The Origin of Homothanksgiving

2017 will mark the 11th annual Homothanksgiving. It is an event that several of us look forward to each year. Though odd the event name might seem at first, it only takes moments of being  present to realize you are taking part in something great.

In 2006, having recently come out to his close friends, Jesse was finding it hard to grasp the  idea that he could not bring a significant other home for the holidays or even be completely  himself. After sharing this thought with friends, Jesse found that not only did others feel the same way, but some friends were not welcome to return home at all. Having always been the  kind of person to make sure no one is left out, Jesse decided he could do something to ensure that no one felt left out for the Holidays.

Jesse has often been found saying,

"A family is not just the one you are born into, but also the people that come into our lives and change it in extraordinary ways"
 

So for that holiday season, Jesse moved the furniture out of the living room of his apartment  and put up tables for a thanksgiving dinner for his “extended family”.
As his roommates were helping to haul  the couches to the front Porch, they asked Jesse why he was throwing this party. He replied,

“I want to have a place where everyone can spend time together without judgement or having to pretend to be someone else. I just want everyone to have a safe place where they can get together and enjoy a holiday without having to worry about anything!
...except maybe what to wear and how much to eat!”

So after squeezing in as many tables and chairs as he could fit, Jesse filled each chair with friends and family, and proceeded to give the first toast to what would become known as Homothanksgiving.

I don't think Jesse realized the impact this would have on the LGBT community in a place as  conservative as Utah County can be.
And Not only the LGBT community, but to Parents, Friends and Family who are proud allies of the community as well. The first Homothanksgiving was raw and  emotional and even slightly filled with caution. Not knowing what to expect, or how open you could  be. As the years went by and people slowly found their way out of their closet’s, it got warmer,
friendlier, and more inclusive. People were not afraid to attend for fear of a "gay" photo being posted.
Now it is an event of comfort, familiar faces, and the best kind of people.
Homothanksgiving  is truly a hidden gem! All of us know someone who is too afraid to tell their friends and families for fear of abandonment, disgrace, or lack of understanding. We have now transformed  Homothanksgiving into place where we can bring our friends or family, who might be afraid, to a safe place. Non judgmental and loving.