It’s occurred to me that many will not want to wade through everything I’ve written on the subject, so a summary is in order:
A number of years ago I started speaking out against the open bigotry and hatred I was observing in various organizations. These words may have been a catalyst which ended up with the removal of a number of individuals from said groups. Please note that it was their own actions which were the cause. My speech may have simply called attention to it.
Ever since, I have been bedeviled with false accusations and the circulation of vicious gossip. Stalked and harassed, a multi-year smear campaign. I’ve pissed off some truly awful people.
Here are some facts. Note these statements are public. A semblance of which has submitted to various legal entities. Unlike my “whispery” accusers, I take responsibility for my speech:
- I have NEVER gone to a show with the intention of “picking somebody up” (in over 40 years). The most I have done is respond to other’s inquiries, verbal or non-verbal. The vast majority of interest has been deflected (numbering in the hundreds over the decades), the only offers accepted have been from those previously known to me. And few and far between at that. Gigs were always a safe place for me to enjoy music and chat. Until recently.
- I HAVE initiated (over a lifetime) a handful of encounters at dance nights. Based on other’s verbal or, as it common at these situations, non-verbal cues.
- I have NEVER solicited or been involved with a service industry or retail worker. Some wonderful folks have indicated mutual interests and come on adventures. Gigs, hikes etc. There has been no spice. Neither party has ever tried to initiate such.
- I HAVE experimented and engaged with other like minded individuals out in the world. In the case of anything “unusual”, this has usually involved written consent and has been initiated by the other party. And only after a long period of knowing them.
- I’ve HAVE been jumped in my sleep by a naked woman after crashing at their place. I confirmed their intent verbally before briefly engaging (then coming to my senses and putting a stop to it). Apparently they have since been representing the encounter falsely. Not owning that.
- I have NEVER hooked up with somebody I first met on Tinder. And as a dating site, it was nigh on useless. Lots of interesting conversations though.
Anybody who is relating something which conflicts with the above statements may be, however peripherally, involved with a group of disgruntled bigots engaged in criminal harassment and stalking.
Why should you care? These false allegations not only damage my reputation and jeopardize the business wherein they occur, but weaken mechanisms designed to protect woman (“crying wolf“). I see a “report of misbehaviour” these days and immediately wonder if it’s true, or another just another smear campaign. I suspect the same goes for others aware of my situation.