"Out of the Closets and into the Streets”

"Out of the Closets and into the Streets”
Europride 2007, Madrid

I had the greatest opportunity to travel around Spain, and I also had the chance to attend Europride, one of the largest and most extravagant gay pride celebrations in the world. As a young gay male, this experience was a once-in-a-life time opportunity that showed me that the world is changing and beginning to accept people for who they really are.



The festivities were held in Chueca, a gay neighborhood in Madrid. Opening night was on Thursday, June 28, 2007, and Chueca was “the” place to be. That night, I took the metro, the local subway system, from Principe Pio, my hotel’s location, to Chueca. As I walked up from the metro, it was almost impossible to get to street level. The streets were filled from wall to wall with people drinking, dancing and having a good time. My gang and I walked further into the crowd where a huge stage was set up. We saw the most lavish drag queens and the hottest guys we had ever seen in our lives. The music was almost hypnotizing, with a techno beat repeating over and over.

While walking around, we bumped into a news crew from Chueca TV, who was interviewing a woman on the street. A young lady who worked for the news station came up to us and asked us where we were from. We told her we were from Texas and I asked her, “When’s the parade and what time did it start?” The parade was the only thing that had been on my mind for three days. The young lady said that it was on Saturday, and that today was the opening ceremonies.
Being gay in Spain hasn’t always been accepted. In fact, being gay was quite difficult until recently. Spain’s government passed gay marriage and gay adoption laws on June 30, 2005. As I compare the gay population of the United States to Spain, I found that being gay in Spain is more accepted than it is in the United States. Everyone seems so much happier and more comfortable about their sexuality, Spaniards don’t seem to mind people being who they truly are and loving who they want to love.

Before I knew it, Saturday had arrived, and the parade was about to begin. Little did I know that this was going to be one of the best days of my life. I finally arrived on Gran Via, the street where the parade was to take place, and just as I expected, a sea of half-naked people greeted me. The men were all shirtless with some of the most amazing bodies I’ve ever seen. The popular rainbow gay flag was in every place that the eye could see, and beautiful drag queens posed for pictures as if they were part of Hollywood’s elite.
The day was very hot. The asphalt below our feet did nothing to help cool us off. The rest of the gang couldn’t take the heat, but I wasn’t going to miss this parade for anything. After my friend left, I continued to walk toward the beginning of the parade. With my camera in one hand and a bottle of water in the other, I found myself in the middle of the 2007 Europride Parade. I was surprised how easy it was to get in on the action. For the first time, I felt like a reporter getting the inside scoop. The beginning of the parade featured many gay and lesbian groups who were marching for a cause. Many were chanting and waving the rainbow flag. As I got deeper in the parade, the crowd got more intense, and elaborate costumes kept getting better and better. Of course, so did the men. Back in San Antonio, we have floats during our parades, but in Madrid they have18-wheelers filled with some of the most beautiful people in the world. The costumes were all very colorful, covered with glitter, feathers and were extremely glamorous. The parade trucks were sponsored by gay organizations, gay websites, gay porn companies and, condom companies. Each sponsor handed out free gifts with the company’s name on it. I received t-shirts, hats whistles, and, yes, condoms.
All in all, the Europride parade was by far one of the best events I could have ever experienced. This celebration of diversity has made me accept myself even more, and has made me realize that I share the same problems and the same ideas with people from all over the world. Over 2 million people attended, gays and non-gays, and I’m proud to say that I was one of them. Next year, Europride 2008 will be held in Burgos and I can’t wait until then, because I will for sure be there!
The people of Spain are truly diverse and know how to have a great time. My entire tour of Spain has opened my eyes and has made me appreciate my life and my country more than ever. I have met people from all over the world and seen places that many people will never get to see. For this, I’m grateful and give thanks to all who made it possible.

Day 15: Back Home! Dear Classmates,

After a long flight and two airports later I have finally arrived in my beautiful of city of San Antonio, Texas. I've never been so fond of my city since I arrived in Spain, don’t get me wrong, Spain is a beautiful country however, there’s no place like home. This trip has been an amazing experience that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Spain indeed opened my eyes to the rest of the world but at the same time made me appreciate my home and life back in the United States.

To my peers who also had this great opportunity,

It's been my pleasure and an honor to have shared this experience with you. We were forced to bond so quickly for we were all we had. I know we all had are ups and downs and didn’t always get along with each other but life isn’t always perfect. You were all such good friends to me and I will remember you all forever. Good luck in the future and may God bless you all always. Thanks for the Memories.

Love, Gerardo

Day 14: Madrid and Moors Influence in Spain

I'm back in Spain and ready to finish off the rest of my tour. I feel as if I already know this city since I was here the first two days of my trip.

On the bus ride from Seville to Madrid I have to chance to realize how much of an impact the Moors had on Spain. The Moorish culture brought some amazing art work and most of all the architecture of their buildings. The Cathedral in Cordoba was an excellent example of the Moorish culture. This Cathedral is now owned by the Christians who defeated the Moors in the conquest of Spain. Inside this marvelous structure are beautiful arched columns which are painted red and white with high ceilings.

While I was in Granada we also saw some Moorish influence at the Alhambra. This palace had beautiful gardens and the most exquisite tile work I have ever seen. The Moors seemed to be very smart peaceful people with great ideas and who were always ahead of there times.

Madrid!! Glad to be back! I can't believe our tour in winding down. I'm so ready to take this town by its horns and have the time of my life. Today we arrived in Principe Pio (west Madrid) which is a great location to be in especially since its our last week. Euro Pride starts this weekend and it has been one thing I’ve been looking for the whole trip. I can't wait to tell you all about it!

Day 13: Costa del Sol ands the Beach

Wow! What an amazing city, and with a beautiful beach to top it off. Costa del Sol is by far one of the best places I’ve seen in my lifetime especially with its scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Today was awesome, we finally had free time which of course, I spent at the beach and boy was it hot! I was amazed how different the beach was compared to our beaches in the Gulf of Mexico. The sand was hot and got in every crevice on your body. The water was cold and gave you chills all the way down your spine. The rocks that lined the shore were jagged and covered in a thin layer of green algae. The beach as lined with hundreds on cabanas which were filled with people from all over the world. The sky was as blue and the hope diamond with not a cloud in site.

I laid on the beach for a good six hours trying to get a great tan however, my SPF 50 Banana Boat sun tan lotion totally ruined any chances of my dream tan. On the other hand, my peer Dave who was also out there with me and trying not to get a tan gat as red as a lobster. The heat was a good heat with a breeze always blowing in the air. The air was crisp with a scent coming from the restaurant behind us.

Day 12: Torremolinos / Salsa Dancing / Reconquest of Spain

Today, I´m in Torremolinos also know as Costa de Sol. We arrived here at around 5pm and the beached are stunning. Tomorrow, were finally going to have a free day which means we can sleep in and then go to the beach all day long! I´m hoping when I get back to San Antonio I will have a awesome tan.

Last night was great! I had the amazing chance to go Salsa Dancing in Spain, and boy was is a blast. My gang and I got all dressed up and headed out to this little but happening Salsa Bar down the street from our hotel. The first thing that caught my eye was the beautiful portraits that were painted all over the walls, the portraits were that of famous salsa artist such as Celia Cruz and Tito Puente. Last night was exactly what I needed, to let lose and have a good time.

The reconquest of Spain which lasted 800 years is a huge part of of Spain´s history. This reconquest involved the Christians and the Moors who both invaded Spain in order to take control of the country. The great popular hero of the chivalrous age of Spain, born at Burgos in 1040; died at Valencia in the year of 1099. He was then given the title of seid or cid by the Moors and that of a champion by his admiring countrymen.

Day 11: Barcelona continued - Antonio Gaudi

June 20, 2007: I wanted to write a little about one of the greatest artist of Spain, Antonio Gaudi. Gaudi produced the Sagrada Familia and Parque Guell which are both located in the Spanish city of Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia is an amazing gothic cathedral that has been under construction for over 100 years and still is 100 years away from being compleated. If I has to put this work of art in one word, then I would have to say…circus. The architecture of this enormous structure seems to go everywhere, with pillars, and intertwining arches of all sizes.

Gaudi also produced the Parque Guell, which sits high above Barcelona. This park is filled with beautiful landscape and gorgeous mosaics everywhere you look. The view from the top of the park is breathtaking. You can see a panoramic view of the enitre city.

After viewing both the Sagrada Familia and Parque Guell, I though to myself that Gaudi did not at all break the artistic traditions of Spain. In fact. I believe he added beauty and a sense of mystery to the city.

Day 10: Granada & The Holy Grail

Holy moley!! After a 7-hour bus ride, we finally made it to Granada. This city is known for its great night life and is as beautiful as I imagined. Since we just arrived, I haven't really got to explore the city. However, tomorrow we have a busy day cut out for us.

Yesterday in Valencia, I got the chance to see the Holy Grail, which was by far the most fulfilling thing I´ve done during my tour of Spain. I felt as if Jesus Christ was in the room as beautiful angelic music filled my ears. Valencia was a great city, but I only wish we had more time to explore it.

Today is Richard´s birthday and we're planning on going out to celebrate. The nightlife is great in Granada, and I will tell you all about it tomorrow.

I miss you all! love, Gerardo

Day 9: Valencia

Today I made it to Valencia! Valencia is located on the east coast of Spain on the the Mediterranean Sea. As I stepped off the bus in this great city, it reminded me of Madrid, only smaller. Our tour guide Gary said that, ¨The city is growing, and will only get bigger¨. The scene of the city is that of a Hollywood movie. People everywhere were wearing their stylish clothing and the backdrop of beautiful buildings just caught your eye. Today the weather in Valencia was plain out hot and reminded me of back home.

The streets are lined with motorcycles which seems to be the best way of getting around. Today my gang and I are going to go visit the local market which is the best in all of Spain and then go see the Holy Grail. This will definitely be one of the highlights of my trip, to be able to see the actual chalice used by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper.

To all my readers and my dear family, I miss you so much and can´t wait to get back home. My trip is going great, and I´ve experienced so much. However, as Dorthy said, ¨Theres no place like home¨.

Day 8: Barcelona- Conversations

Hey guys! Well, today I'm in Barcelona and it´s an amazing city. As I walk the city streets, it,s so crazy how many laungues you can hear. It´s as if people from all over the world flock to this city. Many conversations I heard dealt with the word ¨Playa¨, especially in San Sebastian and Barcelona. The beach is a huge part of these cities´ culture and a staple for tourists. One of my favorite things to do was to see all the minds in the plaza and watch how the people interact. Today i´m feeling really home sick and really want to go home. Don´t get me wrong the Spain is beautiful but home is were the heart is.

Tomorrow were off to Valencia which will complete half of our tour, and will mark the beginning of south Spain. So far, I have experience many different customs and tastes however, McDonald's is still my favorite. Well my time is comming to an end here at the cyber cafe and at 3 Euro an hour I got to go! till next time! gerardo

Day7: Burgos

Hello again, today we left Madrid and are now in Burgos, Spain. This city is more of what I expected before I left home. Burgos is home to the beautiful Catedral de Burgos and is a more historic city. As ackward as it may sound, I´ve found that there are many connections from Spain to San Antonio. As we walk the streets of this country I realize that many of the last names we see in San Antonio are found in Spain. Plaza de Alonso Martinez is a plaza in Burgos and also has the same last name as me. I have also seen that unlike Texas there are no pick up trucks and only have small compact cars.

Day 6: Prado and more

Another day in Madrid, Spain and my gang and I went to the Prado Museum, one of the most Famous museums of the world. At first I was skepitical because I myself isn't to fond of museums. As we finally walked in from the long line of tourist we automatically knew that this wasn't any ordinarily art museum. As we walked the hallways fulled with exquisite pieces, we came across a section with religious pieces. Many of the pieces were from the 1400´s -1800´s which portrayed Jesus Christ thought out his life. They told stories about his birth, his cruxification, and his rising. Later, we walked to the Goya exhibit where we had the opportunity to see El 3 de mayo. This piece was produced in 1808 by Goya himself and depicts the killings of innocent Spanards by the French army. The French were threatened beacuse of weapons that the Spanish never had which resulted in mass executions.

Today, Carolina and I finally had the amazeing oppertunity of trying the delicious Churros y Chocolate. If you ever come to Spain this is one thing you do not want to pass up. It was great! the chocolate was a warm pudding like drink and was served with a side of churros. We sat and ate our churros in a little cafe (a local hang out) in Plaza de Sol. Auntie Lynda, it was amazeing!!

DAY 5: I MADE IT TO SPAIN!!!!!

Wow!! I still ca,nt believe I´m here in Europe. We arrived in Spain at 11am this morning after a long and stressful flight. As I walked out of the airport, I took a deep breath of the crisp European air. As we walked to the tour bus, I felt nothing, as if I was still in the United States. While we were riding to the hotel the highways were almost empty and everywhere you looked was graffiti. We finally arrived at our hotel which was not very pleasant; empty walls, little T.V., no phone, and a view of dirt. Depressing. Today we took a tour of the Royal Palace which was pretty interesting and was very beautiful. As a student studying in Spain I find it difficult to do my work. The cyber cafes are creepy and are a tourist stake out, so we have to be very careful. Today wasn´t the best of all days, and I only hope for it to get better. I miss my family and friends and can´t wait to get home!

Day 4: San Antonio Classroom4

Day 3- San Antonio Classroom3

June 6, 2007: "The Story of Spain" by Mark Williams, has fascinated me throughout chapter one and two. The most appealing aspect of the Iberian Culture has to be the art of cave paintings. The Iberians created this art form with such style and technique, and it has been around in history for over six hundred years. Many of the painting consist of bold colors, which, interesting enough, were made of blood, animal fats, minerals, and charcoal. Many of the brushes that were used to paint theses magnificent paintings were made of twigs, feathers,hair, fur, and moss. Not only did this culture produce great art, but as you can see were also very resourceful with the materials around them.



Chapter one also explained the beginning and forming of the Strait of Gibraltar, between Spain and Africa. This geological location was were 800,000 year old caverns and human fossils were discovered. This remarkable collection is the earliest evidence of hominids in Europe, and we were deemed as Homo antecessor.





As I read on in Chapter two, the Romans came into the picture. The Romans ruled the Iberian Peninsula for six centuries in which they called Hispania, The magnificent two thousand old Aqueduct which stands brilliantly in Segovia is one way to capturing the spirit of Spain's Roman heritage. The unique architecture of the arch was also a major part of the Roman's conquest of Spain. The Romans also brought language, a legal system, and the religion of Christianity. Christianity however did not spread quickly, the prosess was ongoing for two centuries.

Day 2- San Antonio Classroom2

June 5, 2007: As a student going into the profession of News Reporting, I dream of someday making an impact on society and the world. Travel has always been a passion of mine, and it has always intrigued me greatly. I would love to open doors to the millions of people who will never have that opportunity to travel and give them a sense of the world through my work. Spain is going to be a great opportunity to not just tell my family but show them Spain through the art of writing. I find myself interested more so in global issues rather than national or local. The issue on AIDS and poverty in Africa is a topic that is important to me and one that has caught the attention of the world.

Donate & Learn more about AIDS in Africa>> http://www.aidsinafrica.net/

An issue that hits close to home deals with the public school programs and state- mandated tests such as, The TAKS Test, Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills. Are our kids really being set up for success? It seems like teachers' agendas are being thrown out the window and given scripts. Then why hire teachers? Anybody can read a script from the state. I feel that students and teachers should be able to explore their own ideas and use whatever learning and teaching techniques that best helps the learning process.

Day1-San Antonio Classroom1

June 4, 2007: I can’t believe the time is almost here! Only one week before we depart and it still feels like a dream, a dream come true! I'm looking forward to everything that will be coming my way, especially the plane ride and most importantly the opportunity of experiencing a different culture and way of life. My expectations are above all I've ever had and just keep growing everyday. I'm looking forward to getting out of my norm: no work, no family, no driving and no cell phone.

I have been looking at several travel sites such as the beach in Barcelona, and watching Flamenco. Lately I've been watching the travel channel religiously. I was very excited when I received my passport, which I carried around and showed to everyone and can’t wait until I will receive my first stamp out of the country. I have been working constantly almost every day saving up as much money as I can to pay for everything for this trip, and now it is coming up next week. All my hard work will soon pay off as I experience this once in a lifetime trip. Today's class was interesting; we read a couple of short stories and had a discussion.