We shared this message (from Libby to her church congregation) on the Blake & Eva show because it is SO beautifully written! Well done, Libby!!
Why do I walk in the Pride Parade? I suppose the simple answer would be that rainbows and unicorn hats go well together.
But there’s more to it. My mom would tell you that I have had a parade of amazing gay people in my life since birth. I just knew them as amazing people who always made me feel safe and valued. When my mom’s dear friend Louise got married 5 years ago, she planned a very formal wedding and invited lots of adults. She insisted that I be there, as well as the child of another good friend. I thought it was neat that there were two brides, no groom. But more important was the great music and how I got to dance the night away with Louise and her wife; I was important to her on her very important day.
I like to be myself — wearing comfortable clothes and unique hats, writing poems and telling jokes, and march to beat of my own drum. Others aren’t always welcoming — or even accepting — of my quirky and different beat. When I learned of the hardships faced by the LGBTQ community, I empathized with their pain and simple desire to be accepted. When I heard about my church walking in the parade, I had no hesitation to walk for and with others who have been excluded. An annual tradition began for me.
Last year, my school started a Gay-Straight Alliance and I quickly became an active participant. When others in the group — including adults — started dissing on churches and Christians, I raised my voice. I pointed out their limited knowledge and biases, and provided a truth about Christians who are welcoming and accepting, open and affirming . . . and I challenged and asked why our Gay-Straight Alliance wasn’t walking in the parade. I am proud to say this will be the second year that peers and teachers from my school will walk in the parade.
As my teacher once said Pride is a day where people celebrate being themselves. So I walk in pride to support people from the LGBTQ community being themselves, to show Portland that there are Christians who are truly about love and acceptance, and to simply be myself. I hope you will walk with me this Saturday, and for years to come.
-Libby
