Have some PRIDE! (AKA A Flag By Any Other Name)

With Pride in full swing, our Prime Minister waltzing through the parade (looking gorgeous as always!) the theme of love is everywhere.

And yet still there are dissenters, calling people snowflakes while crying about the 'offensive' Canada 150 flag.

Or perhaps there are those who say the rainbow flag is not inclusive enough, or some who say the brown and black stripes added to the Philidelphia flag are offensive.

That's not who this is dedicated to.

This is dedicated to spirit of uniqness that overcomes adversity. This is for those that rise above the hardship, above the harassment and violence, and portray such courage that it leaves this author humbled.

This is for those who found the ability to embrace who they are, and celebrate that strength with so much Joi de Virve that it is either infectious or it breeds jealosy in the haters.

Always remeber their hatred comes from a place of fear. Fear of change, fear of going against the herd, and fear of their own insecurities. Remember that your bravery is an inspiration to our youths, who are growing up in a world where acceptance and understanding is taught in every grade, even if it's not taught at home.

More and more children of all ages are speaking out and -more importantly- acting out against bullying with youth organized gender identity and acceptance clubs which lead to leadership roles within the community. YOUR struggles, YOUR stories, and YOUR leadership in the Pride movement in the past is what inspires these young people, inspires the parents to back them up, inspires anyone with an open mind and a compassionate heart, to move forward with hope.

YOU make my world better. Thank you.

~an open letter to the Pride Movement
Jessica March, a mother, lover, and friend, who's sexual orientation doesn't matter.