What Katie said.
I did the Day Of Silence for 5 years before attending the FIRST Championship last year. It'd been a big part of my life until then, and I'd stop at nothing to ensure I did it each year. (For an example, I nearly took a few detentions in middle school when an unsupportive teacher repeatedly called on me after I subtly / politely informed them I wasn't going to speak in class, then the principal overruled) After a brief debate with myself I realized I couldn't do it at all because I was the drive coach and you NEED to talk for that, so I didn't raise much of a fuss. I tried to forget about it so I wouldn't feel bad / worry about it. Now this year came around and as I began to plan for how I'd participate at university, found out the dates line up yet again. This is much more plausible now for me as I won't be on the drive team this year, and it's something I feel is a great way for me to support my friends and family members.
I'm still on the fence about it this year. On one hand, it's bringing an issue into the FIRST Championships that has little to do with science and technology, and some would consider it "political". On the other hand, I've done this event for years not for political reasons, but to stand against hatred and intolerance of people, especially those around me, because of the way they are. The FIRST Championship just happens to be where I'll be on the day set to raise awareness for some of the horrible things people have gone through because of their sexual orientation. To me it's not about any political issues at all. It's not an easy decision to make at all.
Anyone else thinking about 2010 yet? Other than the game we'll be playing at the Championship, of course.
