The word “pride” can be a noun and a verb. As defined in the dictionary (noun), a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements. As defined in the dictionary (verb), be especially proud of a particular skill or quality.
June Is Pride Month
A fitting word for many in our community and world as they celebrate their accomplishments and take pride in all they can offer. It calls for people to remember how damaging homophobia was and still can be. It’s about being proud of who you are no matter who you love.
It is unfortunate that there is still bigotry and prejudice towards people that are considered “different” than us. I’m always boggled by what that means. If we were all the same, if we all had the same beliefs, or if we all loved the same kind of person, what would this world be like? Boring to me. Tolstoy wrote in Anna Karenina, “I think…if it is true that there are as many minds as there are heads, then there are as many kinds of love as there are hearts.” This was written between 1875 and 1877. So why, 144 years later, is this still up for debate?
Recent Incidents In Daniel Island
We had an incident this past week here in my community. A seventh grade girl, who wanted to show solidarity to the LGBTQAI community, wore a Pride flag on her backpack. A group of middle schoolers stole the flag, began yelling “burn it,” and then stuffed it down the sewer drain.
This young lady chose to share her belief in equality for all and instead of being applauded for it, was shamed. Two of the young boys’ families came forward and apologized to the girl, leading some to believe they caved under peer pressure. It is this author’s opinion that behavior such as this is taught at home, or more aptly, “love thy neighbor no matter who they love” is not taught at home.
Showing Support
This past week also marked the five year anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub massacre. Forty-nine people were murdered and fifty-six others were injured. This was a horrific act of terrorism against the LGBTQAI community, a community which has suffered for years simply because they choose to love someone that some others view as “wrong.”
We’ve made strides for LGBTQAI rights, but we’ve a long way to go. As NIOT says, “We stand for love, not hate.” We also stand with the Onepulse Foundation and say, “We will not let hate win.”
Join us on June 26 at 10 a.m. at Center Park for a peaceful demonstration to stand for love. We invite all community members to stand with NIOT Daniel Island against all forms of hate and injustices. Learn more about this peaceful demonstration!
Happy Pride Month! Let this month be one of celebration, acceptance, and love for all.
NIOT Daniel Island 