Pride month
In the middle of a grueling week checking students' scripts and drafts, it slipped my mind that it is a whole new month. I flipped my calendar a bit late to the month of June and I when I did; I remembered June is also Pride month. Taking off from the riots that happened in the 1960’s, members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender sector specifically commemorated their movement this month.
However, businesses are capitalizing on this season, just like they do during others such as Valentine's Day and Christmas. Critiques were quick to note that Pride month is not an opportunity for others to make money out of their advocacy. To them, it is a total disrespect to ride on their call for representation just so they can earn more than the usual. But that's how businesses work, I presume. Wherever there are people that's where they go because that's where the money is.
We live in a democracy where we have our rights to free speech and expression. They blur the lines of capitalism and call for an advocacy at some sections. But to me, it is a gray area. However, it is good publicity for this sector for their voices to be heard. At this day and age, they are loud and they need to be as challenges continue to hinder them from achieving that they have been always fighting for --inclusivity.
Even local government units are trying to win over their constituents by including in their platform and agenda activities that would be celebrated this month. It will be the first time for some cities and towns to hold in-person events for this purpose. It will be colorful and full of expression, others beyond their call for equality. They are now using their talent and looks to lobby other causes.
When I think of it, it is another form of communication. One that transcends the usual media channel. For instance, drag as a phenomenon is now used to address political issues. Fashion now becomes a statement, on top of the impersonation one has to do. Like we can speak our minds on certain topics, they can too but louder and clearer.
It is proper to join the LGBTQIA++ sector in celebrating this month of pride. We accept that gender plays a vital role in one's well-being and identity. It does not define a person's ability and skill. Instead, it allows us to know each other and will serve as a guide in being politically correct.
I do have a handful of friends belonging to this sector and I love them to bits. My respect for them and their craft is so high because they always give it their all. Excellence is an understatement for what they do. We all are excellent, we just have to harness that in everyone. I wish us all a happy Pride month and may the month of June bring our consciousness to greater heights, with color.