Each June we mark the day that the gay community in New York City stood up and took a stand against the discrimination they regularly faced from local police at the Stonewall Inn. That was 1969 and groundbreaking at the time.
More than 50 years later, we have come so far and it is critical that we remain steadfast and continue to stand for equality for our LGBTQ+ community. As the staff members of the YMCA of Metro Denver, we stand against homophobia, transphobia, racism and discrimination of all kinds.
By recognizing and celebrating Pride Month, we have the chance to live up to our mission and be a safe, welcoming community for all.
So, here is how we show our support today and every day (and you can join us!):
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We are allies - and encourage being an ally - to those that identify as LGBTQ+.
Words matter. Using inclusive, gender-affirming language creates a safe space. We try to be thoughtful and intentional with language when talking with and about individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and we practice using preferred gender pronouns and respect individuals' self-identification.
When in doubt, ask.
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Recommend support resources for LGBTQ+ communities.
As the largest LBGTQ community center in the area, The Center on Colfax ensures access to programs and resources to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer community of Colorado. Learn how The Center is creating opportunities for people to be seen and heard. resources and programs.
The LGBTQ+ community has been left out of health research in the past, making it difficult to provide tailored health solutions that reflect all our unique needs. The Y is a proud partner of the All of Us Research that wants to fix that. Learn about the program.
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Encourage education and learning with these children’s book recommendations from our Youth Development staff.
Pride: “The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag" by Rob Sanders
"Julián Is a Mermaid" by Jessica Love
"Love Makes a Family" by Sophie Beer
"They She He Me: Free to Be!" by Maya Christina Gonzalez
"Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution" by Rob Sanders
Also, read this thoughtful guest essay by the author of the “How to Be a Girl” memoir and podcast.
Happy Pride!