I was part of a show called 'Manifest Equality' in Los Angeles in 2010, and I realized there was a disconnect between people who are gay or have gay friends and are gay-friendly, and people who think they don't know any gay people.

In this quote, iO Tillett Wright reflects on her experience with the show "Manifest Equality" in 2010, which was an event aimed at raising awareness and promoting LGBTQ+ rights. Wright observes a disconnect between two groups of people: those who are either gay or have gay friends and are supportive of LGBTQ+ issues and those who claim to not know any gay people and therefore might not fully understand or empathize with the struggles faced by the gay community. She highlights how ignorance or lack of exposure to the community can lead to misunderstanding and even apathy towards equality.

The origin of this quote stems from Wright’s work as an activist, photographer, and public speaker, particularly in the context of her advocacy for gay rights and gender equality. Her involvement in the Manifest Equality event, which aimed to encourage people to take action for marriage equality and other civil rights issues, opened her eyes to how different people perceive the fight for equality based on their personal experiences with the LGBTQ+ community.

Wright’s statement underscores the importance of exposure and personal connection in fostering understanding and empathy. She points out that many people who might claim to be gay-friendly may not fully grasp the challenges the LGBTQ+ community faces because they lack direct interaction with gay individuals. This lack of personal connection can create a barrier to true understanding and, by extension, effective advocacy for equality and justice.

Ultimately, Wright’s quote emphasizes the need for greater visibility and representation of the gay community in order to bridge the gap between those who support LGBTQ+ rights and those who may be indifferent or unaware. It calls for individuals to engage with diverse perspectives and experiences, recognizing that true equality can only be achieved when everyone understands and stands together for the rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.