June is known as pride month and it is to celebrate everyone no matter who they chose to love. We asked people in the community what pride month means to them and why it is important and this is what they had to say.
“I think pride means living authentically and truly to who you are and occupying spaces that haven’t been traditionally ours so that others can see an opportunity in themselves and in the future no matter who they are. I think that’s what pride means to me. I believe it’s important because when we are seen in these spaces that haven’t been traditionally ours these younger kids and younger generations can aspire to be the next mayor or the next professional football player.” – Alex Garcia
“The month of June in the United States is full of celebrations and awareness campaigns. Pride celebrations and parades are so important for me to attend because it’s a reward for all the hard work and activism we’re all doing to change the minds of bigots while making a safe space for fellow LGBTQIA+ individuals. It’s also more than a celebration — Pride is a protest inherently and, unfortunately, protests continue due to discriminatory and harmful laws that are anti-gay in nature. To be able to publicly be a pansexual, cisgender woman is such a privilege. I use that privilege when I take up space in public with my lover to show you can’t erase gay love or hide it. I want to show younger generations that there is no shame in being a part of the LGBTQIA + community.” – Dana Carillo
“Pride month means gathering around individuals who will make you feel loved and supported no matter what. It’s a time once a year when we feel safe to be ourselves, freely, and proudly. We love more openly, share stories, and spread happiness to the world as much as we can. Pride is unity. Pride is joy. Every day I’m proud to be who I am, regardless of hate and backlash.” – Jazmyn Hewett
“As an ally, pride month is a month in which we celebrate and support acceptance, progress, diversity, and most importantly love. Although we can’t undo the discrimination, inequality, and suppression that matters within LGBTQ+ have experienced for decades, we are commemorating change in acceptance and demonstrating that love is love.” – Citlali Toscano
“Pride month for me is about having community and being able to be authentically yourself. It is a month that shows that the LGBTQ is a part of the world and it’s here to stay.” – Brina Benavidez
“To me, pride month is the time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and to recognize the impact that queer people have had on society throughout history. It’s a time to honor the struggles and trials of those who have fought for LGBTQ+ rights and to support those who are still fighting for equality. It is important because it helps to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues and to promote a more inclusive and accepting society.” – Ken Garo
