A black, sparkly mesh shirt. A bright rainbow wristband. A speedo (my first).
All items I’ve slipped on recently as I’ve celebrated Pride Month.
Don’t let the corporations fool you, though. Pride is about much more than glitter and garments and galas.
It’s about community and paying homage to Black and Latina transgender women who started the movement. It’s about fighting bigotry and educating people about LGBTQ issues – emphasis on the “t” – so they can understand harmful legislation when they see it. It’s about love – for your family and/or chosen family, for your friends, for your neighbors and above all, yourself.
I’m David Oliver, an entertainment reporter focusing on diversity and equality at USA TODAY, and I’d like to welcome you to this week’s “This Is America,” a newsletter about race, identity and how they shape our lives. Stay with me for the queerest news you’ll read all day.
But first, race and justice news we’re watching:
In conversation
Join us at 4 p.m. ET Thursday, June 24, on Twitter Spaces! We will be talking about Pride Month, rainbow capitalism, transgender rights and the importance of LGBTQ joy.
Pride is a protest — one we’re still fighting
It can’t be stated enough: Pride began as a protest against police at the Stonewall Inn in 1969. The LGBTQ community owes Black and Latina transgender women, well, everything. We would not enjoy the rights we have today without their tireless, trailblazing efforts.
Corporations corral around the…
