Be warned. The following writing may seem slightly disjunct because I get so excited this time of year and it is hard to contain. It is a magical time, being amidst a throng of people to celebrate sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender diversity. The liberty of inclusion, where there is no need to defend or explain yourself. At Pride Fest, we get to show up as we are, boldly embracing the richness of human variety.
For those who would like to understand the LGBTQ experience more, the following offers a beautiful starting guide to some core principles:
https://www.npr.org/2021/06/02/996319297/gender-identity-pronouns-expression-guide-lgbtq.
You might also enjoy the book, How Sex Works by Dr. Sharon Moalem. Through his use of witty, spicy writing, the jam-packed scientific data is easy to digest and leaves you wanting more. Learn about evolutionary biology, desire, sex organs, and the gender spectrum. I was shocked to learn about a blind study that showed how sexual orientation impacts smell preferences! After reading this book, you will have hard data that shows sexual orientation is not, nor has it ever been, a choice and that the idea “you’re either born male or female” is as outdated as believing the world is flat. https://www.amazon.com/How-Sex-Works-Smell-Taste/dp/0061479667.
Since those on the gender spectrum are near and dear to my heart, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage a change by increasing awareness around the use of pronouns. I’ve heard it said that such “minute” details are overblown. That is like saying it is not a big deal to call someone by the wrong name. It becomes downright offensive when it is known that it is the wrong name and it is continued to be used anyway. As Dr. Michael O’Brien stated, “Using a person’s proper name and pronouns greatly improves their quality of life. This is about being respectful and treating others with dignity.” While what I am proposing looks relatively straightforward, it will require awareness and intention. It is one of many ways we have been on autopilot, operating out of assumptions. Let’s break old habits! First, whenever encountering someone new, introduce yourself as, “I’m _______ and I use the pronouns of _____________.” (Such as: he/him, she/her, they/them, ze/zir). Next, if the other person does not immediately share their preferred pronouns, ask them. The whole point is to avoid assumptions. Please read more at https://springfield.edu/gender-pronouns.
Finally, there is much fun to be had on June 26th and 27th. To see how you can join the party, go to: https://denverpride.org/ or https://www.denver.org/things-to-do/spring-summer/denver-pridefest/. There are even virtual options this year!!!! Hope to see you there!
Happy Pride!