Charity fundraisers are awesome because they give me an opportunity to meet a community of people who are willing to give their time, concern and/or money to causes I believe in. It’s also a great way to network with like-minded individuals.
Last night, I attended the Can’t Stop the Serenity charity screening of Joss Whedon’s Serenity, hosted by the Mile High Browncoats as a tribute to Joss and his efforts in supporting the advocacy group Equality Now. Serenity is one of my favorite movies, and all proceeds above cost from the event were to benefit EN, which works to end violence and discrimination against women and girls around the world. Men are also highly impacted by their work, as they stand to benefit a great deal from their tremendous efforts.
The screening was at the Tivoli in Denver, and it was PACKED. I attended the 8pm screening, and met some really cool folks while standing in line and waiting for the 5pm group to leave. I saw old people, young people, coupled people, single people, some people dressed in jeans and t-shirts and some people dressed in costumes and full-length gowns. It was awesome. One woman behind me commented on how cool it was to see so many “sci-fi geeks in one place”. Yeah!
Before the movie began, we watched a short film featuring Meryl Streep (on behalf of Equality Now), and Joss, in honor of his mother Jessica. After Meryl spoke, Joss gave the audience several answers to a question he is asked over and over again, “Why do you keep writing such strong female characters into your stories?” Joss answered, “Because of my mother”, “Because of my father”, “Because they’re hot” and “Because you’re still asking me that question instead of asking the other 100 guys over there why they’re not.” Well said.
Overall, the night was a lot of fun and very empowering. It was great to be in the presence of men and women who love sci-fi and support strong, healthy women and men. It’s not about overpowering each other, it’s about respecting each other’s ability to be strong and supportive. Like my Auntie Vivian used to always say, “When I am strong, my family, my home and my community are strong.”
At some moments, I felt like I was on the red carpet 
. The highlight of the evening was being invited by Wes to the Afterparty in downtown, but I had to regrettably decline. Thanks to the MHB and all the organizers and volunteers for a great event!
Happy Summer!
