Pride has always been more than one weekend at the end of June; it has been about living every day of my life proudly for who I am, without reservation. It is a time I reflect and give thanks for all of those who stood united and strong before us, so we could enjoy the many rights and freedoms that we have today. I also have hope for those still battling to earn these same basic every day rights and freedoms.
I didn’t know what to expect from my first pride, would it be just another party or would I experience more? Leaving a house party packed with friends (some who have turned into family), we emptied out onto Church St. in the pouring rain and begun dancing to the music filling the streets from a nearby bar. Looking out onto the crowded street I was swept away by the beautiful diversity and watching those openly sharing their love for one another, how could it be more perfect?
On Sunday, we cheered as we saw the various groups marching by, taking in all the sights and sounds and as PLFAG passed, you could hear the thunderous applause and see the tears flowing from peoples faces. While I knew my own mother had passed away years earlier, I knew that wherever she was, she was marching proudly with them. A few years later, I had the honour of sharing pride with my brother Kyle who had recently come out. He was an early supporter, but sharing that moment with him is something I will never forget.
So I look forward to gathering with old and new friends, to celebrating our hero’s of the past and present and to continuing to live proudly, free and with hope for the future!
“I know that you cannot live on hope alone, but without it, life is not worth living. And you… And you… And you… Gotta give em hope.” Harvey Milk
Happy Pride!
- Kevin Devaux