Pride month is over and you know what that means! Wrath month…

Hi, I’m Renée, a gender-affirming voice teacher here to remind you that while Pride month may have concluded, our spirit of pride and liberation doesn’t have to end. For many of us, pride isn’t confined to June; it’s a year-round celebration and assertion of our identities.

Pride All Year Long

Pride is a continuous journey. If our goal is to celebrate and normalize the LGBTQ experience, then let’s keep that pride alive all year round! I'm grateful to witness Pride’s evolution into a massive international event. Yet, as a millennial trans person, I vividly remember the grassroots days of the late 2000s when Pride celebrations were much smaller and more intimate. Those days hold a special place in my heart.

Honouring Year-Round Commitment

As we move beyond the official Pride month, let’s take a moment to appreciate those who continue the fight for liberation and dismantle the systems that seek to erase us. Their commitment throughout the year is vital in maintaining the progress we've achieved and pushing forward for more.

Personal Reflections

Reading through my old journal entries from 2011, I found myself repeatedly writing, “If I were trans…” My journey to self-discovery was significantly shaped by the kindness and generosity of people willing to engage in conversations with me. Whether at local Pride centers at my university, queer-friendly spaces like Venus Envy in Ottawa, or within my friend groups in my early 20s, the community’s support was crucial. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Sustaining the Spirit

So, while Pride month might be over on the calendar, we must sustain that spirit of support and togetherness throughout the year. Let’s keep lifting each other up, advocating for our rights, and celebrating our identities every day.

I hope this message resonates with you and serves as a reminder that Pride is more than just a month—it’s a lifelong journey. Keep the spirit alive and stay proud, always.

With love and resilience,

Renée