The struggle for equality, freedom, inclusion and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States has a storied past that stretches into our present. LGBTQ+ history is a story of overcoming adversity, coming out into the light of love, and creating space for community care. Society often overlooks the contributions we make in our communities and the world.

In naming Yellow Springs Pride Festival sponsorships, our hope was to shine light on this history and inspire our friends and allies to learn where we started, how far we’ve come, and how far we still must go for our siblings to fully realize their true potential and place in the world. 

 

This year’s Pride Festival aims to inspire action and advocacy for LGBTQ+ Ohioans, with a focus on Black trans women and trans youth, who are especially vulnerable to violence, hate crimes and unconstitutional laws being pushed through the state legislature — a true disregard for science without even a shred of decency. 

 

We encourage our friends and supporters to learn about the Gay Liberation Front, Stonewall, ACT UP, Radicalesbians and other intersectional organizations, and #LetThemPlay, a movement to protect trans youth in Ohio. 

 

We leave you with this quote from Audre Lorde:

 

“Among those of us who share the goals of liberation and a workable future for our children, there can be no hierarchies of oppression.” 

 

Thank you for your support of your friends and neighbors as we empower our community with the tools to usher in a more loving, compassionate world.