The Colorado Daily boldly claims the Houseman argument began after John announced he was gay. It's a catchy title, if a little misleading. According to the story, Traci Houseman was angry that her husband told a group of friends he was gay and walked home, finding him there when she returned. Supposedly he was angry that she left, they fought, the end result being his death by stabbing. According to a Denver Post article on August 3rd, John Houseman had a history of domestic violence, although no reported cases with Traci.
This story is about a human tragedy -- whatever the assignation of guilt. Traci will live forever with the loss of someone she loved. And John will not be coming back. This is also a story about the price of shame in our society. I'm not a person who likes to focus on the negative. I think queer folks in general are strong, stronger than your average person, often because they have to be. That doesn't mean that some of us don't break. Shame and repression can lead to physical and mental health issues. Our community uses tobacco and other substances at a higher rate than the "norm". And domestic violence is more possible in families that are already hiding who they are or what they want.
This story is about the work we do at Boulder Pride. The work you do when you can claim your whole self without shame. This story is about the importance of creating a Boulder County where people can safely and honestly embrace themselves.
My heart is with the Houseman family and friends. My heart is with everyone else who faces these kinds of challenges.
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