

“Thank you. And as they say on the Flintstones: ‘Have a Takei old time!’.”

Text appears on screen:

“It’s OK to be Takei!” items available at www.itsoktobetakei.com

and while Blair Shepard sings a song that has as lyrics “It’s OK to be Takei!” over piano accompaniment it is replaced by:

“Special Thanks to Ryan Yezak. Vocals by Blair Shepard. Follow George on Twitter and Facebook: www.twitter.com/georgetakeiwww.facebook.com/georgehtakei”