DC Charter School Alliance Celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Month

By Ariel Johnson, Executive Director, DC Charter School Alliance

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month! First established to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, which would fundamentally change the discourse around LGBQT+ activism in the United States, Pride Month has evolved over the years. But it remains a time for members of the community and allies to come together, celebrate the richness and beauty of LGBTQ+ identity and culture, and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

This month, the DC Charter School Alliance proudly reaffirms our commitment to cultivating learning environments where everyone, regardless of gender identity or orientation, feels understood, accepted, and valued. We firmly believe in a world where people have the freedom to be who they are and enthusiastically support our students, staff, and faculty in their efforts to create safe and inclusive learning spaces for members of the LGBTQ+ community and combat the forces of bigotry and prejudice.

This is especially important at a time when many states are passing laws restricting LGBTQ+ student rights and education. According to a Washington Post analysis, the number of hate crimes on K-12 campuses has more than quadrupled in states with restrictive laws. According to the Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ youth who found their school to be LGBTQ-affirming reported lower rates of attempting suicide, and youth who lived in a community accepting of their identity reported significantly lower rates of attempting suicide than those who do not. We’re fortunate to live in a city that values the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, and we’re grateful for District leaders who have prioritized making schools safe and inclusive.

If you want to participate in the celebration or educate yourself on the history or present of DC LGBTQ+ communities, please attend one of the many learning and cultural events the District has to offer. From parades and festivals to workshops and panel discussions, numerous opportunities exist to engage, learn, and show your support.

And as always, don’t forget to patronize a local LGBTQ-owned business! Supporting these businesses is a great way to contribute to the community and ensure that LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs thrive.

Check out Capital Pride Alliance and Destination DC for great lists of ways to take part and celebrate Pride Month around DC this year!