I wrote at the start of this month about how important it is for those of us in the 2SLGBTQ+ community to tell our stories, especially so that those at any stage of their journey – out or not – can read about others who share parts of their experiences. Last year during PRIDE I had the pleasure of welcoming several guest bloggers to tell their stories, and I’m delighted to reshare each of these stories this week.

The Rainbow Connection
In celebration of Pride Month, I would like to share a bit of hope I see in and for the LGBTQ2S+ community. In the fifty years since the Stonewall riots the LGBTQ2S+ community has established itself and continues to evolve as it works towards authentic equity and inclusion. The time and tireless efforts of the community and activists for recognition has resulted in the space for mentorship within the community, a connection I felt missing since coming out. Read more of Daniel’s story here.

To Be Young, Gifted, Black & Gay
In commemoration of Pride Month, I remind everyone of the importance of being yourself, accepting who you are, and living in your truth unapologetically. I am thankful for all of the individuals who came before me who stood up for Gay and Lesbian rights. Without them, we would not be able to get married and have benefits at our places of employment for ourselves and our partners, nor would we walk freely in the United States without being harassed. Read more of O’Juan’s story here.

A Leap of Faith
Growing up in the predominantly Mexican American neighborhood of East Los Angeles was a priceless experience. I grew up immersed in my culture. On any given weekend I could hear the echoes of three or more celebrations across the neighborhood and the delicious smell of home cooked food filling every household and spilling into the surrounding neighborhood streets. At an early age I felt different, like I was not interested in the same things as other little girls. Read more of Christine’s story here.

Pride From Behind the Rainbow
The first pride was a riot. You may have seen this statement, referring to the Stonewall Riots in June, 1969. Those of us who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ owe much to this event and all who participated in it. Fifty-two years later, it is easy to look around and become complacent, but we are far from the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. The RCMP reports that in 2019, hate crimes motivated by sexuality or gender went up 41% (and that is just those that were reported). Read more of Aurora’s story here.

Finding My Crew
The reality that faces many in the LGBTQ+ community around sport is one of anxiety, discomfort, and at worst, exclusion. A recent international survey found over 80% of sport participants had witnessed or experienced homophobia in their sport, with “70% of gay men believing homophobia is more common in UK sports than the rest of society.” When I raised this statistic during my remarks as a club captain during our formal end of year dinner this month, the room grew quiet. Read more of Jonah’s story here.