These Powerful Pride Quotes Say Everything
In honor of Pride Month, it's important to recognize the pioneers.
These powerful pride quotes by members of the LGBTQ community, past and present, remind us of all of those who risked everything to be themselves.
Acceptance Is Important — Not Just in Legislature but Within Every Neighborhood
American activist Barbara Gittings is best known for demanding that the U.S. government accept job applications from all qualified applicants, not just heterosexual ones.
Avoiding Confrontation Feels Like the Safer Choice, but It’s Not
American writer and civil rights activist Audre Lorde was way ahead of her time. She dedicated her entire life to battling injustice in all its forms. This statement is an ominous reminder that staying quiet won't protect you from prejudice.
Change Happens When People Make Noise
Tammy Baldwin became the first openly gay U.S. senator in 2012, and she shared this important message to the LGBTQ community in her speech at the Millennium March for Equality (2:49:41 in the video) in 2000 when she was a representative from Wisconsin. The world won't accept what can't be seen.
The Way Forward Is Paved by Those Who Dare to Be Themselves
Former American pro basketball player Jason Collins became the first male professional athlete to publicly come out as gay in 2014. Yes, it was that recent. Many more athletes followed suit. It's disturbing that even in the 21st century, people are terrified about the repercussions of being open about their sexuality.
Still, Collins' bravery proved that each small act of courage serves as a catalyst. Every voice of change is significant.
Here’s to the Survivors
American bodybuilder, writer and civil rights activist Bob Paris made the news when he came out in the late 1980s. After that, his career opportunities initially tanked, and he received numerous threats. Now, he's been happily married for about two decades.
America Is Supposed to Be the Land of the Free for Every Citizen
It's always refreshing when a leader doesn't shy away from taking a stance, isn't it?
The Fact That Harvey Milk Needed To Say This Says a Lot
The safety of our children should be universal. Why should a kid be safe and loved until the day they come out? To anyone who has been rejected or ostracized by their family or community, Pride Month is a reminder that they are just as worthy of love and acceptance as anyone else.
A Shoutout to Every Member of the LGBTQ Community From None Other Than Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga has always been a strong advocate of LGBTQ rights, and we love her for it. It doesn't hurt that she's an amazing artist.
The Vast Spectrum of the Human Experience Is What Makes It Special. The Time to Embrace That Is Long Overdue
Another amazing pride quote by Audre Lorde. Being different is not a problem. Trying to make everyone the same is.
Cheers to Everyone Courageous Enough to Tell Their Story
Even if you're not out yet, having the courage to explore your identity is a bold move. Be proud of yourself.
An Affirming Pride Quote From Actor Elliot Page
Elliot Page, known for his role in "Juno," came out as transgender on Dec. 1, 2020. The reception of his announcement in the media shows that we've come a long way.
In addition to positive responses from several celebrities and politicians, Netflix edited his movie credits to reflect his correct pronouns and name.
Time magazine also featured him on the cover early in 2021, photographed by transgender photographer Wynne Neilly. Page was the first openly trans man to be featured.
Pride Is an Accomplishment
Lena Waithe, an actress and brilliant screenwriter, was the first Black woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.
She won for an episode in the Netflix series "Master of None" about Thanksgiving, which was roughly based on her own coming out experience.
Waithe is living proof that you can achieve your dreams because of who you are, not in spite of it.
To Love Someone Means to Embrace Them as They Are
American novelist and activist Alice Walker doesn't need to write a novel to speak volumes. Pride Month is a celebration of the LGBTQ community and all it represents: acceptance, love and the freedom to be who you are.