By: Jacob Jones Pride Month is an important and wonderful time. We can celebrate the joy of expressing ourselves freely, and loving who we want unconditionally. Everyone deserves to feel accepted for who they are and who they love. While this feeling is amazing, it’s important to take a step back sometimes and reflect on how we got here. We would not be able to celebrate this month without the work of so many incredible and brave individuals that fought for LGBTQ+ rights when the world wasn’t ready to accept them. Pride Month was not given, it was the result of years of work and fighting. Fighting back against people that hated them simply for expressing themselves and loving who they wanted. I am eternally grateful for those who fought for the right to love freely, for having the bravery to stand up for themselves and others despite being ridiculed, harmed, and even killed. Because of their bravery, I can experience life with some of the most amazing people I have ever met. Because of them, I can celebrate and be proud of who I am. Even though in America we have achieved so much together, there is still much work to do for LGBTQ+ individuals here and all around the world. The fight is not over. In over 70 countries still today, being LGBTQ+ is illegal. Punishable by fines, prison time, and even death. Beyond the legal repercussions, LGBTQ+ people face violence and discrimination from those who do not accept them. In order for them to be safe, it is vital that we express solidarity and protect them from those that do not accept them. It is not enough to simply say that being LGBTQ+ is okay. It is not enough to sit on the sidelines. The burden placed on those who have to fight alone is heavy. They deserve our support and unconditional love. To all who are reading this on the GSE campus, I want you to know that you are not alone. The TACs and faculty here accept you. We are proud of you. We will fight for your right to love and express yourself freely. We will not tolerate discrimination in any form on this campus. We are blessed to have you as a part of this community. Thank you for being here and being you. I am so proud of you.
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