“Happy Pride Month!” At Compass LGBTQ+ Community Center, we both give and receive this greeting from June 1 - June 30.
Only a few short years ago, that’s just what it was: a greeting.
Today, years after some of the most unprecedented attacks on the LGBTQ community and the personal freedoms of every American, “Happy Pride Month!” has taken on new meaning and importance especially in Florida.
Fifty-five years ago, the Stonewall Riots ushered in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. The events at the Stonewall Inn were not alone; many parts of the country had begun to see the start of our community fighting back against Draconian laws and injustice.
Today the fight continues.
Pride Month has become more crucial than ever because it serves two essential purposes: reminding us that we had to fight to get where we are AND that it is more important than ever to celebrate the joy we find in being alive.
In Palm Beach County, we continue to see Pride events popping up all over the county. Everything from cities like Lake Worth Beach and Wellington officially recognizing the celebration of Pride Month to festivals/events like Pride on the Block, the WPB Night Runners Pride 5K, Delray Beach Pride, Rohi’s Readery FAME Pride Fashion Show, Pride Night at City Place and of course, the Compass 2024 Stonewall Ball on June 29.
It is in these spaces that we not only remember our power, but we feel it too. If you have never been to a Pride event, we promise you that you will experience the purest joy that human beings can feel: the full expression of the human spirit that comes from living authentically.
It is this joy that will carry us through these difficult times. It is this joy that will help us find each other and stand shoulder to shoulder as we fight, not only for our freedom, but for the freedom of everyone.
So be proud. Be proud of the community and those who fought so hard in the past. Be proud of the community and those who support us now. But most importantly, be proud of yourself. We know that you have fought your own battles to be who and where you are today. We are proud of you!
We hope to see you throughout the month all over the county wherever Pride is celebrated. We invite you to join us on June 29 at the Downtown WPB Hilton at the Stonewall Ball (we promise some surprises that you will not want to miss). The theme is “Love, Lights and Liberation,” and encourages attendees to dress in attire that plays with light (sequins, glitter, neon and light up elements). You can find more information about Compass’ programs and services and tickets to Stonewall Ball at CompassLGBTQ.com.
Happy Pride Month!
