Member-only story
The LGBTQ+ community undeniably has its own history of systemized oppression and abuses. We have faced and overcome countless battles to declare presence, claim visibility, demand an end to discrimination both institutional and personal, and though in Western cultures there is still a fair ways between where we are and full genuine equality we certainly have made important progress. PRIDE began as a symbol and celebration of that fight and has grown to also be a symbol of acceptance, love, and safety of community.
Established dates for PRIDE events vary around the world but the vast majority of local, provincial/state, national PRIDEs are held in June and July. In more typical times we would already be in full swing but due to the pandemic most physical events have been cancelled leaving us feeling a little lost, unsure how best to channel our urge to celebrate and express. And now in the face of all these important and worthy international protests against race based police brutality we are even less sure how to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community without interrupting voices which have too long been silenced now screaming to be heard. A plea we know all too well.