the moment CAPTURE

Celebrating LGBTQ+ Life and Fighting Against LGBTQ+ Challenges

Key Takeaways from the Capital Pride Alliance, Q&A with Ashley Smith

By Milaka Saddler WI Contributing Writer

Before the start of the Capital Pride Parade on June 10, the Capital Pride Alliance kicked off the celebrations with a press conference that encouraged the crowd to enjoy themselves and take pride in their identities, while also reminding them to use their voices to evoke change.

“Remember these words, peace, love and revolution,” emphasized Earline Budd, who spoke during the conference.

Budd is a long-time resident of D.C., founder of Transgender Health Empowerment, and an early historical leader and advocate for Black trans women. She was also celebrated during the Pride festivities and received a Capital Pride Super-Hero Award, representing recognition for her tireless efforts in serving the Black trans community. Well known for being outspoken and unapologetic about her stance with the LGBTQ+ community since the late 80s, Budd began fighting against bans on crossdressing, and has been a leader in the community ever since.

“Pride means hope, pride means change,” proclaimed Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, HHS, assistant secretary for Health, and the first highest-ranking openly transgender government official in U.S. history. WI

Don’t let asthma slow you down.

The Black community has higher rates and more serious complications from asthma. That includes being almost four times more likely than white people to be hospitalized because of asthma.

THE GOOD NEWS?

If you have asthma, you can take steps to control symptoms and lead a full and active life.

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