In the summer of 2021, SFGMC performed “A Message From the Gay Community,” a tongue-in-cheek song commissioned by an outside arts organization. Its simple point was about teaching young people to speak out against anti-LGBTQ hate. In harmony, the Chorus sings, “Someone’s got to teach them not to hate.”
Threats, and a Decision
After anti-LGBTQ media figures clipped and recast the video, chorus members faced death threats, harassment, false accusations and doxing. The Chorus briefly made the video private. On July 9, 2021, it put the video back up and released a statement:
“We will not allow ourselves, even in the face of death threats, to retreat or bow to attempts to twist our words, meaning, self-deprecation and humor.”
The Chorus thanked the San Francisco Police Department and law enforcement for their quick help with the threats. It also restated its purpose: to be role models and to spread a message of love, inclusion, humor and celebration through music.
Support From GLAAD
GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis spoke out in support of the Chorus. She said the hateful response “just reinforces the need for LGBTQ visibility, community, and advocacy,” which SFGMC has shown throughout its history.
Contemporary reporting
On July 8, 2021, the Bay Area Reporter reported that SFGMC closed its office as a precaution after members and staff received threats. Executive Director Chris Verdugo explained that the song used satire to challenge prejudice and encourage tolerance. The newspaper’s updated report noted a San Francisco Police Department investigation of reported hate messages and possible threats.
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