Pride, Progress, & Protest

Rainbows bring joy, happiness. They instill a sense of wonder and appreciation of the world around us.

Yet the rainbow flag didn’t start that way. The Pride flag was flown as a symbol of protest, by those demanding to be accepted, demanding they have equal rights to those around them.

Today, many cities are celebrating Pride with parades and the revised Progress flag. Celebrating the progress we have made as a society for acceptance. But remember that it wasn’t always about joy. It was about protest.

And these days, as more states try to strip away rights and deny the existence of LGBTQ+ citizens, protest is what we need.

Empathy and acceptance. Equal rights for all.

Pride Merch

June is Pride month! And it’s becoming more commonly accepted and celebrated across America. Which, of course, means that many companies are looking to cash in via their special Pride merchandise.

Of course, these companies also donate huge amounts of money (thanks, Citizens United) to politicians of all stripes. Including those who promote and vote for anti-LGBTQ legislation.

So, while I applaud those who wear their Pride publicly, when you buy that merch, try to check on where your money is really going.