Reflecting on Pride Month

Each year, the month of June is dubbed Pride Month as a chance for GLBT individuals and their allies to show pride in themselves and their community. It is an opportunity for GLBT individuals to be themselves and reflect on the accomplishments of the community from the past year. It seems that to me personally, the meaning of Pride Month has changed a bit from year to year, but I enjoy it every time it comes around.

When I came out and attended my first Pride Month celebration down in Boston, it was a liberating experience. To see so many GLBT individuals and their friends and family without cares or concerns for just one day was so refreshing. Personally, it felt like a complete 180 turn from how things felt on a daily basis. For one day I didn't have to watch my steps and worry about what others may think.

Oddly enough, I went to my first Pride parade with three straight friends from college, each of whom ended up enjoying the sights and sounds of the event. It may sound strange, but a lot of folks who don't identify as GLBT attend each year's festivities, some to support friends or family members, and others just to enjoy the activities throughout the day.

Since my first experience at Pride, my perception has changed quite a bit. As I've become more comfortable in my own skin, I don't really feel as much of a change attending the festivities as I had that first time. I still enjoy watching the parade, listening to the music, and seeing what kinds of groups are tabling. But I don't feel like I go just for me anymore. I go to show my support for the community, in the hopes that people who are just now coming to terms with their sexuality may find the comfort I once felt in being surrounded by people who wouldn't judge me for who I was.

There has been a lot of talk about how Pride events may change over the years as there's a growing acceptance of GLBT individuals. I'm not sure how things will change down the road, but I do think the month of June allows for some good reflection and a chance to come together as a community. We've made some great steps toward equality and acceptance over the past few decades, but there's still a long way to go