INSPIRATION ABOUNDS!

Oakland lesbian couple redefines family
As women prepare for Dyke March Saturday, minds on national debate
By Momo Chang, STAFF WRITER

OAKLAND (California) — Women who love women are gearing up for an annual celebration around Lake Merritt Saturday: the 5th annual Sistahs Steppin' in Pride East Bay Dyke March and Festival.

It's no wonder the festival takes place in Oakland, which has more lesbian couple households per capita than San Francisco, according to the 2000 U.S. Census.

MEIBECK AND MAYA SCOTT-CHUNG with their daughter Luna, almost 2, of Oakland. They plan on participating in the Sistahs Steppin' in Pride parade and festival Saturday at Lake Merritt. (Nick Lammers - Staff)

While one associates lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parades with San Francisco, during the last few decades same-sex couples, particularly lesbian couples, have been quietly moving to Oakland because of affordability and space issues.

And in addition to couples, individuals and friends, there will be children.

Maya Scott-Chung, 40, of Oakland, says she plans on bringing her nearly 2-year-old daughter, Luna, to the march and festival.

Maya, a lesbian of Irish and Scottish descent, said it's important to speak out about today's social, cultural and political challenges around same-sex marriage.

"Our family right now is at the center of this national debate around human and civil rights," she said, adding many couples she knows are hesitant to talk to the media...Read more about this inspiring family via insidebayarea.com?