Pride in Oxford

The other day I got the chance to attend the Pride Parade in Oxford with a group of friends. It was not at all what I expected and I almost wonder if my friends felt the same way. The turnout was small and only a few minutes long. 

The more I thought about it, I realize that the parade is a big deal as it brings the LGBTQ community out in the open in a place that is conservative. It allows people in the community to celebrate who they are, and makes the LGBTQ community visible to those who are still questioning who they are. I can't imagine what it's like growing up queer in the South. I am sure it's got to be isolating and scary at times especially with the way the political climate is.   I feel that it's probably about the same for all the states in the bible belt. 

While Pride was happening in Oxford, someone also pointed out to me that the parade is also a form of protest. I think that it is important to fight back against all the hate that's out there. While Pride might be normalized in liberal states, I can see how certain businesses and people would capitalize on it to make money while not being fully supportive of the cause. I can also see how events like these can mean so much to people who don't feel that support in much more conservative states.

Either way I hope that more LGBTQ events pop up in the future and that things change in Mississippi. I support the LGBTQ community. I have met so many great people in the community who have welcomed me as an ally and have had the chance to volunteer for Pride when I lived in El Paso. It was a lot of fun! 

Anyways, what are your thoughts on Pride being celebrated? I would definitely love to learn more about how it all started and what it's like in other states.