As we all get our party on this weekend, I wanted to reflect on a few things from the past, and some of the things that got me to where I am today. In the book, I touch on a few different shades of the Pride flag, as James and his friends are introduced to a completely different culture than anything they’ve known to exist before. I had an opportunity to represent something in my writing and I wanted to make sure I got it right. I talked to people. I searched my own past experiences. I read and I studied. The spectrum is a vast and varied thing, and it’s not always easy to see someone else’s shade from the safety of your own, but it’s important to always, always try.
I’ve been lucky enough to have been in the actual parade in my city twice in the past, and this Saturday I’ll be there again, albeit as a spectator. Having lived for the past few years in a municipality that actively works against the LGBTQ+ community in almost every way they can, it’s become even more clear that the fight for equality is far from over, and we need to do everything we can to push back against the hate. Speak up for someone who can’t do it for themselves. Support your friends and family members, hell… support ANYONE that needs to hear that they are ok, and they matter. Call out bigotry whenever it rears it’s ugly head and make sure it doesn’t get a foothold in your community like it has in mine. Wear a fucking rainbow proudly, and don’t be afraid to educate someone if you get the chance.
I was once bigoted. I was scared of my own sexuality due to the climate in the 80s when I grew up and the constant reinforcement I got from my family. It took me years, and a lot of failed relationships before I met the right people who showed me what it meant to be true to yourself. To that group of Vikings, Pirates, Fairies, Bronies, Subs, Doms, and Burners, I owe you everything. To everyone else. have an awesome Pride Week and take care of each other!
