Pride

Not a story

        It's June. Pride month. First of all, what is pride month? For those who are unaware, according to Wikipedia (which despite many teachers being against it, is actually quite reliable in my opinion), pride is the promotion of the self-affirmation, dignity, equality, and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,queer and others (LGBTQ+) as a social group. Pride, as opposed to shame and social stigma, is the predominant outlook that bolsters most LGBT rights movements. Second of all, some of you may be wondering, why June? It was chosen to commemorate the iconic Stonewall riots (the riot that fought for rights for the LGBTQ+ community), which occurred at the end of June 1969. Many LGBTQ+ events are commonly held during this month to recognize, even celebrate, the impact LGBT people have had in the world. 
        Last of all, some probably don't understand why there is a need for these events or a pride month at all. But as many are probably aware of, the LGBTQ+ community has always been suppressed, and still is being suppressed now. Not only by the rest of the community, but even by the government. Why is this a problem? Because people have rights. Similar to racism, being homophobic is a problem that is still prevalent in today's society, though it isn't as bad as previously before in the earlier days of humanity. Homophobia is the dislike of or prejudice against homosexual people. Contrary to many people's expectations, parents' especially, we cannot choose our sexualities. It's just our identity, no matter when we figure it out completely. 
        You cannot 'force' anyone to change their sexualities, neither do you have the right to do so. We, as people, have the right to choose whom we love or not, to choose whether we want to love or not, to choose the circumstances under which we feel comfortable to be in our own skin… We may not be able to choose our sexualities, but that should not hinder us from living our lives as ourselves without fear of any judgement. Having a different sexuality from others should never be a burden, yet it is because of the views much of society seems to have. Yes, I am aware that there are many who do support us, so why are many of us still closeted and afraid to come out? Most of the time, it's because of the fear of being judged by those whom we love, the fear of not being accepted by those who matter the most to us, the fear of losing everything we once had. No one deserves this kind of pain. 
        Today's society should be able to accept the diversity and differences present in the world, which includes accepting people of different sexualities, races, and religions to say the least. I cannot emphasise enough that we, as fellow people with rights, deserve acceptance and understanding for who we are. Being in the LGBTQ+ community should be a part of the normalcy everywhere and anywhere. 
        Even if there are still those who don't accept us, stand tall. We will grow stronger with every setback we encounter. There is an entire community to support you. Even if your parents don't accept you, even if your friends don't accept you, we do and we stand by you. It may be difficult to come to terms with not being accepted by those who matter a lot to you. Oh hell do I know. But remember that there are others who do, and will never let your sexuality hinder your relationship or anything at all. It isn't easy coming out, and it isn't easy dealing with the backlash sometimes. Just know that you aren't the only one. Many have, too, faced these challenges. Many have succeeded in overcoming these. It is not the end and any sort of protests you may get from those around you is subject to changes. There is hope. So hold on to that hope that some day, things will look up for you and those who mean a great deal to you will accept you. If it doesn't happen, no offence at all but screw them. I mean I'm not trying to scare you that coming out to those around you is scary and may go south, but sometimes it be like that, you know? There are those who accept you immediately, those who take some time to, and those who never do. But there are others who will.                   
        Pride month exists, not only to raise awareness about our community and the rights we deserve, but is also time to celebrate our identities. Regardless of how long you've known, whether you're still figuring it out, or how confident you may or may not be, be proud. Admitting to yourself in itself isn't easy at all. It takes a lot of guts to admit this life-changing information. Each and every one of you is a beautiful soul that deserves freedom. It doesn't matter how discreet you are about your sexuality, because all in all, it's your choice to make. Take your time. Figuring things such as your sexuality can take even years to fully figure it out. Be patient and don't be so hard on yourself. Be proud of who you are.
        Sorry for the crappy affirmation I kinda got lost in my music and head, but I really do mean every single thing I've said thus far. And if I'm being honest, I missed out quite a bit of what I'd wanted to say because I'm forgetful. I might add the things I forgot onto another post, though. I hope that this somehow helped you if you ever needed just a bit of affirmation, because I wish someone had told me some of this when I was realising my own identity. But either way, don't change for society. Change society for you, and many others, for the better. Pride month. A month to be proud of your identity and who you are, subject to change. You do you.