The amazing part about being around and active in our community for over 40 years is the perspective it gives you. From the early days of organizing LGBTQ events as a co-founder of the Steel City Softball League back in 1981, to my volunteer work today as the co-owner of QBurgh, I’ve had a front-row seat to how we’ve changed.
I have watched us grow from a small, brave group of people looking for a place to belong into the huge, diverse family we see today. It hasn’t always been easy, and we’ve faced many uphill battles along the way, but seeing so many different people finally find their place under our flag is the best reward for all those years of hard work.
This year’s theme, “Existence is Resistance,” really hits home for me because I’ve seen it in action for decades.
Over the last forty years, I’ve learned that simply living your life openly and being exactly who you are is one of the most powerful things you can do. Whether you are out in the streets marching with a sign or just living your truth quietly and authentically at home, you are making a difference and helping to move us forward.
Pride has evolved into many things. It’s a party, a protest, and a family reunion all at once, and it reminds us that our joy is just as important as our fight for our rights.
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how you choose to celebrate as long as we continue to show up for each other. We all have different stories, different backgrounds, and different ways of expressing ourselves, but our real strength has always come from our ability to support one another.
As you enjoy the festivities this year, take a look at the people standing around you, from the newcomers to us old folks, and remember that we are all part of the same long, proud history. Let’s keep celebrating together, standing tall together, and showing the world that we aren’t going anywhere.
In solidarity,
Jeff Freedman
Co-creator,
QBurgh