George Takei Takes a Stand Against Tennessee "Don't Say Gay Law'

Actor George Takei, who has been a major force in advocacy of LGBT civil rights and gay rights issues, has taken a stand against the state of Tennessee's "Don't say Gay Law" which prohibits discussion or even acknowledgement of the existence of homosexuality in the classrooms of schools in Tennessee. In response to the absurdity of this law, Mr. Takei has developed a brilliant and original alternative. "If you need to say the word gay, simply just say ‘takei' instead", says the popular television and film actor. Takei released a PSA to this effect that has been a hit on YouTube soon to hit 1 million hits! The video was picked up by TV anchor Rachel Maddow and featured on her show in "The Best Thing in the World Today" segment.

The campaign simply called "It's OK to be Takei" started with the PSA but has now branched out to a line of buttons, t shirts and other merchandising all carrying the tongue-in-cheek slogan. This merchandise is currently available at www.itsoktobetakei.com and all net proceeds of sales will be donated to charities.

The very busy and popular Takei will soon be seen on the Broadway stage as he will be starring in the upcoming new musical ALLEGIANCE, along with Lea Salonga and Telly Leung, set for a pre-Broadway workshop this summer in NY with an opening aimed for the 2012-2013 season.

 

Photo Credit: Walter McBride/WM Photos