Thank you for starting the topic, Sweetie. I, too, agree that we all need to be safe, visible and accounted for. There comes with those of us who have lived for a certain number of years a responsibility for our individual rights and freedom to move about in this world. True, those queer kids born post-1980 have been provided a buffer from some of the obvious acts of hatred that have bludgeoned our historical paths. It has still gone on, though...rampantly.
Personally, I have two nephews growing up in suburban Georgia (one age 20, one age 13) who are quite socially liberal when it comes to their gay uncle or their mom's lesbian friend... I feel it is what I can do to set an example to them and prevent two more homophobic rednecks from being unleashed upon the world. So far, it seems to work. They're pretty stellar, compassionate kids.
As far as national sentiments are concerned, we do have to be smarter and more active. Safe space is the most basic and important place to start. The Big Cup is a good example. Sure, they were priced out by 3 Starbucks along that 8th Avenue stretch between 14th and 23rd Streets, but people miss that corny little queer gathering space. Starbucks is hardly queer-owned and identified. I do not see bulletin boards for public announcements in a fucking Starbucks. Homogenization can be as deadly as a billyclub.
Can we move this topic to Got Issues? or Versailles Room?