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Finding Ourselves
In the Rainbow

June is recognized internationally as Pride Month for a reason we may have forgotten. On June 28, 1969 there was a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in Lower Manhattan, New York. The raid was part of government-sponsored persecution of sexual minorities. Police raids would happen often back then, but this time was different. The push back by the 2SLGBTQIA community turned into spontaneous riots and demonstrations. That moment marked a turning point for the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world.


Over the years peaceful demonstrations have turned into Pride Parades and other local events that honour the rights and identities of all people. The United Church of Canada proudly celebrates and honours the diversity of all people, believing that we are all made in God’s image. Our national website explains that “The struggle for justice against sexism and gender-based violence, and towards justice for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, are fundamental ways in
which the United Church seeks to transform structures and systems and be faithful to God’s vision for humanity.”

In the month of June there will be events across Canada marking Pride Month. In Central Alberta Pride Week is July 5-12, so here in Red Deer both Gaetz Memorial United and Sunnybrook United will be acknowledging Pride Sunday on July 12.
While we have come a long way since 1969, we still have work to do as we strive to live into right relations with all people.

Regardless of how you identify, this should never be an “us verses them” issue. We all find ourselves somewhere on the continuum – we all find ourselves somewhere in the rainbow. Let’s celebrate all the colours of our diversity!

Peace and joy
Nancy