This year it feels like we need Pride Month more than ever, given the oppression, marginalization, and violence suffered by the LGBTQIA+ community, and particularly trans people. We’ve seen states push to make gender affirming care illegal, we’ve seen books containing the smallest reference or validation of LGBTIQA+ people banned. We’ve seen drag shows outlawed and major corporations back down or be silent when some anti-LGBTIQA+ consumers threatened them over their display of rainbows.

It is in this moment that I’m reminded that Pride Month almost literally grew out of the flames of the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 in New York City. When police raided the Stonewall Inn (a gay bar in NYC) on June 28, violently removing patrons, the community fought back. That fight continued in the days after and has continued in a variety of ways since. The commemoration of Stonewall during June, Pride Month is both a time to hold the struggle and those lost to it and harmed in it in our thoughts, lifting it up. But it is also a moment to celebrate the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community and give the community space and support to lead us toward the vision that the community has built and nurtured through this movement.

To do this, please engage in the multitude of programs and events happening at CSU and Fort Collins and surrounding areas. Find a comprehensive list through the Pride Resource Center.

Continue to educate yourself through registering for the Pride Resource Center’s Safe Zone Training.

Support your family, friends, and colleagues who are part of the LGBTIQA+ community, not just during Pride month, but all year long!