June 30 marks the end of Pride month; the 1969 Stonewall protests started June 28 and people returned to protest every evening lasting through July 1.
This year Pride across Central Ohio was different.
With the illumination of Columbus’ City Hall as the symbolic kick-off of Pride month to a record number of Central Ohio community based Pride events and celebrations that happened throughout the month. The declaration, and celebration, of Pride month across Central Ohio brought with it new community moments of recognition that centered members across our local communities from a variety of perspectives and backgrounds.
This year Pride across the country was different.
As we entered June we had already lost 28 trans and gender nonconforming individuals to murder and as we leave the month of June we must sadly add another name to that list–EJ Boykin aka Novaa Watson. This year we have seen an increase in violent acts against members of the LGBTQIA+ community with a variety of intersectional identities–in particular toward our Black transgender community members.
This year Pride across the world was different.
During the month of June we are often reminded that some of our identities rest in spaces of privilege and soar differently; while there are many in our queer community that are underprivileged and have had their wings clipped, while some have even lost their lives. Those of us with privilege must allow those with limited or without privilege to take space and be seen; those with privilege must be ok with using whatever privilege we have to uplift those who have less privilege.
At this moment we have an opportunity to ensure that our movement for equality and equity persists with intentional and inclusive actions to ensure more of us are a part of this journey toward liberation.
Take advantage of the moment…this moment when the world is paying attention. Take advantage of this moment to spread information and build the community that we desire, a more inclusive and understanding community…a community of individuals with intersectional identities that want to be seen and respected.
We must continue to fuel the growth of the movement–through time, talent, and treasure. Through social work, protests, and politics. Through grace, accountability, and camaraderie.
And we must always remember…Pride is more than a march, weekend, week, or even month; Pride is three hundred and sixty five days a year.
With Pride,
Densil Porteous (he/they)
Executive Director
Stonewall Columbus
