I can’t wait for the NYC Pride Parade 2014!
Aside from a layer of non-greasy SPF 400 sunscreen, I’m not sure what I’ll be wearing in the NYC Pride Parade on Sunday. I did pause for a second at the rainbow mohawk headpiece in the party aisle at Target this week, but decided I would include “flattering” in my ensemble look. Yesterday my son Harry suggested a rainbow manicure. Then he said that Pride is about expressing one’s self and told me I should wear whatever I want.
Regardless of my outfit, here’s what I know for sure. I’ll be wearing a mom’s pride from ear to ear. Yep. I’m proud of my son for who he is and who he’s becoming still. He knows his value as an individual and as a child taught me a lot about self-acceptance.
Harry has never cared about what other people thought. That doesn’t mean that the teasing from other kids about what he wore, how he styled his hair or what toys he played with while growing up didn’t hurt, because I know it did. But it didn’t matter. He had a strong sense of self and always wanted to feel good about himself. And isn’t that what we all want?
My joy Sunday will be for every out or questioning individual on the planet, along with the families, friends and communities who support them. And my pride extends fully to those LGBTQ adults and youth who stand resilient in their truth and worthiness, even when the acceptance of those who matter most may be lacking. Because all children, young or old, want to know that their family loves them for who they are, takes pride in what they’ve achieved, and wishes them a wonderful life.
Please be proud with New Yorkers this weekend. Because if pride is an outlook of self-respect and self-worth, then if follows that gay pride is a celebration of community, diversity and equal rights. And doesn’t that celebration give us all a reason to cheer?
The landmark Stonewall Inn: “Where Pride Began”
IF YOU LIKED THIS POST YOU’LL PROBABLY ALSO LIKE THESE:
“Gay, straight or questioning, kids should dress as they feel.”
“No matter what their age or gender expression, kids need to hear this.”
I’m proud of your pride and you’re proud of my pride and the more pride that is out there, the better, as we see consciousness shifting. These shifts for the better offset all the nastiness, and so PRIDE ON!
I feel the shift, too! We can all be proud of that. 🙂 xo
Another incredible post Julie – thank you!
Thanks you, Linda! xo
Love and acceptance and tolerance, three things every child should learn growing up. Hope the parade was an absolute blast! As usual, loved your article. Jessie and I love to see the pictures you post, they are so fun. 🙂
Those three things were the energy of the parade today, Laura! It was a thrill to walk with so many awesome moms.You’re a peach to leave such kinds words. xo