June 7, 2023
Pride Month: Much More Than Just A Party
Over the years, Pride celebrations have grown both in the overall number of LGBTQ+ attendees as well as in popularity among communities generally, showing greater acceptance and recognition for the right to live and love as we are. And while the growth in popularity is terrific, it is important to recognize the year-round truth and struggle those in the LGBTQ+ community live each day.
High school students who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual are more than four times as likely to have attempted suicide compared to their heterosexual peers, and 40% of transgender adults have attempted suicide in their lifetime, compared to less than 5% of the general U.S. population. Right now, LGBTQ+ individuals are facing unprecedented attacks and are denied basic care. These facts shed light on the crisis we are facing as a society and the daily realities of our LGBTQ+ friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and acquaintances.
Displaying pride flags and attending parades and other events are great ways to show solidarity, embrace diversity, and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Pride month, but we encourage everyone to honor the meaning behind Pride and celebrate that meaning year-round.
Inspired by the Stonewall riots of 1969, Pride recognizes the impact that LGBTQ+ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally. Pride honors those lost to hate crimes, HIV/AIDS, and suicide. Pride works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity. Pride brings awareness to federal and local policies encouraging greater acceptance, safety, and care for the LGBTQ+ community. And Pride advocates love for all.
Cascadia Health welcomes community members to explore events and opportunities to show your support this Pride month (and always). Follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming events and activities!
Upcoming Events:
- Portland Pride Events Calendar – EverOut Portland
- New mural from Pride Northwest dedicated to queer heroes: A first-of-its-king, colorful new mural is coming to Northwest Portland — and it hopes to spark dialogue.
- Portland Pride Run
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Every summer, the Portland Pride Festival & Parade makes a name for itself — and LGBTQ+ community members — all over town.
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Pride Northwest, Inc. is a community-based regional LGBTQ+ Pride 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon, United States. The non-profit organization was founded in 1994 and the current executive director of the organization is Debra Porta, who has served as the president of Pride No www.pridenw.org
Thank you for being part of our whole community!