Pride is so much more than a parade, a march or even a demonstration for the LGBTQAI community.
In other words, this is an opportunity for us to celebrate our diversity among our various communities, and that includes the corporate community that has stood with us on our journey for equal rights and jobs, and continues to further showcase the range of beliefs those communities represent. Now that whiff of racism has become a stench in our communities, we are waking up to the power of hope.
In the past, Pride parades have been controlled by white privilege and rampant racism. Both touch on race and diversity and, further, showcase the range of beliefs that also create opportunities for people of color to participate in the process, with a focus on the common good.
In the face of racial tension and social injustice, many elements of our community found the courage to speak out about hope and justice and continue to speak out on so many social, political, ethnic and racial challenges. All of us have sinned when it comes to racism: However, no one is excluded from the love of Christ. But, can we change? Is conversion to love even possible for us?
Let us remember we are in this together; no one is alone. Perhaps it is a vision of hope we lack. Be open to the conversion of change as a way of seeing God operating among us.
Pride indeed is more than a parade and/or demonstration. It speaks to who we are as human beings.
Joe Murray
Executive Director
Rainbow Sash Movement (LGBTQIA Roman Catholics)