Without allies this fight is lost. And you know what the first thought in my mind was when I read your story? Were there any allies in that room? Or any that deserved that name? I don’t believe the term ally is appropriate until it’s earned. And there are certainly some things that could have been done in that room by allies. Not violent, but with love. And if enough allies are willing to step up in situations like that maybe things will change. I am fully behind changing the laws. But I realize that changing the laws doesn’t guarantee that people’s minds are changed. The way to do that is by your loving action showing the right way.
If there are any allies out there who want some ideas check out something called Safe Zone. It was started at universities to educate people about what what’s needed to be done to provide safety at a minimum and a loving environment. It is a short curriculum that is very informative and educational for those who wish to be allies.