Pride Month may be over, but that doesn't mean my pride in who I am will ever stop. This past month, I decided to buy myself a hood cover with the rainbow flag on it and proudly displayed it on my car. The reactions I’ve received from drivers, pedestrians, and bystanders have been overwhelming and mixed. I've been honked at, flipped off, cussed out, told that I'm going to hell, and subjected to derogatory language—all because of something on my car.
I know some of you might think, "Well, you're displaying your lifestyle, so don't shove it in my face." But how am I displaying my lifestyle any differently than others? There are people with "Jesus Saves" stickers because they are proud Christians. Others display political affiliations because they believe in those values. And that’s fine! What you display on your car is your business, and you won’t hear me cuss you out (unless you cut me off).
To the countless people who have screamed "fag" at me while driving, what did you think that would accomplish? Do you think it will make me less queer? It doesn’t! I am living my life proud, open, and authentically because my happiness is more important than my safety.
This isn't just about a rainbow flag or a month of celebration. It's about the ongoing fight for acceptance and the right to live authentically. It's about standing up against hate and ignorance with courage and pride.
Being proud of who I am is not just for one month; it’s a lifelong journey. So, even though Pride Month has ended, my pride will continue to shine as brightly as the rainbow on my car.
Keep being proud of who you are, no matter what. Your happiness and authenticity are worth more than the opinions of those who choose to spread hate.
