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Pride at the Cathedral and Across the Diocese

Contributed by: The Rev. Scott Russell, Chair, LGBTQ Commission

June is Pride Month for LGBTQIA+ communities and our allies! Why the month of June? Stonewall! On June 28, 1969, members of the LGBT community in and around Greenwich Village in Manhattan fought back against police brutality, centering around The Stonewall Inn, a popular gay (but mafia-run) bar. This demonstration of defiance led to marches and ultimately gatherings across the country where these “queer” communities, including trans people and people of color, came out publicly to demand an end to harassment and just celebrate love and being alive.

The history of the Episcopal Church’s support of the dignity and rights of the LGBTQIA+ communities is longer than you may think. Pride celebrations sprang up in Episcopal parishes at this same time and have continued for more than 50 years! Several parishes in our diocese have long held Pride celebrations, and this year is no different. Please look at our schedule of Pride events around the diocese, culminating in our first-ever Pride Celebration at Trinity Cathedral in Trenton on Sunday, June 26.

Thanks to everyone who was able to join us for our first education forum earlier this month. Be watching for future educational opportunities and more exciting developments around the diocese as we celebrate ALL of God’s children and learn how best to respect the dignity of every human being, beloved of God.

If you aren’t following us on Facebook, surf on over to The LGBTQ Commission of the Diocese of NJ group for updates and a place to discuss and connect.