As we close out the month of June, which happens to be Pride month, I’d like to give a shout out to all my LGBTQ+ friends and family. As a CIS-straight female, I try to avoid speaking on behalf of those who identify differently than me. Though, what I will do is advocate for the same human rights that have been given to those who meet society’s standards of gender/ sexual orientation.
I remember when a friend of mine came out to me. We were talking about a previous conversation we had about his ex. During that initial conversation he slipped up and used the pronoun “he,” which I pointed out. He shrugged it off and said he misspoke. Fast forward to his visit, he admitted to me that he didn’t make a mistake. His ex was a guy.
My reaction? “Oh, okay.” Then he started trying to explain himself to me. I interrupted him. “I don’t care.” Looking back, my words may have come off a little harsh. But with a smile I told him that I did not care that he liked men. He was my friend, and that wasn’t going to change. Today, I see him living his best life out in the open, with a kind heart and happiness across his face.
Though, he’s one of the lucky ones. Some people receive hatred when they reveal their true selves to the world. Even with acceptance from family and friends, members of the LGBTQ+ community still get ostracized for being who they are. For all those who don’t approve of their lifestyle, MIND YOUR BUSINESS. Don’t worry about gay marriage if you don’t plan on getting gay married.
One thought on “Got Pride?”
Well said.