The struggle for equality is still a struggle. Each year, Pride celebrations are held from coast-to-coast, but often the meaning behind these celebrations gets lost. To forget the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us make our celebration of the occasion disingenuous. It is important that we never forget the sacrifices made by brave individuals who came before us so that we can celebrate the occasion as we do. Those individuals, especially those who took part in the Stonewall Riots, formed a bridge over which we all were able to cross over to enjoy the liberties we do today.
The words of the late Marsha P. Johnson, one of the preeminent founders of the LGBTQ movement, and a pivotal figure in the Stonewall uprising are still relevant;
“How many years has it taken people to realize that we are all brothers and sisters and human beings in the human race? I mean how many years does it take people to see that? We’re all in this rat race together!”
We celebrate Pride, with pride, and recognition of those who have come before us. With a nod toward the shadows of the past, and with hope and inspiration for a brighter future on the journey we still have ahead.