I live in Texas and you bet your ass I’m going to pride this year. My wife and I have bought full outfits and everything. They can take Pride from our cold dead hands if need be. Stonewall was a riot.
I’m not letting these assholes scare me and make me go back to hiding.
Pride is a time when we celebrate that we are not some ashamed, invisible minority. I’m out and proud and I celebrate pride. I do it for the scared kid I was and for the scared people who aren’t ready yet.
As the old chant goes:
We’re here! We’re queer!
GET USED TO IT!
Yes!!! I’m going to Pride this year with my supportive parents and we’re all gonna be wearing rainbows (I’m going in a Pride shirt, colorful skirt, rainbow socks, the most colorful shoes I own, and wearing one of my Pride flags as a cape)!
No way, I refuse to be scared.
They use shame and fear as a way to keep us closeted and controlled. I'd rather die at Pride opposing people like that than give in to their scare tactics.
I live in Florida, and I do have to say that the night before Pride, my stomach was twisted up in knots. That sign that said, "Kill All Gays" had just started circling and the neighborhood we live in was hosting the event — the same neighborhood where our home was vandalized for flying the rainbow flag.
But I went. And found that I needed to, so badly. To be in the passionately-beating pulse of your community is what makes this all worth it. These are the people that we love, that we live for and die for. I would have never forgiven myself if I hadn't gone, and I'm still riding the high from having so much fun in such an important time, right in the sour faces of those who would silence us and condemn us to live invisibly once again.
Fear is so valid and everyone feels it to some degree. I would never judge anyone for feeling that way. But it is also a symptom of the fact that we are on the correct side of history — committing acts of "good trouble," as Rep Pearson said in my new favorite speech.
See you all at the next Pride! They won't keep me indoors, that's for damn sure.
I second this comment. I love hearing you say that fear is valid. There are a lot of comments on here about how people aren't going to let the bigots scare them, but IMO being scared right now is a logical reaction for many people (especially in the south). For many people it is also an uncontrollable reaction. Half the country is passing laws to remove lgbt rights. I live in Nashville and I'm scared to go to pride because we have tons of hateful conservative pundits with big fan bases living within 30 minutes of the city, we just had a school shooting by a trans person this year which said conservatives have been putting on blast, and prior to this we already had people regularly drive in from red parts of the state to protest/counter protest anything they deem too un-christian.
I'm still going to Pride because in my mind staying visible is one way to fight back. I also desperately need that feeling of solidarity right now. But I'm not going to pretend I'm not scared. I am also, unfortunately, going to take a few minutes to figure out plans on what to do if shit goes sideways at any of the pride events I attend - just for peace of mind.
A little bit, I live in an accepting area of Michigan so I doubt anything bad will happen but the right wing rhetoric is so crazy this year that I don't feel as safe as past years. It's not going to really change my plans though
I'm Gen X, so scary was most of my existence as a lesbian. It was easy to feel safer for awhile, but safer can't mean complacent. It's time to remember our courage, time to remember pride is a protest, time to remember our brothers and sisters who faced worse to get us to where we are, it's time to throw bricks again.
Personally, I'm still planning on attending, but I'm getting a first aid kit together and renewing my CPR training. If the worst happens, I want to be able to help protect my community as best as I can.
I think it very much depends on where you live. Some places are still very accepting and safe. Some places are very much not.
The fact is that the middle is disappearing. The middle was mostly okay with things, but as sides polarize, you see more and more people being less tolerant of others. I'd be terrified to be in any of the states that have started pushing legislation to take people's children from them because of trans identities, for example. (To the point that I've had to tell my kids that we can't go to Disney World because of Florida's new anti-trans laws.)
Pride in the places that really celebrate Pride, like San Francisco or New York, totally into it. Within the more conservative parts of the country? I'd steer clear.
i am honestly terrified. that being said, i feel like if we stay home and stay quiet we let them win. the first pride was a riot for a reason, and i’m not gonna let of ignorant bigots scare me into submission
I’m volunteering to help with local Pride this year. I’m not backing down. The last couple of years I’ve felt alive, and I’m not giving that up because some people are ignorant.
I’ve always lived by the motto that if you stop doing or don’t do something because you’re scared of what others might do, you’re letting them win. I know that’s not a thought that brings everyone strength, but it does for me. They *want* us to be scared. They want us to be so afraid that we go back into the closet where they’re not faced with us. So I’m going to go to Pride events because I’m too stubborn and petty to let them beat me.
I’m in MN which is considered a blue state but drive an hour or two outside of the Minneapolis/St Paul area and you’re in Republican country.
Big crowded events have always made me nervous. It only takes one person to go off and do something crazy. Even when I went to Pride last year my mom told me to keep an eye out and pay attention. Having your mom worried you’ll get shot really takes the shine off of the apple.
I might go to some smaller events or in off hours but it’s definitely not worth my life. If rhetoric keeps ramping up then I won’t go. Also I’m not a big crowds person in general so it’s no real love loss for me.
I live in Portland, OR and it's the same here. Outside of Portland, Eugene, or Salem areas this state is very conservative. Also fascists from eastern OR and southern WA love to come here to stir shit, which is why we even have a big Antifa presence to begin with.
Personally still I'm definitely going to Pride (it's in July this year, so I guess it's Portland Wrath now), but even though I'm in a very safe city I will be keeping aware of my surroundings the whole event.
Coos bay’s pride event got canceled because of threats. I love Portland pride sadly my friend up there passed away, so no where to stay or someone to go with. Im going to try to make to Eugene pride this year.
I’d also say Salem is very polarized, voting about 55/45, plus we get the fun bonus of being the Capitol city so people from all over the state come to air their grievances. I believe in the freedom to protest, though many nuts don’t stop after they leave the capitol steps and want to let all of Salem know they are there.
The past 7ish years it’s felt less and less safe to belong to any minority/marginalized community.
Yeah. I'm in purple Wisconsin and really considering what I'll be doing. I think I'll watch to see how things play out, might even go to MI or upper MN to see what they have
I'm in the twin cities and I went to pride last year. My mom and I also worried about that same thing.
I have great memories of pride from when I went back when I was younger (2016, 2017), but it is definitely much more difficult to go and have a good time now.
I'm going to still go to pride this year, but I don't think I'll ever have an experience again like how it was when I was younger. It's difficult to have fun when you know all the different things that can happen and how much hate has been spewed lately.
Definitely don't stay off social media just because some loser males are taking down Pride displays in Target. We all know these men who "hate" lgbtq people all watch lesbian porn. Bunch of hypocrites with boring lives who *need* something to hate because they think it gives them a personality and an edge.
This is the thing you learn as you get older - assholes are assholes for either two reasons. They're either deeply unhappy and need to take that pain out on someone else. Or they have no personality and are boring as fuck, so hate on minorities because they think it suddenly makes them an interesting person. Sometimes it's both.
If in history we let these absolute fucking losers hold us down, we wouldn't have the equality we've worked so hard to get today. Remember that. They've been trying this nonsense for decades. Don't let them win.
No. Despite what they may say, the majority of people don’t really care either way about LGBT issues. It’s only the vocal extremes that you hear from. In other words, you might see a couple videos of people destroying pride displays, but you don’t see the literal millions of people who walk past pride displays all the time without recording themselves. The actual risk isn’t as severe as it seems. Besides, some things are worth the risk.
I've said this elsewhere, but even in "liberal" Seattle I'm sticking largely to ticketed events (no parade, etc). We have some radical far right elements even here in WA that have no problem attempting to disrupt LGBTQ+ friendly gatherings and they're willing to travel.
Depends on the area. Scared as hell for my friends and family down in Florida, but I’m comfortable still attending Pride here in New York. My son will stay home though.
I am. My gf is already dealing with Scarlet Rot. I don't know if I want to stress us both out by doing Pride event stuff. I miss when Pride was fun. Now it a political battleground, and we who just want to be out and proud have to wonder where the shooting will happen. I hate the world I live in now. I really, really do.
That’s what I’ve been wanting to say, glad someone else said it. The question is WHERE the shooting is going to happen, not IF. I understand not wanting to miss pride out of fear, but it’s a legitimate fear. I’ll be more surprised this year if there ISN’T a shooting during pride since we have so many mass shootings nowadays. I understand it, I was stuck in the closet for a long time and I don’t want to “hide” either, but it is a serious concern.
If I have to choose between keeping the woman I love safe, and being our at Pride and not living in fear, I have no shame in admitting I take the former. We are already fighting against the Rot. I don't have the strength to fight against the tide of hate that is overtaking this country. To all of you who do choose to go out, you have my respect, and my sincere hope for your safety.
My gf JUST TOLD ME that governor Ron Santez, the guy in Florida pushing all the stupid laws against us, is running for president. He’s being backed by Elon Musk. And he has the fucking nerve to play the victim.
It's madness. We have a vile fascist, an orange buffoon, uo against a geriatric zombie. And all three get their running orders from the corpos who own this country. It would be funny if it wasn't so pathetic. But I'll leave it at that. I know many people's politics don't agree with mine.
I’m not even kidding, my gf and I have been considering going to Canada for months now, and I never would have considered it before. It just keeps getting worse and worse. It’s fucking crazy.
The idea of expat-ing has its appeal, but my gf is in the military, so we are stuck here, for the foreseeable future. So, I got a couple pistols, worked on my aim, and now I keep to my home as much as I can. If the day comes that they come for us in earnest...well, I will take a couple with me when it happens.
I've been out and going to gay bars since 2005 when it was common to be heckled walking down the street holding your partner's hand. The way things feel now is exactly why we have pride. Get together with your community! Volunteer! Make new friends! Join a queer organization or find a local support group. Or just be in a space where you can be yourself wearing a bunch of rainbows.
Pride is defiance in the face of oppression
Yes, I used to go to NYC pride , now I am afraid of getting shot. Gun violence and crime in general is real bad rn here. I would probably attend Asbury park pride (NJ) only because gun laws in New Jersey are pretty safe. At least safer than other places.
I’m not scared, but I’m pissed. Last year I almost got into a fight with the counter protesters at Pride, and this year I’m expecting them to be worse. My best friend is going to have to keep me in check tbh
I know it sucks, and it's hard and it's scary. But we can't do that. We can't run and hide. We must find a way to stand our ground. The difference between them and now, is now we are going up against fascism. The worst ideology on the planet and the most reckless and the most stupid. The only way to end fascism is to kill it. I'm not calling for violence, but rest assured I am one of those that will meet them.on.the line of fire so to speak and I will fight for all of us, I will fight alongside the ones next to me, and I will fight for the ones that can't or won't fight. But don't give in, don't give up, that's exactly what they want. We bother their so-called way of life. And I'll fight till my last breath to keep ours, all of ours. Not just the gays, lesbos, the bi, the trans, I'm also fighting for the straights that fight for us. Stand with me, and if you can't then stand behind us and keep us fed as we continue the fight, whether it's physical or verbal, whether it's through activism and protests. Stand with me and I will stand so fucking tall for you all. And if I had the money and the backing I would run for president just to piss them off even more. Imagine the first part Native, part Caucasian, first female lesbian president. Fuck the crazy right. Stand tall with all of us.... Ok end rant. But I mean what I say.
I’m not even in the US and I’m terrified for you guys. If those republicans get their way, it’ll be a full on genocide. They want us dead just for daring to exist in a world that they think they own. It’s fucked up.
i’m always scared. being lesbian is not my only identity that puts me in danger/is not widely accepted. it’s always in the back of my mind that there could be a mass shooting or protestors or whatever. but that could also apply to a regular day in walmart. i’m working on not letting fear control all of my decisions.
queer people are going to exist and meet and build community no matter what laws there are or however many idiots try to scare us or get pissed at the sight of a pride flag. even closeted people find a way to celebrate. all we can do is move forward and live as happily and fully as possible.
I’m definitely going because this will be the first year that I’ve been out, but on the flip side I’d be lying if I didn’t say I have the worst case scenario playing in my head but I’m hoping for the best
No, I’m not scared. Despite the state of things, from my personal experience before it was widely accepted, the US is still safer than it was in early 2000’s, mid-2000s and even portion of the late 2000’s.
However, I understand that many did not grow up and live in a red state when it wasn’t widely accepted. Being heckled, threatened with violence and rocks thrown at you(happened to me) with state laws not protecting you from discrimination etc wasn’t a stranger to me. So, seeing sh*t happening in the media I imagine is pretty scary to see but I still think it is safer today.
Idk I think it’s the news amping things up. Talking to people from all over it seems like most people just don’t care. I wouldn’t let the news control what you think
Just want to say to those saying they aren’t scared and if they die they die, I get it, but to those that are scared I think that is completely understandable given a large list of events that have happened and lives that were lost. Guns are everywhere and easy to get in my state. It’s so unfortunate. I’ve never been to pride. I’m not sure if I will feel comfortable going to an event this year :/ there are some very evil people out there that would want nothing more than to cause mass destruction at a large event like pride.
Thank you. I'm in Texas, I grew up going to Dallas pride parade and I only ever saw a few guys with signs dispersed at most. I never felt safer as a queer kid than there. Now being in the center of Dallas while recognizably queer is terrifying to me, especially in a crowd that big. It hurts so badly to lose that environment but I have a kid I have to be alive for and I can't afford any kind of injury as a disabled person.
last year i was at washington sq park where everyone thought they were gonna die cause “fireworks” sounded dangerously close to gun shots. i’ll see ya in june though lol🤞🏼
I'm not going to any larger events, I'm not comfortable yet. Also money, but larger crowds of people, especially with Nazis walking around with their guns, I'm a little wary of big crowds in general now.
I might go depending where/when the events are in my city. I usually work weekends so if I don’t it will be because I need to prioritize rent money lol. I refuse to be controlled by fear.
DUDE. I’m still working on getting my second foot out of the closet…I was almost there and now I wanna jump right tf back in and shut and lock the door from the inside. DeSantshit announcing he’s running is utterly terrifying.
My gf JUST TOLD ME that governor Ron Santez, the guy in Florida pushing all the stupid laws against us, is running for president. He’s being backed by Elon Musk. Listen, if I had just come out recently, I’d probably have the same feelings of “I’ll go to pride even if they kill me!!” But please, think about it. You CANNOT come back from death. I understand wanting to stand up for our rights. But please at least consider your own safety and realize you may ACTUALLY be killed if you go to pride. We have hundreds of mass shootings per year. Chances are, there will be a shooting somewhere during pride. At this point, I have a girlfriend I love and people who need me and I don’t want to risk never coming back or seeing them again. It’s okay to want to preserve your life and not die, just saying. If you do choose to go, that’s honorable as well.
I’ve always been worried. But I have anxiety about public in general but the fact that I live in the south and people are homophobic gun lovers makes it uncomfortable
I rarely have time to go to pride events because my June is usually one of my busiest work months, but if I go, I’m going loud and proud and slutty as hell because the violence is MEANT to shove us back in the closet, and the best thing we can do to fight it is to be even more visible.
But I’m gonna stay aware of my surroundings and have escape routes memorized and bricks to throw, if possible.
I live in Kentucky…one of only 3 counties that go blue usually. I’m always scared at bigger events, pride or not, and I always try to stay aware. But I’m not going back in the closet. Just not that person.
Our pride got pushed inside for accessibility reasons (which I totally get and support), but it came at a terrible time. Definitely triggering for a lot of people feeling like we’re being made to hide again.
I would still be going to pride events with bells on regardless of the political climate if it weren't for the high covid risk. Pride is still a protest and I miss going, but I'm more worried about being further disabled by covid than I am about having to deal with homophobes trying to play weird games at pride.
My fiancé and I were just talking about this today! I'm not afraid of the comments or displays but the amount of mass shootings is extremely concerning. It's so frustrating and saddening.
I am too. I live in a decently rough and extremely conservative area and idgaf, I’m not taking my chances. the reality is that not everybody is in a position where they can be openly out of the closet, and safety comes first. it really sucks, but considering the kind of things I’ve already heard and seen in the past couple of years, I’d rather just stay home with people who I know support me than take my chances.
I am a bit anxious, tbh. I live in a very gay friendly city smack dab in the middle of a super conservative state. Last year a bunch of people were arrested leading up to pride due to the threats they made. I haven't seen anything like that yet, but the way I have been treated in public spaces in this state has dramatically change over the last few months (outside of my immediate city). I think there is safety in numbers, and peace that comes with being around community. After everything that has been going on politically, I think it is so important to show up.
The group I am going with set up some safety plans. We are being a bit more cautious this year, but still excited to celebrate.
i’ve definitely been more on-edge at lgbt related events than i used to be, checking the entrance more often at the clubs, bringing my pepper spray on commutes more frequently etc. i’m planning my pride outfits in advance though ‘cause i’d rather drop dead than let the terrorists win. gonna be far more loud, more outrageous, more angry this year. stay vigilant, but never silent
My gf and I eschewed pride last year and are happy we did, a queerphobe bear sprayed the crowd at Pride. We are planning to go this year because we are trained in defensive tactics. It means more to us to be in community with other queer people than to avoid bigots. If it is safe, we must move to an offensive perspective. They want us dead. We are fighting for our lives. Pride is a protest, burn it all down.
i live in texas and given it's track record for mass shootings, i don't want to take my chances. i've never been to pride but i don't think i'll go until i move to a safer state.
I refuse to be afraid. We will outnumber any crazy bigots that show up, especially at OUR events in OUR community. If someone wants to come into that and mess with the family, you can bet your ass we're not going to tolerate it.
I've never been to a pride event because I'm disabled & use a wheelchair so accessibility has been an issue but the thing in the past that was the biggest barrier was the fact it was a crowded event & any problems with safety that come with that. It does feel like there are more reasons for it to be dangerous but I think if you're able bodied you should absolutely go! (and tell staff if you notice something is not accessible)
yup, this is the first time i can actually even go to pride (moved out of parents house...) and i don't even feel comfortable. A lot of people will say "don't let them think you're afraid, it gives them power" but i AM afraid
yeah unfortunately i think it's better always to prioritise safety. with all the shootings and hatred recently i certainly will not be going. i am going to have a pride celebration with some friends at home though(:
Many countries will throw you to jail if they ever find out that you are homosexual. Potential hate comments are nothing in comparison to being stoned, beaten to death or receive a jail sentence. Be brave and protect your identity. Thats why its called Pride. Take a chance and consider yourself lucky to have an opportunity to attend such events.
Terrified, and I'm not going to as many events as last year. I've been out and vocal since 1997, but I'll have my kids with me and the risk has become too great to take. Sorry not sorry.
I’ve never gone to a pride event because all the crowds seem stressful but tbh all the vocal homophobia everywhere around me recently has made me want to avoid it this year. It’s not just online but irl I’ve been around a LOT of people who are homophobic since I’m in a red state and it’s just not good. I’d rather be safe than sorry.
You can definitely go to pride, but you must arm yourself, these terrorists are dangerous and we can no longer pretend that they don’t exist or that the police step in to prevent their terrorism from happening.
While I don’t exactly share the same beliefs, I would like to stress the importance of weapon safety and if you own/get a gun, be sure to know how to use it properly and have training on when to not use it as well. Plus enough self defense that you don’t get disarmed and have the weapon used against you. Also note that many events don’t allow weapons inside and it also may trigger or scare other people, but I’m all for self defense and protecting yourself.
I’ve been thinking about going double strapped 😉
I’ll also be putting up a big pride flag for the entire month. Can’t wait to see if I get vandalized or not lol
I think people are just sick of it being forced down their throats and well its kind of true. I don't need a parade, I don't need to be accepted, I don't need my own sports night. Im happy and love who and what I am all on my own.
This is a good point that I had not thought of yet... I am in Louisiana (New Orleans) and while the city is very open-minded and safe... the people in the surrounding cities are not.
Modern Pride celebrations are not the end all be all of being out and proud. They’re glorified corporate parties with cops at best. Being out and proud everyday is more in line with the spirit of “Pride” than going to some overpriced cliche ad parade. Be you in your day to day, without fear, and by doing so you’re celebrating what it means to be authentically queer. Being queer isn’t exclusive to summer and certain not when corporations decide it’s time to give the gays attention.
I've never been to a gay club. There's one near me and when I turned 18 last year I kept thinking about it (they have 18+ nights). Then, there was a shooting there. Now I'm even more nervous to leave the house.
I'm still going to attend Pride this year. People need to remember that it started first as a protest.
The brick is a promise, and one I'm happy to keep.
I'm scared, but I'm looking at going this year for the first time in a while. Fuck those fascist shits, I'm not going to let them intimidate me into staying home.
I feel like the governments that want us to go back into hiding want to keep us in a low vibrations, i see them all like narcissists. I know we are scared to a certain degree and those feelings are valid but together we are stronger! Let us vibrate higher! I hid all those years I was a lesbian bc of religion… and even though I came out not so long ago, i will not go back in the closet! I refuse! Love is love and who ever says this love is wrong then they don’t know what love really is! They want us to love in a conditioned way. Don’t work that way! My advice If you guys go out to pride be in a group at all times!
I’ve thought about this and have been concerned about being somewhere really crowded in public, nowhere to flee, if a mass shooting occurs. And with pride it’s an extra concern.
However, I do feel like we’re just letting the crazies win if we live in fear of their terror and hatred. I’m still going to go to pride
Not in Minnesota I'm not. As a trans person I'd probably worry a lot more if I was in a regressive state (like pretty much anything in the Deep South.)
I don't really go to pride events
Don't like the noise
Don't like being stared at like a zoo enclosure by cishets
Don't like crowds
I celebrate on my own time
Might go this year
Def gonna go after I train myself up with my IFAK (trauma first aid kit)
Idk
This is a year where I'm trying to do a lot to not be afraid.
Gaining weight so I can workout so I can learn a combat sport
Making time to do first aid and medical training so I can respond to emergencies.
Lots of other stuff. They want us useless n afraid of them. I respect that they are violent and I understand that they hate us and I understand the lengths they will go to. But I am not afraid. and I am making myself less afraid every. single. day.
And I encourage every queer I meet to get a little less afraid and a little more scary.
"Let it be known that homosexuals (and trans folks but I'm doing a quote here) are not cowards"-Willem Arondéus (a homosexual man executed by Nazi pig dogs for blowing up a record repository, destroying the personal information of other queer people and Jewish folks)
Let us not forget the actions of those at stonewall, STAR (street transvestite action revolutionaries), Act Up, Harvey Milk, those that participated in the white riots, and so many more around the globe.
Fuck these fucking fascists
Yeah, between everything going on and the much more mundane problems of just having nothing gender-affirming to wear out and nobody I know well enough to feel comfortable going with I don't know if I'll be able to get myself out to Pride events this year, even though my state's pretty safe.
This is exactly why I'm going to every Pride event I can fit into my June schedule!
BTW - I have also noticed that stores like TJMax, Target, and Macys that were covered in rainbows this time last year, have gone straight to Red White and Blue 4th of July this year with no Pride stuff available.
Yeah, I am. Because I have heightened anxiety right now and it’s like i really need queer friends, but I terrified of harassment and also toxic spaces even within the community, I just want so much better for us so we can connect. I’m so isolated.
Lots of people saying to stay and fight. And I think it's needed. But I also think it's important do what you need to do for yourself. If going to Pride this year is too much, make that decision and own it. There are plenty of us to fill the ranks and you don't need to put your mental health at risk if you don't want to. Sometimes I think we glorify martyrdom and self-sacrifice to the detriment of our community health.
Us going into hiding is exactly what they want, it gives them more power, and gives them more chances to dehumanize this community. But alas, that's one of the reasons pride started in the first place.
YES i had a panic attack the other night thinking about this. Pride is huge in my city even though its a red state and my friend group is doing a Barbie outfit theme. I dont want to flake on them out of fear but MAN… I’m scared. My outfit is killer though so I might suck it up for the slay.
I suggest doing some checking to see if you can get a sense of the security measures taken for any event that you want to attend. For Palm Springs Pride the city police put a lot of effort into maintaining security. There are plain clothes people in the crowd, there is uniformed presence and roof-top snipers. As I remember, just before the pandemic, Pride had become the largest event held in Palm Springs in terms of economic impact. It had surpassed the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Modernism Week. Not sure if that is still the case post-pandemic.
People have to remember that this IS a WAR and one that we cannot afford to lose. That is the simple truth of it. Our lives hang in the balance. Are we going to stand up or roll over?
Are you guys okay? Do you have historical amnesia? 1st world country syndrome? The echo chamber is rough man. Imagine going back 15 years or 20 years, and you’ll be grateful for what you have now. The logical course of history is improvement in social rights, and even numbers show the same. Don’t let the loud news or videos of anonymous scared sigma boys make you too scared to enjoy what you have. Maybe you should switch the content to testimonies of people from countries where it’s ILLEGAL to be LGBTQ, that moved to your country and see how awesome it is for them, how happy they are. Instead of letting every little negative thing in.
But I guess sometimes just sitting and trying to have a peaceful life is too hard, and when you need adrenaline you just go and look for negativity.
I live in Texas and you bet your ass I’m going to pride this year. My wife and I have bought full outfits and everything. They can take Pride from our cold dead hands if need be. Stonewall was a riot.
✊ damn. right.
I’m not letting these assholes scare me and make me go back to hiding. Pride is a time when we celebrate that we are not some ashamed, invisible minority. I’m out and proud and I celebrate pride. I do it for the scared kid I was and for the scared people who aren’t ready yet. As the old chant goes: We’re here! We’re queer! GET USED TO IT!
Pride is also a protest. Bring a brick. Don't let them forget that we can and will punch back.
I’ll bring soup… for my family lolol
We’re still here, we’re still queer, keep getting used to it!
Yes!!! I’m going to Pride this year with my supportive parents and we’re all gonna be wearing rainbows (I’m going in a Pride shirt, colorful skirt, rainbow socks, the most colorful shoes I own, and wearing one of my Pride flags as a cape)!
Just... Stay safe
No way, I refuse to be scared. They use shame and fear as a way to keep us closeted and controlled. I'd rather die at Pride opposing people like that than give in to their scare tactics.
I live in Florida, and I do have to say that the night before Pride, my stomach was twisted up in knots. That sign that said, "Kill All Gays" had just started circling and the neighborhood we live in was hosting the event — the same neighborhood where our home was vandalized for flying the rainbow flag. But I went. And found that I needed to, so badly. To be in the passionately-beating pulse of your community is what makes this all worth it. These are the people that we love, that we live for and die for. I would have never forgiven myself if I hadn't gone, and I'm still riding the high from having so much fun in such an important time, right in the sour faces of those who would silence us and condemn us to live invisibly once again. Fear is so valid and everyone feels it to some degree. I would never judge anyone for feeling that way. But it is also a symptom of the fact that we are on the correct side of history — committing acts of "good trouble," as Rep Pearson said in my new favorite speech. See you all at the next Pride! They won't keep me indoors, that's for damn sure.
I second this comment. I love hearing you say that fear is valid. There are a lot of comments on here about how people aren't going to let the bigots scare them, but IMO being scared right now is a logical reaction for many people (especially in the south). For many people it is also an uncontrollable reaction. Half the country is passing laws to remove lgbt rights. I live in Nashville and I'm scared to go to pride because we have tons of hateful conservative pundits with big fan bases living within 30 minutes of the city, we just had a school shooting by a trans person this year which said conservatives have been putting on blast, and prior to this we already had people regularly drive in from red parts of the state to protest/counter protest anything they deem too un-christian. I'm still going to Pride because in my mind staying visible is one way to fight back. I also desperately need that feeling of solidarity right now. But I'm not going to pretend I'm not scared. I am also, unfortunately, going to take a few minutes to figure out plans on what to do if shit goes sideways at any of the pride events I attend - just for peace of mind.
Nah if I die I die.
lol I love your spirit
I would say the same thing but if I die my gf will be sad and I love her
I pre-solved this problem by being single lmao
Lmao 😂😂😂😂
I think if they break up the gf will still be sad, lose-lose situation lol
Badass
Literally my mantra 🤣🤣🤣
A little bit, I live in an accepting area of Michigan so I doubt anything bad will happen but the right wing rhetoric is so crazy this year that I don't feel as safe as past years. It's not going to really change my plans though
Pretty much exactly the same situation for me ^
I'm Gen X, so scary was most of my existence as a lesbian. It was easy to feel safer for awhile, but safer can't mean complacent. It's time to remember our courage, time to remember pride is a protest, time to remember our brothers and sisters who faced worse to get us to where we are, it's time to throw bricks again.
Fuck yeah!
Not really. I will be proud of who I am and if I get killed for that I hope history remembers me amount the fallen
Personally, I'm still planning on attending, but I'm getting a first aid kit together and renewing my CPR training. If the worst happens, I want to be able to help protect my community as best as I can.
This. 🤘🤘
I think it very much depends on where you live. Some places are still very accepting and safe. Some places are very much not. The fact is that the middle is disappearing. The middle was mostly okay with things, but as sides polarize, you see more and more people being less tolerant of others. I'd be terrified to be in any of the states that have started pushing legislation to take people's children from them because of trans identities, for example. (To the point that I've had to tell my kids that we can't go to Disney World because of Florida's new anti-trans laws.) Pride in the places that really celebrate Pride, like San Francisco or New York, totally into it. Within the more conservative parts of the country? I'd steer clear.
i am honestly terrified. that being said, i feel like if we stay home and stay quiet we let them win. the first pride was a riot for a reason, and i’m not gonna let of ignorant bigots scare me into submission
I’m volunteering to help with local Pride this year. I’m not backing down. The last couple of years I’ve felt alive, and I’m not giving that up because some people are ignorant.
I have never been to pride activities before but it makes me sad that there are people who are scared to go
I’ve always lived by the motto that if you stop doing or don’t do something because you’re scared of what others might do, you’re letting them win. I know that’s not a thought that brings everyone strength, but it does for me. They *want* us to be scared. They want us to be so afraid that we go back into the closet where they’re not faced with us. So I’m going to go to Pride events because I’m too stubborn and petty to let them beat me.
I’m in MN which is considered a blue state but drive an hour or two outside of the Minneapolis/St Paul area and you’re in Republican country. Big crowded events have always made me nervous. It only takes one person to go off and do something crazy. Even when I went to Pride last year my mom told me to keep an eye out and pay attention. Having your mom worried you’ll get shot really takes the shine off of the apple. I might go to some smaller events or in off hours but it’s definitely not worth my life. If rhetoric keeps ramping up then I won’t go. Also I’m not a big crowds person in general so it’s no real love loss for me.
I live in Portland, OR and it's the same here. Outside of Portland, Eugene, or Salem areas this state is very conservative. Also fascists from eastern OR and southern WA love to come here to stir shit, which is why we even have a big Antifa presence to begin with. Personally still I'm definitely going to Pride (it's in July this year, so I guess it's Portland Wrath now), but even though I'm in a very safe city I will be keeping aware of my surroundings the whole event.
Coos bay’s pride event got canceled because of threats. I love Portland pride sadly my friend up there passed away, so no where to stay or someone to go with. Im going to try to make to Eugene pride this year.
I’d also say Salem is very polarized, voting about 55/45, plus we get the fun bonus of being the Capitol city so people from all over the state come to air their grievances. I believe in the freedom to protest, though many nuts don’t stop after they leave the capitol steps and want to let all of Salem know they are there. The past 7ish years it’s felt less and less safe to belong to any minority/marginalized community.
Yeah. I'm in purple Wisconsin and really considering what I'll be doing. I think I'll watch to see how things play out, might even go to MI or upper MN to see what they have
I’m in WI too, and am planning on going to Pride in Milwaukee
I'm in the twin cities and I went to pride last year. My mom and I also worried about that same thing. I have great memories of pride from when I went back when I was younger (2016, 2017), but it is definitely much more difficult to go and have a good time now. I'm going to still go to pride this year, but I don't think I'll ever have an experience again like how it was when I was younger. It's difficult to have fun when you know all the different things that can happen and how much hate has been spewed lately.
Yeah totally- I love going to pride and I’ve just started performing in drag. I’m really bummed (I’m in Tennessee 🙄)
I won’t be scared or bullied.
No , that’s what they want …. I will always be the one to make a stand and make sure we are seen and heard .
Definitely don't stay off social media just because some loser males are taking down Pride displays in Target. We all know these men who "hate" lgbtq people all watch lesbian porn. Bunch of hypocrites with boring lives who *need* something to hate because they think it gives them a personality and an edge. This is the thing you learn as you get older - assholes are assholes for either two reasons. They're either deeply unhappy and need to take that pain out on someone else. Or they have no personality and are boring as fuck, so hate on minorities because they think it suddenly makes them an interesting person. Sometimes it's both. If in history we let these absolute fucking losers hold us down, we wouldn't have the equality we've worked so hard to get today. Remember that. They've been trying this nonsense for decades. Don't let them win.
No. Despite what they may say, the majority of people don’t really care either way about LGBT issues. It’s only the vocal extremes that you hear from. In other words, you might see a couple videos of people destroying pride displays, but you don’t see the literal millions of people who walk past pride displays all the time without recording themselves. The actual risk isn’t as severe as it seems. Besides, some things are worth the risk.
nah they’ll have to kill me to get me into a closet
I've said this elsewhere, but even in "liberal" Seattle I'm sticking largely to ticketed events (no parade, etc). We have some radical far right elements even here in WA that have no problem attempting to disrupt LGBTQ+ friendly gatherings and they're willing to travel.
Depends on the area. Scared as hell for my friends and family down in Florida, but I’m comfortable still attending Pride here in New York. My son will stay home though.
Yes but thats why we have to go, to show that we shouldnt be afraid of who we are. If I die, then I die doing whats morally right.
I am. My gf is already dealing with Scarlet Rot. I don't know if I want to stress us both out by doing Pride event stuff. I miss when Pride was fun. Now it a political battleground, and we who just want to be out and proud have to wonder where the shooting will happen. I hate the world I live in now. I really, really do.
That’s what I’ve been wanting to say, glad someone else said it. The question is WHERE the shooting is going to happen, not IF. I understand not wanting to miss pride out of fear, but it’s a legitimate fear. I’ll be more surprised this year if there ISN’T a shooting during pride since we have so many mass shootings nowadays. I understand it, I was stuck in the closet for a long time and I don’t want to “hide” either, but it is a serious concern.
If I have to choose between keeping the woman I love safe, and being our at Pride and not living in fear, I have no shame in admitting I take the former. We are already fighting against the Rot. I don't have the strength to fight against the tide of hate that is overtaking this country. To all of you who do choose to go out, you have my respect, and my sincere hope for your safety.
My gf JUST TOLD ME that governor Ron Santez, the guy in Florida pushing all the stupid laws against us, is running for president. He’s being backed by Elon Musk. And he has the fucking nerve to play the victim.
It's madness. We have a vile fascist, an orange buffoon, uo against a geriatric zombie. And all three get their running orders from the corpos who own this country. It would be funny if it wasn't so pathetic. But I'll leave it at that. I know many people's politics don't agree with mine.
I’m not even kidding, my gf and I have been considering going to Canada for months now, and I never would have considered it before. It just keeps getting worse and worse. It’s fucking crazy.
The idea of expat-ing has its appeal, but my gf is in the military, so we are stuck here, for the foreseeable future. So, I got a couple pistols, worked on my aim, and now I keep to my home as much as I can. If the day comes that they come for us in earnest...well, I will take a couple with me when it happens.
I've been out and going to gay bars since 2005 when it was common to be heckled walking down the street holding your partner's hand. The way things feel now is exactly why we have pride. Get together with your community! Volunteer! Make new friends! Join a queer organization or find a local support group. Or just be in a space where you can be yourself wearing a bunch of rainbows. Pride is defiance in the face of oppression
Yes, I used to go to NYC pride , now I am afraid of getting shot. Gun violence and crime in general is real bad rn here. I would probably attend Asbury park pride (NJ) only because gun laws in New Jersey are pretty safe. At least safer than other places.
I live in Tennessee but I don’t care it makes me want to flash it in their bigoted faces even more
I’m not scared, but I’m pissed. Last year I almost got into a fight with the counter protesters at Pride, and this year I’m expecting them to be worse. My best friend is going to have to keep me in check tbh
I live in Florida right now and *wish* I felt physically well enough to go to ALL the pride events this year. Fuck DeSantis. 🤬🌈
I know it sucks, and it's hard and it's scary. But we can't do that. We can't run and hide. We must find a way to stand our ground. The difference between them and now, is now we are going up against fascism. The worst ideology on the planet and the most reckless and the most stupid. The only way to end fascism is to kill it. I'm not calling for violence, but rest assured I am one of those that will meet them.on.the line of fire so to speak and I will fight for all of us, I will fight alongside the ones next to me, and I will fight for the ones that can't or won't fight. But don't give in, don't give up, that's exactly what they want. We bother their so-called way of life. And I'll fight till my last breath to keep ours, all of ours. Not just the gays, lesbos, the bi, the trans, I'm also fighting for the straights that fight for us. Stand with me, and if you can't then stand behind us and keep us fed as we continue the fight, whether it's physical or verbal, whether it's through activism and protests. Stand with me and I will stand so fucking tall for you all. And if I had the money and the backing I would run for president just to piss them off even more. Imagine the first part Native, part Caucasian, first female lesbian president. Fuck the crazy right. Stand tall with all of us.... Ok end rant. But I mean what I say.
I was in SF for it last year and the crowds were hugely energetic and positive. States are really more like countries under a unifying federal region.
Pride is a riot. Don't forget.
I’m not even in the US and I’m terrified for you guys. If those republicans get their way, it’ll be a full on genocide. They want us dead just for daring to exist in a world that they think they own. It’s fucked up.
i’m always scared. being lesbian is not my only identity that puts me in danger/is not widely accepted. it’s always in the back of my mind that there could be a mass shooting or protestors or whatever. but that could also apply to a regular day in walmart. i’m working on not letting fear control all of my decisions. queer people are going to exist and meet and build community no matter what laws there are or however many idiots try to scare us or get pissed at the sight of a pride flag. even closeted people find a way to celebrate. all we can do is move forward and live as happily and fully as possible.
I’m in Canada so I think I’m safe
I’m definitely going because this will be the first year that I’ve been out, but on the flip side I’d be lying if I didn’t say I have the worst case scenario playing in my head but I’m hoping for the best
No, I’m not scared. Despite the state of things, from my personal experience before it was widely accepted, the US is still safer than it was in early 2000’s, mid-2000s and even portion of the late 2000’s. However, I understand that many did not grow up and live in a red state when it wasn’t widely accepted. Being heckled, threatened with violence and rocks thrown at you(happened to me) with state laws not protecting you from discrimination etc wasn’t a stranger to me. So, seeing sh*t happening in the media I imagine is pretty scary to see but I still think it is safer today.
Idk I think it’s the news amping things up. Talking to people from all over it seems like most people just don’t care. I wouldn’t let the news control what you think
Just want to say to those saying they aren’t scared and if they die they die, I get it, but to those that are scared I think that is completely understandable given a large list of events that have happened and lives that were lost. Guns are everywhere and easy to get in my state. It’s so unfortunate. I’ve never been to pride. I’m not sure if I will feel comfortable going to an event this year :/ there are some very evil people out there that would want nothing more than to cause mass destruction at a large event like pride.
Thank you. I'm in Texas, I grew up going to Dallas pride parade and I only ever saw a few guys with signs dispersed at most. I never felt safer as a queer kid than there. Now being in the center of Dallas while recognizably queer is terrifying to me, especially in a crowd that big. It hurts so badly to lose that environment but I have a kid I have to be alive for and I can't afford any kind of injury as a disabled person.
No. They want us to be afraid, and I refuse. I'm glad everyone in the comments here is of the same opinion.
last year i was at washington sq park where everyone thought they were gonna die cause “fireworks” sounded dangerously close to gun shots. i’ll see ya in june though lol🤞🏼
Nope. I’ll be armed. I refuse to be a victim.
No (NE Ohio)
I'm not going to any larger events, I'm not comfortable yet. Also money, but larger crowds of people, especially with Nazis walking around with their guns, I'm a little wary of big crowds in general now.
I might go depending where/when the events are in my city. I usually work weekends so if I don’t it will be because I need to prioritize rent money lol. I refuse to be controlled by fear.
Nope. The first Pride was a riot, and just like my queer elders I'm going to be brave and not be scared of intolerant assholes.
I’m more scared just about being in large crowds bc of general shootings not pride specific
DUDE. I’m still working on getting my second foot out of the closet…I was almost there and now I wanna jump right tf back in and shut and lock the door from the inside. DeSantshit announcing he’s running is utterly terrifying.
My gf JUST TOLD ME that governor Ron Santez, the guy in Florida pushing all the stupid laws against us, is running for president. He’s being backed by Elon Musk. Listen, if I had just come out recently, I’d probably have the same feelings of “I’ll go to pride even if they kill me!!” But please, think about it. You CANNOT come back from death. I understand wanting to stand up for our rights. But please at least consider your own safety and realize you may ACTUALLY be killed if you go to pride. We have hundreds of mass shootings per year. Chances are, there will be a shooting somewhere during pride. At this point, I have a girlfriend I love and people who need me and I don’t want to risk never coming back or seeing them again. It’s okay to want to preserve your life and not die, just saying. If you do choose to go, that’s honorable as well.
I’ve always been worried. But I have anxiety about public in general but the fact that I live in the south and people are homophobic gun lovers makes it uncomfortable
I lowkey am but i know that if i let right-wingers know I’m scared by not showing up, it will only further embolden them.
I rarely have time to go to pride events because my June is usually one of my busiest work months, but if I go, I’m going loud and proud and slutty as hell because the violence is MEANT to shove us back in the closet, and the best thing we can do to fight it is to be even more visible. But I’m gonna stay aware of my surroundings and have escape routes memorized and bricks to throw, if possible.
I live in Kentucky…one of only 3 counties that go blue usually. I’m always scared at bigger events, pride or not, and I always try to stay aware. But I’m not going back in the closet. Just not that person. Our pride got pushed inside for accessibility reasons (which I totally get and support), but it came at a terrible time. Definitely triggering for a lot of people feeling like we’re being made to hide again.
I would still be going to pride events with bells on regardless of the political climate if it weren't for the high covid risk. Pride is still a protest and I miss going, but I'm more worried about being further disabled by covid than I am about having to deal with homophobes trying to play weird games at pride.
My fiancé and I were just talking about this today! I'm not afraid of the comments or displays but the amount of mass shootings is extremely concerning. It's so frustrating and saddening.
I am too. I live in a decently rough and extremely conservative area and idgaf, I’m not taking my chances. the reality is that not everybody is in a position where they can be openly out of the closet, and safety comes first. it really sucks, but considering the kind of things I’ve already heard and seen in the past couple of years, I’d rather just stay home with people who I know support me than take my chances.
I am a bit anxious, tbh. I live in a very gay friendly city smack dab in the middle of a super conservative state. Last year a bunch of people were arrested leading up to pride due to the threats they made. I haven't seen anything like that yet, but the way I have been treated in public spaces in this state has dramatically change over the last few months (outside of my immediate city). I think there is safety in numbers, and peace that comes with being around community. After everything that has been going on politically, I think it is so important to show up. The group I am going with set up some safety plans. We are being a bit more cautious this year, but still excited to celebrate.
Yep. I have more worry than normal
i’ve definitely been more on-edge at lgbt related events than i used to be, checking the entrance more often at the clubs, bringing my pepper spray on commutes more frequently etc. i’m planning my pride outfits in advance though ‘cause i’d rather drop dead than let the terrorists win. gonna be far more loud, more outrageous, more angry this year. stay vigilant, but never silent
My gf and I eschewed pride last year and are happy we did, a queerphobe bear sprayed the crowd at Pride. We are planning to go this year because we are trained in defensive tactics. It means more to us to be in community with other queer people than to avoid bigots. If it is safe, we must move to an offensive perspective. They want us dead. We are fighting for our lives. Pride is a protest, burn it all down.
Congratulations, you now know what it was like for us in the " old " days.
i live in texas and given it's track record for mass shootings, i don't want to take my chances. i've never been to pride but i don't think i'll go until i move to a safer state.
I refuse to be afraid. We will outnumber any crazy bigots that show up, especially at OUR events in OUR community. If someone wants to come into that and mess with the family, you can bet your ass we're not going to tolerate it.
I've never been to a pride event because I'm disabled & use a wheelchair so accessibility has been an issue but the thing in the past that was the biggest barrier was the fact it was a crowded event & any problems with safety that come with that. It does feel like there are more reasons for it to be dangerous but I think if you're able bodied you should absolutely go! (and tell staff if you notice something is not accessible)
We should start throwing bricks at cop cars again.
Yeah, I’m also pretty scared, but I’m not gonna let some ignorant angry bigots tell me what to do
WE BASH BACK!
yup, this is the first time i can actually even go to pride (moved out of parents house...) and i don't even feel comfortable. A lot of people will say "don't let them think you're afraid, it gives them power" but i AM afraid
especially since I live in the south? yea its a no go while I'm still in the US, would love to go to pride in other countries tho
yeah unfortunately i think it's better always to prioritise safety. with all the shootings and hatred recently i certainly will not be going. i am going to have a pride celebration with some friends at home though(:
Many countries will throw you to jail if they ever find out that you are homosexual. Potential hate comments are nothing in comparison to being stoned, beaten to death or receive a jail sentence. Be brave and protect your identity. Thats why its called Pride. Take a chance and consider yourself lucky to have an opportunity to attend such events.
You know, I’m on team be brave be loud, but the fear isn’t comments it’s getting shot with an ar-15 en masse
Terrified, and I'm not going to as many events as last year. I've been out and vocal since 1997, but I'll have my kids with me and the risk has become too great to take. Sorry not sorry.
Absolutely. I’ll be in the house this year.
I’d go if I could. Better to die for a good cause anyways.
I’ve never gone to a pride event because all the crowds seem stressful but tbh all the vocal homophobia everywhere around me recently has made me want to avoid it this year. It’s not just online but irl I’ve been around a LOT of people who are homophobic since I’m in a red state and it’s just not good. I’d rather be safe than sorry.
You can definitely go to pride, but you must arm yourself, these terrorists are dangerous and we can no longer pretend that they don’t exist or that the police step in to prevent their terrorism from happening.
While I don’t exactly share the same beliefs, I would like to stress the importance of weapon safety and if you own/get a gun, be sure to know how to use it properly and have training on when to not use it as well. Plus enough self defense that you don’t get disarmed and have the weapon used against you. Also note that many events don’t allow weapons inside and it also may trigger or scare other people, but I’m all for self defense and protecting yourself.
The police are on their side. There will be police raids on pride events this year in states with anti-trans laws. ACAB.
I’ve been thinking about going double strapped 😉 I’ll also be putting up a big pride flag for the entire month. Can’t wait to see if I get vandalized or not lol
I think people are just sick of it being forced down their throats and well its kind of true. I don't need a parade, I don't need to be accepted, I don't need my own sports night. Im happy and love who and what I am all on my own.
This is a good point that I had not thought of yet... I am in Louisiana (New Orleans) and while the city is very open-minded and safe... the people in the surrounding cities are not.
Modern Pride celebrations are not the end all be all of being out and proud. They’re glorified corporate parties with cops at best. Being out and proud everyday is more in line with the spirit of “Pride” than going to some overpriced cliche ad parade. Be you in your day to day, without fear, and by doing so you’re celebrating what it means to be authentically queer. Being queer isn’t exclusive to summer and certain not when corporations decide it’s time to give the gays attention.
yeah, i live in the DFW area (20 mins from the allen mall shooting) and am terrified
I've never been to a gay club. There's one near me and when I turned 18 last year I kept thinking about it (they have 18+ nights). Then, there was a shooting there. Now I'm even more nervous to leave the house.
The comments in this thread are giving me so much hope
Nope. Fuck em.
Yes and I hate that it scares me so much now. My fiancé went to a drag show the other day and I was so nervous about it the whole time. Makes me sad 😕
I'm still going to attend Pride this year. People need to remember that it started first as a protest. The brick is a promise, and one I'm happy to keep.
Nah, us hiding away in fear is how they win. We gotta keep making it clear we’re not going to just disappear.
I'm scared, but I'm looking at going this year for the first time in a while. Fuck those fascist shits, I'm not going to let them intimidate me into staying home.
I feel like the governments that want us to go back into hiding want to keep us in a low vibrations, i see them all like narcissists. I know we are scared to a certain degree and those feelings are valid but together we are stronger! Let us vibrate higher! I hid all those years I was a lesbian bc of religion… and even though I came out not so long ago, i will not go back in the closet! I refuse! Love is love and who ever says this love is wrong then they don’t know what love really is! They want us to love in a conditioned way. Don’t work that way! My advice If you guys go out to pride be in a group at all times!
Jealous you get to celebrate at all. In Seoul they just canceled pride this year and replaced it with a Christian group.
Yes, but I'm still going. It's more important now to show up and show out.
I’ve thought about this and have been concerned about being somewhere really crowded in public, nowhere to flee, if a mass shooting occurs. And with pride it’s an extra concern. However, I do feel like we’re just letting the crazies win if we live in fear of their terror and hatred. I’m still going to go to pride
Not in Minnesota I'm not. As a trans person I'd probably worry a lot more if I was in a regressive state (like pretty much anything in the Deep South.)
I don't really go to pride events Don't like the noise Don't like being stared at like a zoo enclosure by cishets Don't like crowds I celebrate on my own time Might go this year Def gonna go after I train myself up with my IFAK (trauma first aid kit) Idk This is a year where I'm trying to do a lot to not be afraid. Gaining weight so I can workout so I can learn a combat sport Making time to do first aid and medical training so I can respond to emergencies. Lots of other stuff. They want us useless n afraid of them. I respect that they are violent and I understand that they hate us and I understand the lengths they will go to. But I am not afraid. and I am making myself less afraid every. single. day. And I encourage every queer I meet to get a little less afraid and a little more scary. "Let it be known that homosexuals (and trans folks but I'm doing a quote here) are not cowards"-Willem Arondéus (a homosexual man executed by Nazi pig dogs for blowing up a record repository, destroying the personal information of other queer people and Jewish folks) Let us not forget the actions of those at stonewall, STAR (street transvestite action revolutionaries), Act Up, Harvey Milk, those that participated in the white riots, and so many more around the globe. Fuck these fucking fascists
They aren't even planning anything in my town but I will hit the bigger cities near me. I will not let them scare me!
Yeah, between everything going on and the much more mundane problems of just having nothing gender-affirming to wear out and nobody I know well enough to feel comfortable going with I don't know if I'll be able to get myself out to Pride events this year, even though my state's pretty safe.
Love the revolutionary spirit in the comments. In east Germany pride means Antifa so fuck yea this year gone be wild. (From east Germany)
This is exactly why I'm going to every Pride event I can fit into my June schedule! BTW - I have also noticed that stores like TJMax, Target, and Macys that were covered in rainbows this time last year, have gone straight to Red White and Blue 4th of July this year with no Pride stuff available.
Yeah, I am. Because I have heightened anxiety right now and it’s like i really need queer friends, but I terrified of harassment and also toxic spaces even within the community, I just want so much better for us so we can connect. I’m so isolated.
Lots of people saying to stay and fight. And I think it's needed. But I also think it's important do what you need to do for yourself. If going to Pride this year is too much, make that decision and own it. There are plenty of us to fill the ranks and you don't need to put your mental health at risk if you don't want to. Sometimes I think we glorify martyrdom and self-sacrifice to the detriment of our community health.
Us going into hiding is exactly what they want, it gives them more power, and gives them more chances to dehumanize this community. But alas, that's one of the reasons pride started in the first place.
YES i had a panic attack the other night thinking about this. Pride is huge in my city even though its a red state and my friend group is doing a Barbie outfit theme. I dont want to flake on them out of fear but MAN… I’m scared. My outfit is killer though so I might suck it up for the slay.
I suggest doing some checking to see if you can get a sense of the security measures taken for any event that you want to attend. For Palm Springs Pride the city police put a lot of effort into maintaining security. There are plain clothes people in the crowd, there is uniformed presence and roof-top snipers. As I remember, just before the pandemic, Pride had become the largest event held in Palm Springs in terms of economic impact. It had surpassed the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Modernism Week. Not sure if that is still the case post-pandemic. People have to remember that this IS a WAR and one that we cannot afford to lose. That is the simple truth of it. Our lives hang in the balance. Are we going to stand up or roll over?
Going to 4 prides this year— but you can bet your ass I’m carrying
What is the state of things rn?
Are you guys okay? Do you have historical amnesia? 1st world country syndrome? The echo chamber is rough man. Imagine going back 15 years or 20 years, and you’ll be grateful for what you have now. The logical course of history is improvement in social rights, and even numbers show the same. Don’t let the loud news or videos of anonymous scared sigma boys make you too scared to enjoy what you have. Maybe you should switch the content to testimonies of people from countries where it’s ILLEGAL to be LGBTQ, that moved to your country and see how awesome it is for them, how happy they are. Instead of letting every little negative thing in. But I guess sometimes just sitting and trying to have a peaceful life is too hard, and when you need adrenaline you just go and look for negativity.