Pride 2022
Every month that we spotlight is special to us. In addition to Father's Day and the start of summer, June brings extra pizazz and color being Pride Month! We highlight each month, but we celebrate individuals from all walks of life 365 days a year.
We want to kick off Pride Month where we dive into the meaning of Pride with a special Q&A for Friend’s of the RxESCUE community. Our guests will have special guests of their own, featuring their furry friends in honor of RxESCUESKIN’s core values as animal lovers.
How do you celebrate Pride? Will you do something different than all the other years?
I celebrate pride all year round, by living up to my own standards, and being the best version of myself. For this year, I want to take some family members to many pride events.
What does Pride mean to you?
To me, pride is being proud of the person you are, what you have accomplished, what you have overcome, and being proud of who you love.
What do you feel is the biggest misperception of the LGBTQ+ community?
The biggest misperception of the LGBTQ includes many of us only party, when in reality, we fight to be accepted for who we are, and we fight for our spot at the table. We're seeking equality and equity and to live a normal lifestyle without stigma and judgement.
How have people outside of the community shown their support that touched you?
They've shown support by attention, pride walks, protests, inquiring about my mental health, supporting my past (and current) partners.
Are there any public figures whom you look up to?
Serena Willams.
When did you become a dog parent and how has it changed your life?
I've been a dog parent all my life. It gives me a sense of responsibility. Above all, it gave me a companion and a best friendship.
How do you celebrate Pride? Will you do something different than all the other years?
I celebrate pride by being grateful that I am free to be who I want to be and by continuing to advocate for the lgbtq+ community. This year, I plan on going to LA pride to be surrounded by my people and to share that love.
What does Pride mean to you?
To me, pride is a chance to be unapologetically myself. Pride is a community, a family, where we can experience acceptance and love without fear of refection.
What do you feel is the biggest misperception of the LGBTQ+ community?
A common misconception of the LGBTQ+ community is that "it's just a phase". It's hurtful coming from people you value because it's another way of them saying they don't accept you.
How have people outside of the community shown their support that touched you?
I'm grateful to have very supportive people in my life. They have shown support by standing up and defending me and when people try to tear me down or try to rationalize my sexuality.
Are there any public figures whom you look up to?
I look up to public figures like Marsha p. Johnson, Silvia Rivera, and Audre Lorde. It is important to pay homage to those that sacrificed and fought for everything so that we could be where we are today.
When did you become a dog parent and how has it changed your life?
I became a dog parent back in 2011 and it's changed my life so positively. Bonding with my dogs has taught me that dogs love their humans unconditionally. It doesn't matter if you're poor, gay, etc. they will stick by you and love you to the end. My dogs taught me that it's okay to embrace who I am because those that continue to love me are the ones that are worth keeping around.