by Yuni, of Brooklyn, New York

July through May present moments of great confidence, strong community, and an unsaid knowledge of support and comradery. Oh! But when June comes on the calendar scene. PRIDE, the word itself for the dictionary meaning doesn’t do the concept of the time period its full justice or encompass all of the feelings of presence.  

Without any doubt, the idea of being known as Gay or Lesbian has been taboo labeling in archaic years of the past. From hell threats, religious fears, and plain ignorance of the concept of what love and attraction are or can be and its fluidity. All the pieces, the memories, the self-awareness, self-acceptance and understanding, the connections, the times of airy and heavy hearts, the rejections, the strides on all levels – personal and worldly, the decisions, the hopes, the loves, the hates, the reckoning. PRIDE is more than parades, parties, festivals, and times for allies to wear the rainbow heart stickers, it’s about the official calendar reminder that everyone matters regardless of their sexual preference. Those of us who make up the PRIDE community are relevant and strong leaders, contributors, and members to this society on a universal plane and should always be recognized as such. The negative, ignorant, and debunked propaganda and myths are so tired. Time and time again, proven to be fear-mongering and closed-minded rhetoric, PRIDE reminds us that laughable misinformation will not be tolerated and only serves efforts in futility. 

As a concept, ‘pride’ speaks to positive mindful perspectives of something associated with oneself as it relates to personal or associated factors. PRIDE as a movement brings people together, allows dialogues of understanding, and holds safe spaces (literally and figuratively). Everything is not always Black/white, or only this way or that of what one’s life’s experiences have led you to be thus far. The reality is grey areas are allowed to exist – especially when there aren’t any life dangers associated with it like wars, homelessness, or world pandemics. 

 One of the most wonderful times of the year, where amongst the Art exhibits, panel discussions, parties, readings, parades, festivals, exhibits, and events, you may see people just taking in all of the energy of the atmosphere with tears …and smiles on their faces at the same time – now that’s PRIDE. 

                                  Yuni