Throughout our country’s history, attacks against union members and all working people have been common, and we have always stood up and fought back.
Too many union members in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and other sexual and gender minorities (LGBTQIA+) community have been forced to separate the fight for fairness at work from their fight for respect and dignity in their community. As advocates for fairness and equal treatment, we must be willing to stand up and speak out against any type of injustice, discrimination, and violence – wherever it exists and in whatever form it takes.
Every June, AFGE celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month to applaud the progress that has been made and to bring awareness to the struggles that still exist to reach equality for our union family. This year, we commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Stonewall riots, which are widely considered the most important event leading to the modern fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. As we recall this milestone, the 2019 DC Capital Pride theme gives a “shhhOUT” to the past and present, while committing to “Shout Out” ignorance and hate as we move forward together as allies.
As we look to celebrate Capital Pride in Washington, D.C on June 8 & 9 by participating in the Capital Pride parade and festival, we will highlight other DC events leading up to the big event!
The Many Faces of Pride
Youth Pride Day
We know that all parents want what's best for their kids. But providing support isn't always easy — especially if you are the parent of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning (LGBTQ) child. In many ways no different from their peers, LGBTQ youth face some unique challenges that parents often feel unprepared to tackle.
Positive environments are important to help all youth thrive. Join the Capital Pride Alliance, AFGE, and the other organizations attending this weekend’s Youth Pride Day. There will be performances, games, speakers, resources, and more.
When: Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 12:00-5:00 p.m.
Where: Dupont Circle, Washington, DC
The sponsoring organization, Youth Pride Alliance, is a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Ally youth empowerment to encourage positive self-development and expression, as well as leadership, while bridging diverse communities and individuals to address issues of visibility, equality, and social justice. They are dedicated to celebrating the dignity and courage of all young people.
Silver Pride
Silver Pride is a free community event in Washington, DC offering a day of workshops, resources, and social experiences for LGBTQ people 60 and over. In observance of Stonewall's 50th anniversary year, come celebrate those who have been at the forefront of the movement for LGBTQ rights and liberation since the struggle started.
Presented by Whitman-Walker Health in partnership with IONA Senior Services and AARP, and in collaboration with Capital Pride Alliance and community partners from the LGBTQ Aging Services Network.
Date: Friday, May 10, 2019
Where: Equality Center at HRC, Washington, DC
Find out more about the AFGE Pride program at www.afge.org/Pride