The Moth Podcast Summary: "Charlene Strong: It Wasn’t Enough"

Introduction to Charlene Strong and Her Story

In the episode titled "It Wasn’t Enough," storyteller Charlene Strong shares a deeply personal and transformative journey that intertwines love, loss, and activism. Recorded live at The Moth in Seattle as part of the Characters Unite tour with USA Network, Charlene's narrative delves into themes of prejudice, power, and the quest for a more perfect union.

Early Life and Relationship with Her Father

Charlene begins by reflecting on her strained relationship with her father. She recounts the emotional turmoil she experienced upon his passing:

"[00:02:04] Charlene Strong: So I'm not sure that I was prepared for the flood of emotions that overcame me when I was holding my father as he died."

Despite their difficult relationship, Charlene yearned for reconciliation and closure, feeling the weight of unspoken words and unresolved tensions.

Volunteering and Meeting Kate

Seeking change and healing, Charlene moves back to Seattle and begins volunteering for the Humane Society. It is here that she meets Kate, a vibrant and engaging volunteer who becomes her close friend:

"[00:04:30] Charlene Strong: And one of the volunteers happened to be this woman that I instantly found to be engaging and a blast. And her name was Kate."

Their friendship blossoms, leading Charlene to realize her deepening feelings for Kate. This realization prompts her to confront her true self:

"[00:07:15] Charlene Strong: I need to tell you something. And she says, what's that? And I said, I'm gay."

Coming Out and Building a Life with Kate

Charlene bravely comes out to Kate, who responds with understanding and acceptance. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of a profound romantic relationship:

"[00:11:20] Charlene Strong: She says, hey, I really want you to spend the rest of your life with me because I too am finding that I'm caring for you. And I said, you bet."

Together, they navigate the challenges of societal expectations and personal identity, building a shared life filled with love and mutual support.

The Tragedy of the Flood and Kate's Death

Their life together takes a tragic turn when a severe storm, referred to as an "Asian cyclone," hits Seattle. Charlene recounts the harrowing experience of rescuing Kate from their flooded home:

"[00:13:45] Charlene Strong: And I get to the door of the hospital and I'm wanting to get back to her, the emergency room... And she died. And... And I said, I want you to take the intubation tube out, please."

Despite her heroic efforts, Kate succumbs to the flood, leaving Charlene devastated and grappling with overwhelming grief.

Activism and Fight for Family Rights

Kate's death ignites Charlene's passion for activism. Determined to honor Kate's memory, Charlene spearheads efforts to secure family rights, leading to significant legislative changes:

"[00:16:00] Charlene Strong: I told the Senate here, and I said, you gotta hear me, because this has gotta stop. And they heard me, and they passed a law in our state, 2 to 1, that we get rights."

Her relentless advocacy not only brings about legal reforms but also raises awareness about the rights of same-sex partners.

The Discovery of Kate's Final Message

As Charlene continues her activism, she receives a mysterious envelope containing a disc labeled "911 recordings." Despite warnings from friends and family, she listens to the recording, uncovering Kate's final message:

"[00:16:50] Charlene Strong: I hear her say, tell the operator, tell Charlene I love her. I love you, Charlene. I love you."

This poignant revelation provides Charlene with the closure she desperately needed, reinforcing Kate's enduring love and the importance of being a "light," "flame," and "beacon."

Conclusion: Insights and Legacy

Charlene Strong's story is a testament to resilience, love, and the profound impact one individual can have on societal change. Her journey from personal loss to becoming a pivotal figure in advocating for equality underscores the power of storytelling and activism in creating a more inclusive and just world.

"[00:17:02] Dan Kennedy: Charlene Strong is a human rights commissioner and advocate for equality. Her story and fight for family rights were critical in helping to pass landmark domestic partnership legislation in Washington state."

Charlene's legacy continues to inspire others to embrace their true selves and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Charlene Strong at 02:04:
  "I wasn't quite sure what that was going to be, so I hopped a plane back to Seattle to my husband."

• Charlene Strong at 11:20:
  "She says, hey, I really want you to spend the rest of your life with me because I too am finding that I'm caring for you. And I said, you bet."

• Charlene Strong at 17:02:
  "Kate would say to herself, be a light, be a flame, be a beacon. And I thought, I know. She was a light and a flame and a beacon."

Final Thoughts

Charlene Strong's narrative encapsulates the essence of The Moth's mission: to share authentic, moving, and transformative true stories. Her journey from personal anguish to public advocacy highlights the universal themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of justice, resonating deeply with listeners and underscoring the profound impact of individual stories on collective consciousness.