Change of Pride

It is that time of year when Pride week takes place in New York City. In 1984, the Heritage of Pride (HOP) took over the organization of the Gay Pride Rally, March, Festival and Dance. This year marks the first time that the PrideFest has been cancelled because the organization could not reach an agreement with the city as to where the event should be held. HOP wanted the festival moved to Eighth Ave. as opposed to the crowded narrow streets in the Village. This is a huge blow to the event and it's income streams. We will see how it affects the success or failure of the event. In my opinion it will have little affect on the overall week because there are more parties this weekend than ever before. Is this what pride is about?

in 2007, the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender community is segregated more than ever. The divisions are wide. The men and women don't party together nor do black, whites and Hispanics. Each group has it's own promoters and agendas. Meanwhile, gay marriage is still far from reality. Laws are still being drafted that would keep GLBT people from adopting children. HIV/AIDS is still rising in the African American and African communities. Where is the pride?

In the Black Gay Community - I use that word lightly- in fighting is alive and well. Some of the non-profit agencies that service this community are going under. Funding and services have been cut although the need continues to grow.

Pride needs a new definition:

P - Proactive efforts to help the community

R - Reach into ourselves and our pockets to support each other regardless or race or orientation

I - Interest in what is not only happening with ourselves but with others in the world.

D - Determination to make a difference in the betterment of others

E- Economic Development - support our youth, sponsors, non-profits & promoters

Now I step down from my soapbox. Happy Pride.