Celebrating love Why is Pride Month important?

academic reputation and diverse student population. Baker is passionate about others feeling safe on campus and making a difference for those in the community.

Jaycee Hampton Assistant News & Lifestyle Editor

June has been annually recognized in the United States as Pride Month, which is a time to show solidarity, support and respect for each other no matter your identity.

The LGBTQ+ community continues to fight for equality, all while simultaneously celebrating love and raising awareness about the issues and challenges members of the community still face today. The month is seen as a time to be proud of the progress the LGBTQ+ community has made.

First federally recognized in 1999 by President Bill Clinton as “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month,” former President Barack Obama declared June LGBT Pride Month in 2009. On June 1, 2021, current President Joe Biden declared June LGBTQ+ Pride Month, showcasing the growing inclusiveness at a federal level; However, there is still a lot of work to be done.

As June arrives, students at Oklahoma State University have been reflecting on what Pride Month is and why it is important for the community.

Andy Baker is a second-year graduate student majoring in public history. They stated they chose to attend OSU because of its excellent

“As a historian, I am committed to making a positive difference in the world and empowering people,” Baker said. “I want to use my degree to work for a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing queer history in the United States. To me, pride means being proud of who I am, regardless of what others think. It means being proud of my identity and my community.”

The 1900s were not a welcoming time for members of the LGBTQ+ community, but times are changing thanks to those who have continually persevered for equal rights. Pride Month originated after the Stonewall Uprising, a series of gay liberation protests in 1969, and has since spread outside of the United States. Every June there are a plethora of events to attend such as pride parades, and there are many opportunities to learn about LGBTQ+ history.

“I have been fortunate to have an overall positive experience at OSU,” Baker said. “Although I have experienced some unpleasant incidents and situations, like being heckled while holding hands with my boyfriend, overall I feel safe on campus. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please get in touch with a trusted friend or family member or the OSU LGBTQ+ Resource Center. Somebody cares about you and wants to help.”

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