MaryAnnMancini

Born September 5, 1952. Worked in occupations ranging from machinist, ship's oiler, Automated Manufacturing Technologist (CAD/CAM), millwright, magazine layout artist, addictions counsellor, to Toronto antique store owner, all of which were considered unusual occupations for a woman at the time.

• Lived in Halifax from 1971 to 1991
• Member GAE Halifax and a Turret and Rumours Staffer,
• GAE Speakers Bureau - spoke to classes at Dal about homosexuality
• Marched at protest of CBC ban of advertising and was at the sit-in and picket line organized when a local bar refused service to percieved Gays
• Member GLAD - Gays and Lesbians at Dalhousie
• Member Sparrow - Faith-based group run by Father Mike
• Editor of TheVoice - Atlantic Canada's first gay newspaper
• Participated in marches and activities of first AtlanticConference and CGLRC National Conference

Mary Ann considers her activism for Gay and Lesbian Rights in the seventies, her similar experiences with breaking ground for women in trades and technologies and last but not least being sober for the last 24 years to be the most important things she has ever done with her life.

On My 60th Birthday September 5,2012

Ok, it's my 60th birthday and wisdom per se still not on the horizon, but I have learned some lessons that I will now impart, because I am now officially old and we do this:

1. Family and friends matter. Reach out and let them know they are still in your heart.
2. Some of us are lucky enough to have employment that fulfills our needs with creativity and enthusiasm intact, but if not, it is a job and you have 16 other hours to get your other needs fulfilled, so give your employer your best and then go out and express yourself..
3. Grab as much education as possible..it will always enhance your life even if it doesn't seem to.
4. When you come across good cooks, learn from them because you will crave their dishes for years after the meal. The same goes for writers, artists, skilled labourers, teachers, clergy and activists that you respect.

That's it pretty short list, but like I said, still waitin' on the wisdom. Love you all, Mary Ann