“Pride is you. It is me.”
Pride is important for so many reasons. We celebrate our community, achievements, and growth. Pride is about honoring those around you for the beauty they possess. The beauty you possess. The remarkable victories and the ability to be proud of the skin that was perfectly crafted to wear despite how many rips and tears the world may make you think you have. I think it's fair to say that the journey of self acceptance is a long one. To feel comfortable and confident regardless of if someone else denies the belonging we rightfully know we have. This month is about honoring your place. Holding your head high and celebrating the victory of existing out loud.
I can acknowledge the moments that I felt ashamed to step in my truth out of fear that I would be viewed as too different. Not only am I a black woman but also identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community? The 12 year old girl living inside of me who was once afraid to exist in honesty, would be so proud of the version of me that grew from my trauma enough to allow me to experience the beauty of my truth. This month, I honor resiliency. The victory of being able to scream I am enough. The courage to scream from the mountain tops for the countless people who have yet to find their voice to scream for themselves. The ability to stand in the spotlight while also cheering from the sidelines in honor of those before, during, and after me. This month, I acknowledge the power in thriving even if that exists only in the comfort of your spirit or loudly through the colors we wear boldly in celebrating the unique experience that is pride. This month, I denounce the hate and criticism for people just being who they were designed to be. I celebrate the victory of honestly, courage, and acceptance.
If you are reading this as someone who is wondering when their time will come to feel confident and comfortable in their truth, know that you don't have to tell the world who you are to acknowledge your perfectly crafted design. It's okay to take your time. You write your own rules. What is pride? Pride is you. It is me. We are pride and that is enough.
Written by Anteria Wynn, CADC. If you are interested in learning more about Anteria and her work, click here.
