The rainbow flag is the most recognizable symbol of Pride, with each color holding its own significance. Hot pink represents sex, red signifies life, orange represents healing, yellow radiates sunlight, green invokes nature, turquoise inspires magic and art, indigo (royal blue) means serenity, and violet distinguishes the spirit.

Pride Month started with the first pride march in 1970, and Harvey Milk, a gay politician, asked a friend to design a flag that represented the energy of the people at the march. The result was the rainbow flag, which has become a staple at Pride events worldwide.

The first pride march was held on June 28th, 1970, in New York City, to honor the Stonewall Riots, which occurred on June 28, 1969. The Stonewall Inn, a gay club, was subjected to brutal police raids, which sparked the gay rights movement. June 28th is now celebrated as Pride Day.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate with parades, makeup, costumes, rallies, and glitter. However, it is also a time to remember those who have struggled before us and to raise awareness about issues that affect our community, such as HIV/AIDS, suicide, and hate crimes.

Live proud, live free. Let me be me, and I’ll let you be you. We don’t have to agree, but we can respect each other.

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The Wade’s owed nobody an explanation about how they conceived their baby, but they shared it with the world.  Probably believing that it would help somebody who struggles with fertility issues.  Probably wanting to spread some hope for those who need to believe and find other alternatives.  How dare they!!   Furthermore, who the HELL do they think they are to love on their gay child too?  They are doing too much!!  I mean this would only serve to kill all the nonsense about wicked stepmoms and absent fathers…right?  To think they would have the audacity to believe (two times now)–that sharing or showing unfailing love and support for their children would help someone who might be struggling is just utterly ignorant–right?  What would Jesus think?

We (his adult children) are arrogant, judgmental and hypocritical all day everyday–yet the bible “claims” that Jesus gets over it daily.  He apparently has the capacity to ignore our shit and continue rescue us from crap we created.  To guarantee us a place at the table and do it in front of our haters. He will never leave or forsake us?   Wow!  I am pretty sure that phrase is used at least twice in the bible (at least).

People! Go find something else to do.  Real parents don’t ask for a refund. They live up to the task that God gave them.  Just as he does for us daily.  The Wade’s chose to love their child enough to let her/him find his/her own path.  The child with God’s help will ultimately decide how to live out life.  Their job (as parents) is to support the journey. Kids don’t belong to us–they belong to God. He makes them and assigns them to us for safe keeping.   I applaud them both for understanding their assignment.  The real walk with God is when you have to do something even when you don’t understand what it’s about (or even agree).  Wade has chosen to not let the macho athletic image (that others have in their minds) keep him from being present.  That is what a REAL LOVING father does!  Union has decided to be present for this kid as a co-parent.  That is what PARENTS do. I applaud them both for standing in the gap as good examples for hope, humanity and love on several avenues.

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When I first heard the question “have they lost their minds?” in regards to the idea of having pageants for all youth, I was initially tempted to respond with a knee-jerk emotional reaction. As a black and gay woman, I understand why people of color may feel negatively about pageants due to their historical context. However, I also believe that it’s important to approach this question with an open mind and engage in an intelligent dialogue about another perspective on the issue.

This is where the work of Lisa and Rasheida comes in. Our platform (https://www.lisaandrasheida.com) creates a space for discussions about important issues, including the role of pageants in our society. As individuals, we have a responsibility to answer questions and provide our unique perspectives. So, let’s address the question at hand – do we need pageants for all youth?

Historically, pageants were divided into male and female categories. However, times have changed and we need to consider alternative programs, opportunities, social organizations, and pageants that support our youth. This means redefining the narrative and creating appropriate venues, athletic events, and pageants for different audiences. In this way, we can ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to participate.

Of course, we must also consider the issue of identity. While I support the authentic journey of self-identification, we must acknowledge that different issues affect different people. As a gay woman who has been married for 20 years, a mother, preacher, consultant, and speaker, I understand that each of these arenas is different and should be handled with respect.

So, to answer the question, I believe that we need pageants for all youth. However, we must ensure that they are designed to be inclusive and supportive of all individuals. Let’s create a society where everyone has a fair chance to shine!

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