Dear friends,
Welcome to Pride 2022! Each year at this time, LGBTQ+ people, along with allies, come together to celebrate the beauty and diversity of this community. This year is made even more special by the fact that, for many, it comes at a time of tentative reconnection, after a long, frightening Covid-19 pandemic.
Over the last two years, we have seen individuals and organizations step up to support and protect LGBTQ+ people, a community that has a rich history of looking out for one another. And although those efforts were sustaining for so many, I know that there is no replacement for seeing one another’s faces, for human contact, and for a party!
So, let’s party (safely)! I hope the events this month give you an opportunity to comfortably rekindle old friendships, make new ones, learn something, consider your role in the world, and maybe do some dancing.
I don’t need to tell you that challenges for the LGBTQ+ community remain. Pennsylvania still lacks an inclusive non-discrimination law and the people of this community – particularly trans women of color – remain acutely vulnerable to hate crimes. Republican state legislators across the county, including in Pennsylvania, are pushing for abusive and damaging laws that target the healthcare and athletic participation of transgender youth.
Pride celebrations have always played an important role in the long battle for meaningful equal rights for LGBTQ+ people. For many, it’s a way to replenish your spirit. Pride also brings people together, making connections and fostering the exchange of ideas. Your voices are the fuel for the movement to make this Commonwealth safer and more equal for all who live, work, and play here.
So, as we begin to tiptoe toward normalcy, I hope this can be the most restorative, meaningful, fun, and impactful Pride Month yet.
Happy Pride, Pittsburgh. You deserve it!
Sincerely,
Dan B. Frankel
State Representative
23rd Legislative District