June is generally recognized as Pride month and although there are variations on that worldwide, living in North America means seeing this month in rainbows and inclusive conversations. . .or at least it should.

I am growing evermore mindful to not associate or make space for people, companies or communities who do not value the Pride movement. As a mother of two #rainbowbabies, my choices matter at a deeply personal level. But, as a leader and professional, I MUST also look past my ignorance and educate myself in a way of being generous with my time and understanding of others. Not just in June and for the LGBTQIA+ community; every month, everyday and every hour, in service to my fellow humans and as an opportunity for my own growth.

Let me introduce you to Marsha:

Marsha P. Johnson was a trans-rights activist who played a big role in important moments for the LGBTQIA+ movement. Marsha P. Johnson was an African-American gay man, drag artist and prostitute from whose activism in the 1960s and 70s had a huge impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. Although being gay was classified as a mental illness in the United States at the time, Marsha was one of the key figures who stood up to the police during the raids at Stonewall. She resisted arrest and after the atrocious events at Stonewall (read here), led a series of protests and riots demanding rights for gay people.

Even though the Stonewall riots are seen as the kick-starter of support for the community and Pride, the work to change society's perspective on LGBTQIA+ was long and violent. There was still a lot of discrimination and police brutaility with young gay and trans people beaten, kicked out of their families and often murdered. (And, as you'll know, this type of discrimination continues today in many countries and families across the world)

Marsha created outreach for these young gays to ensure they had homes and felt valued. She spent the remainder of her life committed to generosity and was nicknamed the "Saint of Christopher Street" (where the Stonewall Inn is located), because of the work they were committed to on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community.

But, in 1992, Marsha disappeared without a trace. 5 days later her body was found and the police deemed it immediately as a suicide. For the many who knew her and loved her, they felt strongly that she was murdered and, although the case was closed in 1992, it has since been reopened and remains unsolved today.

Marsha life and beliefs are an inspiration. The idea that her life choices made her less valuable to others astonishes me. Who do we think we are to marginalize and devalue others?  It is the most supreme version of arrogance and it’s detestable. We must do better. We must uphold justice and love for all humankind and we must recognize Pride. It matters. It should define us and align us.

Happy Pride,