Quote by Jodi Picoult
You can argue that it's a different world now than the one when Matthew Shepard was killed, but there is a subtle difference between tolerance and acceptance. It's the distance between moving into the cul-de-sac and having your next door neighbor trust you to keep an eye on her preschool daughter for a few minutes while she runs out to the post office. It's the chasm between being invited to a colleague's wedding with your same-sex partner and being able to slow-dance without the other guests whispering.
Summary
This quote highlights the distinction between tolerance and acceptance in relation to the LGBTQ+ community. The argument is made that although society may have progressed over time, acceptance is still limited. Tolerance implies allowing something to exist, whereas acceptance delves deeper into inclusivity and trust. The metaphor of moving from a cul-de-sac to trusted neighbor highlights the transition from a superficial level of tolerance to a genuine acceptance where one is trusted with more significant matters. Similarly, the mention of attending a colleague's wedding, but not being able to slow-dance without judgment, emphasizes the differences between mere tolerance and genuine acceptance.
By Jodi Picoult
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
