Celebrating Pride month

What comes to mind when you hear the word "pride"? I think of these words: encouragement and upliftment. This month is extraordinary as this month is Pride Month.

This month we celebrate the LGBTQ community. We come together to raise awareness, uplift the LGBTQ voices and support LGBTQ rights. I have been extremely vocal about my gender identity. As a transgender woman of colour, there are layers of challenges that I continue to experience. It has not hindered me from representing a voice for some people. It is a part of my advocacy whether I am at work or outside work. Coming to Canada, I received a genuine welcome from my church and the other volunteers I did throughout the years. I know I was not isolated.

Out and Proud

The LGBTQ community still experiences inequality and unacceptance. The world we live in is changing. I notice that the media is putting more content that is LGBTQ-friendly. However, some are still requiring work due to misrepresentation. It is very noticeable in movies, especially with transgender individuals. There are ways to mitigate increased stigma by ensuring that the stakeholders are part of the community. Diversity and inclusivity are the keys here. I envision this world where violence, discrimination and prejudice are not in existence. This girl can certainly, continue dreaming of what it would like for my brothers and sisters in the future.

We all have diverse stories. I believe that sharing them would; would increase visibility, but also awareness. Supporting queer groups in the community is one way to share your story. Colleges and universities are always seeking speakers to discuss current issues surrounding LGBTQ. I was very fortunate to be part of the roster of speakers in their yearly Pride Culture Conference. I am hoping to be accepted this year again. To celebrate diversity, start by showing up and finding the supports you need. Every community needs to come together; encouraging visibility will help overcome the community's acceptance. We need to fight for our dignity. All of these things can also expose the threats to our rights. Then, conversations will continue to happen.

This world would be a whole lot better if we just made an effort to be less horrible to one another.- Elliot Page

Pride, in addition, is about celebrating our uniqueness. You can do that by being the best version of yourself. Know where you have been and understand that your past moulded you to be the person you are now. We possess the unique qualities that make us. It is crucial to identify these qualities and, adding more colours to the layer. Ultimately, you know you will soar. Start by doing little doing things daily. It may be difficult being LGBTQ but know that your capabilities are your strength. Your progress is something that you own. Tell yourself that your journey is something you can be proud of. Be empowered. Do not limit yourself because society is telling you otherwise.

Since it is Pride Month, there are many ways how we can celebrate. I support my church and non-profit organizations. Participating in their projects and initiatives is where I put my extra time. Join online pride events. If there are symposiums or seminars, concerts or even an online party would be super cool. There are some fantastic educational seminars offered out there to learn more about queer history. There are podcasts that you can listen to, too. It is one way to honour those who fought for our lives to be out and proud. Celebrate this month with friends and families who are always there supporting you.

Be you! Encourage and uplift others to be themselves. Happy Pride Month!