Stuff: Do You March?

By J.J. Atwell

Pride Parades

Today I’m wondering how many of our Femulate readers participate in LGBTQ+ pride events. Typically. June is Pride Month and there are pride parades in many communities. Oddly enough though, some southern states hold pride parades in October when it’s a bit cooler.

These pride parades (as I’ll refer to them hence forth while including the ancillary events as well) often get a lot of press attention. You can pretty much count on seeing a report about them in local newspapers and television news stations. The coverage isn’t always flattering, but I believe the trend is more towards acceptance than when these parades started in the early 70’s. 

Origin of Pride Parades

So, how did pride parades start? A Google search about the origin of pride parades generally focuses on the one-year anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots. Those riots occurred in New York City on June 28, 1969, when police conducted one of their then routine raids on the Stonewall gay nightclub. But this time the patrons were fed up with what they saw as police harassment and resisted. 

I’ve only recently become aware that some of the instigators of the rebellion were the drag queens in attendance. While I don’t consider myself a drag queen, as a CD, I do have something in common with them – the wearing women’s clothing and a desire for the freedom to do so. I’ll leave the reader to their own Google search about the details of the pride parade origins.

Should We Participate?

Huge question. One that I’m not sure I can adequately answer. Let me be upfront– I have not participated in a pride parade. But as I think about it, I think we owe it to the entire CD community to show ourselves. By showing ourselves to the public, we can help others escape from the closet. Yes, that is a scary proposition.

As I’ve noted, I haven’t marched myself, so I’m in no position to preach. But I hope bringing up this subject gives you, dear reader, cause to consider the situation when the next pride parade rolls around. I know I’ll be giving it serious consideration myself. 

A few thoughts for those going to an event, be it as part of the march or as a supporting spectator. Wear sunscreen as you’ll likely be out in the sun for quite some time. Sensible shoes are important for these events. Even if you are just a spectator, you’ll be on your feet for quite a while. Four-inch heels are probably best left at home for this outing unless you are riding on a float. Hold your head high. It is a pride event so go out and be proud rather than hiding in the shadows. 

While you are out, make new friends and expand your comfort zone. That tight group of friends is nice, but an even bigger group is better. Support the vendors you’ll find at these events. They are sticking their necks out, too. Above all, be you... unapologetically.

I’ll Be Back

In addition to pondering pride parade participation, I’ll be finding more Stuff to write about. I welcome comments and suggestions here on Stana’s page or by email at Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com.

Wearing Yumi Kim

Bernardo Letro