FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

"In many ways, it is easier to walk 500 miles than to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender in America." —Jennifer Schumaker

Is Jennifer taking speaking engagements?
Yes. Jennifer has spoken at colleges, organizations, and other groups. Call Jennifer directly: (760) 877-4396

When was The Walk?
Here are The Walk dates that took place in 2006:
Kickoff:
Saturday, April 8th, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
Balboa Park
San Diego, California

Finale:
Saturday, June 3rd, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
West end of Crissy Field
San Francisco, California

What is "Walk for Togetherness?"
Walk for Togetherness is an endeavor which aims to draw attention to the shared humanity of all persons. In the case of the 2006 “One Mom, Two Feet, 500 Miles,” the highlight is on the interconnections among people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) and their allies, friends, and families.

The Vision and Mission of Walk for Togetherness can be read by clicking on the “Vision and Mission” link.

For over four years Jennifer (writer, lesbian, and single soccer mom of four) has made a habit of coming out to all sorts of folks in suburbia, such as tow-truck drivers, store clerks, and other soccer moms and dads. Encouraged by the positive responses she received, Jennifer was also aware that her status as a mom, combined with her ethnic, educational, and economic background, played a part in the reception she received.

Grateful for the strength to continue to come out, but unwilling to simply rest on unearned privilege, Jennifer got the idea to walk a very long way in order to help open up dialogue and try to energize the work for civil rights and dignity already being done.

As allies and LGBT folks come together and secure the civil rights currently denied to LGBT Americans, Walk for Togetherness will continue to work to build alliances with the diverse communities within our larger American and human family.

For example, we will be working to promote dialogue that connects people of different faiths, ethnicities, physical abilities and body sizes, health statuses, economic backgrounds, ages, genders, and the list goes on. Jennifer and the Walk Team plan to host annual events in various forms, in partnership with groups such as those listed on the endorsers' page, whose missions both inspired and reflect that of the Walk.

How will the Walk create change?
Jennifer believes that when people get to know each on a one-on-one basis, like the other soccer moms did in her neighborhood, and when personal stories are shared, it helps to demystify stereotypes and tap into our shared humanity.

I heard there is a ribbon, what is that about?
The rainbow ribbons will be on available for a small donation at the website and along the route for people to wear to show support and love for friends, family members, coworkers and selves who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender. Proceeds supported The Walk and will support future related activities. Please see Walk for Togetherness ribbon items on the Store link.

Where were Jennifer's children during her eight week walk?
Jennifer's children went to the on-site daycare at their school, and were picked up every evening by their father, who lives just a minute from Jennifer, and shares custody of the children. On the weekends, friends drove the kids up to meet Jennifer along the route and walked a short distance with her. (Her children raised money for The Trevor Project's suicide prevention hotline as they walked.)

There were a couple of days of rest built into the walk schedule for Jennifer to spend time with her children. At the end of the Walk, a family member brought the children to San Francisco for the conclusion of the walk.

How did we find Jennifer along the Walk?
In 2006, you could track Jennifer's progress and make plans to walk with her by using her blog.

If I donate to the Walk, where do the funds go?
The initial funds paid for Walk expenses, such as the kickoff and finale events, publicity, security, and Jennifer's needs along the route. Additional money will be spent in partnership with groups that promote the vision and mission of Walk for Togetherness. There is no major fund raising at this time.

Is Walk for Togetherness a non-profit organization?
Walk for Togetherness is an original venture. Walk for Togetherness is not yet incorporated, and anticipates achieving 501c3 tax in the future. Administration of funds is handled by Chalice Unitarian Universalist Congregation at 2324 Miller Avenue, Escondido, California 92029.