Something we have repeatedly heard since the start of Pride month is the notion that pride lacks meaning for an LGBTQ+ community like ours that is living under constant danger and subjugation. We beg to differ. We live our pride in a multitude of ways. And as pride month comes to an end, we will take the next 10 days to remind all of us that our pride is abundant, endless, and beautiful. Come abroad on our journey where positive pride vibes reign.
“Why are we asking to celebrate pride in the midst of oppression?”
It is true. We live under oppression. But if we think about it, things are not like yesterday, and we have a lot to celebrate.
– We celebrate because we have overcome the struggle by just accepting ourselves.
– We celebrate because, despite the many challenges, we are building communities and have started our journey.
– We celebrate because we are living without fear of what others will say to us and thus choose to cut our hair in any way we want and dress as we desire.
– We celebrate because, although we are scared, we are trying to do a little more than yesterday.
– We celebrate because we are able to say, “You are not alone,” to others.
– We celebrate because we can reach out to others for help.
– We celebrate because we have the ability to receive and give love.
– We celebrate because, although we are not sure about what tomorrow might bring, we have started a journey to establish loving relationships.
– We celebrate because we have chosen to be alone and to live life to the best of our ability.
Every step of our life is pride. It takes pride to find freedom in this hidden life we live and to continually seek freedom. If we take a moment to think about what we’ve been through, even if it may not seem like much, it’s a brave decision that we’re taking.
Identify your pride. You have it in abundance.
Happy Pride Month!