Dancing with Pride
June 3, 2024
June has finally arrived, starting the beginning of the annual celebration of Pride Month. This month-long observance is a commemoration of the LGBTQ+ community: its history, struggles, and triumphs. Amidst all the events and activities, one theme stands out: pride. Pride in identity, pride in love, pride in being.
In Pride Month, dance emerges as a powerful expression of liberation and unity. From glittering parades to pulsating club nights, dance becomes a language of joy, defiance, and solidarity. It transcends barriers of language and culture, inviting people of all backgrounds to sway to its rhythm and embrace their authentic selves.
Luckily, I had the privilege to grow up in a time when efforts have been made to foster greater inclusivity within the dance community itself. Organizations and dance studios have implemented initiatives to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, feel welcomed and celebrated. This commitment to diversity enriches the dance experience, allowing for a more authentic expression of self on the dance floor.
Some of my fondest memories are from the dance studio, where we share our identities and celebrate who we are, while learning each others’ unique styles and stories. Dance is a sanctuary, a place to find who we are and be our unapologetic selves.
As we commemorate Pride Month through dance, let us also reflect on the journey that lies ahead. While much progress has been made, the fight for equality and acceptance continues. Let us dance not only in celebration but also in solidarity, amplifying the voices of those still marginalized and advocating for a world where everyone can dance freely, and with pride.
