Confessions of a Budding Entrepreneur:
Pride Month 2024: A Reflection on Progress and the Future
As queer man who notices more gray hairs in his beard every time he looks (insert bald joke here), I have witnessed the evolution of Pride over the last four decades. From its humble beginnings as a demonstration and protest in front of The Sonewall Inn, to a counter-culture movement in the streets of New York City in my college years at NYU, and, most recently, a widely accepted month of celebration embraced by the majority of the population and many corporations, Pride has come a long way. It is not lost on me that marriage equality was not the law of the land until after I started dating my now-husband.
Reflecting on the significance of Pride Month in 2024, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the progress that has been made with regard to LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. The parades, festivals, and events held throughout the month have more and more corporate logos on them each year. While their outward support is welcomed, it should also be noted that many of these organizations support anti-LGBTQ+ politicians.
It is important to remember that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is far from over. While significant strides have been made in the United States, violence, persecution, and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is at an all-time high. We must do our part to keep our queer brethren alive. This is literally life-and-death.
As a queer entrepreneur, I believe that Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate our history, identities, and achievements, while reflecting on those we lost during the battle for equality. Lest we forget the generation lost by HIV/AIDS, and our trans siblings, whose lives were violently taken from them, by hatred or mental health.
Consulting for Community will be holding a month-long fundraiser during Pride this year. Our goal is to raise $750 for The Trevor Project. There will be auctions and other opportunities to engage throughout the month. The name of the game is small donations. Times are hard, and so the ask is not big. If you could donate $10 to the cause, it would be greatly appreciated! If not, no sweat - I would be so grateful if you can share this story and this link with your network. Lastly, please subscribe to updates! This is the best way to keep up-to-date on the items we auction, and our fundraising progress!