Out in the Mountains

Ed Flanagan Comes Out

Continued from page 1

wrongly accepted the presumption that gay and
lesbian people are somehow inherently
noncompetitive, nonathletic, undisciplined and so
forth. Maybe my story effectively, rebuts much
of that prejudice. It's too early to tell if I've
accomplished it  a lot of the answer remains to
be seen. The answer has in part to do with my,
and our, being able to live as the individuals that
we are in a dignified way.

OITM: What has been the public's reaction?

Flanagan: Very positive  I've gotten dozens of
letters and calls and they've all been positive. The
only twists were from "Christian types" who
really just offered help (laughing) They
weren't altogether clear but I always appreciate
people who are praying for me and I'm happy to
pray for them as well.

OITM: Has your sexual orientation ever come up
as a political issue?

Flanagan: Starting in 1988 there were many
discreet and respectful media inquiries that were
made. They were discreet in the sense that
nobody printed anything. I'm not aware of my
opposition raising it.

OITM: During your publicized riff with former State Treasurer
Paul Ruse, Ruse said something to the effect of "I know what he is
and what he is isn't good for Vermont." Do you think he was
talking about your sexuality?

Flanagan: I have no idea and I frankly wouldn't choose to stoop to
the possibility that he may have been talking about-my sexuality.

OITM: How have leaders in the Democratic party greeted your
disclosure?

Flanagan: I got many calls from legislators, the party chair, party
activists, and the administration, all of which were supportive and
positive.

OITM: Will you run for State Auditor in. 1996?

Flanagan: I have no idea. I enjoy my job and it is very satisfying.
For now I'm going to work hard at this job and make choices when
it is time to make choices.

OITM: Do you think your opposition will raise your sexuality as
an issue now that it is public?

Flanagan: I doubt it, but I cannot know for sure. I don't flinch at
the prospect because I have an abiding trust in Vermonters‘ respect
for privacy. Nationally it is a different issue and different question
 but that doesn't really affect me politically.

OITM: Do you think an openly gay man or lesbian could be
elected governor in Vermont?

Flanagan: Yes. I think Vermonters will make a
judgement about an individual's ability, character,
and performance and those will be the pivotal
issues.

OITM: What is your view of the direction of
Vennont's gay, lesbian and bisexual community?

Flanagan: It is remarkable in many ways. We've
been beneficiaries of a long and rich tradition of
human rights in Vermont. But also the recent and
current gay and lesbian activists have been very
wise, politically pragmatic, and effectively
strategic. The political leaders have offered an
impressive blend of principle and tactic.

OITM: Do you see yourself now as a leader of
Vermont's g/1/b community?

Flanagan; I suppose that is largely the
community's choice‘. I'm very interested in being
the individual Ed Flanagan  To an extent that
fits the political initiative of Vermont's gay and
lesbian community, I look forward to
cooperating and working with the community. In
the end my particular role is a decision of the
community. V

hands, kissing, sneezing,
dancing.

Vermont A S Hotline.

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