Why we need Pride.

And it’s Pride Month! Woohoo! The month where it is okay to walk down the street as a rainbow unicorn! Haha kidding… I’m not. This is meant to be a month of love, expression and acceptance however it sometimes isn't often because the question ‘why do you still need Pride?’ comes up. I’m going to explain why we do, more than anything, need Pride.

On June 28th, 1969 LGBTQ+ rights really changed. Stonewall was a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ+ community against the police in New York City. They protested for equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community. This started the wave of acceptance for the LGBTQ+ everywhere and even though we still face issues we are where we are today because of the people that fought for justice. They did that so we can have the acceptance Pride creates. They protested so that we can celebrate ourselves in this way.

For some people this month and visibility of Pride is all they have. It’s the only time they see their community and they know they can feel comfortable or inspired. It is a time when the people hiding or the people who can’t express themselves finally can, with other people they know can relate. It can be hard to find other LGBTQ+ members within society so when an event like Pride brings us all together it can feel simply amazing.

That is why we need Pride.

We are still, very much, a minority that struggles but that loves to express our identity. To show that we are here and that we are proud of who we are. In society it is hard to tell people how you identify sometimes but this month allows you to truthfully be yourself . The louder the better! Pride isn't just the parades or parties, though that is a real fun part, it is a sense of feeling. We don't jump around singing Mariah Carey with flags because we want to flamboyantly rub it in everyone's faces... We do it because it makes us feel seen, heard and a part of the world we live in.

For many people it may be hard to understand if you aren’t part of a minority group. Hard to understand why you might need to be so vocal but it is about spreading love and tolerance. Not long ago we were faced with the opposition community wanting a ‘straight pride parade’ and in some places this happened. What needs to be noted is that Pride is for everyone. No matter what gender, sexuality, race, age or religion, you are welcome to show love. It also needs to be understood that a straight couple doesn’t always face judgment when walking down the street holding hands. The LGBTQ+ community faces judgement everyday.

Pride gives us a voice and it gives us a hug of warmth and acceptance. That’s all we want.

Have Pride always.

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Rainbow Talk

Happy Pride Month Everyone!

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