We are about to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots that gave birth to the international Pride movement. We don’t have Pride because we’re free. We have Pride because we’re not. Our collective efforts all year round now culminate in the creation of intentional space for our community where for a weekend, a day, a few hours, or a moment – our people can revel in joy.
For far too many of us in other parts of the world, country, and even right here in San Diego, the daily pressures of systemic legal and cultural oppression is damaging and too often deadly.
However, at Pride, we allow ourselves to exhale. We breathe in love. We un-wring our hands and embrace found family. We claim freedom from the open air and dare to dance in daylight. Our affection sees the sun rather than shadows and shame.
We unshackle our hearts and bodies from society’s expectations and allow ourselves to unapologetically indulge in being radically only and absolutely who we know we truly are.
Pride is wherever you are, and however you choose to celebrate it.
Bravely discard fear. Seize hope. Be free.
Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning, or if this is your first; welcome to Pride. Welcome home.
This is our Legacy of Liberation!
Fernando Lopez was the Executive Director of San Diego Pride. Lopez’s years of LGBT advocacy, nonprofit management, public education, diversity consulting, media relations, guest lectures, and organizing have made them a consistent presence ensuring the struggles of the LGBT community are ever visible.
