FROM BLACK PRIDE COLORADO

And just like that, we are back again celebrating Pride Month! I am so excited for this issue as a co-creator with OFM. The Pride issue is the one that among all the others is one I always make sure to grab. Now, the reason why I am so excited for this issue is because Black Pride will be taking up all the space and spreading joy throughout.

For those who don’t know the history of Black Pride, let me take a moment to share. Black Pride is and always will be a celebration and empowerment for Black and AfricanAmerican people to not only take up space and be seen but also to celebrate outside of the predominantly white corporate mainstream movement. In the early 1990’s, D.C. Black Pride was born in response to lack of proper medical and mental healthcare, racism, and homophobia in our communities. It was also because of the AIDS epidemic, and as much as it has gone quiet in the media, it is still a major issue within our community. As D.C.’s Black Pride was one of the earliest, it is now one of the largest globally.

While Black Pride in Colorado was first celebrated in 2021, the journey began decades before. From drag queens to politicians, Black Pride has been slowly building itself to be seen and heard through the community movements speaking to the larger issues. As we have been able to come together and celebrate what we have accomplished, it is important to remember that the first Black Pride in the early 1990’s was not a celebration—It was a call to action.

For our third year, our call to action is to support Black LGBTQ people who are doing the work in the community. From organizations, to performers, to business owners, to politicians, support our work. Donate. Volunteer. And as you join us for our events this year, please be respectful of the space and prioritize our community over your comfort.

With kindness and resilience,

Dr. Tara Jae

Black Pride Colorado, a program through YouthSeen, was created to celebrate, liberate, and engage our Black LGBTQIA2+ community by building resilience, honor, and preserving our history and culture.

It is through our fellowship and gatherings that we provide aid, dismantle the oppressive ideals behind mental health and wellness, provide community engagement, and showcase where we thrive and create in arts and culture.