GOT PRIDE?

Editor-in Chief Gwendolyn D. Clemons

GOT PRIDE?

"Looking back on when I was a little nappy-headed boy. Then my only worry was for Christmas, what would be my toy. Even though sometimes we wouldn’t get a thing, we were happy with the joy the day would bring. I wish those days could come back once more. Why did those days ever have to go? Cause I love them so"_Stevie Wonder

As we enter June which is officially dedicated as PRIDE MONTH which is marked with a month-long observance in celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and their culture, history, and contributions. Also, this month will be a period where the LGBTQIA+ community will experience unprecedented attacks from all fronts about how we shouldn’t be celebrated!

Let’s keep the main thing, the main thing! PRIDE is about self and learning to accept and love yourself unconditionally! When I say love, I mean in the way GOD loves you and that is with AGAPE LOVE. As I prepared to write this article, I was reminded by the song written by Stevie Wonder titled “I Wish.” There was a time when I was unphased or influenced by what people thought about me. I lived in a time and space once where my “little nappy headed self” was filled with pride. However, I can honestly admit that I lost myself because of societal pressures, family rejections, society rejects about me identifying as a lesbian. I lost connections and support because of what people believed about my identity as opposed to the actual person that I was.

Fortunately, for me those days are gone, and I get to live and experience unconditional love now. In this space and time I’ll keep declining until it’s exactly what I want, and that goes for everything and everybody!

So, for my LGBTQIA+ community, I ask you, do you have PRIDE? If not, I highly recommend disconnecting from things and people that attempt to rob you of your humanity and right to live openly and free. Because GOD has already ordered your steps, you just have to start moving your feet!

ON THE COVER: Carter The Body known for her current role as “Trouble” in the BET Series “All the Queen’s Men,” and Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood (2014), and Lipstick the Series (2105). Carter credits includes personal trainer, fitness model, actress, and a highly sought after celebrity influencer!