The Hallmark Channel has always been my happy place. Its endless stream of movies with happy endings has been a retreat at the end of many hard days. Over the past several months, I’ve had a blast taking elements of Hallmark movies and living them out In Real Life. Still, ultimately, this blog is a representation of me.
Until now, I’ve been able to keep my Real Life compartmentalized. I pick out elements from Hallmark movies that I want to share and have fun living them out. In true Hallmark fashion, I have looked for the positive and focused on opportunities to celebrate my own community moments, while challenging myself to get out of my comfort zone. Now, I am facing a situation that is well outside my comfort zone.
While attending Boston University years ago, I had the honor to hear Holocaust survivor and Noble Peace Laureate Elie Wiesel speak. A quote of his that I have often reflected upon in times of turmoil is, “We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.”
So as much fun as I’ve had on this Hallmark movie journey, I need to be honest about my disappointment in the Hallmark Channel’s recent actions to remove an ad on its channel that celebrated the diversity of love. In my Real Life, I am involved with a vibrant tapestry of people who come from all walks of life, in every shape, size, and color, from a variety of nationalities and religions . . . and with every sexual orientation.
It’s important to me that you know where I stand on this issue. I believe Love is Love. I support equality and celebrate an inclusive society. It is my most ardent wish that the Hallmark Channel and its beloved community will choose to do the same.
I am disappointed as well . I stand with you 🌈❤️
Well said. Totally agree with you and hope they see the error in their judgement.
Very well written and completely agree. ❤
I understand and respect the passionate response by the writer. My other concern is that as an African American woman, I am very disappointed by the roles of African American women. While you have increased the presence, you have still relegated them to secondary roles or a boss or supervisor.
I have also noted in your attempt to put them in the staring role, the content was very weak and slow.
I love the Hallmark Channel, but you can, should and must do better.