Summary of "New Pride: Jill McDonough, Owen Lewis, and Bethany Cintron" - The Moth Podcast

Release Date: June 15, 2018

"The Moth" podcast episode titled "New Pride" celebrates Pride Month by featuring three poignant and empowering stories from storytellers Jill McDonough, Owen Lewis, and Bethany Cintron. Each narrative delves into themes of identity, love, and the journey toward self-acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. This summary captures the essence of each story, highlighting key discussions, insights, and memorable quotes.

1. Jill McDonough: A Love Story Born from Chemistry

Timestamp: [02:32]

Jill McDonough opens the episode by sharing her heartfelt story from the first-ever Moth Story Slam in Boston, aptly themed "Chemistry." Her tale revolves around a serendipitous encounter that led to a lifelong partnership.

Key Points:

• Bicycle Theft and Friendship: On May 2, 1999, Jill's bicycle was stolen, plunging her into a day of frustration. Her best friend, Bob Maloney, generously lent her a spare bike, demonstrating the strength of their friendship.

• Encounter with Josie Packard: Bob invites Jill to a rock show featuring "Chelsea on Fire," a lesbian rock band. Despite Jill's heterosexual identity, she finds herself captivated by the band's vibrant energy and, more specifically, by Josie Packard, the lead singer and guitarist.

• Moment of Chemistry: Jill describes the instant connection she felt upon seeing Josie:

  “I just had to hang out with more lesbians. In particular, that one in the middle... I understood a lot more about myself, including the fact that I was going to spend the rest of my life with her.” ([02:50])

• Taking the Leap: Motivated by this newfound understanding, Jill approaches Josie after the show, compliments her performance, and expresses her desire to build a life together. This bold move leads to their marriage on the very date Jill's bicycle was stolen, May 2, 1999.

Notable Quote:

“Today is the first day of the rest of our lives.” ([05:20])

Conclusion: Jill's story is a beautiful testament to the unexpected ways love can manifest and the importance of seizing moments of genuine connection. Her long-lasting marriage with Josie embodies the "chemistry" that was the theme of the night.

2. Owen Lewis: Embracing Identity and Transition

Timestamp: [07:18]

Owen Lewis shares his deeply personal journey of gender identity and transition, offering insights into the challenges and affirmations he experienced along the way.

Key Points:

• Early Struggles with Identity: As a child, Owen grappled with feelings of envy towards his older brother, not just for physical attributes but also for the social treatment he received. However, he lacked the understanding of what it meant to be transgender during his early years.

• Discovering Community at Simmons College: In 2008, Owen's time at Simmons College in Boston was transformative. Surrounded by supportive and open-minded individuals, he began to explore his gender identity more openly.

• Transitioning and Name Change: Owen discusses the difficulties of choosing a new name, eventually settling on "Owen," which coincidentally was the name his father had intended for him had he been born male. This revelation provided a profound sense of validation:

  “I thought that was pretty cool... it was a pretty validating thing.” ([15:40])

• Support from Family and Society: Owen highlights the shifting dynamics in how society perceives him post-transition. From altered expectations to newfound respect, his journey underscores the complexities of societal norms and personal identity.

Notable Quote:

“People suddenly assumed I had a girlfriend... People assumed I couldn't understand women's problems. I can.” ([10:05])

Conclusion: Owen's narrative is a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the courage it takes to live authentically. His experiences illuminate the broader conversations around gender identity and the societal shifts necessary for true acceptance.

3. Bethany Cintron: Finding Her Place at Pride

Timestamp: [12:45]

Bethany Cintron recounts her quest to attend the New York Pride Parade, a journey marked by anticipation, adversity, and eventual triumph amidst national tragedy.

Key Points:

• Early Aspirations and Barriers: As a 15-year-old bisexual feminist, Bethany yearned to attend the Pride Parade but faced a series of obstacles—ranging from bad weather to familial obligations—that consistently thwarted her plans.

• Leadership and Determination: By her junior year, Bethany became the president of her school's Gay-Straight Alliance. She spearheaded an initiative for her group to attend the Pride Parade, organizing logistics and rallying participation.

• Impact of the Pulse Nightclub Shooting: On June 12th, while finalizing plans for the parade, Bethany learns of the tragic Pulse nightclub shooting. The fear and uncertainty that followed threatened to cancel their participation:

  “I was like, oh, yeah, we just go together. It's gonna be great... I wasn't going to go.” ([16:30])

• Overcoming Fear: Despite dwindling group numbers and heightened fear of further attacks, Bethany sought solace and support from her mother. Their conversation rekindled her resolve:

  “Jesus, relax. If no one's going to go, I'll go with you... because no one's going to prevent you from loving who you love.” ([17:10])

• Experiencing Pride: On June 25th, Bethany, her mother, and three friends attend the Pride Parade. The vibrant display of diversity and acceptance provides her with a profound sense of belonging and empowerment:

  “I realized that that day we were all proud to look gay.” ([18:00])

Notable Quote:

“Physically looking gay was showing support for what you believe in, showing support for your friends, showing just, like, being there and being confident in your identity.” ([17:45])

Conclusion: Bethany's story encapsulates the essence of Pride—celebration amidst adversity. Her determination to attend the parade, even in the face of tragedy, underscores the resilience and unity of the LGBTQ+ community.

Final Reflections

This episode of "The Moth" serves as a powerful homage to Pride Month, highlighting individual narratives that collectively underscore the themes of love, identity, and community resilience. Through Jill, Owen, and Bethany's stories, listeners gain intimate insights into the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, celebrating the strides made and the journeys that continue.

Additional Information:

• Jill McDonough is an MFA creative writing instructor at UMass Boston and the director of the Fine Arts Work Center Online. She is the author of "Habeas Corpus" and "Reaper," with another book titled "Here All Night" forthcoming from Alice James Books. Jill and Josie celebrated their 18th anniversary not long after this podcast release.

• Owen Lewis resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts, working as a building substitute teacher at an elementary school. He engages with students across various grades, fostering discussions on emotions and societal norms. Beyond teaching, Owen is involved in slam poetry, music, and illustration.

• Bethany Cintron is a sophomore at DePaul University aspiring to become a teacher. An active participant in movements like DACA, Black Lives Matter, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, Bethany has attended every Pride Parade since her first, solidifying her role as an enduring activist.

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