June is more than just the start of summer. It's also a month to celebrate the lives of LGBTQI people and the history of the movement itself. Pride month is so important because it's a time for LGBTQI people to reflect on how far we've come as a community but also acknowledge the setbacks that we've faced and are still facing. Queer people face discrimination daily and as a community (along with our allies) we need to understand and recognize the history of Pride as well as significant figures who have fought for us to have our rights and exist within our own identities today.

For myself, I haven't been able to experience Pride month until this year. I came out to my parents late last year and this will be my first time celebrating as a part of the LGBTQI community. Now that I am able to celebrate and be myself wholeheartedly. It made me think of those who have paved the way for myself and others to be our highest and most fly selves. Those that helped pave the way so that we can feel like we matter in a world that constantly tries to tell us that we don't. As a queer black woman, this month is a time for myself and others to celebrate ourselves.