June is a month of vibrant colors and profound significance for the LGBTQ+ community. Designated as LGBT Pride Month, the recognition goes back to the Stonewall riots of June and July 1969, which marked a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. Patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City were tired of enduring police raids and discrimination, so they decided to fight back. This uprising sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, igniting a fire that continues to burn brightly today.
For WAVIT, Pride Month is not merely a time for colorful parades and festivities; it’s also a poignant reminder of the struggles, triumphs and ongoing fight for equality that the LGBTQ+ community faces every day. At the heart of our mission lies a profound commitment to championing inclusivity and equality for all. As a women’s association deeply rooted in empowerment and solidarity, we stand proudly in support of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and beyond.
Celebrating Pride Month
In the words of Audre Lorde, “It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept and celebrate those differences.” This Pride Month, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of humanity in all its diversity and continue our journey toward a more inclusive, more equitable future for all.
Pride Month is a celebration of visibility, authenticity and resilience. At WAVIT, one of the steps that we’re taking is, at InfoComm 2024, we will hand out “You Are Safe with Me” pins. The campaign originated with a simple, yet profound, idea: to create visible symbols of safety and support that LGBTQ+ individuals can recognize and trust. If you see me or any other member of the WAVIT Board, please ask them for your pin. We’d love the opportunity to connect and get your support!
Ways to Show Support
Let’s explore some additional ways to embrace Pride Month and show support. Here are just a few:
- Attend Pride events to show visible support for the community and amplify their message of equality.
- Be an ally in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. This is crucial. Actively listening to individuals’ experiences, standing up against discrimination and advocating for inclusion are just a few ways to be an ally.
- Volunteer to support their initiatives — from organizing events, to providing resources and support services. This can help strengthen community bonds.
- Educate yourself by learning the terminology and understanding the diverse experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. This can help foster change and inspire meaningful conversations.
- Become an advocate by using your voice and influence to support LGBTQ+ rights in your personal and professional worlds.
- Support industry groups and events that promote the LGBTQ+ community with inclusivity.
Champions of Equality
This Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, advocating for policy changes that protect their rights and providing support to those in need. We celebrate the courage and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals, who have fought for equality and paved the way for future generations. We honor the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, and we recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all narrative.
As allies, we understand the importance of listening to, learning from and amplifying marginalized voices. We acknowledge that our role is to support and uplift LGBTQ+ individuals, not to speak over them. We strive to create inclusive spaces within our organization where all members feel valued, respected and empowered to bring their whole selves to the table.
This Pride Month, let’s come together as allies, advocates and champions of equality. Let’s embrace the spirit of Pride Month and continue to march forward on the path toward a more inclusive and just society for all.
Susan Wilhite is senior director of business development for Bluefin International, Inc.
