LGBTQ+ youth: It’s your turn

Commentary: Many years ago, while enjoying a cocktail with a few friends at JR’s, we were interrupted by the sounds of people marching down the street. They were chanting, “out of the bars and into the streets.” How rude, I thought.

A participant told me they were marching to the corner of Montrose and Westheimer to join in a rally being held to protest the recent murder of an LGBTQ+ person. Unfortunately, I do not recall who, as there have been so many.

A few friends and I joined the march, and it turned out to be the first of many I would attend. Most had a wide spectrum of participants, young and old, leather men and twinks, and every color under the rainbow. What I remember most is the sense of community.

Other than Pride parades, when it comes to activism on behalf of LGBTQ+ rights, today’s youth are noticeably absent. While attendance at parades is important, do not let that be the sole connection to your community.

The rights that my generation demanded on our nation’s streets are slowly being erased–just read the headlines. All mention of Trans people and bisexuals has been removed from the government’s official Stonewall page. The suicide prevention line for LGBTQ+ youth has been scrapped. Rainbow crosswalks are being ordered to be removed. These are only three examples of the current administration’s assault on our community. They will not stop there.

For those who believe their right to marry, non-discriminatory housing, job protections, and a host of rights that blood was shed for are safe, think again. A couple of years ago, women had autonomy over their bodies until that right was taken away by a religious, fanatical, right-wing Supreme Court.
We need LGBTQ+ youth to carry the baton now. Participate in and join organizations that advance community causes. Attend rallies. Get involved! Be seen and heard at more places than a parade. Be aware of the policies of the people you vote for.

Like today’s girls who have fewer rights than their mothers did, what a giant step backwards it will be if today’s LGBTQ+ youth have fewer rights than the generation that came before them. This is no time for complacency. Get off your phones and get involved.

August has at least two opportunities for our LGBTQ+ youth to show up for their community. Both will require a short drive out of the bright lights of the city, but these events in Rosenberg and Galveston are an opportunity to get involved.

Fort Bend County Pride Festival: A celebration of visibility and unity

Rosenberg — The Fort Bend County Pride Festival is taking place on Sunday, August 10, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg.

A press release states, “This year’s theme, ‘The Superheroes of Pride,’ honors the individuals and organizations who champion equality, inclusion, and progress within our communities. The festival will feature live entertainment, gender-expansive performers, local vendors, community resources, youth and family-friendly activities, food trucks, and more.”

LaToya “Hunny” Phillips, Executive Director of Fort Bend County Pride said, “Our goal is to bring people together to celebrate the power of visibility and community. We want every LGBTQIA+ person and ally in Fort Bend County to know they belong.”

More information is available at FortBendCountyPride.org.

Pride Galveston: Embrace diversity, instill Pride, and celebrate unity

Galveston — The island begins its festivities on Friday, August 29, with a Meet and Greet at The Pride Center, 1502 39th Street. That will be followed by a Drag Extravaganza at Robert’s Lafitte, 2501 Avenue Q.

On Saturday, August 30, things move into high gear, starting with a Beach Bash at The Beach Hut, 731 Seawall Blvd. Vendors and sponsors will be set up on the lower level of The Beach Hut, along with a live DJ.

Later in the evening, there’s a Neon Party at Robert’s Lafitte.

Starting at noon on Sunday, the weekend starts to wind down with the annual Pool Party at Robert’s Lafitte. There’ll be several mini drag shows, male exotic dancers, a live DJ by the pool, and several vendors.

More information is available at PrideGalveston.com.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of the Montrose Star. Johnny Trlica is the editor of Houston Rainbow Herald Facebook page and has been published in several newspapers and magazines. He grew up in Rosenberg, Texas, lived for over 30 years in the Montrose and now resides in Galveston, Texas. He may be contacted at HRHeditor@gmail.com.

Related Posts

About author

Related Posts

Comments are closed.

Do not miss